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Escape the city and head for the mountains on this summer day trip (July to September) from Seattle to Crystal Mountain, one of Washington's favorite mountain resorts. You'll enjoy spectacular scenery as you climb 2,500 feet (762 meters) over meadows of wildflowers and evergreens on Crystal Mountain's popular feature - the Mt Rainier Gondola. Spend free time at the top of the mountain to enjoy delicious Northwest dining and beautiful views of nearby Mt Rainier. On the drive to and from the resort, stop at a 100-year-old bakery and take a walk through an old-growth forest.
Catching glimpses of Mt Rainier in Seattle is exciting, but enjoying an up-close view of the 14,411-foot (4,027-meter) peak from the top of neighboring Crystal Mountain is even better. Your 6-hour tour to Crystal Mountain resort from Seattle starts as you are picked up at your hotel by a professional guide and driven in comfort south of the city. During the scenic 2-hour drive, listen as your guide tells you stories and facts about the area and stop at a 100-year-old bakery, famous for its freshly baked breads and other goodies - the perfect mid-morning snack (own expense).
When you arrive at Crystal Mountain, board the resort's state-of-the-art Mt Rainier Gondola (lift ticket included). With a travel time of just under 10 minutes, the gondola puts you at Crystal Mountain's summit in half the time of older chairlifts and ensures that you arrive dry and warm (even in the summer, Washington can be cool and rainy). It travels almost 2,500 vertical feet (762 meters) from the base of Crystal Mountain, providing you with amazing views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
At the top of Crystal Mountain, you will find awe-inspiring views of Mt Rainier and other mountain peaks, including all five of Washington's volcanoes. You'll have 1.5 hours of free time here to relax, soak up the views and eat. There are three great dining options: the Summit House, Washington's highest-elevation restaurant serving fine Northwest cuisine; the more casual Snorting Elk & Alpine Inn, serving sandwiches, soups and salads; and the Glacier Express for boxed lunches and hotdogs. Average dining prices are listed in the Itinerary section below.
When your free time is up, re-board the gondola for the ride down, and then re-board your coach for the return ride to Seattle. Stop on the way at one of Washington's old-growth forests, where your guide will lead you on a 10- to 15-minute nature walk. It's the perfect way to walk off your lunch!
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
Tour Details Crystal Mountain Day Trip from Seattle Including the Mt Rainier Gondola
