Crystal Mountain officially opening on Monday

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, Wash. — It’s been a slow start to the 2021 – 2022 ski season, but there’s good news for riders eager to hit the slopes.

Crystal Mountain is officially opening on Monday.

For about a week, only season pass holders have had access to the slopes at Crystal Mountain due to dismal snowfall and heavy rain. The resort has had a soft opening, but that changes on Monday, when anyone with a ticket can access the mountain.

“It’s been a slow start to the winter season so far, that’s for sure,” said Crystal Mountain director of operations Peter Dale.

When the weather doesn’t cooperate, Crystal Mountain rolls out 45 snow guns that blast out water that freezes and turns to snow.

“We’ve got the big, bad snow-making system here, so we were able to make it happen,” said Connor Lyons with Crystal grooming and snowmaking.

So far, only a handful of lower-elevation lifts are open to the public.

“Right now, we’re just starting off with the trails with manmade snow on them. A lot better snowpack, so you won’t be scratching up your skis or anything,” said Lyons.

With a promising snow forecast ahead and a couple of snowpack days behind them, officials at Crystal said it only takes one good dump of snow to get all the chairs going.

“We should be getting a sweet boost from Mother Nature here in a couple of days,” said Lyons.

The landscape and base layer aren’t all that’s changed since last season.

COVID-19 protocols have eased, allowing for all lifts to load at full capacity and indoor dining and seating to reopen.

Another addition to Crystal this year is free coach bus service from Enumclaw. A spot on the bus can be reserved online.

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