The route includes several different trails but is a straightforward linkup. Crystal Mountain is a popular ski resort but also includes some beautiful trails and when combined create a logical circumnavigation of the ridge lines surrounding Crystal Mountain Boulevard. Over the years I have seen many trail runners complete this loop on strava and it is an excellent training run. I think it would be interesting for this popular training loop to be turned into an FKT and see how fast this challenging route can be completed in.
Starting from the Norse Peak trailhead and ascend towards the peak. Norse Peak summit is 4.7 miles into the route topping out around 6856 feet. Descend off the peak to the Pacific Crest Trail and follow the PCT until reaching Bear Gap at mile 9.2. Then take the Crystal Mountain trail which passes by Henskin Lake and makes up the southern portion of the loop. At mile 12.5, Crystal Mountain trail hits a highpoint of 6765 feet and intersects with a forest road and Green Valley Trail. Take the Forest Road that turns into the Northway Trail. The Northway trail skirts the western flank of the route and gradually descends back towards Crystal Mountain Boulevard ending at the Northway trailhead near the Silver Creek camping area.
