After an incredible sendoff by the community at Crystal Mountain Ski Resort in Washington State, the auction is now live for the recently retired chairs from The Rainier Express. Nicknamed REX, the chairs have been in service since 1988 and will be replaced with a new Leitner-Poma detachable high-speed quad chairlift which is set to open in December 2025. There are 50 chairs up for auction with bids starting as low as $1,050. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Northwest Avalanche Center. Bidding ends May 16th. MORE INFO HERE.
Own a Piece of Crystal Mountain History
Here’s your chance to take home an iconic piece of Crystal Mountain’s legacy! This summer, Crystal will be replacing the Rainier Express chairlift (REX) with a brand-new high-speed lift, ushering in a new era of access and mountain experience. As part of this historic transition, we’re offering a rare opportunity to purchase one of the original REX chairs.
Installed in 1988, Rainier Express was the first detachable high-speed quad in Washington State, transforming access to the upper mountain and becoming a favorite among skiers and riders. As we modernize our lift infrastructure, these chairs will find new homes off the hill, with proceeds going to a cause close to all of us who live, work, and play in the mountains. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC), whose work in avalanche forecasting, education, and backcountry safety is vital to outdoor recreationists throughout the Cascades.
By purchasing a chair, you’re not only preserving a piece of Crystal Mountain history—you’re also supporting the safety and sustainability of winter recreation in our region.
