Snow Sports on Mount Rainier in Pierce County Washington

In the winter, Mount Rainier and the surrounding Cascade foothills in Pierce County Washington become a wonderland of pristine snow and icicle-draped waterfalls. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding within the national park, or downhill skiing and snowboarding at nearby Crystal Mountain. Crystal is the highest ski area in Washington State, reaching 7,000 feet, and offers challenging runs with fabulous views of Mount Rainier.

The surrounding National Forest areas also offer opportunities for outdoor winter activities, including winter camping for the truly hardy. Snow usually starts accumulating in late November or early December and can last through April, depending on the winter’s snowfall. Check the links below for more information.