We're hooked up via Facebook to Crystal Mountain Resort so it's hard for us to believe that this year marks only the second year that they have operated as a year-round destination -- meaning plenty to do this summer.
Crystal's marketing folks passed along their schedule through early September and activities include everything from a ride on the new gondala, viewing the Perseid Meteor shower from 6,800 feet, disc golf, wine festival to just having a nice summer lunch against a perfect view of Mount Rainier.
“The Summit House restaurant will be open daily for lunch, there are ranger-led interpretive walks, guided horseback rides, miles of scenic hiking trails, two great gifts shops and a wide range of fun events," said Tiana Enger, Crystal Mountain Resort’s Marketing Director.
This season also marks the second summer that Crystal’s Mt. Rainier gondola will whisk visitors to 6,872 feet for an up-close look at Mt. Rainier. Almost 50,000 visitors rode the gondola last summer.
“What is so great about the gondola is that it is totally enclosed and a short, ten-minute ride from the base of the resort to the top,” said Enger. “It is accessible for people of all ages and abilities, so anyone can enjoy the thrill of gliding over mountain meadows. Then to be met by Mt. Rainier as you get off the gondola-it is pretty spectacular. It’s so close it seems like you could almost reach out and touch it. ”
Dinners at the Summit House restaurant will run Thursday through Saturday July and August, and Fridays and Saturdays in June and September, and lunches will be available daily between June 16 and September 23. The Summit House is perched at 6,872 feet and is the highest elevation restaurant in Washington state.
“Visitors enjoy bringing out of town guests to the Summit House, and celebrating special occasions with us.” said Enger. “It is an adventure rewarded with a beautiful view and outstanding food.”
Make plans to take part in some of this summer’s activities.
Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Enjoy live music, fun activities and games to kick off the start of summer. There will be Gondola prizes, a scavenger hunt, 5k family fun run, and much more.
Time: 1- 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Food and drink prices vary.
Time: 2 -8 p.m.
Cost: $25
Entry includes eight tastings, paired appetizers, and a commemorative glass or individual tasting tickets available for purchase $4/ticket. Celebrate Washington wines from over a dozen wineries with tastings, live music and tons of festivities.
Time: After dark
Cost: Gondola Transportation - $20
Catch a ride to the summit to access a great view of the meteor showers. DRESS WARM, outdoors only. No access to Summit House for services. Beverages and restrooms will be available. No reservations required, purchase tickets at the ticket window.
Time: Noon- 4 p.m.
Cost: Estimated $20, including beer tokens and a commerative mug
Sample an array of seasonal beers and other local or distant favorites from over a dozen different breweries on the mountain. Food, drinks and live music will be located at the base area.
Time: 8 a.m. Registration at the Snorting Elk
Cost: Registration prices vary depending on division.
Crystal Mountain has 27 holes and two course routes. Come practice this summer and join us for the PDGA event happening at Crystal.
For additional information call 1-888-754-6199 or visit, www.crystalmountainresort.com.
