Thursday, December 9, 2010

Opening date set for Crystal Mountain's gondola

Eight months of construction and much more time spent planning...the end is in sight. Crystal Mountain has announced their much anticipated Mt. Rainier Gondolas are scheduled to begin operation on December 22nd.



The Mt. Rainier Gondola, the first gondola to be installed at a ski resort in Washington, whisks visitors to 6,872. It will travel 2,500 feet from the base of the mountain to the summit in less than 10 minutes! Once you arrive at the summit you'll be greeted by and breathtaking view of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding Cascade Range. You'll also find Washington's highest restaurant, the Summit House serving fresh Northwest cuisine.

Crystal Mountain is no longer just a mecca for snow enthusiasts - we'll remain open during the Spring and Summer too! Crystal Mountain lies on the sunny side of Mt. Rainier, just 6 miles from the Northeast entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park, amid stunning forests, wildflower-filled meadows and pure Washington wilderness. Crystal has grown to include a full array of summer activities for all walks of life. These include hiking, guided horseback riding, disc golf and scenic gondola rides. Crystal also plans to add a zip-line and lift-serviced mountain biking, pending approval from the Forest Service.

Ride in comfort on your way up the ski slopes


Winter Experience

Skiers, riders and foot passengers can all catch a ride to the summit to experience the incredible views, access the Summit House restaurant and drop into the vast terrain terrain that plunges below the ridge line. The Summit House will open for First Tracks Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays, lunch daily along with Aprés and dinner service Fridays and Saturdays. Kick off your boots after a day on the slopes and head on back up to the Summit House to catch the sunset down the valley or watch as storms develop over Mt. Rainier. With the gondola providing direct access to the summit we plan to extend the ski season with Spring skiing and training camp opportunities well beyond the typical mid-April closing date.

Crystal Mountain is a mecca for summertime outdoor activity

Summer Experience

A skiers paradise transforms into a summer oasis. Once the snow melts the wildflowers take bloom. Scenic Gondola rides will be offered daily. Bask in the beauty of the surrounding peaks and seemingly limitless views. Dine at Washington's highest restaurant; open for brunch, lunch and Sunset Dinners. Explore the surrounding hiking trails, lakes and waterfalls. Take a guided horseback ride in the alpine wilderness. Play a round of disc golf or explore one of the many cycling routes and mountain biking trails that surround the area. With a variety of lodging options, Crystal is the perfect base camp for your summer adventures around Mt. Rainier. Crystal Mountain is just 6 miles from the Northeast entrance to Mount Rainer National Park. Plan your wedding or special event at Crystal Mountain and let our catering and banquet staff take care of your every need. Come explore. Breath it in. It's an experience you'll never forget!

Copy courtesy of Crystal Mountain
Photo Credit: Jeff Caven

No comments:

Post a Comment