Washington — The life and times of the oldest detachable high-speed chairlift in Washington are coming to a close.
Yesterday, Crystal Mountain announced that it will be replacing the Rainier Express (known by Crystal skiers as REX) chairlift. Opened back in 1988, it’s the first high-speed quad chairlift installed in Washington. REX will be replaced by a new Leitner-Poma detachable high-speed quad chairlift. The Rainier Express services intermediate and advanced terrain. Leitner-Poma plans to begin construction in June, and the chairlift is planned to open in December 2025.
Crystal Mountain intends to send the chairlift off in a big way. On May 4th, Crystal plans to host The Last Riders of REX 1988 Party, which will occur at the Midway Yurt. The Over the Top Rail Jam will also happen on that date, with plans to have it situated in a place where those who are riding the Rainier Express chairlift can see it.
A photo contest will also be happening, with the participants being entered to win a swag bag and one of the retired chairs. Those interested can email chabenicht@skicrystal.com or submit photos via this form.
The plan is to sell the old Rainier chairs in May. The proceeds from the sold chairs will go towards the Northwest Avalanche Center.
Image/Video Credits: Crystal Mountain Resort, Soren Jones
