Several popular hiking trails lead from the Crystal Mountain [1] area to the Pacific Crest Trail in the nearby Norse Peak Wilderness Area [2]. Another favorite is the Crystal Mountain Trail (No. 1163), a 12-mile loop hike (or mountain bike ride) that follows the ridge along Crystal Mountain. Unfortunately, the resort does not run a summer lift program, so you’ll have to crank it out on your own.
Get regional camping and hiking information from the Naches Ranger District (509/653-2205). The Forest Service operates many popular campgrounds along Highway 410 between Enumclaw [3] and Crystal Mountain [1], including The Dalles Campground (26 miles southeast of Enumclaw on Hwy. 410, 518/885-3639 or 877/444-6777, www.recreation.gov [4], $14).
The short and easy Dalles River Trail leaves from the campground and follows the White River. The main attraction here is a Douglas fir tree that reaches almost 10 feet in diameter.
Also along the highway is Silver Springs Campground (35 miles southeast of Enumclaw on Hwy. 410, 518/885-3639 or 877/444-6777, www.recreation.gov [4], $14), near the turnoff to Crystal Mountain Resort on Highway 410. Both of these are open mid-May to mid-October.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/chinook-pass-and-highway-410/crystal-mountain
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/mount-rainier-national-park/mount-rainier-wilderness-ar/norse-peak-wild
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/cle-elum-area/enumclaw
[4] http://www.recreation.gov