Crystal Mountain: Creative thinking can relieve parking problems

“Crystal Mountain to limit sales to address crowding,” (TNT, 1/16).

I share skiers’ frustration at the recently announced cap on Crystal Mountain weekend lift ticket sales. I note that the reason for the cap is not full ski lifts, but full parking lots. I suggest this provides an entrepreneurial opportunity.

Take a handful of those buses that run north and south on I-5 Monday through Friday and start a ski bus service with them on weekends between Tacoma and Crystal Mountain.

Bundle the transportation with lift tickets to get an exception to the cap. Skiers would get access to the mountain, avoid the hassles of the drive (such as potentially dealing with snow chains and the frustration of finding a parking space), while enjoying a comfortable ride and the companionship of fellow skiers.

As a side hustle, sell Starbucks and donuts on the morning trip, Pringles and wine on the return trip.

Those of us who grew up on ski buses in the 60’s and 70’s would be going back to the future!

This story was originally published January 22, 2020 at 1:57 PM with the headline "Crystal Mountain: Creative thinking can relieve parking problems."