What can an east coast skier expect out west?

Question

I am thinking about taking my 10 year old son to ski Utah next week. I hear they are getting pounded. Is powder skiing way different? Harder, easier? Safety issues? Will he or I freak out? We are both "advanced / expert" skiers. Not great on the Moguls, fine with steep stuff. Thinking about Alta in Utah.

Answer 1

Don't worry about a thing. I skied in the East and the West (and Europe) and you'll find the skiing in the West is far superior. I brought my skis east one season and never dragged them out there again.



Your biggest danger is that once you've "tasted" western skiing you'll never ski in the East again. If you fall, it's a soft fall. You may freak out, however, since it's so much fun!



That said, you should be prepared for lots of powder -- I'm in Aspen and we had three feet of snow over the last few days -- VERY unusual.



Powder is basically skiing in three dimensions, not just two. It takes a bit of extra balance -- don't lean back. The newer shaped skis are very helpful in all conditions including powder and make everything easy to ski. Edges are not that important and just take it easy (it's not eastern hard pack). Also, while you're used to cold, we are expecting some cold here so bring warm clothes -- you can always shed them. Finally, remember to zip up all your pockets or you'll find them full of snow!



As for moguls, when there is enough snow you won't find any. As for the steeps, you'll need them in order to move if the snow is deep enough.



If you're looking for some choices in terms of where you'll find the best snow, check www.onthesnow.com, www.skicentral.com or www.ski.com for snow conditions and other information about the resorts.



Have a great time!

Answer 2

I answered your other question about Alta/Snowbird.



I didn't realize you were thinking about coming out so soon. We just had a couple small storms come through. I know you might look at that and say "wow, 2 feet, 3 feet?" That's not a lot though.



There is still a lot of rock, and some sections of the mountains are not even open yet, although for you guys, you should be ok.



Just don't expect bottomless powder yet. For that to happen, we need about two more good storms. I skied Alta today, and it was fine, but like I said, I was hitting rock still in places you normally wouldn't.



But your 10 year old probably wouldn't be in a place like that anyways. I'm sure he would have a ball.



Where you from in the east? I moved out here from upstate NY. Skied lots at Gore, Greek Peak, all over in Vermont.



Once west, never return! You might as well buy a one-way ticket!

Answer 3

If you are both "advanced/expert" skiers, you'll be fine out West. I make my romp around Colorado. The snow is great, especially in the bowls. If you don't like moguls, just stay off those runs. Otherwise, it's beautiful and a wonderful experience. I hope you guys make your way over there because the Rockies make for some great skiing! I'll be up there in February. Have fun!

Answer 4

Grew up as an Eastcoaster but lived and worked at Snowbird. Skiing in powder is technically different but is easier than hard pack. The more you try to edge the harder it will be. Getting speed and getting your skis up on plane( like a boat) will allow you to roll your edges gently back and forth to turn. Finding your center of gravity over your skis is crucial. Steeps are easier to ski than flats because speed is easier to achieve quickly. Depending on the depth of the powder, you are able to check your speed on serious steeps easily by leaning forward, over turning or just hip checking. Powder itself does not present any real safety issues at most resorts due to avalanche prevention, but beware of skiing to close to tree wells(the area directly around the trunk of a tree) as they can suck you in and flip you over before you know it. If the snow is fresh and deep you will not want to waste any time even thinking about moguls.

Powder straps can help you find your skis in case one or both release, they will have them at the local ski shops.



Little Cottonwood Canyon has some of the lightest snow you will ever ski. GO... and Enjoy!

Answer 5

Snowbird is a great mountain. When I was learning to ski (in New England) my father always said "if you can ski in the East, you can ski anywhere." You and your son are going to love it. It will take a few runs to get used to skiing powder but you'll love it. You'll need to ski faster than you're used to and you'll need to sit a little farther back on your heels to keep your tips up but you'll do fine.



I am jealous!! Have a great time!