Outside the Summit House
Outside the Summit House
DINE ABOVE THE CLOUDS AT 6,872 FEET
Experience mountaintop dining at its finest. Located just steps away from the top of the Mount Rainier Gondola, the Summit House offers a unique, elevated dining experience unlike any other. Take a ride up 2,500 feet on the scenic gondola and dine at Washington’s highest elevation restaurant surrounded by expansive views of Mount Rainier and the beautiful Cascade Range. Featuring locally sourced, sustainable ingredients inspired by the flavors of the Pacific Northwest, make a trip to the Summit House Restaurant part of every Crystal visit.


Summit House Menu
Summit House Drinks Menu
DINING HOURS

Visit our Hours of Operation page for the most up-to-date information.

Visiting the Summit House

Tips for the Best Experience

Are reservations required?

  • We do not take reservations, but walk-ins are welcome and subject to availability. Tables are first-come-first-served.


Can I make a group reservation?

  • We can accommodate groups midweek (Monday through Friday) with a reservation of two weeks or more, along with confirmed menu selections.
  • Groups with 15-25 guests must email groupsales@skicrystal.com to make gondola and lunch arrangements. A minimum of $40 per person (plus tax and gratuity) is required in advance to confirm a reservation.
  • Private full restaurant buy-outs will be considered after hours only (6-9 p.m.). Email events@skicrystal.com for more information.
  • One bill will be provided to the group organizer in advance. Any additional charges will be due within 24 hours of the event.


What is your cancellation policy?

  • Groups must cancel 48 hours in advance. No-shows and last-minute cancellations will incur a $30 charge per person.

Are tickets required?

  • Tickets are required to ride the gondola and can be purchased from the kiosk at the base of the resort. If you purchased a gondola ticket in advance, follow the walking path to the gondola entrance and present your ticket upon arrival.
  • If you are skiing or snowboarding, the gondola is included in your lift ticket or season pass. The Rainier Express Chairlift can also reach the Summit House.

Are dogs allowed?

  • Dogs are not allowed inside the Summit House Restaurant, but they are allowed on the patio.

Helpful Tips

  • Dress warm and wear comfortable footwear with good traction. Check the weather forecast before heading up.
  • We recommend using the restroom located at the bottom of the gondola before heading up. ADA-accessible restrooms are available on the first floor of the base area lodge.
  • Wear sunscreen. Remember, you’re at a much higher elevation, and the reflection of the snow can intensify the effects.
  • Bring your camera!
  • Do not feed wildlife.
  • The bathrooms at Summit House are not ADA accessible. ADA accessible bathrooms are located at the base area.


Severe Weather Notice

  • The gondola may close without notice due to severe weather, such as strong winds, and thus access to the Summit House would not be available. Please check the mountain report page or call us at (833) 279-7895 before heading up the mountain.
Gondola and Mt Rainier Gondola and Mt Rainier

Scenic Gondola Rides

A ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola will take you almost 2,500 vertical feet to the summit where you will find breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Range. You’ll also be just a few short steps away from the Summit House, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant.
Buy Gondola Tickets