Each winter, the Ski & Snowboard Festival transforms an alpine town into a hub of thrill and skill, where slopes challenge and entertain beginners and experts alike. This celebration of winter sports brings together fresh powder, spirited competitions, and a vibrant community eager to share the mountain. The festival takes place across a network of runs varying from gentle cruisers to stark, steeper faces, collecting riders around shared descents and après-ski culture.

The terrain stretches over a 3,000-acre resort area, offering lifts that whisk you up elevations near 10,500 feet—where the cold air sharpens minds and muscles for the day ahead. You’ll find a mix of groomed trails and untouched backcountry stashes, each with snow that seems determined to ride as hard as you do. This is a place where powder dares you to carve deeper and tree-lined runs encourage calculated speed.

Planning your visit is key. Aim for mid-January through early March, when snow conditions peak and festival events, like freestyle contests and gear demos, are in full swing. Dressing in practical layers keeps you comfortable from morning chill to sunny afternoon breaks, while moisture-wicking base layers fend off ocean-cold blasts. Don’t underestimate hydration—high altitude can steal your energy quietly, so good water habits make all the difference.

On the festival’s middle days, catch the rail jam competitions and live music that bubble with energy as riders nail tricks, and the crowd pulses with excitement. For families or novices, beginner zones with friendly instructors create the perfect launchpad. Veteran riders will find the terrain parks a relentless test of skill, with jumps and rails designed to push limits.

Safety holds weight here; helmet use is non-negotiable, and staying aware of changing conditions is crucial. Avalanche risk is managed by the resort, but having basic knowledge and always checking runs before venturing out ensures respect for the mountain’s fierce independence.

Whether you chase powder through tight glades or cruise broad vistas, the Ski & Snowboard Festival offers a practical, exhilarating experience that demands preparation, skill, and respect for the mountain’s relentless character. It’s an invitation to ride hard, stay sharp, and savor those moments where snow and adventure meet.