Crystal Mountain vs Palisades Tahoe
Comparing Crystal Mountain (WA) and Palisades Tahoe (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain, WA
Ikon pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$62
Season pass$1,329
Palisades Tahoe
Olympic Valley, CA
Ikon pass
Window price$289
Online (advance)$189
Season pass$1,329
Side-by-side
| Stat | Crystal Mountain | Palisades Tahoe | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $289 | Crystal Mountain |
| Online (30+ days) | $62 | $189 | Crystal Mountain |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,329 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 450" | 450" | Tied |
| Skiable acres | 2,600 | 6,000 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Vertical drop | 3,100' | 2,850' | Crystal Mountain |
| Runs | 57 | 270 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Lifts | 11 | 42 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Summit elevation | 7,500' | 9,500' | Palisades Tahoe |
| Beginner terrain | 13% | 25% | Palisades Tahoe |
| Advanced terrain | 30% | 35% | Palisades Tahoe |
| Average lift wait | 12 min | 15 min | Crystal Mountain |
The Match
Crystal Mountain is cheaper at the gate ($62 vs $189 entry). Palisades Tahoe is significantly bigger (6,000 vs 2,600 acres). Both are on the Ikon pass — same pass, same wallet.