All photos taken by Matt Smolinski
At Crystal, every team and individual is essential to our mountain. Our winter and summer crew paves the way for the never-ending stoke thar lives here at Crystal Mountain. One team that keeps the hoots and hollers maintained around here goes relatively unseen. Unless you have found yourself trekking on one of our many hikes around the mountain in the summer, and have heard the equipment revving, you may be unfamiliar with Crystal Mountains Trail Crew.
This summer, Trail Crew consisted of five individuals, most of whom are familiar faces year-round. These passionate outdoor enthusiasts bring a wealth of extensive knowledge and experience to the table, ensuring that our terrain is not only maintained but also safe and enjoyable for winter. By being mobile on foot and being in remote areas where heavier equipment can’t reach, Trail Crew’s primary goal is to breathe new life into older, overgrown terrain. While maintaining and improving our trails, they make skiing and riding more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Each member of the crew understands that a well-maintained trail can transform a good day on the slopes into an unforgettable experience. With an eye for fall lines and pitches, they craft the trails to enhance flow and fun for everyone.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Trail Crew’s commitment is their schedule. They make it a priority to hit the trails before the sun climbs too high in the sky. This early start isn’t just about avoiding the heat—it’s a strategic choice that allows maximization of productivity during those cooler morning hours.
Their work is as diverse as it is essential:
Trail Maintenance: From clearing debris to patching up worn areas, they ensure trails are safe and enjoyable for winter. New Trail Development: The crew also collaborates on new trail projects, incorporating creative ideas and sustainable practices to expand our trail network while minimizing environmental impact. Peter Dale, who oversees Trail Crew states “Anytime we disturb the ground on the hill with heavy equipment, Trail Crew comes back later and throws down grass seed that is a specialty mix with straw and the idea is that we grow native grass back to prevent erosion with their natural seed.” Before Trail Crew goes in with the seed it is essential the Forest Service Botanists come out and let us know the seed needed for the local climate, making this practice sustainable and practical for the ever-changing land.
Trail Crew is not only hard working, but passionate. Each member has a personal connection to the mountain, whether it’s a childhood spent exploring the trails or the adrenaline of skiing and riding down those same paths. This passion is a drive to create and maintain trails that everyone can enjoy, nurturing the spirit of outdoor adventure that Crystal Mountain embodies.
See for yourself, as summer fades into autumn and then winter, Trail Crew and our other on mountain teams have put grit and determination into ensuring runs that will continue to create new memories and good times.