One of the greatest blessings about living here in the Pacific Northwest is the geographic diversity.  Mountain ranges, the ocean, inland sea passages, coves, lakes, rivers, hot springs, and old growth forest to name a few..  There is no reason to ever complain that there is nothing to do.. even in January!  This last weekend we had some time to explore and play, so we decided to head to Mount Rainier through Enumclaw.  We followed the White river, saw some beautiful scenery, and turned left at the highway closure sign to Crystal Mountain resort.  

It had been over 20 years since I had been to Crystal Mountain, and it has changed tremendously!  There is now a gondola that you can ride to the top of the ridge.  At the top you will find restrooms, connecting lifts, a gift shop, restaurant, and the most amazing view of Mount Rainier and the White River.  Definitely worth the $20 to ride the gondola to the top.  The food was pretty good too, especially the chili with corn bread in a dutch cast iron skillet (for two) at only $25 you get warmed up from the inside out, and get to enjoy an amazing view of the mountain with your meal!

We left Gig Harbor at 10am with coffee in hand, and breakfast taken care of.  We were enjoying lunch by 2:30 after several stops along the river on our way, and home by 6pm with another great experience & memory made.  Paradise is so easy to find here in the Pacific Northwest!