Crystal Mountain Loop
A strenuous hike past Henskin and Elizabeth Lakes to reach the summit of Crystal Mountain, the Summit House Restaurant, and the top of the Mount Rainier Gondola. Marvel at the wide open views of Mount Rainier before returning downhill on a decommissioned road.
Getting There
Drive SR-410 to just north of the entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Turn east onto Crystal Mountain Blvd (Forest Road 33) and follow it to the Crystal Mountain Resort parking lot.
On the Trail
There are a variety of options using various trails and roads in the basin. For the southern loop, begin at the Silver Springs Trail and hike clockwise to Henskin Lake and continue past Elizabeth Lake. The trail hugs the basin as it continues higher in elevation to the summit house restaurant and gondola. For the return, hike downhill on the decommissioned Kelly's Gap Road back to the resort parking lot. For a longer northern lollipop option, hike the Northway Trail to the ridge until reaching a road intersection. Follow the road north to the Northway Loop Trail and hike below the ridge back to the Northway Trail to complete the lollipop.
- Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
- Seasons: July, August, September, October
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Length: 8.3 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2,910 ft
- 6,872 ft
-
Land Manager:
Crystal Mountain Resort
Snoqualmie Ranger District (MBSNF)
- Parking Permit Required: None
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 12
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
- Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX
- Green Trails Bumping Lake No. 271
This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.
- Henskin Lake
- Elizabeth Lake
- Bear Gap
- Pickhandle Pass
- Crown Point
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