Rating overall
6/10
An underrated and overlooked freeriding wonderland
6/10
Tree runs & good off-piste
Park and a halfpipe
Quiet but short slopes
Lift count : 9 x Chairlifts Other lifts 1 magic carpet
Pass (Low/High Season) : 65.00-73.00 Day , 1095 Season pass
Crystal Mountain 1 / Photo: Harriet Parnis
Underrated & a freeride classic, Crystal Mountain is a locals secret. Located only 1.5 hours east of Seattle in Washington State, the terrain is a freeriders paradise. Spread out over four peaks, with an awesome amount of backcountry riding and all in the shadow of the epic volcanic peak of Mt Rainier. The resort has invested a lot in recent years to both upgrade and expand their terrain, facilities and access. Since 2018/19 it is part of the Alterra Mountain Company (i.e. the IKON pass, giving you access to 38 other destinations.)
The resort gets hit hard at weekends by the Seattle weekend warriors, but come mid-week and you’ll be finding fresh lines 2 days after a powder day (speaking from our reviewers first-hand experience!). Lift lines are short and runs are long and empty making this resort a must if you’re hitting the Pacific Northwest.
Crystal Mountain has a packed schedule of events including races, live music and family-friendly evenings. Check out their website for a full listing of dates and activities.