Crested Butte is infamous as having some of the steepest, most fear-inducing in-bounds terrain in the world. Indeed, about one-third of the resort is considered “extreme limits” double black terrain.It’s important to keep this in mind if you’re new to Crested Butte; you want to make sure you know where you’re going and have an appropriate slope to get there. But, if you’re ready for adventure and want to experience the best the mountain has to offer, there are a few tried-and-true powder stashes and lines to behold.
The next time you’re skiing the steeps of Crested Butte, consider having a go at one of these featured runs.
1. Teocalli Bowl
Less crowded than its other High Line lift neighbors, Teocalli bowl has some of the best hike-to terrain on the mountain. If you hike to the right at the top of the lift, there are some great trees and chutes to drop into. Once you’re in the middle of Teocalli Bowl, hang right and ride between Lair’s Bench and Wolf’s Lair to get in some great untracked turns.
2. Headwall Glades
A popular area of the mountain, Headwall Glades is a steep section of trees accessed through the Halfpipe Gully. One of the best parts of Headwall Glades is an area between Powder 8 Gully and Big Shute. It’s like an amusement park of skiing in these glades, and you really can’t go wrong with any line you choose.
3. High Life
The High Life area is legendary as the most extreme inbounds terrain in the country. It’s not just that the area is steep; it’s also that it’s incredibly technical. Situated off the North Face Lift and between the Spellbound Bowl and North Face runs, you’ll see the High Life cliff band,If you’re up for the challenge, High Life has a few different options that are each incredible. Check out The Ramp for the easiest option, though it’s still quite the stomach-churning adventure.
If you’re prepared for the challenge of Crested Butte, try out these runs or opt for friendlier in-bounds terrain. Either way, you’ll be able to appreciate the awe-inspiring landscape and terrain of Crested Butte.
