Picture of the Rex Lift in 2022
Picture of the Rex Lift in 2022

Join us on May 4th as we commemorate the beloved “REX” Lift with a 1988-themed party and more.


After 37 incredible years, it’s time to say goodbye to a legend. Crystal Mountain Resort will replace the Rainier Express Chairlift with a new, detachable grip, high-speed quad by Leitner-Poma.

Referred to locally as ‘REX,’ this high-speed quad was the first detachable chairlift built in Washington State. Since its construction in 1988, it has represented Crystal Mountain’s pioneering spirit in big-mountain, skier-focused operations and investments.

Leitner-Poma is set to break ground on the new Rainier Express chairlift this June, with construction projected to be complete by December 2025. Summer operations, including the popular Mount Rainier Scenic Gondola, will proceed uninterrupted during this period.

The Rainier Express chairs will be sold in May, and the proceeds will support the Northwest Avalanche Center.

The Last Riders of REX 1988 Party!

The final day to ride Rainier Express will be May 4th. To commemorate the chair’s last day, Crystal Mountain will host The Last Riders of REX 1988 Party at the Midway Yurt with an 80s theme. There will be live music, giveaways, and more all weekend long!

Rock your bold neon colors, wild patterns, and vintage flair in an 1988-inspired outfit. Plus, everyone who rides any chair at Crystal Mountain May 2nd through the 4th will be entered to win one of the Rainier Express Chairs! Each day you ride is another entry to win a piece of Crystal history. This will also coincide with the Over the Top Rail Jam, which will be relocated so you can view it from Midway.

Commemorative T-shirts will be available for purchase at Crystal Mountain Outfitters.


Check out the event page for more info!
Last Riders of Rex 1988
Over the Top Rail Jam


REX Photo Contest

We want to see your memories of Rainier Express from over the years! Please send us your favorite photo of the REX, and we will enter every submission into a drawing to win a REX Swag bag. Four finalists will receive a REX 1988 Hat, and the contest winner will also receive a REX Swag Bag and two free lift tickets, valid for either this season or next.

Submission finalists will be judged on emotion and action, with a bonus for vintage photos! The entry period ends on May 2nd. An Instagram poll will determine the winner on May 3rd, and we will announce the contest and drawing winners on May 4th.

Email your photo with a caption and what REX means to you to chabenicht@skicrystal.com or use this form to submit.

*By submitting your photos, you grant Crystal Mountain the right to use the content for marketing and promotional purposes, including but not limited to social media, our website, blog, and on-site displays throughout the resort.