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Overview

Crystal Mountain is one of the best known ski resorts in Washington State. Nestled just to the east of Mount Rainier, Crystal Mountain is well known for it reliable skiing and snowboarding. It is also a great early season or late season snoclimb when the resort is closed and a good summer hiking destination. The highest peak on the Crystal Mountain Ridge is Silver King. With an elevation just below 7000 feet, it is a great place to start off a great winter. Views from Silver King when clear include Mount Rainier and Mount Adams, Norse Peak, Silver Queen and many of the other summits in the area.

Silver King can either approached by the south (summer and fall) from Chinook Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail. Take the Pacific Crest Trail north until once near the ridge. From there head west about 0.7 miles to the true summit. In early winter, before the ski area opens it can be approached from the north. Just head up the ski lift and then cut threw the trees all the way the Silver Basin. From there head up the forty degree basin to the top of the ridge. Once on the top of the ridge, it is simple 0.4 miles and 300 feet to the true summit.