Crystal Mountain’s Flying Raven Adventure Course

Washington

May 21

There is more to explore during the summer months at Crystal Mountain than just the gondola. They now have the Flying Raven Adventure Course! The course is set amongst evergreen trees, above a babbling brook, and, at first glance, it looks like a setting for a tranquil treehouse. Look closer and you’ll notice suspended log bridges, rickety steps, and obstacles between the trees.

How scary is it?

We thought it was just scary enough! Anything less and we would have been disappointed, but Zach has been on a much wilder course in Nashville. The course sits two stories up, so it wasn’t too intimidating — perfect for brave kids (6+ years old) and adults alike.

Are there multiple courses?

Yes, there are three courses. They all connect at the center, and our guides suggested starting on the easiest route first, then moving on the medium and harder routes next. How fast you go depends on if there are others in front of you, how scared you are, and how efficient you are at moving through the obstacles. We were thankful they let smaller groups go first, so the two of us were never held up by others.

How long is it?

The tour is three hours long, counting the time you catch the shuttle, gear up, and go through the safety briefing. After that, we had over two hours of time on the course.

Our guides said that most people get through each route twice, and we had no problem doing so (although they did say we were speedy). There are shortcuts on some routes, so it’s possible to change up the obstacles occasionally, but we had a blast trying to master our favorite obstacles a second time.

If you’re ready to be done before others, it’s possible to head back early at any time.

Is it safe?

Totally safe! Guides will suit you up in a harness, give you a helmet, and show you how to use all the equipment. Before they let you loose on the course, they’ll have everyone practice using the equipment on the ground, and they took great care to ensure everyone, especially kids, understood the rules and equipment. Once you’re on the course, you’ll be always clipped in to prevent big falls.

What to bring?

Check the weather at Crystal Mountain before heading there, but bring an extra warm layer, a rain jacket, and close-toed shoes no matter the forecast.

We’d also recommend bringing water and snacks. The Fireside Cantina was open while we were there, but the menu was small and pricey.

When to purchase tickets?

We’re betting this is going to be a popular activity, so booking tickets in advance, especially if you’re planning on going on a weekend, is a good idea.

They do not sell online tickets for the same day, but it is possible to get walk-up tickets. If you’re doing this, arrive at least 30 minutes before the time slot you’re hoping to book.

What about the gondola?

Purchase tickets for the scenic gondola ride at the same time as the adventure course and you’ll receive a discount. Consider dining at the Summit House Restaurant while you’re on top of the mountain.

When is the adventure course open?

The Flying Raven Adventure Course follows the same schedule as the gondola, opening for weekends between Memorial Day Weekend through June and operating from Wednesday through Sunday between July and the end of September.