Crystal Peak (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crystal Peak |
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East aspect, with Crystal Lake
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 6,595 ft (2,010 m) |
| Prominence | 275 ft (84 m) |
| Geography | |
 Crystal Peak
Location in Washington (state)
Crystal Peak
Location in the United States
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| Location | Mount Rainier National Park Pierce County, Washington, U.S. |
| Parent range | Cascades |
| Topo map | USGS White River Park |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hiking trail |
Crystal Peak is a tall mountain peak located in the eastern part of Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state. It stands at 6,595 feet (2,010 meters) high. This peak is almost on the top of the Cascade Range, a long chain of mountains.
Crystal Peak is about 0.75 miles (1.2 km) northwest of Chinook Peak. Crystal Mountain and Crystal Lakes are just to the northeast. Another peak, Three Way Peak, is about 1.09 miles (1.75 km) to the east.
You can reach the summit of Crystal Peak by a hiking trail. This trail branches off from the main Crystal Lakes Trail. The starting point for these trails is along Highway 410. This highway runs along the western base of the mountain. Water from rain and melting snow on Crystal Peak flows into streams that feed the White River. The summit used to be a site for watching out for forest fires.
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Weather at Crystal Peak
Crystal Peak is in a special weather area called the "marine west coast climate zone." This means its weather is strongly affected by the Pacific Ocean. Most of the weather systems, like big clouds and rain, start over the Pacific Ocean. They then travel northeast towards the Cascade Range.
How Mountains Affect Weather
When these weather systems reach the tall Cascade Mountains, they are forced to rise up. This process is called Orographic lift. As the air rises, it cools down and drops its moisture. This means the west side of the Cascades gets a lot of rain or snow.
Seasons at Crystal Peak
During the winter, the weather is usually cloudy. There is often heavy snowfall. Because the snow is influenced by the ocean, it tends to be wet and heavy. This can sometimes lead to a high risk of avalanches.
In the summer months, from July to September, the weather often changes. High-pressure systems over the Pacific Ocean become stronger. This usually means there are very few clouds, or no clouds at all. These months offer the best weather for visiting Crystal Peak and enjoying the views.
Images for kids
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Crystal Peak seen from Upper Crystal Lake
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East aspect
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Crystal Peak with Mt. Rainier upper left
