Stevens Pass vs. Crystal Mountain: Which Ski Resort Takes the Crown?

When it comes to skiing in Washington State, two resorts often come to mind: Stevens Pass and Crystal Mountain. Both offer a unique skiing experience, but which one takes the crown? This article will compare the two based on several factors including terrain, accessibility, facilities, and overall experience.

Terrain

Stevens Pass boasts 1,125 acres of skiable terrain with a vertical drop of 1,800 feet. It has 52 runs, with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes. The resort is known for its consistent snowfall and excellent tree skiing.

On the other hand, Crystal Mountain is the largest ski resort in Washington with 2,600 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 3,100 feet. It offers 57 runs, with a wide variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels. Crystal Mountain is also known for its breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.

Accessibility

Stevens Pass is located 78 miles from Seattle, making it a popular choice for day trips. The resort offers a shuttle service from downtown Seattle and several other locations.

Crystal Mountain is slightly further away at 85 miles from Seattle. However, it also offers a shuttle service from several locations in the city. Both resorts can be accessed by car, but be prepared for mountain driving conditions.

Facilities

Both resorts offer a range of facilities including equipment rentals, ski schools, and dining options. Stevens Pass has a slightly larger base area with more dining and shopping options. However, Crystal Mountain offers more upscale dining options and has a gondola that takes you to the summit for panoramic views of Mount Rainier.

Overall Experience

Both Stevens Pass and Crystal Mountain offer a fantastic skiing experience. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate resort with consistent snowfall, then Stevens Pass may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a larger resort with a wide variety of terrain and stunning views, then Crystal Mountain may be more your style.

In conclusion, the crown could go to either resort depending on what you’re looking for in a ski trip. Both Stevens Pass and Crystal Mountain offer excellent skiing conditions and facilities. It’s recommended to visit both and decide for yourself which one takes the crown!