Ski mountaineers are a tough breed. They choose to slog up expert runs using skins rather than clocking the number of runs they can amass via a lift. The best ski mountaineers in the country will be heading to [R191R, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort] in late March for this year's national championships.
Burgeoning ski mountaineering races have been popping up across the country, many taking place on expert resort slopes and unifying a points system under the United States Ski Mountaineering Association. A Le Mans-type start sends the pack of racers running 50 feet to their skis to begin skinning up the mountain, then amassing over 5,000 vertical feet between a series of climbs and descents.
The U.S. Ski Mountaineering National Championships at Jackson Hole Mar. 21 adds even more climbing, topping out with over 6,000 vertical feet. The route includes a climb up Corbet's Couloir, the last few feet on a ladder over the cornice.
Those not quite ready for a ski mountaineering race can sample a taste of ski touring through Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's guided backcountry skiing program. The guides lead half- or full-day trips adjacent to the resort and also at Teton Pass. Call 800-450-0477 for more information.
Those looking to gain heavy-duty ski mountaineering skills should hook up with Jackson Hole Mountain Guides. They teach ski mountaineering seminars and guide multi-day trips in the Tetons, several running in April and May. Call 800-239-7642 for information on their trips.
Gnarly Ski Mountaineers Head For Jackson March 21
Advertisement
Most Read This Week
Up to 2 Feet Forecasted for Wasatch & Southern Colorado
Meteorologist Chris Tomer gives us the run down on where will be the snowiest this weekend. The hot spot this weekend is the West with...
It was ‘only’ $229 on MLK Day; Pass co-ops ‘here to stay’
Know Before you Go: Your OnTheSnow Guide for the COVID Ski Season
Culture change and the ski industry; MLK Weekend arrives in a new light
‘Who are these guys?’ New owners to expand, continue Sundance legacy
7 Resorts to Learn to Ski & Ride at in 2021
Get More From OnTheSnow
Get snow reports, weather, forecasts, news and ski conditions for your favorite ski resorts.