Crystal Mountain gets pounded with 486 inches of PNW fluff on average annually and is the real deal in terms of terrain, but thanks to its 2,600 inbound acres—and its equally as expansive backcountry—it isn’t plagued with long lift lines. Located two hours by car from Seattle, Crystal’s proximity to the ocean keeps the bitter temperatures at bay and also often serves up ample snowfall, meaning more chances for powder days.

From a small base village, the resort shoots up 3,100 vertical in all directions. The lifts—including the Mt. Rainier Gondola that effortlessly whisks skiers up 2,400 feet of vertical—easily access the series of peaks and ridges that make up the resort. From mini-golf lines to harrowing chutes to steep trees, Crystal has got the goods to keep you skiing all day long, and coming back for years to come.