149 Search Results for ""ski resorts""

• Salvaging a Season Salvaging a Season

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    Salvage - Philippi Spring 2013 from Matt Philippi on Vimeo.

    Matt Philippi’s winter was not the powder-filled fantasy he had hoped for. Instead of chairlifts and sled tracks, Philippi faced a worn-out space on the couch and over ten new screws added to his anatomy. After an entire winter of being bitch-slapped by the sport he loves, it would be logical for him to take it easy. But that just wouldn’t be any fun. We caught up with him to find out how he got so mangled, and how he’s already back in action.

     

    TGR: You broke your wrist early in the season, how did that happen?

    Matt Phillipi: It was December 18th and I was just skiing sidecountry in Jackson and got hung up skiing some trees. The next thing I know I’m waking up from a concussion with a broken wrist, and I don’t even know what happened. My radius was shattered and the joint surface in my wrist was mangled. The next night I went in for surgery. That was the last time I do a surgery without a nerve block.

    TGR: That’s rugged. How long were you out for?

    MP: It was a wrist, so I could keep skiing. I took a week-and-a-half off for Christmas.

    By mid January I was hitting it really hard. I couldn’t snowmobile at all so I was resort skiing and doing big skin days. It was an amazing two weeks of skiing. I was really getting to know the resorts well.

    

    TGR: Two weeks only? Then what happened?

    MP: It was January 27th I was just skiing on the backside of Jackson, skiing Little Targhee headed towards Cardiac Ridge. It was the fourth of fifth skin lap of the day, in blower pow, and I hit a submerged stump. I guess I just wasn’t being careful enough, and hit it, compressed my ankle, and tomahawked down the hill. 

    Right away I knew my ankle was at least sprained pretty bad. It was about 2:30 in the afternoon and the only way out was to skin. I ended up doing a 3.5-hour skin back to the tram. There was a lot of screaming and swearing at myself but ultimately I made it out. It was one of the more intense experiences in the backcountry I’ve ever had. It was an awakening to how gnarly things can be back there.

    TGR: So what was wrong?

    MP: I was skinning with my inner anklebone broken completely off. I had to have a screw drilled into it to reattach it to my tibia.

    

    TGR: So you snapped a bone off, and were still able to ski this year?

    MP: I was back on skis by early April. I was out for about two months, which is pretty damn quick. The sprain was more of a pain than the break.

    TGR: So this edit is kind of a comeback. How’d it get done?

    MP: The sled skiing is in a secret zone south of Jackson. KGB productions had been out there working with a couple of people. I saw some Instagrams and wanted to hit them up. They took me there and it was a go. Before then I was sucking it up on the groomers. I went out there and hadn’t hit any airs yet, or anything, but I was able to get a couple of shots. A week later another storm rolled through. And I was able to get some more shots. The zone is rowdy. It’s one of those zones where you nearly run out of gas.

     

    TGR: It looks rowdy, but that line you did in Grand Teton National Park was nuts.

    MP: After that second day, it was getting towards late April, and Eric Daft wanted to go ski a gnarly line off the Grand itself, but they bailed and I got convinced to ski Dartmouth Couloir, which is off the south saddle of the Grand. It’s in between the Grand and the Middle. I Google Earth-ed it, and looked doable. But it was the type of day that should have been broken up. We started at like 4am, got to the line at 2:30pm, dropped, and had to hike out. There were grizzly tracks everywhere and a huge wet-slide that scared us. Check out the story at snowbrains.com

    TGR: Totally seems worth it. So where are you now?

    MP: I had a weird season with broken bones, but I’m stoked to end the season skiing how I wanted to, and all my confidence is back. I know I can push it harder next year and ski bigger lines. I’m looking to give it 110 as usual. It won’t be different than any other years; I’ll just start with a couple more scars.

     

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• Stevens Pass: More Snow Than H Stevens Pass: More Snow Than Hype

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    Words and Images by Joey Mara

    The Cascades are loaded with underrated gems—and Stevens Pass is definitely one of them. Not only is the resort peppered with steep terrain, it also enjoys massive storms that make the mountain a freerider’s dream. Only eighty miles from downtown Seattle, Stevens Pass has been slinging lift tickets for seventy-five years. In that time, it’s been responsible for more than a few people calling in sick to sample the latest storm. With ten lifts serving 1,125 acres spread between the mountain’s front and backside, the resort accommodates skiers and riders of all ability levels. Nonetheless, the mountain is best known for its expert terrain.

    

    No one disputes that the snow in the Pacific Northwest is deep, yet its quality is often up for debate. A few locals will come clean, however, and reveal that labels like “cascade concrete” are misnomers designed to keep tourists away. The snow at Stevens is premium—and thanks to receiving over 450 inches of snow annually, there’s plenty of pow to go around. In fact, it’s not uncommon for the mountain to see upwards of 650 inches in a season.  

    

    After a storm, however, the snow at Stevens is typically measured in feet thanks to a unique weather phenomenon known as the Puget Sound Convergence Zone. West of Seattle, the Olympic Mountains split incoming storm tracks, forcing their wind and moisture to divide to the north and south and collide again when they converge at the Cascades. This concentrates precipitation in the vicinity of Stevens Pass. Consequently, storms may hammer the mountain while other resorts in the state receive only a fraction of this snowfall. Needless to say, the storms at Stevens make dreams come true—just come prepared with a snorkel. In December of 2012, for example, a storm dropped 39 inches at the base of Stevens and sixty inches at its summit in just a twenty-four hour period.

    

    Stevens Pass lacks the glamour (and excessive amenities) of a mega resort—and that’s fine with those who call the mountain home. For the courageous, Stevens has plenty of steep lines—perfect for those who like to push limits and occasionally piss their pants. Pillows, chutes, steeps, cliffs, and spines all litter the mountain, while the tree skiing is also world class. It might be worth befriending a local when you come to Stevens, as much of this terrain can be elusive to the uninitiated. To further maximize your time at Stevens, be ready for some serious storm riding. Locals revel in the free refills provided by Steven’s heavy snowfall. The mountain’s night skiing can also add a new dimension to chasing powder. And if you’re fortunate enough to catch a bluebird day, Cowboy and Rooster Ridges provide an ample canvas for laying down creative lines. It should come as no surprise that skiers and riders can explore Stevens season after season and continue to find new zones.

    Stevens Past to Present Celebrating 75 Years! from Joey mara on Vimeo.

    For those prepared to venture outside the access gates, the backcountry at Stevens Pass is the real deal. Due to the high amount of snow and steep terrain, avalanches occur frequently. Adding to the danger, visibility can change rapidly. That being said, a wealth of ridges, back bowls, and peaks can be accessed via the lifts or by touring from the highway or nordic trails. Much of Steven’s backcountry dumps skiers at the highway, enabling them to easily hitch a ride back to the resort.

    

    In addition to its natural terrain, Stevens Pass boasts a solid park. The Top Phlight park crew spends its days prepping dozens of rails and kickers of all sizes. Stevens also has one of the few halfpipes in the state of Washington. Thanks to the diversity of its terrain, the mountain is a breeding ground for well-rounded rippers.

    

    Stevens has remained under the radar thanks, in part, to a lack of accommodations at its base. For those wishing to stay close to the slopes, a variety of rental cabins are available on both sides of the pass. Most visitors, however, stay in or around the town of Leavenworth on the east side of the pass. Located forty-five minutes from Stevens, Leavenworth sports a Bavarian theme and offers plenty of entertainment for those looking to kick back and slip off their boots. During the winter months, the town is lit up with Christmas lights and the streets are packed with Seattleites hoping to escape the city, shop, and enjoy some food and drinks at German pubs. For those looking for no-frills lodging, the small towns of Skykomish and Gold Bar on the Seattle side of the pass offer affordable options.

    

    Stevens will never be a Whistler or an Aspen—and it does not want to be such a resort. And while the scene is mellow, the mountain is not. Needless to say, Stevens has no shortage of challenging terrain—and good company with whom to explore it. The people are friendly and the snow is deep. If you measure your seasons in faceshots and high fives, Stevens might be your soulmate.

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• Rahlves' Banzai Tour Finishes Rahlves' Banzai Tour Finishes Strong

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

     

    Truckee, Calif. (March 12, 2013) –Throughout the past two months, skiers, snowboarders and spectators alike have descended upon the Tahoe area to compete in and watch the rowdiest race in the Sierra. Rahlves’ Banzai Tour brought in tough competition from across the country to four renown Lake Tahoe resorts for the ultimate test of ski and riding skills.  The tour also entertained guests with quintessential pre and après ski parties, exciting results, and photo finishes.  

    Starting at Kirkwood Mountain Resort, athletes were challenged by “The Wall,” which proved to be one of the most challenging races to date, as competitors had to drop into an intimidating 20 ft. vertical wall right out of the gate. For the second tour stop hosted at Alpine Meadows, athletes were tested with fast and rough terrain, while spectators were entertained with the closest and most dramatic photo finish in Banzai history. With warm spring-like weather on the first day of the Squaw Valley tour stop, and formidable conditions on Sunday, Squaw tested the resilience of Rahlves’ Banzai Tour, as well as the dedication of tour participants. However, with fresh snow in the forecast, Rahlves’ Banzai Tour rallied for the final tour stop at Sugar Bowl Resort, home of the original Silver Belt Banzai.  

    The Sugar Bowl Final and Super Final concluded the tour in true Banzai style, complete with strong competition paired with music, barbecue, libations and the beloved Banzai atmosphere of camaraderie and healthy competition. Banzai veterans Johnny Bochenek, Kyle Coxon and John Lange took the top spots for men’s skiing during the Silver Belt, which also qualified Lange as the final athlete to compete in the Super Final. Men’s snowboarded Chelone Miller raced to first in the Silver Belt, while women’s snowboarder Kiana Putman and women’s skier Shannon Rahlves both secured the top spot in their respective categories. The men’s Super Final provided drama and a $5,000 paycheck to Salt Lake City skier Kyle Coxon. “The Sugar Bowl final and Super Final were awesome,” said Daron Rahlves. “It was a beautiful day, fans lined the course and the athletes delivered a great show. I wanted to be skiing in the Super Final, but instead was an excited fan like the rest watching and stoked for Kyle Coxon taking home the 5 grand. I will be back in the Super Final next year so those boys better start training now ha, ha.  I’m so grateful to my wife and kids for the endless support, all the sponsors, the fans and athletes for making this year’s tour the best yet. ”

     

    2013 Sugar Bowl Silver Belt Banzai Top Finishers Included:

    • Men Ski    1st Johnny Bochenek; 2nd Kyle Coxon;          3rd John Lange

    • Men Snowboard    1st Chelone Miller;     2nd Sylvain Duclos;     3rd Lucas Dehmlow 

    • Women Ski            1st Shannon Rahlves;  2nd Shelly Robertson; 3rd Hannah Jermstad

    • Women Snowboard    1st Kiana Putman;       2nd Macy Price;           3rd Carrie Hall

     

    2013 RBT Overall Top Finishers Included:

    • Men Ski          1st Johnny Bochenek;  2nd Kyle Coxon;         3rd John Lange

    • Men Snowboard  1st Chelone Miller;      2nd Lucas Dehmlow;  3rd Adam DeVargas

    • Women Ski        1st Shannon Rahlves;  2nd Shelly Robertson; 3rd Hannah Jermstad, 

    • Women Snowboard    1st Casey Lucas;          2nd Macy Price;          3rd Anna Weber

     

    2013 RBT total prize purse winnings:

     

    Men Ski

    •Johnny Bochenek$14,200

    •Kyle Coxon  $9,500

    •Jesse Maddex$3,900

    •John Lange$2,600

     

    Men Snowboard

    •Chelone Miller$8,150

    •Lucas Dehmlow$2,900

    •Adam DeVargas$2,150

     

    Women Ski

    •Shannon Rahlves$6,750

    •Shelly Robertson$2,000

    •Hannah Jermstad$1,000

     

    Women Snowboard

    •Casey Lucas$2,550

    •Macy Price$1,100

    •Iris Lazzareschi$750

     

    For those who are curious about the tour’s name, Banzai is a Japanese term expressed as an exuberant cheer meaning, “Long Life!” or “Hurray!”  An apt name for a high-spirited downhill ski and snowboard competition, the Silver Belt Race first took place in the 1940s at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort and was re-introduced with the head-to-head action by Daron Rahlves and Sugar Bowl in 2009. The race continued with one event for another year, and then Rahlves decided to take the show on the road, officially launching Rahlves’ Banzai Tour and expanding to stops at four of Lake Tahoe's premier resorts.

    The Rahlves Banzai tour is presented by Bank of The West. The Rahlves Banzai Tour is also supported by sponsors such as Red Bull, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Contour, CEP “intelligent sportswear”, North Lake Tahoe Chamber/VCB/Resort Association, Spyder, Atomic, Start Haus Ski Shop, Wend Wax, COAL, SVE/BOSE, The Bar Effect, World Cup Supply, Jagermeister, Snow Fest, Sports Insurance, Technical Equipment Cleaners, Resort at Squaw Creek, ZINKA, 101.5 Truckee Tahoe Radio, Tahoe TV, POWDER Mag, High Fives Foundation and CRUX Events, thereby creating an alluring $80,000 prize purse. For more information, to check out previous race results, videos and to register, visit www.rahlvesbanzai.com. For up-to-the-minute news, “Like” The Rahlves’ Banzai Tour on Facebook and follow @RahlvesBanzai on Twitter & download the free Official Banzai App on your smart phone at banzai.genzplay.com

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• News: The Mountain Collective News: The Mountain Collective Adds Three New Partners For 2013-2014 Ski Season

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    
    
    The Mountain Collective has added three premier independent ski resorts in North America to its roster of iconic destinations for the 2013-2014 winter season. Mammoth Mountain, Snowbird and Whistler Blackcomb join Alta, Aspen/Snowmass, Jackson Hole and Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows in this unprecedented collaboration of resorts.
    
    Starting today, a limited number of Mountain Collective passes are on sale at last year’s price. For only $349 USD, The Mountain Collective Pass includes two days of skiing or riding at each of the six destinations (AltaSnowbird, Aspen/Snowmass, Jackson Hole, Mammoth Mountain, Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows and Whistler Blackcomb), plus a 50 percent discount on all additional days with no blackout dates.
    
    In addition, passholders will receive exclusive lodging deals throughout the season. Collectively this pass grants access to 12 mountains with more than 30,000 acres of terrain, 186 lifts and an unmatched reputation for snow quality, quantity and steeps. Passes are available online through an exclusive technology, distribution and marketing partnership with Liftopia.com A limited quantity of passes is now available at this lowest guaranteed price.
    
    “The Mountain Collective successfully captured the imagination of mountain travel enthusiasts looking for variety, flexibility and affordable access to the best independent resorts in the world,” said Christian Knapp, vice president of marketing, Aspen Skiing Company. “Adding these three world-class mountains makes this the ultimate dream pass, and only serves to enhance the value skiers and riders will enjoy from The Mountain Collective.”
    
    The Mountain Collective Pass is available for children (ages 12 and under), under the same terms for just $229. The partnership will also offer a 50 percent discount on lift tickets to premier pass holders at the participating resorts.

    Order your Mountain Collective Pass at Liftopia.com for only $349

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• 5 Awesome Apres Skiing Bars in 5 Awesome Apres Skiing Bars in North America

  • From: kenholden
  • Description:

    
    No day on the slopes is complete without a little after-party. Apres skiing is by no means a new concept, but it’s something that can turn even the worst conditions into an epic day. Every now and again, we’ll come across gems, some hidden and some not-so-hidden, that were simply meant to complete your trip to a specific resort.
    
    Homewood Resort - Big Blue View
    Sometimes, simplicity does it best. This small resort on the west side of Lake Tahoe offers one of the finest views in California and Nevada. New to the resort is the Big Blue View bar. Head up the Madden Chair on the northern portion of the resort, and look for the bright blue chairs and listen for the reggae beats. It might not be the greatest spot when the snow is dumping, but it’s going to be perfect for the blue bird and spring snow days. As most visitors will claim, the view overlooking Lake Tahoe from the Big Blue View is probably the best one of any Tahoe resort.
    
    
    
    Mammoth Lakes – Clocktower Cellar Pub
    Whiskey and skiing go together like peanut butter and jelly. While it’s not the easiest venue to find among the vast Mammoth Lakes village, it’s worth taking the time to look for it. The Clocktower Cellar Pub is a small basement bar, a far cry from the usual large restaurants and nightclubs that surround the world-famous ski resort. What attracts us to this specific bar is the exhaustive list of more than 100 whiskies from around the world. A few samplings and you’ll love the feel of this smaller bar, complete with a juke box for your après skiing entertainment. Make sure to ask the bartender about their personal favorites, you might get a taste of a secret stash not available on the menu.
    
    
    
    Mont Tremblant – Microbrasserie La Diable
    For the microbrew lover, good beer is hard to come by. As ski resorts grow and streamline their operations, the microbrew always seems to take a backseat. Fortunately, for the lovers of the Tremblant Ski Resort, you’ll never have to worry about that with the Microbrewery La Diable. Whether you’re just grabbing an après ski beer, or want the 20-minute tour, free samples of each beer are readily available. They usually have six or seven beers readily on tap for your eclectic pleasure, and the lounge-style jazz music makes it one of the most relaxing joints in the area.
    
    Still look at Apres ski when your vacation is over?  Check out this amazing Apres Ski wall art from Amazon.com
    
    
    
    Vail, Colorado – Garfinkel’s Restaurant & Bar
    When you’re done on these epic slopes, head down the Eagle Bahn Gondola and into the Lionshead to find Garfinkel’s. Trust us, you can’t miss it. This bar and restaurant is enormous, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. This place isn’t for the quiet-time après skiing, but for those who want to party well into the evening. With more than 20 different bottles and drafts, a full lineup of signature cocktails, and a menu spread that’s sure to please any palette, there are no bad days here. If you’re in the area, their New Year’s Eve party is one of the finest of any ski resort in North America.
    
    
     
    Killington, Vermont – McGrath’s Irish Pub
    For the lovers of Guiness out there, perhaps your ski priorities should be on the bars in the area. While the Wobbly Bar in Killington always seems to take the mainstream cake, the Irish lovers out there should detour to McGrath’s Irish Pub. This small Irish joint takes pride in serving Guiness the way it was meant to be…perfect. The owner is always out and about making sure that everyone is enjoying their selection from one of the best Irish menus on the east coast. In the summertime, McGrath’s only gets better. The parking lot is also a lot for some of the best trailheads, making it the perfect place to start and end your visit to Killington.
    
    Plenty of skiing and riding left in the season, in fact March is the best time to Apre and shred pow.  Save big when you book your lift tickets online through Liftopia.com

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• Resort Review: Mt. Baker, Wash Resort Review: Mt. Baker, Washington Home To The Legendary Banked Slalom Snowboard Race

  • From: mikehardaker
  • Description:

    

    The Mt. Baker Ski Area is a tiny ski resort located in the USA near Canada, known for having the most snow in North America averaging an impressive 641 inches of snow annually. The resort even broke the record for total snowfall during the 98-99 season with a whopping 1,140 inches of snow.  Located within the Mt. Baker-Snowqualmie National Forrest the Mt. Baker Ski Area was created in 1940 as a recreational destination for Washington residents.  Fast forward almost 75 years and the terrain and base area still look almost exactly the same. You won’t find any real estate for sale or overpriced ski shops here.
    
    The nearest lodging to the ski resort is located 30 miles down the road in the town of Glacier, Washington where to the locals the lack of internet and cell service is a welcome relief. For travelers you truly have to adapt while stepping back in time. If your sole focus is riding powder and ripping it fall line you’d be hard pressed to find better terrain in North America.  Short vertical runs average around 1,000 feet with access to some of the rowdiest terrain around, combined with a lack of crowds and non–existent lift lines and you have the breeding grounds for some of the best riders in the world to test their skills.  Its no wonder people like Carter Turk, Craig Kelly, Jamie Lynn, Jeff Fulton, George St. James, Tex Davenport, Mike Ranquet, Lucas DeBari, Forrest Burki, and every other ripper in the snowboard industry has called this mountain home.
    
    Baker’s roots in snowboarding go way back, this was the first resort in the United States to truly embrace snowboarding and has been home to the Legendary Baked Slalom snowboard race, the longest running snowboarding competition in the world for the last 27 years. The resort is family run and operated which is extremely rare these days, maybe that’s why parking is free and lift tickets are only $50 a day.
    
    If you like to hike, or just access life changing terrain it happens quick at Baker.  The resort’s backcountry policy allows for skiers and riders to duck ropes if the following conditions are met, you must have a partner, avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe and backpack along with an understanding of the terrain.  Ropes here are meant to be ducked, just not the ones with 2 sets of ropes as those lines lead to un-survivable cliffs, which  are numerous within the resorts boundaries. If you’re smart and a strong rider you can shred some of the best lift accessed terrain in North America, if you blow it you may end up seriously hurt or even worse. 
    
    Each year 100 lucky snowboarders are chosen by lottery to compete in the Legendary Banked Slalom (LBS) snowboard race.  Getting a spot is truly an honor especially when you’re an unknown rider like myself.  Looking at the start list for this years race names like Travis Rice, Terje Haakonsen, Temple Cummins and Blair Habenicht certainly stand out!
    
    The LBS course is dug by hand each year in a natural half pipe with banked slalom gates running from top to bottom.  The start shack is legendary in itself with the words “stay low, say your prayers” painted across the entrance, good advise indeed. Unlike other snowboard contest the vibe at the Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom is all about having fun, maybe it’s due to the fact there is no prize money to win, instead the best snowboarders in the world hurl themselves down an icy course for the chance to win a roll of duct tape and a Carhartt jacket.
    
    Snowboarders from all over the world come to the event annually driving up the Mt. Baker Highway to see old friends, rip powder in an effort to cement their names in the history books.  Just being selected to race is an honor in itself. The LBS is regarded as the predecessor to boardercross races.
    
    The LBS takes place over 3 days giving each rider 2 days to qualify for a shot to ride in the finals. Plenty of high fives, hoots and hollers will follow each run, as the course is lined by locals, media, competitors and visiting riders all looking to see fast and flawless runs.
    
    Wondering what the secret is to win, so am I.  To win a roll of duct tape your wax must be dialed for the Northwest snow that tends to be warmer than most places in the country. Sharp edges seem to help too especially when 100 riders slide down the same line creating an extremely fast course. Racers times tend to get faster as the day progresses. 
    
    Guys like Blair Habenicht, Terje Haakonsen and Temple Cummins seem un-phased by the icy conditions each year. However this year just may be a bit different as the resort is calling for between 2-4 feet of snow the week leading up to the start of the race.
    
    Stay tuned for TGR’s updates throughout the week from the 2013 Legendary Banked Slalom race at Mt. Baker!

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• News: SIA Focuses On The Busin News: SIA Focuses On The Business of Backcountry

  • From: jakedesroches
  • Description:

    
    SIA’s Backcountry Experience booth hosted seven panelists to discuss the Business of Backcountry. The discussion focused on backcountry education and awareness and began with Megan Michelson (ESPN.com Freeskiing Editor) speaking about her near-death avalanche experience last year at Steven’s Pass resort.
    
    Along with Michelson, the panel included Jeremy Jones, founder Jones Snowboards and Protect Our Winters, freeskiing icon Glen Plake, backcountry.com director of merchandising, Hud Knight, Crested Butte General Manager, Ethan Mueller, Backcountry Access Vice President, Bruce Edgerly, and Director of the Colorado Avalanche Center, Ethan Greene.
    
    Bruce Edgerly (Backcountry Access) was able to sum up the entire discussion quite well when first talking about Backcountry Access’ business model. He described BCA’s sales system. Where, “we don’t have sales reps; we have tech reps, ski patrol, avalanche safety officers, mountain guides, people who are involved in the snow safety industry. That way, instead of having people sell our product, we have people teach how to use our product.” What this “tech rep” system does is promote a “culture of safety throughout the industry.”
    
    Why is this culture of safety so vitally important? Because as of right now, the backcountry segment is booming, while the traditional ski and snowboard segments are stagnating. Hud Knight (backcountry.com) was able to really quantify this growth, “sales of avalanche safety equipment have increased 40% year-over-year, and sales of backcountry gear in general have increased by 12%.” Given the state of North-American snowfall over the past two years, this is a huge increase. One thing Ethan seemed to think backcountry.com was failing in was promoting the culture of safety. He said, “We need to find more ways to promote safety with our sales.” This is a noble goal, but something that will definitely be a challenge for the online retailer.
    
    Ethan Mueller talked about a variety of ways Crested Butte protects skiers and riders from avalanche dangers and how they control Crested Butte’s extreme terrain. Something that really caught my attention, and looks of interest from dozens in the crowd, was talk of an in-bounds backcountry experience on a neighboring mountain on Crested Butte property. The mountain Ethan spoke of “is mostly green and blue terrain, beginner terrain.” For years, Crested Butte has tried to get a forest service permit for lifts to the top. Now, Ethan is trying to find a way to allow hike-to access for this easier terrain. “The goal is to give people a different entry to the backcountry experience, an entry that can be an in-bounds backcountry experience.”
    
    Ski Hall-of-Famer, Glen Plake, brought up the ironic (and idiotic) conflicts ski resorts face. Many ski resorts today offer backcountry access gates. These resorts even advertise and promote this access points in their marketing, and definitely attract skiers and riders who want to use these gates. But what happens when you go to the ski school and say you want a private guide through the backcountry gate? Legally they can’t take you there, because it is outside of the resort property. What about hiring an AMGA guide? Well they can’t take people there, because they aren’t allowed to take a guided tour from resort-accessed property.
    
    In the end, I think backcountry and avalanche safety comes down to what Glen Plake called “stewardship.” Glen asked, “Why are twelve year olds learning about avalanche beacons? I guarantee you when spring comes around, those twelve year olds are going to take their beacons and ski hole in the wall. Chances are, they will be fine. But that doesn’t change the fact that Mammoth Mountain’s last fatally came from a skier who was attempting to ski hole in the wall.” Glen continued, “When I grew up, we were told ‘you NEVER ski the backside of the mountain, that’s where you die.’”
    
    So TGR readers, my question to you is, how can we be stewards of the backcountry and create a responsible and functional backcountry safety system?

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• News: Sierra-at-Tahoe's Burton News: Sierra-at-Tahoe's Burton Star Wars Experience

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    

    Combine kids, Burton Snowboards and Star Wars and your guaranteed lots of fun as is the case at Sierra At Tahoe ski resorts new Burton Star Wars Experience. Looking for something to do with the kids on the next big pow day, full day packages includes: lesson, equipment, lunch, snacks, indoor-outdoor games and activities for only $145.00.
    
    The Force is strong at Sierra for Younglings and Padawans this winter in Yoda's Riglet Park at Wild Moutain Children's Center. The Burton Star Wars Experience uses the beloved intergalactic saga to help children ages 3-6 make their first snowboard turns using Burton's innovative Riglet Reel Technology. This singular on-mountain experience filled with visuals from the Star Wars galaxy combines Burton's industry-leading technology with Jedi Master Yoda's teaching methods - movement, navigation and control.
    
    Younglings and Padawans will learn using the ways of the Force through interactive drop in nodes showcasing custom-made wood carvings of R2-D2, C-3P0, Chewbacca and more. Availability is limited and may sell out on a daily basis; reservations are strongly recommended. Please call 530.543.3150.

     

    Sierra At Tahoe has received over 25 feet of snow this winter, sitting on 2,000 skiable acres with easy backcountry access, one of the top rated snowboard parks in the country and a 2.5 mile long beginners ski run makes this the perfect family destination. TGR Readers Save 35% on Sierra-at-Tahoe lift tickets currently on SALE.
    

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• News: Two for One Airline Tick News: Two for One Airline Tickets to Crested Butte and Telluride

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    MT. CRESTED BUTTE, Colo. – Jan. 3 – Skiers and riders in Phoenix and the San Francisco Bay Area can now take advantage of the best travel deals imaginable in ski country, two-for-one airline tickets straight to the slopes of Crested Butte Mountain Resort.
    
    The Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization (TMRAO), Telluride Ski Resort (TSG) and Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) put the deal together with Allegiant Air to offer two-for-one airline tickets from Phoenix-Mesa airport (IWA) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) non-stop to the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ). This is a special that brings incredible value to a skiing vacation.
    
    “To my knowledge, there is no program in the industry where travelers can get two for one airline tickets and skiing opportunities at two of the country’s top resorts,” said Michael Martelon, President & CEO of the Telluride Tourism Board. “It’s unheard of to have this kind of option, and we’re excited to be able to offer it.”
    
    This winter, Allegiant is offering fares from Phoenix starting as low as $46.99 one-way ($93.98 round-trip)*. Flights from Oakland start at $49.99 one-way ($99.98 round-trip)*. The flights into MTJ began December 15 and conclude April 3. Two-for-one tickets must be purchased on or before January 31, 2013 for travel by April 3, 2013. This offer is based upon availability. For a complete flight schedule, visit www.allegiantair.com.
    
    With the collaboration of Telluride Ski Resort and Crested Butte Mountain Resort launching the Ultimate 6 Pass, a 6-day pass that is good for 3 days of skiing and riding at each resort, guests can now use the centrally located airport for their travel arrangements and have the opportunity to ski both areas in one vacation. The T-CB Ultimate 6 Pass is available at Liftopia.com at the unbeatable rate of $439 through January 31.
    
    "With the Allegiant Two-for-One offer, and the new Telluride-Crested Butte Ultimate 6 Pass lift ticket option, skiers and winter enthusiasts living in Phoenix and in the San Francisco Bay Area now have a very compelling reason to discover Crested Butte and Telluride mountain resorts,” adds Scott Clarkson, vice president of sales and marketing for CBMR.
    
    For more information and to book Two-for-One airline winter vacations, please call 866-237-5341.
    
    FLIGHT SCHEDULE
    Wednesdays
    Depart Oakland 8 a.m. arrive Montrose 11 a.m.
    Depart Montrose 11:45 a.m. arrive Oakland 1:15 p.m.
    Depart Phoenix-Mesa 8 a.m. arrive Montrose 9:20 a.m.
    Depart Montrose 10 a.m. arrive Phoenix-Mesa 11:30 a.m.
    
    Saturdays
    Depart Oakland 7 a.m. arrive Montrose 10 a.m.
    Depart Montrose 10:45 a.m. arrive Oakland 12:15 p.m.
    Depart Phoenix-Mesa 1 p.m. arrive Montrose 2:20 p.m.
    Depart Montrose 3:05 p.m. arrive Phoenix- Mesa 4:15 p.m.

     

     

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  • 4 months ago
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• Tahoe Sees First Avalanche Dea Tahoe Sees First Avalanche Deaths Of 2012-13 Season

  • From: jeremybenson
  • Description:

    A large avalanche crown is seen in the Tahoe backcountry on Dec. 27, 2012. In late Decemeber, as the area saw new snow, it also saw many avalanches, including two that caused fatalities at Alpine Meadows and Donner Ski Ranch.
    
    Sunday, Dec. 23, was yet another stormy powder day in a string of many at Squaw Valley, Calif. Ski patrol and mountain operations teams had been doing battle with harsh weather and copious snowfall for days on end. Midway through the morning they managed to open the KT-22 chair to the public. Shortly after opening, a powerful avalanche was triggered above The Fingers, directly beneath the chairlift. The avalanche swept up one skier, a 39-year-old female, and was so powerful that chunks of the avalanching snow deflected up in the air, knocking a 16-year-old male skier from the chairlift and into the avalanche. Both skiers were conscious, and neither completely buried in the slide. The woman was treated and released from the medical clinic, and the young man was taken to the local hospital to be treated for a shoulder injury. This post-control inbounds avalanche was an unfortunate accident, but the outcome could certainly have been much worse.
    
    Earlier in December, the Tahoe region experienced above-average temperatures, resulting in rain that created a distinct crust layer in our snowpack. Since then, faceted snow crystals developed both above and below this crust creating some especially weak layers. Significant amounts of new snow piled up above these persistent weak layers resulting in an uncharacteristically unpredictable snowpack for the area. With an advisory rating of “considerable,” a 3 on a scale of 1-5 (low, moderate, considerable, high, extreme), the Sierra Avalanche Center’s advisory for the days before Christmas said, “Overall the data indicates a snowpack teetering on the edge of failure.”
    
    The following day, Dec. 24, 2012, broke clear and cold in Tahoe. The blue skies were a welcome respite from the relentless storm that dropped 4-6 feet in four days on the west side of the lake. The holiday crowds were out in force at resorts around the region, eager to ski all the new powder, and I was among them. I went to Alpine Meadows that morning, the “considerable” avalanche danger rating, recent large avalanches, and persistent weak layers in our snowpack kept me from venturing into the backcountry. Summit chair opened shortly after 9 a.m. as patrol finished avalanche control on the front side of the mountain. For my first run I headed out to Art’s Knob, my friends and I shocked to find a 4 foot crown on the convex roll at the top and large cracks in the snow stretching in both directions along the ridge. The entirety of the storm snow had slid down to the rain crust, one of many large intentional avalanches at the resort that day.
    
    About an hour later, the distinct blue and white colored Care Flight helicopter flew overhead toward the Sherwood chairlift. I thought it odd due to the fact that Sherwood wasn’t open, nor had it been yet this season. I hoped they were doing some sort of training exercise, not realizing that patrol was doing avalanche control work back there at the time. Later that day, I was saddened to hear the news that Bill Foster, a 28-year veteran of the Alpine Meadows Patrol, was caught in an avalanche while doing control work.
    
    According to a press release from Amelia Richmond, the Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows public relations representative, “The avalanche was triggered by an explosive charge that had been thrown by a senior member of the ski patrol team. The patrol team members were positioned in an area that was, based on historical experience, believed to have been a protected area. The charge triggered the avalanche, which broke much higher and wider on the slope than previously observed in past snow safety missions.” With nearly 3 decades of experience on the Alpine Meadows patrol, Foster had routinely performed avalanche mitigation work in this area. “The patroller was found within one minute and uncovered within eight minutes from the time of the avalanche,” wrote Richmond, “After uncovering the buried patroller, members of the ski patrol team immediately began CPR.” Foster was flown via Care Flight Helicopter to Renown Hospital in Reno where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
    
    The site of the in-bounds avalanche at Donner Ski Ranch.
    
    That same day at Donner Ski Ranch, a small ski area at the top of Highway 40 on Donner Summit, an avalanche occurred around 9:30 a.m. According to the Tahoe Daily Tribune, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a man around noon on Monday saying that a member of his group was overdue and was feared to have been caught in an avalanche that occurred sometime around 9:30 a.m. The search was assisted by neighboring ski resorts and a body was found in the debris, buried under 2-3 feet of snow, nearly five hours after the slide happened. Truckee resident, 49-year-old Steven “Rocker” Anderson was snowboarding that morning when he was caught up in the inbounds slide. According to reports, Anderson had just moved back to the area and was enjoying his first day snowboarding for the season.
    
    Since that tragic day last week, the Tahoe region has received roughly two more feet of snow, burying our weak layers in as much as 7 to 8 feet of snow. As our snow depth increases, triggering avalanches on our persistent weak layers is becoming less and less likely, but remains far from impossible. Any avalanches that propagate along the facets by the buried rain crust are likely to be massive and catastrophic. Our typical “more stable than most” snowpack is clearly different than usual, and it takes some getting used to. Our current weak layers and recent events have reminded me that there is no room for error or complacency when it comes to avalanche safety. Skiing is the best thing in the world, but it’s not worth dying for. Have a happy and safe New Year.

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  • 5 months ago
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• Global Fun Haver - Will Wesson Global Fun Haver - Will Wesson 2012 Season Edit

  • From: line_skis
  • Description:

    3 continents, 7 countries, 8 states, 17 ski resorts and 12 months later, Level 1 Productions & Line Traveling Circus star Will Wesson has put together his best season to date. Enjoy the smooth style, mild manners and mind blowing flow of Will Wesson's 2011/2012 season.
    
    Watch More Line Videos

     

  • 5 months ago
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• #instahashtagmagramstormski201 #instahashtagmagramstormski2012 Headed Right For Us!

  • From: gregfitzsimmons
  • Description:

    Many are saying Tahoe and the rest of the West is about to get pummeled with snow. Naysayers predict rain. #whatever #itson #7feetbitches !!
    
    Social media platforms, blogs, and websites are a-buzz, and the chatter in dive bars from Tahoe City to Santa Cruz has been incessant about the series of storms barreling down on the Sierra Nevada. While professional meteorologists—and a few amateur radar watchers—were talking about this four-storm system weeks ago, the general public has just recently become privy to the news: Tahoe is about to get buried!
    
    Over beers in Northern California’s dives and on headlines throughout the area, naysayers and sandbaggers are predicting rain. But those that know know that the first storm of the season—being dubbed “JW” by Kirkwood’s marketing guru Coop Cooper—signifies the actual beginning of winter in Tahoe.
    
    “Everyone in Tahoe keeps saying ‘wet’ because the newspapers keep writing that,” says Bryan Allegretto, the mastermind behind Tahoe’s preeminent weather website TahoeWeatherDiscussion.com — which will soon be joining forces with OpenSnow to create the dream resource for skiers and riders by skiers and riders. “That’s why I keep saying on my site, ‘don’t give in to this media trap.’ Some of the best and most fun days of riding in Tahoe are when the snow level is at like 7,500 feet. Most of these ski resorts — like Squaw who has a ton of lifts up high — have chairlifts that start at like 8,200 feet and go up from there. Everyone looks out their window downtown at lake level, around 6,000 feet, and sees rain and says, ‘It’s wet, I’m not going skiing.’ Meanwhile, up top some of us are skiing powder all by ourselves.”

    A series of four consecutive storms over a five to six day window are forecasted for the Tahoe region. The first system rolled through yesterday dropping anywhere from 6 to 8 inches. The next storm moves in Thursday night and will settle over Tahoe into Friday night. And, the biggest storm rolls in Saturday and into Sunday, with the possibility of precipitation lingering into Monday.
    
    “I’ve been telling people that we’re looking at a 7,000-foot snow level through Friday with a couple feet of snow and more on Saturday,” says Allegretto. “You have anywhere from 1,000 to 2,500 feet of vertical on these mountains that is going to get 3 to 7 feet of snow!”

    The good news for pow-starved skiers not located in the Sierra Nevada or Pacific Northwest — which looks to be getting hammered, too—is that these strong storms will be traveling east toward the Tetons and Rockies.
    
    “The strongest piece of the main west-coast storm will head east on Sunday night and Monday,” writes the prescient weather resource OpenSnow, “and should bring decent snow to many Colorado mountains, primarily from Aspen north to I-70 and the Wyoming border.”
    
    So, be patient and brace yourself for the unavoidable onslaught of blower Instagram pics and ubiquitous hashtags from Tahoe and the PNW that will be clogging your feeds this weekend. This beast of a storm is headed your way soon enough.
    
    Check back early next week for a recap from Tahoe. Until then, be safe, think cold, positive thoughts, and share your early season storm photos with us on Twitter and Instagram (@TetonGravity) by using the hashtag: #StormWatch. We’re eager to see those pow pics.

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  • 6 months ago
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• News: Conde Nast Traveler Read News: Conde Nast Traveler Reader's Poll Names Top Ski Resorts

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    Everyone knows Jackson Hole is the best place to ski - except for Conde Nast readers.
    
    The readers of Conde Nast Traveler have spoken, and clearly the majority of them are smoking crack! Er, drunk on Dom Perignon? In this Condé Nast Traveler's 2012 Reader's Poll: Best Places to Ski & Stay in North America the readers chose Deer Valley over Jackson Hole. Hm, that's troubling. And the Westin Hotel in Avon, Colorado, beats the Hotel Terra in Jackson Hole? Ish don't think so. ...
    
    With our offices located at the base of The Big One - Jackson Hole - right next to the mighty red tram that takes you to, ahem, THE TOP, perhaps we're a little biased. ... But hey, what do we know, right? Read on and let us know what you think about this list.
    
    Condé Nast Traveler's 2012 Reader's Poll: Best Places to Ski & Stay in North America
     
    Top 20 Ski Resorts:
    1.        Telluride, Colorado
    2.        Whistler Blackcomb, B.C.
    3.        Deer Valley, Utah
    4.        Jackson Hole, Wyoming
    5.        Beaver Creek, Colorado
    6.        Sun Valley, Idaho
    7.        Stowe, Vermont
    8.        Vail, Colorado
    9.        Aspen, Colorado
    10.     Crested Butte, Colorado

    Read the full list
     
    Top 50 Ski Hotels:
    1.        Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa, Avon, Colorado
    2.        Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
    3.        Four Seasons Resort, Whistler, British Colombia
    4.        Hotel Terra, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
    5.        Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, Lake Placid, New York
    6.        Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
    8.      Lake Placid Lodge, Lake Placid, New York
    8.      Stow Mountain Lodge, Stowe, Vermont
    10.    Hotel Telluride, Telluride, Colorado
     
    Read the full list
    
    How Does The Poll Work?:

    The results of this Condé Nast Traveler poll were derived from our annual Readers’ Choice Survey. The questionnaire was available to all readers through a secure Web site. The final tabulation of 46,476 responses was done by Global Market Insite, Inc., of Boston. All candidates were rated on a five-point scale—excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor—on a variety of criteria, including Terrain & Conditions, Lifts & Lines, Après-Ski/Activities, Local Dining, and Local Ambience for ski resorts; Rooms, Service, Dining/Food, Location, Overall Design, and Activities/Facilities for hotels. Criterion scores, which represent the percentage of respondents rating a ski resort or hotel excellent or very good, were averaged to determine the overall score. Only ski resorts and hotels that received a required minimum number of responses were eligible for inclusion in these rankings.

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  • 6 months ago
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• News: Jake Burton Creates His News: Jake Burton Creates His First Signature Snowboard - The Stone Hut

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    
    BURLINGTON, VT - For the first time, Jake Burton, Founder and CEO of Burton Snowboards, has built a very limited run of signature snowboards called ‘The Stone Hut’. Available in select snowboard shops worldwide starting today, each Stone Hut snowboard was handcrafted in Vermont at Craig’s (named after Craig Kelly), the most advanced snowboard prototype facility in the world.
    
    “Even though a piece of me has been in so many of our boards over the past 35 years, this is the first signature board I’ve built,” said Jake. “When the boards team approached me about doing a sig board, I jumped on it and talked them into doing a really limited production run so we could make them in Vermont at Craig’s. Up until now, we’ve only made prototypes or boards for team riders there. So the Stone Hut is special for many reasons, but the one I keep coming back to is I think Craig would be stoked that it was built in his facility - I know I am.”
    
    

    
    During this past summer, Jake spent a lot of time at Craig’s, fine-tuning each detail of the Stone Hut. His goal was to create a snowboard that was ideal for ‘a powder day in the park’ – essentially a board that was very versatile so riders could easily head down an icy groomer, then dip into powder in the trees. As far as construction goes, the concept behind the Stone Hut board is simple. It’s a twin shaped freestyle board underfoot with a powder nose and a freestyle tail. The Bend is Flat Top, so it holds an edge when riders need it, but also floats in powder. Available in two lengths (150 and 155), the Stone Hut is downsized so that riders can select a board length that is 5 cms shorter than a traditional board.
    
    For Jake, the Stone Hut board graphic is also ‘a dream come true’ because it features someone he’s always looked up to - Jimi Hendrix. With artwork from the Jimi Hendrix album, Valleys of Neptune, the board graphics are one-of-a-kind. For a finishing touch, Jake personally signed each board at Craig’s.
    
    
    The Stone Hut also comes with a few items Jake thought would go well with the board, all packaged in a laptop case that features artwork from Valleys of Neptune. The kit includes EST CantBEDs (size medium), a binding accessory that many Burton team riders and Jake use all the time. If riders need a different size, they can call Jake’s office directly – the number is listed with the kit. Also included is a Sharpie for marking binding stances, an EST Tool for fine-tuning bindings, a credit card scraper that fits in a wallet, a code to download some of Jake’s favorite Hendrix songs and stickers from the Burton archives.
    
    With only 100 available worldwide, the Stone Hut promises to be a collector’s item for sure. But more than anything else, Jake wants riders to get the boards on snow and send him feedback about the new shape.
    
    “I want people to have fun riding this board, and I want to hear what they think of the unique shape,” said Jake. “I also hope everyone gets a good laugh from the stickers that come with the board - I couldn’t resist throwing in some that got us in a little trouble over the years.”
    
    
    About Burton
    
    In 1977, Jake Burton Carpenter founded Burton Snowboards out of his Vermont barn and has dedicated his life to snowboarding ever since. Burton has played a pivotal role in growing snowboarding from a backyard hobby to a world-class sport by creating groundbreaking products, supporting a team of top snowboarders and pushing resorts to allow snowboarding. Today, Burton designs and manufactures industry-leading products for snowboarding and the snowboard lifestyle, including snowboards, boots, bindings, outerwear and layering as well as year-round apparel, packs/bags and accessories. Privately held and owned by Jake and his wife, Burton President Donna Carpenter, Burton’s headquarters are in Burlington, Vermont with offices in Austria, Japan, Australia and California. For more information, visit www.burton.com.

    Shops That Carry The Stone Hut:
    
    U.S.
    
    Active Sports Lifestyles – California
    Surfside Sports – California
    Valsurf Board Shop – California
    Wave Rave of Mammoth – California
    B.C. Surf & Sport – Colorado
    Gravitee – Colorado
    Radio Boardshop – Colorado
    Shred Shop – Illinois
    Backwoods Snowboards – Maine
    Eastern Boarder – Massachusetts
    Wind, Waves & Wheels – Michigan
    Paragon Sporting Goods – New York
    Martini Skate and Snow – Ohio
    U.S. Outdoor Store – Oregon
    Buckman’s Ski Shop – Pennsylvania
    Vertical Urge – North Carolina
    Milosport – Orem, Utah
    Milosport – California
    Salty Peaks Snowboard Shop – Utah
    Darkside Snowboards – Vermont
    Equipe Sport/Mountain Riders – Vermont
    evo – Washington
    Snowboard Connection – Washington
    Moda 3 – Wisconsin
    
    CANADA
    
    Easy Rider – Alberta
    The Source – Alberta
    Unlimited – Alberta
    Pacific Boarder – British Columbia
    Island Snow – British Columbia
    Showcase Whistler – British Columbia
    Fathom – Ontario
    Meltdown – Ontario
    So Hip it Hurts – Ontario
    Alternative – Quebec
    Atlas – Quebec
    Burton Tremblant – Quebec
    Empire – Quebec
    
    EUROPE
    
    Blue Tomato – Austria
    Twits – Belgium
    Addicted Lyon – France
    Francois Cogne Surf Shop – France
    Fifty-Eight Skate Snow Surf – Germany
    Planet Sports – Germany
    Detour Boarding Store- Italy
    Surf In – Luxembourg
    The Old Man – Netherlands
    Kosmos Burton Skate Snowshop- Poland
    Dak Tak 2000 – Spain
    Villadomat – Andorra
    Junkyard – Sweden
    Julen Sport – Switzerland
    Subvert Boardstore– United Kingdom
    
    JAPAN
    
    Spray- Asahikawa
    Dreamy- Himeji
    Post- Koriyama
    3939- Nagoya
    Masa- Nagoya
    Chu’s – Nigata
    Greenfield- Okazaki
    b.c. map- Sapporo
    Extreme- Sendai
    Heaven Store.b – Tokorozawa
    13 a-bony – Yokkaichi
    Newest- Yokohama
    Neverland- Zyoetsu

    

  • Blog post
  • 6 months ago
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• Where To Ski Right Now - Or Re Where To Ski Right Now - Or Really Soon

  • From: brigidmander
  • Description:

    Chairlifts are beginning to spin across America. Colorado's Copper Mountain, pictured here, is open for the season.
    
    Over the weekend 18 inches dropped in Bozeman, Montana. Two more feet fell in Alta, Utah, to make for a 43-inch base one week ahead of opening day. California’s Mammoth Mountain is open from top to bottom. Sixteen inches of snow just blanketed Grand Targhee in Wyoming. And on the east coast, in a glimmer of brightness along Hurricane Sandy’s tragic path, mid-Atlantic and northeastern ski resorts received a bounty of snow.
    
    Early season blizzards or not, opening day is inching closer at all resorts. So to make sure you are ready to shred as early as possible we decided to compile a list of some major - and not so major - US resort opening days, and those resorts that have already opened.  So drag the gear out of its summer hibernation, replace whatever you trashed last season, and update to the latest and greatest. Before you know it, winter will be full-on, so get out there and get ready.

    While this list is pretty long, it does not list every resort in the United States. If you know of a resort opening, list it in the comments. Dates subject to change.
    
    Browse All Resorts World Wide In The TGR Travel Section
    
    COLORADO
    
    Arapahoe Basin: OPEN
    Loveland: OPEN
    Copper Mountain: OPEN
    Wolf Creek: Nov. 14
    Winter Park Nov. 14
    Eldora: Nov. 16
    Vail: Nov. 16
    Beaver Creek: Nov. 21
    Steamboat: Nov. 21
    Monarch: Nov. 21
    Crested Butte: Nov. 21
    Telluride: Nov. 22
    Aspen Mtn: Nov. 22
    Snowmass: Nov. 22
    Ski Cooper: Nov. 22
    Durango: Nov. 23
    Silverton: Dec. 1
    Howelsen: Dec. 1
    Sunlight: Dec. 7
    Aspen Highlands: Dec. 8
    Ski Granby Ranch: Dec. 12
    Powderhorn: Dec. 13
    Buttermilk: Dec. 15
    
    UTAH
    
    Brighton: OPEN
    Solitude: Nov. 14
    Alta: Nov. 16
    Park City: Nov. 17
    Snowbird:  Nov. 15
    The Canyons: Nov. 23
    Powder Mountain: Nov. 21
    Snowbasin: Nov 22
    Deer Valley: Dec. 8
    
    WYOMING
    
    Grand Targhee: Nov. 23
    Jackson Hole: Nov. 24 
    Snow King: Dec. 8
     
    WASHINGTON

    Stevens Pass, Nov. 21
    Mt. Baker: Tenatively Thanksgiving
    Crystal Mountain: TBD
    
    IDAHO
    
    Sun Valley: Nov. 22
    Schweitzer: Nov. 17
    
    MONTANA
    
    Big Sky: Nov. 22
    Bridger Bowl: Dec. 8
    Whitefish Mountain Resort: Dec. 8
    Montana Snowbowl: Dec. 11
    Moonlight Basin: Dec. 8

    NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
    
    Bear Mountain: OPEN
    Mammoth: OPEN
    Northstar at Tahoe: Nov. 16
    Squaw Valley USA: Nov. 21
    Kirkwood: Nov. 21
    Alpine Meadows: Dec. 7
    Homewood: Dec. 10
    
    NEW MEXICO
    
    Taos: Nov. 22
    
    ALASKA
    
    Alyeska: Nov. 21
    
    ARIZONA
    
    Arizona Snowbowl: TBD, mid-December
    
    OREGON
    
    Mt. Hood Meadows:  Nov. 19  
    Mt. Hood Ski Bowl: Nov. 25
    Mt. Bachelor: Tentatively Nov. 21
    
    WISCONSIN
    
    Trollhaugen: OPEN
    
    NEW YORK
    
    Whiteface: Nov. 23
    Gore: Nov. 25
    Hunter Mountain: Nov. 25
    Plattekill: Dec. 11
    
    MAINE
    
    Sugarloaf:  OPEN
    Sunday River:  OPEN
    
    VERMONT
    
    Okemo: OPEN
    Killington: OPEN
    Stratton: November 24
    Stowe: November 17
    Jay Peak: November 23
    Mad River Glen: November 22, Tenatively

    
    PENNSYLVANIA
    
    Whitetail: Dec. 4
    Blue Knob: Dec. 14   
    Camelback: Dec. 16
    
    WEST VIRGINIA:
    
    Timberline Resort: Dec. 8
    Winterplace: Dec. 9
    Canaan Valley: Dec. 10

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  • 6 months ago
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• News: Whistler Blackcomb Honor News: Whistler Blackcomb Honored With Six Recognitions In Annual Resort Rankings

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    

    The annual resort rankings are in and again Whistler Blackcomb is on top with six “best overall” wins and over fifteen No.1 “category” wins. These accolades have positioned Whistler Blackcomb as one of the best ranked ski and snowboard destinations in the world.
    
    “We are thrilled to be recognized among the best mountain resorts in the world,” says Stuart Rempel, senior vice president of marketing and sales at Whistler Blackcomb. “These awards are a credit to Whistler Blackcomb’s focus on improving every aspect of our business. We start with amazing physical assets - our mountains and reliable snow. Then we layer in our huge lift infrastructure and our commitment to the environment. On top of it all are our people. The guest relations team, groomers, snow makers, terrain park rangers, instructors, patrollers, front line staff and everyone in between all work together to exceed our customers’ expectations. We believe this approach is why Whistler Blackcomb is consistently ranked the No. 1 resort in North America and positions us among the best in the world.”
    
    This year Whistler Blackcomb was recognized by SPIKE Marketing as the highest rated resort in the world for customer satisfaction and performance. The company’s Ski Base Results 2012 Survey involving 18,000 UK respondents ranked Whistler Blackcomb as the No. 1 resort they would recommend to a friend or colleague based on quality of skiing, accommodation, value for money, restaurants and bars, lifts and activities outside skiing. This ranking is a credit to Whistler Blackcomb’s attention to exceeding customer expectations in every aspect of its operations.
     
    Whistler Blackcomb Awards and Rankings 2012.2013
     
    No. 1 Overall
    
        SKI Magazine, USA
        Freeskier Magazine, USA
        SBC Resort Guide, CAN
        Best overall in B.C., onthesnow.com, USA
        Powderhounds.com, USA
        Findthebest.com, USA
    
     
    Whistler Blackcomb Category Wins:
    
        Top 50 Best Ski Resorts, The Independent, GBR
        Best Net Promoter Score, Spike Marketing, GBR
        Best in Snow Business, Canadian Ski Council, CAN
        2012 BC Hydro Power Smart Excellence Awards Winner in the Power Smart Leader category, CAN
        One of Canada’s Greenest Employers, Canada’s Top 100 Employers, CAN
        One of Canada’s Best Employers for Young People, Canada's Top 100 Employers, CAN
        Best Ski Run & Lodge for Whistler Blackcomb & Fairmont Chateau Whistler, National Geographic, USA
        Best Terrain: SKI Magazine, Powderhounds.com
        Best Apres/Nightlife, FREESKIER, Powderhounds.com
        Top Family Resort, CNN.com, Familyvacationcritic.com, USA
        Best Park in the West, SBC Resort Guide
        Best Terrain in the West, SBC Resort Guide
        Best Lifts, Powderhounds.com
        Best Winter Destination & Best Summer Destination, Georgia Straight Newspaper, CAN
        Best Off-Piste, Powderhounds.com
    
     
    Other “Not too Shabby” Placings
    No. 2
    
        Steep Skiing, FREESKIER
        Service, SKI Magazine
        Lodging, SKI Magazine
        Off-Hill Activities, SKI Magazine
        Digital Presence, SKI Magazine
        Romantic Getaway, Georgia Straight Newspaper
    
    No.3
    
        Dining, SKI Magazine
    
     
    No. 4
    
        Powder Stashes, FREESKIER
        Terrain Parks, SKI Magazine
        Overall Satisfaction, SKI Magazine
        Scenery, SKI Magazine
    
    No. 5
    
        Challenging Terrain, SKI Magazine
        On-Mountain Food, SKI Magazine
        Lifts, SKI Magazine
        Best Resort in North America, TransWorld SNOWboarding, USA
        Halfpipes, TransWorld SNOWboarding

    For More On Whistler Blackcomb

     

     

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  • 7 months ago
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• Mt. Norquay First Resort To Op Mt. Norquay First Resort To Open In Canada

  • From: TetonGravityResearch
  • Description:

    
    Banff Lake Louise Sunshine is already on track for another record smashing ski season.

    Mt. Norquay is leading the way in the record books with its earliest opening in its history and the first ski resort to open in Canada!
    
    Mt. Norquay opened for skiing Thursday October 25, 2012.
    
    The combination of 30 cm of natural and manmade snow has provided the best opening skiing conditions ever. Norquay will also be open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

    Following closely on the heels of Mt. Norquay are Lake Louise Ski Area and Sunshine Village, with opening dates currently scheduled for November 9, completing the big three trifecta of boasting the longest ski season in North America.

    This is fantastic news for skiers and snowboarders to Banff Lake Louise Sunshine.

    Banff National Park and its three world-class resorts look forward to a season of fresh powder, great skiing and smooth riding in Canada’s Protected Playground, where open runs and iconic views come naturally to us. For more information visit www.SkiBig3.com
    
    

    

    

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  • 7 months ago
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• Endless Winter - Skiing 108 Mo Endless Winter - Skiing 108 Months In A Row And Counting

  • From: brennanlagasse
  • Description:

    Like all good things it began with a simple dream: to make a ski season a ski year. As much as I’ve always enjoyed the change of seasons a little sign framed by skis in a friend's house has always stuck with me - “Summer’s a Bummer.” It’s really not, but to a skier summer means something unique. It means ski season is over.
    
    Skiers love to party on the final day of ski resort operations, but I was never all that thrilled to celebrate the end of another season. In the high alpine I knew there was snow in to be slayed in May, June and July regardless of what the resorts had to do to remain profitable. In reality, depending on where skiers find themselves during those late spring and summer months, the skiing can be more than just good. Come August, September, and for most locales even October, snow is a scarce resource. But I figured, why not try and link 12 months together and ski for a whole year? While most of my friends were “over it” come May I just couldn’t lie to myself. I wanted to keep skiing. When I posed the idea to link turns in every month of the 2003-2004 season to my girlfriend at the time, she was fired up. I was too.
    
    Jillian asking herself why we have to cross another waterfall on Mt. Whitney, Eastern Sierra, California. Late Spring 2004.
    
    That initial season we made the most of early season snowfall in the Sierra Nevada during November, and went out of our way to make turns in the lean months of August and September. Maybe it was a little ridiculous to drive all the way to Mt. Hood that October because we couldn’t find any snow in the Sierra, but we got it done anyway, and when we linked our first 12 months together the feeling of accomplishment was beyond what we thought it’d be. It wasn’t that big of a deal at all, really, but to us we had achieved our goal to turn the ski season into a ski year. We were stoked!
    
    Even with grass poking out, early season skiing can be pretty good if you take caution and know where to go. Kirkwood, California. November 2008.
    
    When the lean months showed up once again in the summer of 2005 it would’ve been pretty easy to leave the streak at 20. It was July, after all. Regardless of how we tried to rationalize that ending the streak was okay neither one of us really wanted to stop. So we didn’t. We kept going and it became our thing, something we looked forward to doing together, something that ultimately would help us develop a relationship in the mountains, with snow, that’s taken us to more random places than we ever thought was possible.

    Jillian lays it down in the winter, so it's all relative come summer and fall. Lake Tahoe Backcountry, California. Winter 2011.
    
    Whether it was living out of a Subaru Outback in Glacier, Washington, to take advantage of deep early season storms, or skiing into the crater of Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, on our first visit (we didn’t know it was illegal), the streak we started back in November 2003 slowly evolved from extending one ski season, to maintaining a run of consecutive months of skiing, to at the core planning as many diverse adventures as we could that revolved around the simplicity of sliding on snow.

    Every summer/fall there's at least one ski mission when we laugh at ourselves. August 2005.
    
    When September 2006 rolled around we used our streak as an excuse to check out other sides of the great Mt. Shasta that we hadn’t yet visited. We did the same that October. We would have never made trips like that otherwise, but because of the streak we dreamt of new places to visit where we could find snow to ski. What ultimately ended up happening is that mentality translated into our winter routine. We didn’t plan for that to happen, but it did. We started looking for off-the-beaten places to ski in our Sierra Nevada backyard, shared our first heli-run in Alaska together, which morphed into looking for more unique places to check out around the world.  In 2007 we got married and enjoyed our honeymoon in the Kullu Valley of the Indian Himalaya where 20,000-plus foot peaks filled our vantage on every ski tour. In 2010 we made it to the High Atlas Mountains and locked into a full-on powder day in Africa.  In February 2012 we took a trip to Japan and skied some of the lightest, deepest powder of our lives. It was our 100th consecutive month of turns together.
    
    Dreadlocks, heavy alpine boots, and a long way until snow. So many memories ... Mt. Shasta, California. September, 2006
    
    Last week, the first cold storm system of the fall impacted the Sierra. There wasn’t much punch to the storm at all, but after all these the years of seeking out snow we were able to find a little gulley in the Eastern Sierra that had blown in just enough new snow to allow for a few turns.
    
    Our 100th month in a row was one of the deepest of our lives. Hakuba, Japan. February 2012. Skier: Brennan Lagasse. Photo Credit: Zach Paley.
    
    Nine years in a row. 108 straight months. “What a long, strange trip it’s been.”
    
    
    Ignorance is sometimes bliss. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon. Spring 2005.
    
    A token couple shot after getting out of our first heli ride. Valdez, Alaska. March 2004.
    
    Jillian on a break in India. I almost forgot she used to splitboard. Kullu Valley, Indian Himalaya. April 2008.
    
    What started as a goal to make it happen for a year has turned into something pretty special for Jillian and I. On the surface, I think it’s easy to look at this as simply extending a streak, but I realize while we still desire to keep the streak alive it’s really not about number of months at all - it’s about the adventures. It’s about seeking out new people in new places and experiencing the uniqueness that comes when skiing moves beyond a recreational capacity, and it becomes part of your identity.
    
    So far, in this October there were maybe a handful of hours where new snow was skiable in the Sierra. Would we have made the effort to get down there without wanting to continue our string of months in a row? It doesn’t matter. For a brief slice of time we hiked up, clicked in, skied down just like we’ve done hundreds of times before. Whatever the motivation was to make it down there and whatever motivates you in the mountains, the most important thing is to ask “Why not?” Why not make a trip to the far off destination you’ve always wanted to visit this season, why not ski that random peak in your local backcountry that no one else seems to care about but you stare at each season and wonder what it’d be like to shred? Why not try and ski 100- or 200-plus days this year? We should all celebrate every little weird, creative, special thing that comes with being a skier - even something as random as skiing for 108 and months in a row. Why not?
    
    Nine years, 108 months in a row. Sierra Nevada, California. October 2012.

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  • 7 months ago
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• News: All 2013 Qualified Rider News: All 2013 Qualified Riders Confirmed For Swatch Freeride World Tour By The North Face

  • From: SamPetri
  • Description:

    Get ready for an epic season: The world’s best big-mountain riders to compete in the new unified world tour
     
    Lausanne, Switzerland / Salt Lake City, USA - A host of new faces join the leading skiers and snowboarders from past season, as the Swatch Freeride World Tour By The North Face goes into its first season as a globally unified series. The new tour will combine top riders and most champions of last winter’s Swatch Freeride World Tour, Freeskiing World Tour and The North Face Masters of Snowboarding. The line-up will additionally include strong talent emerging from the Freeride World Qualifiers as well as some hotly contended wild cards.
     
    
     
    The For Swatch Freeride World Tour By The North Face 2013 will kick off at Revelstoke, Canada, January 7, 2013, and then move on to the first European stops at Courmayeur-Mont-Blanc, Italy, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. After the following events at Kirkwood, California, and Fieberbrunn PillerseeTal, Austria, the qualified riders will prepare for the finals at Verbier, Switzerland.
     
    This season will be a season of firsts for the FWT, with new riders, a new unified calendar and a brand new partnership with ABS, who will be the tour’s official air bag system supplier.
    
    “Security is key for FWT, so it’s essential to partner with the leading manufacturer in that field,” Freeride World Tour General Manager Europe Nicolas Hale-Woods said.

    
    
    The FWT TwinBag pack with zip-on partner Dakine. For more information about ABS® click here
     
    The top 12 male skiers from the Freeride World Tour 2012 and Freeskiing World Tour 2012 are automatically qualified. For female skiers, the top five from the Freeride World Tour 2012 and the top three from the Freeskiing World Tour 2012 are eligible to compete. The line-up includes skiers like 2012 Freeride World Tour champion Reine Barkered (SWE), 2012 Freeskiing World Tour champion Josh Daiek (USA), two-time Freeride World Tour champion Aurélien Ducroz (FRA), 2011 Freeskiing World Tour champion Drew Tabke (USA), as well as 2012 Freeride World Tour champion Christine Hargin (SWE) and two-time Freeskiing World Tour champion Angel Collinson (USA).
    
    Some tour spots have also been reserved for wild cards. There are two types of wild cards – those given to riders committed to follow the whole tour and local organizer wild cards given to riders for a single event. In skiing, one of the wild cards was given to Markus Eder (ITA) who recently shone at the Swatch Skiers Cup at Valle Nevado, Chile.
     
    In the Snowboard division, the top six male riders from the Freeride World Tour 2012 and top four male riders from the Masters of Snowboarding 2012 as well as the top three females from the Freeride World Tour 2012 and the Masters of Snowboarding 2012 are automatically qualified. Confirmed snowboarders include 2012 Freeride World Tour champion Jonathan Charlet (FRA), 2012 Masters of Snowboarding champion Sammy Luebke (USA), three-time Freeride World Tour champion Xavier de Le Rue (FRA) from the Swatch Proteam, as well as Ralph Backstrom (USA), Flo Orley (AUT), and 2012 Masters of Snowboarding champion Shannan Yates (USA).
     
    In addition, several riders in all categories qualified through the Freeride World Qualifiers 2012. Talents who now have the opportunity to prove themselves in the Swatch Freeride World Tour By The North Face 2013 include skiers Wille Lindberg (SWE), Léo Slemett (FRA), and Pia Nic Gundersen (NOR) as well as snowboarders Ludovic Guillot-Diat (FRA), Joel Rouge (SUI), and French sisters Margot and Elodie Mouthon (FRA).
     
    
     
    Read what some of the athletes have to say:
    
    

    Drew Tabke (USA), 2nd Freeride World Tour 2012 Ski Men: “I've competed in the sport for nearly a decade and 2013 looks to be the most exciting year yet. I am so stoked the merger between the two tours is finally going down because it means we’ll finally see the best skiers from around the world at the same events. I expect the level of riding at the Freeride World Tour this year to be at the highest it’s ever been because of the incredible athlete roster. I can’t wait to see what countries and riders are dominant this year. I personally have my money on Team America.”

    

    Sam Smoothy (NZL), 4th Freeride World Tour 2012 Ski Men: “FWT 2013 is going to be one hell of a show, with all the new riders from the FWQ and the Freeskiing World Tour full claiming rights. We have amazing venues and an incredible amount of talented riders so it’s going to be redonkulous. To have one true world tour and one true world champion is an incredible opportunity and I can’t wait to have a crack at taking home the title.” 
    
    

    Xavier de Le Rue (FRA), triple Freeride World Tour winner Snowboard Men: “I'm really happy to see The North Face getting on board of the Freeride World Tourfor the next few years. I'm sure that along with Swatch and the reunification of both tours, the FWT will reach a well-deserved next level. On a personal level, filming will keep me a bit too busy to follow the whole tour, but I'll be excited to come and ride three of the events of the tour.”
    
    

    Christine Hargin (SWE), 2012 Freeride World Tour champion:“Although the best riders from the American tour also participated in previous years, I think a united tour means tougher competition in the races, and a higher level of riding will be required to win. The tour will get better status worldwide. I'm looking forward to see all the skiers that qualified. I think the level will be higher than ever on the tour. I'm also looking forward to ski in Canada and Revelstoke where I couldn’t join in last year, and to re-visit the other ski resorts where we will compete.”
    
    SWATCH FREERIDE WORLD TOUR BY THE NORTH FACE 2013
    Competition Calendar
     
    1. Swatch Freeride World Tour Revelstoke 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 7 January; Location: Revelstoke (CAN)
    Disciplines: Men's and Women's Ski and Snowboard
     
    2. Swatch Freeride World Tour Courmayeur-Mont-Blanc 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 19 January; Location: Courmayeur-Mont-Blanc (ITA)
    Disciplines: Men's Ski and Snowboard
     
    3. Swatch Freeride World Tour Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 26 January; Location: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (FRA)
    Disciplines: Men's and Women's Ski and Snowboard
     
    4. Swatch Freeride World Tour Kirkwood 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 27 February; Location: Kirkwood (USA)
    Disciplines: Men's and Women's Ski and Snowboard
     
    5. Swatch Freeride World Tour Fieberbrunn Pillerseetal 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 9 March; Location: Fieberbrunn Pillerseetal (AUT)
    Disciplines: Men's and Women's Ski and Snowboard
     
    6. Swatch Verbier Xtreme 2013 by The North Face
    Dates: 23 March; Location: Verbier (SUI)
    Disciplines: Men's and Women's Ski and Snowboard

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  • 7 months ago
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• News: Colorado, Utah Resorts S News: Colorado, Utah Resorts See First Snow Of The 2012-13 Season

  • From: media-75233
  • Description:

    The Colorado high country has received a dusting of snow, including ski resorts like Arapahoe Basin, Monrach Mountain, Breckenridge and Aspen, among others. But the photo from Snowbird, Utah, really shows that winter is on its way.  Enjoy the photos and get stoked for the season.
     
    Opening day is just around the corner… are you ready??

    A dusting at A-Basin.

    Monarch Mountain got snow.

    A dusting in Breckenridge.

    A little place called Aspen with a little dusting of snow.

    Looks like the bird is the word.

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  • 8 months ago
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