December 2nd, 2009

One of the coolest natural ski features at Squaw Valley is the Palisades. – These enormous rocks have served as a proving ground for progressive skiing over the past 50 years. Five main chutes make up the bulk of the lines, however people have found a wide variety of other ways to get down or off the top of the ‘Sades’. To access the chutes make the quick 10 minute hike from the top of Siberia chairlift to any of the lines described below. In order from nearest to farthest:

• Chimney: The most extreme of the Palisade chutes, the Chimney has a number of different lines through it discovered over the years by trial and error. In low snow this can make for some truly heroic skiing.
• Main: Located right next to Chimney, Main Chute is where the majority of people head. Most of the time the first turn is a very steep one but after a few turns the chute opens up into the bottom bowl.- Don’t gape it, keep your speedup.
• Box Air / Tubes: With a good 15 to 35 foot drop, depending on the snow, Box Air is nice clean air. Pick up speed by skating across the top of the Palisade before launching off. The tubes are located right next to the Box. Great for straight lining.
• Extra: This chute is mostly divided in half with a small rock band running down the middle. You can point it or ski it with some smooth tight turns. Good clean fun.
• National: The most open and easiest way of getting down the Palisades. A great way to get your feet wet for a first timer.