Between 1940 and 1975, Sugar Bowl Resort‘s Silver Belt Classic was one of the top skiing events in the world. Athletes took on a giant slalom course on Mount Lincoln, running between rocks, trees, gullies, and chutes. With no grooming, the course conditions were determined by whatever the mountain had to offer.
The competition returned in 2024, bringing a freeride twist into the event. Now the Silver Belt Classic allows amateur athletes to test their skills against the professionals, with over 100 skiers competing in the qualifiers in the 2025 competition.
Professional skier Hank Stowers competed in the Silver Belt Classic this year. They documented the event through their eyes, showing why they believe it has the potential to change freeride skiing.
