About Utah's Backcountry
Every day, thousands of people enjoy Utah's famous backcountry — the areas outside of ski area boundaries. A lot of skiers, snowmobilers, snowshoers, snowboarders, hikers, climbers and other sports enthusiasts regularly take to Utah's very accessible backcountry from hundreds of trailheads throughout the state. Those leaving the protection of ski area boundaries or entering the backcountry from a trailhead need standard avalanche rescue gear, avalanche training and need to regularly consult the Utah Avalanche Center website for critical avalanche safety information before venturing out. (Read: 4 Tips to Prepare for Utah's Winter Backcountry)
Technical Ability
- There are extra responsibilities with heli-skiing and riding. Guides will bring you up to speed on their terrain, but to learn more about backcountry access and safety, get information on where to go now or just stay current on the most accurate conditions being reported in Utah, check out the Utah Avalanche Center.
- That said, heli-skiing and riding isn't just for experts, but you should be a skilled skier or rider if you're going out into the backcountry.
Utah Heli-Skiing and Snowboarding Guides
- Powderbird calls Snowbird in Little Cottonwood Canyon their home. Why is this important? Take a look at their location on Google Maps and back out several clicks to a broader view. Now you get it: they operate smack dab in the middle of Utah's renowned Wasatch Mountain Range — between the vibrantly metropolitan Salt Lake Valley (a.k.a. Ski City U.S.A.) and the celebrated Park City area.
Granted, there are plenty of opportunities to find The Greatest Snow on Earth® at Utah's finest resorts, but Powderbird touts helicopter skiing as "the undisputed champ of on-snow adventure." First tracks, seemingly uncharted terrain, endless powder and skill mastery (safety first!) are all yours with a heli-skiing experience. The professionals of Powderbird offer guided access to all of to the caches and steeps you crave. - Diamond Peaks Heli Ski Adventures launches from the top of Powder Mountain Resort and takes you over Pow-Mow's mountains to nearby peaks that will feel even more untouched and untamed than some of Powder Mountain's incredible slopes.