Washington State Skiing on Crystal Mountain
One of the very best reasons to visit Washington State during the winter months is to experience the sensational ski resort of Crystal Mountain. Poised below the imposing Mount Rainer which towers to over 14,000 feet, Crystal Mountain enjoys a top elevation of over 7,000 feet and a vertical drop over over 3000 feet.
The months of November to April bring several feet of fresh powder snow to Crystal Mountain, this being a reliable happening thanks to the cold Cascade storms common to this area. This factor alone makes a compelling reason to visit this first class Washington State ski area.
There are breathtaking views of Mount Rainier from the summit of Crystal Mountain. The area positively bulges with 2,300 acres of fabulous skiing and here you will find every kind of skiing you can imagine, making this the largest ski area in the state of Washington.
Of particular appeal to advanced and intermediate skiers who will enjoy 87% of all runs, there are some 7 runs for beginners which amounts to a generous variety for all levels. Intermediates are best catered for with 57% of all runs and of all the runs the very longest is called Northway and stretches for 2.5 miles or 4km.
The lift provision on Crystal Mountain is 4 double chairs, 2 high speed sixes, 2 triple chairs, 2 high speed quads and a surface lift is provided for children. The nature of the terrain is such that the ski area is more suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers, however beginners are catered for with lessons available and a full complement of rental equipment available for those who need it.
For children aged four to eleven years old there is a Kids Club which opens from 8am to 4pm daily. This allows more advanced skiers in a family group to enjoy the rest of the resort and tackle trails that would not be sensible to undertake with younger members of the family in tow. For slightly older children in the 7 to 11 age bracket snowboarding is available should they wish to take part. This provision means that children are able to learn and have fun in a safe and supervised environment while older members of their party are able to partake in the more challenging skiing available.
In addition to the main regions of the resort, Crystal has two back country areas which are accessible only by hiking. It is extreme terrain and the ski patrol has some rules and restrictions for these areas. North Backcountry is mostly covered with thick trees but some trails are cut through the trees.
The best snow fall is experienced between mid-November and mid-April and the skiing season aligns itself with mother nature as a result. Crystal Mountain has numerous venues on offer for meals, evening entertainment and lodging. For lovers of hot tubs, saunas, showers and games rooms a visit to East Peak Massage & Fitness makes sense. To enjoy a massage it is necessary to make a reservation. The Campbell Basin Lodge was built in the summer of 2004 to serve pizza and pasta, soups, burgers, Mexican food and salads.
For a superb vacation skiing in Washington State this is a great place for the family. Everyone can have a great experience at Crystal Mountain, even though the slopes are more for intermediate and expert skiers. Novice skiers can have fun as well as long as careful attention is paid to the grade of slope attempted.
Article Source: http://www.search-raven.com
About the Author
Kerry Devere particularly enjoys skiing trips and in particular skiing through knee-deep powder. Before you plan your next ski vacation, take a look at more of her ski resort reviews.
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by: KerryDevere
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