Crystal Mountain's ski patrol intentionally triggered an avalanche after hours on Monday, but they got a whole lot more than they bargained for when a massive slide took out the Washington ski resort's highest chairlift. The avalanche swept down the Campbell Basin area and destroyed the High Campbell lift shack and at least two lift towers. Resort officials estimate it will cost between $1.5-$2 million to replace the structures, which they plan to do this summer.
-All photos from Crystal Mountain
· Crystal Mountain chairlift destroyed by avalanche [The News Tribune]
· Triggered avalanche takes on life of own as it wipes out lift [Seattle Times]