5 Hikes to Explore at Crystal Mountain This Labor Day Weekend
Trade the city for the mountains and spend Labor Day weekend exploring some of the best and most accessible hiking in the Cascades.
By: Caitlin Habenicht
Edited by: Ben Bertsch
You know the last time you said, “Dang, I should really go for a hike”? Well, consider this your sign. There is still plenty of time to make good on those summer plans.
Hiking here at Crystal Mountain is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re looking for an easy family walk, a hike to an alpine lake, or a summit adventure, there’s a trail waiting for you. Start from the base and earn your views, or ride the Mt. Rainier Scenic Gondola to 6,872 feet and begin your adventure from the summit. It truly is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of day.
Here are my top five hikes to enjoy while spending Labor Day weekend at Crystal.
1. Best Summit Adventure
Crystal Mountain Trail #1163
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: Approx. 1,400 feet
Want to earn your summit views? This one is for you.
Starting near Henskin Lake, Crystal Mountain Trail climbs through subalpine forest, across winter ski runs, and past creeks and ponds before opening into beautiful Powder Bowl. Keep an eye out for local wildlife roaming the woods, including elk, silver foxes, and sometimes even a porcupine trotting along.
The final climb brings you to Crystal’s summit ridge and one of the best rewards of the day: an up-close view of Mt. Rainier that you earned.
Finish at the summit with lunch and a cold drink before taking the Mt. Rainier Scenic Gondola back to the base, if you choose.
Local Tip: For a downhill version of the adventure, ride the gondola to the summit and hike back toward the base. That’s actually one of my favorite ways to get back to the office.
2. Best Big-Mountain Adventure
Northway Trail
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 6.0 miles
Elevation Descent: Approx. 2,500 feet
This one’s for the crew that wants a thrill with every step. Think Type B adventure.
Ride the Mt. Rainier Scenic Gondola to the summit and head north along Crystal’s scenic ridgeline. Northway takes you through alpine shrubs and subalpine forests along the edge of Mt. Rainier National Park, with peek-a-boo views of Mt. Rainier appearing throughout the hike.
Expect a true mountain trail, including narrow and steep technical sections along the descent, but hey, that’s part of the fun.
The trail finishes near the Lower Northway parking area, approximately two miles from Crystal’s main base area, so plan your transportation accordingly.
Best For: Experienced hikers looking for a longer alpine adventure.
3. Best for Families
Discovery Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.28 miles
Elevation: Less than 150 feet
Meet Crystal’s newest summer trail and what we like to call our “flip-flop hike.” I say that because I do enjoy walking this trail in my best sandals.
Beginning near Chinook Express, Discovery Trail winds alongside historic Silver Creek and through shaded forest, where cool mountain air and mist from the creek make this an easygoing adventure for the whole family.
At the top, you’ll arrive near the Flying Raven Adventure Course, Crystal’s high-ropes experience tucked into the trees.
Take the hairpin turn to the left and stop at the Quickstop Yurt for refreshments and snacks, or keep the adventure going with a trip through the Flying Raven Adventure Course.
It’s a short trail and a perfect way to get everyone outside on an easy, approachable mountain adventure.
Best For: Families, older adults, and anyone looking for a quick mountain adventure.
4. Best Alpine Lake Hike
Silver Creek Trail #1192
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,480 feet
Henskin Lake is a true gem tucked in at 5,480 feet.
Beginning from Crystal’s base area, Silver Creek Trail climbs through the forest and offers a window into the mountain’s past, including remnants of an old avalanche-control gun tower and a gold mine, before heading deeper into the trees.
Cross the stream, follow the signs toward Henskin Lake, and continue approximately another half mile until the forest opens to a beautiful Cascade jewel.
If you’re looking at the lake, you’ll see a small shoreline area to the left. It can get a little boggy near the edge, so be prepared to take off your shoes.
This is my personal go-to spot with friends. We jump in the lake, swim around, and sometimes even cast a rod. The lake has great trout for catch-and-release, another way to appreciate what Mother Nature has right in our backyard.
Best For: Hikers looking for a classic mountain trail with an alpine lake reward.
Please remember: Keep dogs leashed and help us protect this special alpine environment.
5. Best Challenge
Bullion Basin Trail #1156
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
This is classic Crystal Mountain.
Bullion Basin, a long-time touring area in winter, also boasts some of the best views of the mountain. Starting above The Mountain Commons Lodge, Bullion Basin Trail climbs through the forest, crosses mountain streams, and winds through old ski runs dating back to Crystal’s early days. There are even remnants of an old chairlift back there.
Higher up, the forest opens into Bullion Basin, where grassy meadows and winding streams create one of the most beautiful settings on the mountain. From there, you can see just about every run on Crystal.
It really puts things into perspective and makes you think about the people who pioneered this mountain.
From the basin, hikers seeking an additional challenge can continue up the steeper final section toward the ridge and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Best For: Strong hikers looking for elevation, alpine terrain, and a taste of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Before You Hit the Trail
We’re in that sweet spot between summer and fall, which means conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
Come prepared with sturdy footwear, extra layers, and a comfortable backpack containing plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, a basic first-aid kit, and other essentials for a day in the mountains.
Always check current weather and trail conditions before heading out. This time of year is also one of the best opportunities to appreciate the scenery as the first fall colors begin to appear.
Find the trail that’s right for you, grab your crew, and make the most of the long weekend.
