Crystal is the state's largest ski area in winter and a scenic gondola in summer. From the summit the whole north face of Mount Rainier fills the view across the valley — this is the closest you get to the mountain without walking on it.
It sits just outside the national park boundary, so there is no park entry fee and no reservation system to negotiate.
What our drivers would tell you
- A strong alternative to Rainier itself when Paradise is full or the road is closed.
- It is cold at the top in any month. Bring a jacket in July.
Summit6,872 ft
DriveAbout 1h 45m each way
GondolaAbout 10 min
Time we allow2 hours
Where it is
Nearby, and often on the same day
What else fits around Crystal Mountain.
2h 15mSnoqualmie Falls
A 268-foot waterfall forty minutes from downtown, with a lodge on the lip.
4h 00mWoodinville wine country
Washington's wine in one valley, thirty minutes from the city, all of it indoors.
3h 50mBoeing Future of Flight
The largest building in the world by volume, with a tour that goes inside it.
2h 40mBainbridge Island
A ferry ride, a harbour town, and the skyline from the water on the way back.
Build a day with Crystal Mountain and see the price.
Tap the places you want on the home page. We work out the driving, tell you honestly if it will not fit, and show the whole vehicle price before you give us a name.