You don’t always have to lug yourself and your gear up the mountain to access backcountry terrain.
These five resorts have incredible backcountry skiing that can be accessed through gates on the area’s border.
Backcountry terrain accessed through a ski resort gate is typically not avalanche controlled. Always remember to bring your beacon, probe, shovel, and to Know Before You Go.
Please stay safe out there, friends.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY
^Backcountry terrain accessible on Cody Peak. Credit: Painted Buffalo Inn
Jackson Hole was one of the first American ski areas to offer backcountry access through gates in 1999. The area is flanked by various backcountry access points that add thousands of acres of skiable terrain for those looking for a little more of a challenge.
Cody Bowl, Rock Springs Bowl, and other access points allow skiers to venture into Grand Teton National Park.
Stowe, VT
^The Chin. Credit: UVM SSC
Stowe Resort is located on Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak.
While the resort offers 485 ac. of in-bounds terrain, there’s plenty to access in the backcountry. Locals enjoy steeps, chutes, and endless tree runs. Mt. Mansfield is one of the best backcountry areas in all of New England.
Telluride, CO
^Palmyra Peak. Credit: Sierra Descents
Telluride is one of the most challenging ski resorts in the country- no question about it. It’s also one of the best resorts to access backcountry terrain in the beautiful San Juan Mountains.
Skiers and riders enjoy extreme terrain off Palmyra Peak, Bald Mountain, and more. Pack the shovel, beacon, and probe!
Brighton, UT
^Mount Millicent backcountry. Courtesy: WBS Guide Book
Brighton serves up amazing in-bounds tree skiing, and thousands of acres of backcountry terrain accessible from the resort.
Popular spots include Mt. Millicent, Pioneer Peak, and Clayton Peak. The areas are well marked on the resort’s trail map, and avalanche conditions are posted near access gates.
Snowbasin, UT
Snowbasin hosted the men’s and women’s downhill skiing events in the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, but you’ll find much more than steep groomed runs at this Utah resort.
The resort has designated ‘Restricted Access’ zones that do not require hiking. Sister Bowl and The Lower Pyramids are fan-favorites.
Featured Image Credit: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort