Top 5 Places to Find Powder
Photography: Dan Campbell
Every Park City local seems to have a large-breed dog, at least one addiction, the ability to get into any bar without having to pay a cover charge, and a favorite powder stash. We guard this insider knowledge closely. No one likes to ski up to his or her favorite spot only to find that it’s not a secret anymore. Still, in the spirit of hospitality, here are some places where you may find soft stuff even days after a storm. Enjoy them, but don’t tell anyone who sent you.
1. X Trees, Deer Valley: From the top of the Empire Chair, head left as if you were going to Daly Chutes. Avoid the chutes and stay high. Push yourself along the ridge until you pass the last chute. The X Trees are down to your left.
2. Ski Team Ridge, Park City: On weekdays, when the Ski Team lift doesn’t run, this powder hides in plain sight because you have to go all the
way to the top of the resort, then ski all the way to the bottom to access runs like Silver Skis, The Shaft, and Silver King.
3. Lower East Face, The Canyons: Go right off the Ninety-Nine 90 chair until you hit the rope line. Then head down into the trees. This is a steep one — double black diamond.
4. Go Back! Hire a guide to take you into the backcountry. They have the gear and the know-how to do it safely. Try White Pine Touring (435.649. 8710), Park City Powder Cats & Heli-Ski (435.649.6596), Exum Utah Mountain Adventures (801.550. 3986), or Norwegian Outdoor Exploration Center (435.649.5322).
5. Snowbasin Resort: Although this resort hosted the Olympic downhill events, it is often under utilized. They get great dumps of snow, without the crowds of Park City or Alta. About an hour’s drive from Park City.
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