Last weekend we decided to venture up to Crystal Mountain. This was our first time up here during the summer, and we hadn’t been there since the opening of the Gondola. Knowing that we wanted to take ride the Gondola, the only question was which direction to go. Gondola up to the summit, and hike down? Or, hike up and Gondola down. We chose to hike up, have lunch at the Summit House restaurant, then gondola down. We purchased our tickets at the base area, though others mentioned you can buy them at the top as well. If you chose to do so, ask for a trail map from the attendant. *Note: The trail is clear all the way to the summit. Absolutely no snow issues, regardless of what the attendant might say. *Tip: Bring your bug spray! Mosquitoes were out, especially from the Lake to Summit.
We began from the base area heading up to meet up with the Silver Creek Trail. This gets the heart pumping early in the hike. Make your way up until you meet a service road, and follow the sign to the right to continue on the Silver Creek trail. I found this part of the trail to be particularly unremarkable. As you make your way toward the ski hills, your greeted with nice views of the surrounding hillside, as well as many wildflowers in bloom. Once you cross the ski run, you enter the forest for a while as you continue climbing. The most interesting part of this portion of the hike is the stream crossing which has a waterfall, and is next to what appears to have been a mine entrance. Snap some pics, and continue on toward Henskin Lake, which is about 2.5 miles from the base area.
Henskin Lake is beautiful, and it was a great spot for lunch, being about the half way point to the summit. We enjoyed the view, watched the dogs frolic in the water ( dogs are permitted on these trails) and even saw some lake trout. *Tip: These are multi-use trails. We came across horses and mountain bikers during the hike. Your best bet is to yield the trail to both. Remain quiet as the horses pass to avoid startling them.
Continue on after the lake as you make your way up toward the larger ski slopes. Once you start gaining more elevation views begin to expand. The trail is pretty narrow at times as you make your way up the mountainside. You will pass through rocky sections, with loose rocks, and evidence of what appears to be blasting. Be especially vigilant in those sections. Watch and LISTEN for falling rocks. A cantaloupe sized rock came careening down the hill and passed right between us! Eventually the summit house will appear atop the mountain in the distance, and the trail will begin to switchback steeply. This is where we came across the adrenaline seeking mountain bikers. Again, it’s best to get out of the way. (Be prepared for a dust cloud as they pass) On the final leg you steeply climb with amazing views to your right. I spotted an approaching Marmot on the hillside as we rested. If you stared out over the mountainside, keep an eye out for movement. You never know what you’ll spot.
Unfortunately, Mt Rainier was in cloud cover, otherwise a superb view would be had on your left as you make your way up the wide final path. This is a grind at this point, but keep going, you’re almost there! Enjoy your reward at the top from the Summit House restaurant. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a clear Rainier day, sit in the outside section, and take it in with a frosty brew.
Thoughts: The 2nd half of the hike, (from Henskin lake to Summitt) is far better than the first half, and made the hike well worth it. If you decide to take the hike up, be aware it’s a 2500 ft ascent in less than 6 miles, and barely a switchback in sight!
The deets:
Hike length: 5.6 miles
Elevation gain: 2500 ft
Hike time: About 4 hrs with leisurely pace, and stop for snack.
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