First off, if it is a powder day I would suggest for every skier type to “press glass.” This is a term we use to describe being the first few people in line for the gondola where you can almost press the glass of the gondola door before it opens. Just think of having first dibs at all that fresh powder. Be sure to check gondola operating hours the day before as the times change during busier weeks.
Beginner
For the beginner skier, I suggest taking the Christie Peak Express lift up to the top and ski the lower mountain runs. Most people go straight to the top of the gondola on a powder day and miss all the great powder on the lower mountain, which tends to be less skied and still really good. Make sure to grab a map and check out the two green runs directly off Christie Peak Express lift. They both take you over to Giggle Gulch and then you can access Thunderhead lift or ski back down to the base to continue lower mountain laps.
Intermediate
If you are more interested in the blues or intermediate skiing, take the gondola up to the top and head over towards Sundown and Sunshine lifts. There are tons of great blue runs on the "sunny" side of the mountain. My favorites are Tomahawk and Quickdraw. You can even dabble in some blue/blacks near the High Noon run. These runs get tracked out as the morning goes on, so try to get on the gondola when it opens and over to the lifts by 9:00 a.m.
Expert
For our expert skiers looking to get knee deep in powder, I would recommend pressing glass on the gondola and taking Rudi's Run to the 4 points lift. Do a quick run from 4 Points -- I recommend either Cyclone or Twister, which will take you down to the Storm Peak lift to access terrain on the top of the mountain. If you are an expert/advanced skier and enjoy tree skiing, head right off of the Storm Peak lift to ski into Shadows or Closets tree runs. As you ski through the trees, you will pop out at a few cat tracks. Going right will funnel you back to Storm Peak lift, and heading left will lead back to the Sundown lift. Take either lift back up to the top and access the backside onto Morningside lift. The double black diamond seekers can access Chute 1, 2 or 3 from Morningside. Get ready for the steeps and enjoy the fluffy champagne powder!
Remember safety when heading onto the mountain, especially on a powder day. Temperatures can change quick so dress warm and bring layers. Helmets are not required, but I personally always wear a helmet and appreciate the warmth and dryness it provides on a powder day. Don’t forget to grab a map at the baise so you can plan your day. Ski with a buddy and make frequent meeting spots. Have fun out there and report back with your favorite powder shots.
