Where to Find One of the Most Mesmerizing Views of Washington's Mount Rainier

“Is this Heaven?” No, and it isn’t Iowa either. It’s Washington, baby, and the view from up here is one of the most breathtaking ones you will find anywhere in North America. Where is “up here”, you ask? “Up here” would be the summit at Crystal Mountain Resort, where, after a brief ride on a gondola, you are afforded one of the most fantastic views of Mount Rainier that you may ever see.

I am not exaggerating when I say it felt like we had ascended Mount Olympus and entered the realm of the gods. And anyone who has been “up here” would likely agree.

Although Crystal Mountain isn’t the closest ski resort to Seattle (that would be the Summit at Snoqualmie), it can be found just two hours southeast of downtown along State Route 410, making for an easy day trip. And while the view from the summit is worth the drive in and of itself, it’s not likely you’re coming out this way just for that. So let’s say you’re going skiing or snowboarding, right? The good news there is that access to the gondola is included with your lift ticket purchase.

But if, for some reason, you aren’t trying to shred the gnar, tickets solely for the gondola are also available, ranging from $30 to $50 depending on your age and the day of the week.

Scroll on for the sights and sounds of Crystal Mountain Resort in Washington, including that sweet, sweet view.

The A-Team Arrives

A tunnel of trees (and perhaps Apple Maps) will guide your way to Crystal Mountain Resort

Mountain Views

The Chinook Express is one of the first lifts you’ll encounter as you exit the lodge

On Top of Old Smokey

The Crystal Mountain Gondola, which is included with your lift ticket purchase, takes you some 6,800 ft. up to the summit

Bundling up once you reach the top is highly recommended

These trees at the summit were giving off major Whoville vibes

One last look at Mount Rainier emerging through the clouds

-LTH