Crystal Mountain: Rainier Express to be replaced during summer 2025

After 37 incredible years, it’s time to say goodbye to a legend. Crystal Mountain Resort will replace the Rainier Express Chairlift with a new, detachable grip, high-speed quad by Leitner-Poma.

Referred to locally as ‘REX,’ this high-speed quad was the first detachable chairlift built in Washington State. Since its construction in 1988, it has represented Crystal Mountain’s pioneering spirit in big-mountain, skier-focused operations and investments.

Leitner-Poma is set to break ground on the new Rainier Express chairlift this June, with construction projected to be complete by December 2025. Summer operations, including the popular Mount Rainier Scenic Gondola, will proceed uninterrupted during this period.