There are tons of great trails around the area that are pet-friendly! You’ll find that trails are easily accessed from the base area of Crystal, the summit via the gondola, or Highway 410. Make sure that you bring enough water for you and your dog- during the summer, trails can get hot! Depending on where you go however, there are lakes and streams that they can cool off in.

Some of our favorite dog-friendly trails are:

• Silver Creek trail to Henskin Lake
• Green Valley Trail
• Northway Trail
• Bullion Basin Trail
• Norse Peak
• Suntop Lookout
• Greenwater Lakes to Echo Lake

If you would like to check out Mt. Rainier National park while you’re in the area with your pets, note that they are only allowed to accompany you in parking lots, campgrounds, on paved roads open to public vehicles, and no more than 25 feet from paved roads. This goes for all seasons, even when roads are closed off due to snow. While in these areas, pets must be leashed at all times and in the presence of their owners.

Take Your Pup On A Gondola Ride

Better yet, take your furbaby on the Mt. Rainier Gondola to experience the best view of Mt. Rainier together. Some may need a little bribery with treats or their favorite toy to get on the Gondola. 

Since Crystal Mountain and the surrounding area is home to many species of wildlife, both plants and animals- It’s important to acknowledge the impact that our pets can have. There are doggie-bags available around the base area near the gondola, Right Angle Sports and along the summit ridge. Nobody likes stepping in a surprise along the trails, so make sure to bring enough bags and dispose of them properly in the trash receptacles in the base area. 

Leashes are important to restrain your dog from chasing wildlife out of their natural habitats- even some of the most well-trained pooches can’t resist the taunting squeaks of a chipmunk, marmot or pika! Elk and deer call these mountains home as well, their stomping or charging can pose a hazard to a bold, unleashed dog. For respect of the wildlife and safety of your pets, a leash is a must-bring! 

Special Notes:

• All dogs must be leashed while at Crystal. They are allowed in all outdoor public areas, on trails, and on the Mt. Rainier Gondola. 
• Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle or in a campground! Nobody likes to be left behind.

We hope that these tips have been informative and helpful- see you out on the trails!

The post Dog-Friendly Hikes appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

1. Crystal Mountain: Featuring 66 spots with RV hookups, Crystal Mountain transforms into a great basecamp for those looking to explore the best of Mt. Rainier. No reservations are needed. Camp spots are $40 a night.
2. Mowich Lake Campground: 21 tent/walk-in sites, no reservations. Enjoy direct access to swimming in Mowich Lake, hiking around Tolmie Peak, Spray Park, and the Wonderland Trail. Just a National Park Pass is required to access this zone. No backcountry camping permit is required to stay at Mowich Lake Campground as the campsites are free and on a first-come, first-served bases. Campfires are not permitted at Mowich Lake.
3. White River Campground: 108 car/tent sites, no reservations. The third largest campground being the main campground serving the Sunrise area. The White River’s sandy banks and provide views upstream to the north face of Mount Rainier and Emmons Glacier. Hikes include the Glacier Basin Trail, Emmons Moraine Trail, or access the Wonderland Trail, climbing 2.5-miles of arduous switchbacks to Sunrise, or south to a longer hike out to Summerland.
4. Silver Springs Campground: 56 car/tent sites, reservations allowed. (North of the park off of WA Hwy 410.) Home to the historic 1931 Silver Springs Guard Station* (now a visitor center) Campsites available close to the White River, with small springs surfacing from below ground in the middle of the campground creating a creek that flows through the campground, joining with the White River.
5. Cougar Rock Campground: 186 car/tent sites, 5 group sites, reservations allowed. RV’s Welcome. Cougar Rock Campground, is on the southwest side or Mt. Rainier- making it closest to Paradise, with a lodge and visitor center. This campsite is home to many miles of hiking trails and up-close views of the mountain- the highest in the state and Cascade range. 
6. Ohanapecosh Campground: 185 car/tent sites, 2 group sites, 8 walk-in sites, reservations allowed. RV’s Welcome. Flowing off of Mount Rainier’s southeast glaciers, the Ohanapecosh River cuts a deep canyon- dividing the campground into northwest and southeast sides. The best campsites flank the river’s banks. From the campground you can hike to the white-rock chasm that creates Silver Falls and even 3.0 miles out to Grove of the Patriarchs.

Crystal Mountain, Cougar Rock- and Ohanapecosh Campgrounds permit RVs and trailers, but  Cougar Rock and  Ohanapecosh do not provide electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups. Dump stations are provided at both, however. There is also a dump station in Enumclaw near Ron’s Auto Care Center.

FAMILY-FREINDLY CAMPING:

Many areas in state parks, national parks and private campgrounds are family-friendly. There are a few things to consider, however- to help narrow down your options:

Limit the distance: Finding a campsite closer to home can make your first family outing a bit less stressful. 

Choose campsites with amenities: A campsite with a bathroom and playground nearby can be very convenient with young children in tow, especially during your first outing or two.

Get distance from other campsites: Noise issues can be avoided if you make reservations ahead of time, and try to find a site that has a little extra space. This extra step can help reduce stress, making the whole experience feel a bit more remote and help reduce disturbance to other guests.

Seek shade: Staying out of direct sun will help keep your family cool and happy during long Summer days.

WHAT TO BRING:

Don’t forget to bring the camping essentials! It is helpful to create a comprehensive checklist when packing- to make sure you bring the important gear as well as some convenient (and optional) items that can make your trip even more enjoyable. 

CAMP NECESSITIES:

• Tent (and footprint, stakes)
• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping pads
• Headlamps / flashlights
• Dry bags, stuff sacks or clear plastic bins to store items

TOOLS:

• Multi-tool
• Duct tape
• Extra cord
• Tent-pole repair sleeve
• Pad/Mattress repair kit
• Mallet or hammer (for hammering tent stakes)
• Saw or axe (for cutting firewood)
• Small broom and dustpan

KITCHEN:

Be prepared to treat water with a tablet, filter or uv light in case water needs to be sanitized.

Stove and fuel

• Matches/light/firestarter
• Cook pots (and pot holder)
• Frying pan
• Eating utensils
• Cooking utensils
• Bottle opener, can opener, corkscrew
• Sharp knife
• Plates/bowls
• Mugs/cups
• Cutting board
• Cooler
• Ice or ice substitutes
• Water bottles
• Camp sink or wash bins (Can also double to store kitchen gear)
• Biodegradable soap
• Pot scrubber/sponge(s)
• Trash/recycling bags
• Dish towel

FUN EXTRAS: 

• Solar and portable power
• Binoculars
• Navigation tools
• Field guides (flowers, insects)
• Star chart/night-sky identifier
• Book/reading material
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Games and toys
• Dog toys

HEALTH: 

• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toiletry kit
• Quick-dry towel
• Menstrual products
• Prescription medications
• First-aid supplies 

SKIN PROTECTION:

• Sunscreen + Sunglasses
• Hat
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent and/or Tea Tree/ Eucalyptus oil
• Citronella Candles

OTHER

• Credit card and/or cash
• ID
• Cellphone
• Campsite reservation confirmation (if required)
• Park Pass, Discover Pass, Mt. Rainier National Park Pass 

LEAVE NO TRACE:

The Leave No Trace principles originally were created to help preserve the backcountry, however, these guidelines apply to “frontcountry” users as well. Areas easily accessed by car and day-visits are at a high risk of degradation.

To help preserve our natural surroundings, there are a few important behaviors to incorporate into our outdoor adventures. With millions of visitors to our national parks- beautiful areas suffer from litter, invasive species, habituated wildlife, trail erosion, polluted water sources and more. 

When planning your next trip, take note of these vital practices:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.                                       
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.                 
3. Dispose of waste properly.                                                                         
4. Leave what you find. Take only photographs.                                         
5. Only use designated campfire rings. 
6. Respect wildlife.  
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

The post Best Camping Spots Near Mt. Rainier appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

Thinking about taking some time this summer to explore what the mountains have to offer? Hiking in and around Mt. Rainier National Park is a wonderful way to explore the Pacific Northwest, soak in the natural beauty of the Cascades, and enjoy some recreation time with friends and family.

With hundreds of miles of trails to discover, the park offers a wide network spanning North to South, and East to West. See a full list of trails on the National Parks Service Site. 

Our top three favorite trails in and around Mt. Rainier National Park:

1. Crystal Mountain Trail (Dog Friendly) –  The Crystal Mountain trail has a few different options depending on what kind of hike you are in the mood for. You can choose to start right in the base area, follow the Silver Creek Trail up to Henskin Lake, and continue along the trail up to the summit. This is about 5 miles. Follow the trail through wildflowers, sweeping views of the cascades, and of course, Mt. Rainier at the summit. From the summit, you can either choose to take a scenic gondola ride down, or complete the loop down via the Green Valley and Kelly’s Gap Road, or even out to the Northway Trail. This trail circumnavigates the ski area in about an 8 mile loop, with a 2450ft elevation gain.
2. Norse Peak (Dog Friendly) – Located right out of the base area of Crystal Mountain, this trail is certainly steep, it’s surprisingly comfortable for gaining nearly 3,000 feet. Between long switchbacks there are a few flat segments to dull the pain of the uphill. The trail is dusty, but the views of colorful wildflowers will give you something pretty to admire while you climb. At the 4-mile mark, you’ll hit a junction just under the ridge line. Turn right to follow the Norse Peak View Trail. In just one more scrambly mile, you’ll reach the summit. There used to be a fire lookout up here, but the remains are pretty scant at this point. Thankfully, there are plenty of more interesting sights. On clear days, Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, Glacier Peak, and the Olympics are laid out on a perfectly photogenic horizon.
3. Naches Peak Loop Trail – Explore the subalpine flower fields and breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. Late summer and fall brings an abundant supply of huckleberries. Half of the hike is on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Pets are not permitted on the west half of the loop trail which is inside Mount Rainier National Park.

To prepare for an enjoyable experience in the mountains, below are a few things to consider when planning your trip.

What to Bring Day Hiking:

These items should be on your hiking checklist:

• 10-20 liter daypack
• Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers)
• Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection
• Hiking boots or trail running shoes (ideally waterproof)
• Lunch and snacks
• 1-2 liters of water
• Compass/GPS tool
• First-aid kit
• Multi-tool

See you on the trails!

The post Our Top 3 Favorite Hikes Near Mt. Rainier appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

Is your goggle tan fading? We have a solution for that!

You’re invited to join us Memorial Day Weekend May 24th – 27th for some spring skiing and snowboarding. We will be operating the Mt. Rainier Gondola and the Green Valley Express chair to give you access to the spring snow in Green Valley.

Tickets are available online at the lowest prices.

All 18/19 & 19/20 Ikon Passes will be valid. Ikon Pass Holders just need to go directly to the windows and present their ID to be ticketed for the day.

Terrain in Green Valley is intermediate to advanced and late season conditions do exist so additional hazards are possible.

Join us for one last weekend of making turns on the snow before we turn the page to summer!  For more information on the Mt. Rainier Gondola and sightseeing click here

BUY TICKETS

Tickets are non-refundable.

Memorial Day Weekend Schedule

Friday May 24th – Monday May 27th

Mt. Rainier Gondola: Open for Sightseeing & Access to Green Valley

9AM – 5PM (Last download 5:30PM)

Green Valley Express: Open for Skiing & Snowboarding (Must download on the Gondola)

9AM – 4PM 

Summit House Restaurant: Open for Lunch

10:30AM – 4:30PM

Fireside Cafe: Open for Lunch

11AM – 4PM

Chinook Cafe: Coffee Only

8AM – 12PM (or later based on business)

Right Angle Sports: Spring Sale – Up to 50% Off!

8:30AM – 5PM

 

• Hours may vary.
• All skiers and snowboarders must download on the Gondola.
• There will be no rental equipment or lessons available. 
• Must be a strong intermediate to advanced skier or rider.

The post Spring Skiing in Green Valley Memorial Day Weekend appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

UPDATE 1/26/19: SINCE THE SHUTDOWN HAS ENDED THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER VALID.  THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO SPENT TIME WITH OVER THE PAST TWO WEEKS.

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN OFFERS FREE LIFT TICKETS FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES FURLOUGHED DURING GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

Starting Thursday, January 17, 2019 all federal employees who are furloughed due to the government shutdown will receive a free weekday lift ticket or scenic ticket for the Mt. Rainier Gondola.  Federal ID is required and must be presented at the ticket window to qualify.  This offer is not valid January 19-21 or January 26-27, 2019.  Offer ends February 1, 2019 or when the government shutdown ends, whichever happens first. 

“We realize that many federal employees are caught in the middle of the battle that’s going on in DC and we’d like to invite them up to the mountains to for a day of skiing or snowboarding on us as a show of gratitude for their service,” said Frank DeBerry, President and COO of Crystal Mountain.  “The outdoors will always be open and accessible to all, and we invite anyone currently furloughed with a Federal ID to join us for a day of fun,” he added.  

Crystal Mountain also has job opportunities available for part-time and full-time seasonal and year-round positions.  View job openings and apply online:  https://www.crystalmountainresort.com/employment/

The post Free Lift Tickets for Federal Employees appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

With the launch of A-B-Skis, an alphabet book about the magical world of skiing, Ludlow is making it easier to share the stoke of skiing with your little ones. Designed to instill a lifelong love for skiing, A-B-Skis is a glimpse into everything that’s at the heart of the sport—from hot chocolate breaks, to ripping runs with friends. The colorful illustrations by PSIA ski instructor Nathan Jarvis spark kid’s curiosity for the winter wonderland that awaits them on the slopes, while playful rhymes guide kids through everything they can expect on a typical ski day.

“I’ve always been an avid writer,” says Ludlow, “A-B-Skis is the perfect intersection of my passion for skiing, my love of writing, and my interest as a mom to share memorable experiences with my toddler.”

By using Kickstarter to launch A-B-Skis, Ludlow is collecting the orders needed to finalize her self-publishing push. She says that while her primary motivation for writing A-B-Skis is to help kids fall in love with the magic of skiing, the added benefit comes in the improved expectations and life-lessons that kids glean from the book.

“I wanted a fun and playful way to start talking about skiing with my toddler. Any opportunity to share what I love, and to pique his curiosity for skiing, well it’s a mom’s dream come true.”

Ludlow promises that adults will adore sharing A-B-Skis with the kids in their life, and kids won’t be able to wait for their next trip to the ski hill. Want to share A-B-Skis with a tiny human in your life? Order your copy no later than December 13th at www.kickstarter.com/profile/abskis

The post How One Olympian Gets Kids Excited to Hit the Slopes appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

The 2018-19 winter season is fast approaching and our team has been hard at work to make improvements over the summer. From the addition of more snowmaking capabilities to the most recent news of Crystal Mountain Resort joining the Alterra Mountain Company, there’s a ton to learn about. Let’s jump right in!

Welcoming Crystal Mountain Resort to the Alterra Mountain Company Family

As many are now aware our big news this year is that Crystal Mountain Resort has been acquired by Alterra Mountain Company as of October 1st, 2018. The purchase of Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, brings Alterra Mountain Company’s total to 14 year-round mountain destinations throughout North America, including the world’s largest heli-skiing operation.

“With the acquisition of Crystal Mountain Resort, we are able to offer the Ikon Pass community a true big mountain experience in the Pacific Northwest at Washington’s premier destination,” said Rusty Gregory, Chief Executive Officer of Alterra Mountain Company. “I’m excited to welcome each and every member of Crystal Mountain’s team into our family at Alterra Mountain Company.”

Crystal Mountain Resort is available on the Ikon Pass for winter 2018/2019. Access is unlimited with no blackout dates on both the Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass.

Meet Crystal Mountain’s President

With the recent announcement of Alterra Mountain Company’s  purchase of Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, Frank DeBerry, from Snowshoe Mountain, will be named President & COO of Crystal Mountain Resort.

“I am very pleased to announce Frank DeBerry as the new President of Crystal Mountain Resort,” said David Perry, President & Chief Operating Officer of Alterra Mountain Company. “It’s always a great benefit to retain talent within the company, and Frank brings a wealth of experience with him from nearly a decade spent leading Snowshoe. I know he will now guide Crystal and its talented team into the future with enthusiasm and the support of the entire Alterra Mountain Company family.”

Frank DeBerry has served as the President & COO of Snowshoe Mountain Resort in West Virginia since 2011, leading the destination out of the recession and spearheading its continued growth. DeBerry has spent his entire career in the ski industry, working his way up through Intrawest and serving as General Manager at Mountain Creek Resort in New Jersey before leading the team at Snowshoe.

For more information about Frank DeBarry, read the press release here.

Crystal Mountain Season Pass Holders

With all of the recent news, a lot of you still have questions about your Crystal Mountain Season Pass. Your season pass is still valid at Crystal Mountain Resort. If you would like to learn about your options of obtaining an Ikon Pass, visit the Season Pass FAQ page. If you have any further questions, please give Guest Services a call at 360-663-3050. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes this winter.

More Snow Making Capabilities

Addition of a Piston Bully 600 Winch Cat

A Smoother Ride

The post What’s NEW For The 2018-19 Winter appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

ALTERRA MOUNTAIN COMPANY CLOSES ON CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN RESORT IN WASHINGTON

EXPANDING REGIONAL ACCESS TO THE COMPANY’S FAMILY OF DESTINATIONS

*For info on how this affects Crystal Mountain pass holders, please visit the Season Pass FAQ page*

Denver, Co. – (October 1, 2018) – Alterra Mountain Company announces that it has closed on the purchase of Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, which brings the company’s total to 14 year-round mountain destinations throughout North America, including the world’s largest heli-skiing operation.

“With the acquisition of Crystal Mountain Resort, we are able to offer the Ikon Pass community a true big mountain experience in the Pacific Northwest at Washington’s premier destination,” said Rusty Gregory, Chief Executive Officer of Alterra Mountain Company. “I’m excited to welcome each and every member of Crystal Mountain’s team into our family at Alterra Mountain Company.”

Crystal Mountain Resort is available on the Ikon Pass for winter 2018/2019. Access is unlimited with no blackout dates on both the Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass.

Situated in the Northeast edge of Mt. Rainier National Park, Crystal Mountain Resort is less than two hours from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and boasts the largest and highest lift-serviced terrain in Washington. The mountain offers skiers and riders a gondola and 10 lifts, 57 runs, and a vertical drop of 3,100 feet across 2,600 acres. The village is home to a number of lodging properties, shops, services and year-round activities.

Alterra Mountain Company’s destinations offer premium ski, snowboard and all-season activities for those who seek adventure, freedom, and fun in the great outdoors. Current destinations that make up Alterra Mountain Company are spread throughout six states and three Canadian provinces: Steamboat and Winter Park Resort in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Stratton in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington; Tremblant in Quebec, Blue Mountain in Ontario; Deer Valley Resort and Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah; and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia. Alterra Mountain Company was created when affiliates of KSL Capital Partners, owners of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, and affiliates of Henry Crown and Company purchased Intrawest, Mammoth Resorts, and Deer Valley Resort in 2017.

Alterra Mountain Company leaders are charged with the responsibility to respect each destination’s unique culture and personality by taking exceptional care of our mountains and the people who live and play in them.

In January 2018, Alterra Mountain Company introduced the Ikon Pass for winter 2018-2019, the new standard in season passes. The Ikon Pass offers skiers and riders access to 36 mountain destinations throughout North America, Australia and Japan, including 14 Alterra Mountain Company destinations, plus 22 partner destinations.

About Alterra Mountain Company Alterra Mountain Company is a family of 14 iconic year-round destinations, including the world’s largest heli-ski operation, offering the Ikon Pass, the new standard in season passes. The company owns and operates a range of recreation, hospitality, real-estate development, food and beverage and retail businesses. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado with destinations across the continent, Alterra Mountain Company is rooted in the spirit of the mountains and united by a passion for outdoor adventure. Alterra Mountain Company’s family of diverse playgrounds spans six U.S. states and three Canadian provinces: Steamboat and Winter Park Resort in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Stratton in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington; Tremblant in Quebec, Blue Mountain in Ontario; Deer Valley Resort and Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah; and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia. Alterra Mountain Company honors each destination’s unique character and authenticity and celebrates the legendary adventures and enduring memories they bring to everyone. For more information, please visitwww.alterramtnco.com.

About Crystal Mountain Resort Crystal Mountain Resort is situated on the northeast corner of Mt. Rainier National Park, just 76 miles from Seattle. Crystal averages 480 inches of snow annually and is the largest ski area in Washington state with 2,600 acres of world-class terrain. The destination is open during the winter months for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. During the summer guests can enjoy scenic rides on the Mt. Rainier Gondola along with mountain-top dining and a multitude of other activities. Crystal Mountain Resort is located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and is a proud partner in recreation with the U.S. Forest Service. For more information, visit http://crystalmountainresort.com/.

About Ikon Pass The Ikon Pass is the new standard in season passes, connecting the most iconic mountains across North America, Australia and Japan, delivering authentic, memorable snow adventures. Brought to you by Alterra Mountain Company, the Ikon Pass unlocks access to a community of diverse destinations you want to ski and ride, including Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, Winter Park Resort, Copper Mountain and Eldora in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming; Big Sky in Montana; Stratton, Killington and Sugarbush Resort in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain in Michigan; Crystal Mountain Resort and The Summit at Snoqualmie in Washington; Tremblant in Quebec and Blue Mountain in Ontario, Canada; SkiBig3 in Alberta, Canada; Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Cypress Mountain in British Columbia, Canada; Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine; Loon Mountain in New Hampshire; Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico; Deer Valley Resort, Solitude Mountain Resort, Brighton Resort, Alta, and Snowbird in Utah; Thredbo in Australia; and Niseko United in Japan. Special offers are available at CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, the world’s largest heli-skiing operation. For more information on the Ikon Pass, please visit www.ikonpass.com.

The post Alterra Mountain Company Closes On Crystal Mountain Resort appeared first on Crystal Mountain Resort WA.

Kristin Rust
Alterra Mountain Company
Director of Public Relations
krust@alterramtnco.com
303.801.7271

ALTERRA MOUNTAIN COMPANY TO ACQUIRE CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN RESORT IN WASHINGTON

Expanding Regional Access to the Company’s Family of Destinations

DENVER, CO, September 5, 2018 – Alterra Mountain Company announces that it has entered into an agreement to purchase Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, which would bring the company’s total to 14 year-round mountain destinations throughout North America, including the world’s largest heli-skiing operation.

“With the addition of Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, we are able to expand our reach into the Pacific Northwest and offer our guests incredible experiences in the Cascade Mountains, while also giving Crystal Mountain Resort skiers and riders the opportunity to explore all the other premier destinations on the Ikon Pass,” said Rusty Gregory, Chief Executive Officer, Alterra Mountain Company. “Crystal Mountain is Washington’s premier resort and has been a favorite year-round destination for those in the greater Seattle-Tacoma area for years, and we are excited to include it in the Alterra Mountain Company family.”

Crystal Mountain Resort will be available on the Ikon Pass for winter 2018/2019. Access will be unlimited with no blackout dates on both the Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass. (Any Ikon Pass access or benefits at Crystal Mountain Resort is contingent upon the completion of Alterra Mountain Company’s transaction to acquire Crystal Mountain Resort.)

Situated in the Northeast edge of Mt. Rainier National Park, Crystal Mountain Resort is less than two hours from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and boasts the largest and highest lift-serviced terrain in Washington. The mountain offers skiers and riders a gondola and 10 lifts, 57 runs, and a vertical drop of 3,100 feet across 2,600 acres. The village is home to a number of lodging properties, shops, services and year-round activities.

“It has always been my goal to ensure Crystal Mountain Resort be taken the farthest in the shortest amount of time in order to keep Crystal at the top of Northwest skiing,” said John Kircher, Owner of Crystal Mountain Resort. “Alterra Mountain Company is able to offer a depth of experience and resources, as well as inclusion on the Ikon Pass with its outstanding destinations throughout the world. The mountain sports business has changed more in the last year than I have seen it change in my entire 40-year career, and I am excited to see what lays ahead.”

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2018, and is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  More details will be released once the transaction has closed.

Alterra Mountain Company’s destinations offer premium ski, snowboard and all-season activities for those who seek adventure, freedom, and fun in the great outdoors. Current destinations that make up Alterra Mountain Company are spread throughout five states and three Canadian provinces: Steamboat and Winter Park Resort in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Stratton in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Tremblant in Quebec, Blue Mountain in Ontario; Deer Valley Resort and

Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah; and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia. Alterra Mountain Company was created when affiliates of KSL Capital Partners, owners of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, and affiliates of Henry Crown and Company purchased Intrawest, Mammoth Resorts, and Deer Valley Resort in 2017.

At each destination, Alterra Mountain Company leaders are empowered to be decisive, creative, and bold in order to retain each mountain’s authentic character. Recognizing the innate value of the unique culture found at each of the mountain communities, Alterra Mountain Company’s goal is to preserve, sustain and support its two most important resources: the mountains and the people who live and play in them.

In January 2018, Alterra Mountain Company introduced the Ikon Pass for winter 2018-2019, the new standard in season passes. The Ikon Pass offers skiers and riders access to 35 mountain destinations throughout North America, Australia and Japan, including 13 Alterra Mountain Company destinations, plus 22 partner destinations.

About Alterra Mountain Company

Alterra Mountain Company is a family of 13 iconic year-round destinations, including the world’s largest heli-ski operation, offering the Ikon Pass, the new standard in season passes. The company owns and operates a range of recreation, hospitality, real-estate development, food and beverage and retail businesses. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado with destinations across the continent, Alterra Mountain Company is rooted in the spirit of the mountains and united by a passion for outdoor adventure. Alterra Mountain Company’s family of diverse playgrounds spans five U.S. states and three Canadian provinces: Steamboat and Winter Park Resort in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Stratton in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Tremblant in Quebec, Blue Mountain in Ontario; Deer Valley Resort and Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah; and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia. Alterra Mountain Company honors each destination’s unique character and authenticity and celebrates the legendary adventures and enduring memories they bring to everyone. For more information visit www.alterramtnco.com.  

About Crystal Mountain Resort

Crystal Mountain Resort is situated on the northeast corner of Mt. Rainier National Park, just 76 miles from Seattle.  Crystal averages 480 inches of snow annually and is the largest ski area in the Washington with 2,600 acres of world-class terrain.  The resort is open during the winter months for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. During the summer guests can enjoy scenic rides on the Mt. Rainier Gondola along with mountain-top dining and a multitude of other activities.  Crystal Mountain Resort is located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and is a proud partner in recreation with the U.S. Forest Service.  For more information visit crystalmountainresort.com.

About Ikon Pass

The Ikon Pass is the new standard in season passes, connecting the most iconic mountains across North America, Australia and Japan, delivering authentic, memorable snow adventures. Brought to you by Alterra Mountain Company, the Ikon Pass unlocks access to a community of diverse destinations you want to ski and ride, including Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, Winter Park Resort, Copper Mountain and Eldora in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming; Big Sky in Montana; Stratton, Killington and Sugarbush Resort in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain in Michigan; The Summit at Snoqualmie in Washington; Tremblant in Quebec and Blue Mountain in Ontario, Canada; SkiBig3 in Alberta, Canada; Revelstoke Mountain Resort and Cypress Mountain in British Columbia, Canada; Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine; Loon Mountain in New Hampshire; Deer Valley Resort, Solitude Mountain Resort, Brighton Resort, Alta, and Snowbird in Utah; Thredbo in Australia; and Niseko United in Japan. Special offers are available at CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, the world’s largest heli-skiing operation. For more information on the Ikon Pass, visit www.ikonpass.com.

# # #

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Moving Towards A Greener Future At Washington’s Largest Ski Resort

As many of you are aware, the City of Seattle has ditched plastic straws! This is a great first step in becoming a better steward of our environment in the state of Washington and we couldn’t be more proud to call this state our home. 

We are happy to announce that we have ditched plastic straws too! As of June 22, 2018 we now supply our guests with paper straws (Seahawks themed) in our food and beverage locations that will biodegrade and have less of an impact on our environment. 

A few facts…

• 500 million plastic straws are used by Americans daily, that’s enough to circle the Earth twice! (Get Green Now)
• The 11th most found ocean trash is plastic straws and harm ocean wildlife (Get Green Now)
• It takes up to 200 years for a plastic straw to decompose (Get Green Now)

These are many reasons why we have taken the initiative to find an alternative to our plastic consumption at Crystal Mountain.

Looking forward, we will be transitioning to all compostable products from Eco Products, Earth Choice, and Greenware in August 2018 at all of our on-mountain food and beverage locations. These products include to-go containers, single-use cups and more. We will continue to provide compostable products in our food and beverage locations throughout the winter and well into the future.

Last winter (2017-18) Crystal moved away from purchasing and selling water and soft drink beverages in plastic containers. We now provide water refill stations in our lodges for guests to refill their water bottles. We also sell multi-use water bottles with the Crystal logo on them in Right Angle Sports Shop for guests to purchase to fill with water and take out on the slopes with them. Not only did we stop selling single-use plastic bottles, we also moved away from aluminum cans of beer at Campbell Basin Lodge to reduce the amount of waster being transported up and down from our mid-mountain lodge.

Interested in Crystal Mountain’s green initiatives? Check out our Environment page.

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