Weave Your Way Through The Best Trees in North America
As we look ahead to winter in Steamboat Springs here at The Astrid, we can’t help but be brought back to the back the memory of the first time we ventured into the breathtaking landscape waiting for us, nestled just beyond the tree line.
When snow blankets the rugged terrain, the city of Steamboat Springs transforms into a skier’s paradise. A layer of Champagne Powder® covers the slopes and a hidden gem is revealed for those adventurous souls like you. Untouched trails wind through the forest, welcoming you with the whisper of pine trees and the scent of crisp mountain air.
As your family glides through the pristine firs and aspens, a new beauty will embrace your senses with each turn. Embarking on the wondrous glades available at Steamboat Ski Resort will give you a new found sense of freedom and tranquility. When you are brave enough to take the path less taken, it is there you will find the most spectacular experiences.
Find a Playground of Fresh Snow in Morningside Park
On the backside on Mt. Werner you’ll find a bowl like no other. Fresh powder welcomes you into this playground for skiers who want to experience tree skiing, but don’t necessarily want the advanced runs like other glades require.
This area is perfect for your family to try tree skiing – building lasting memories and taking on challenges together. A 200 acre bowl awaits you, with glades on either side, filled with firs and aspens that resemble a Christmas card.
Location: Storm Peak Express or Sunshine Express and Morningside Liftline
Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Find the Most Popular and Pristine Runs at Shadows and Closets
The two glades – Shadows and Closets – are the most popular tree skiing areas in Steamboat Springs for a reason. They offer 1,900 vertical feet of stunning firs and majestic aspens to weave through as you glide through pristine powder.
This run will leave you with a feeling of awe, as you view Mt. Werner from a perspective most people don’t have the privilege to experience. Take the run as many times as you’d like, but don’t forget to enjoy the view from the gondola on your way up!
Location: Sundown Express
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Perfect Your Tree Skiing Skills at Pioneer Ridge
Pioneer Ridge encompasses the all-terrain areas off the Pony Express Liftline. They offer intermediate skiers less technical glades to enjoy while honing their tree skiing skills.
A benefit of these glades is the lower skier volume. This means you’re practically getting the fresh powder all to yourself! These tree skiing runs hold the snow for days after a storm thanks to their long, winding paths, and the less steep terrain.
Location: Pony Express Liftline
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Take on the Challenging Chutes of Christmas Tree Bowl
These are by far the most challenging tree skiing Steamboat Springs has to offer.
Based at the summit of Mt. Werner, Christmas Tree Bowl boats the only double-black diamond glades through the glorious forests that adorn the mountainside.
This area includes various chutes and steep trees to please even the most thrill-seeking skiers. Even cliffs! If you want more of a challenge, take the 10 minute hike across the summit ridgeline of Mt. Werner to access the east side of Christmas Tree Bowl.
Location: Morningside Liftline
Difficulty Level: Expert
Staying Safe While Tree Skiing in Steamboat Springs
It’s imperative to note, that while tree skiing sounds absolutely breathtaking (and it is!), this type of skiing can also become very dangerous. It is of the utmost importance that you know the techniques and caution signs while tree skiing.
Be Aware of Tree Wells
This is the area surrounding a tree where low branches prevent falling snow from filling in around the base completely. A hole can form around the base and create unstable snow, which means a hazardous trap if you get too close.
There is no way of knowing if a tree has a tree well. It is best to avoid skiing too close to any tree, and assuming that every tree could have a tree well.
Always Ski with a Buddy
This is the top tip that any ski professional will share with you. It is extremely dangerous to embark on any run alone.
Always keep your buddy in sight and be aware of your surroundings. This is important on a groomed run, but even more so when tree skiing. The glades can offer beautiful, untouched snow, but there is less traffic passing by in case you find yourself in an emergency situation.
If you ever need assistance on the mountain, Steamboat Patrol Dispatch can be reached at 970-871-5911 or via mountain radio.
Tree Skiing Techniques
Focus on the white spaces between the trees – as in driving a vehicle: look where you want to go.
Keep your vision one step ahead. Steer your skis in the direction you want to go next.
Control your speed with short turns as you navigate through the trees. Skiing moguls is great training for tree skiing.
If you are ever in doubt, or have never skied the glades before, reach out to a ski instructor to learn the ropes before venturing out on your own. Steamboat Springs is a community and everyone prioritizes safety on the slopes.
The Tree Skiing Destination for True Adventure-Seekers
Tree skiing in Steamboat Springs presents an opportunity like no other. With each location offering a unique blend of picturesque landscapes and thrilling terrain, your family can embark on a new adventure every time.
From the Champagne Powder playground found in Morningside Park to the local favorite, Christmas Tree Bowl, it won’t be difficult to find an option for seasoned skiers and newcomers alike.
Providing a truly magical backdrop for your next skiing adventure, the glades are a wild, untamed natural landscape waiting to be explored.Uncover the world hidden behind the pines and create an unforgettable memory sure to be relived each time your family gathers in Steamboat Springs.
There are Steamboat Springs homes for sale by the owner, but for someone looking to leave a lasting legacy for their children and grandchildren, only the best will do.
At The Astrid, we’re passionate about creating the perfect luxury experience for your family to spend quality time together without the hustle and bustle of a busy tourist destination. Providing the ultimate family vacation residence, your days will be filled with thrilling activities and your nights will be spent relaxing in the heated in-ground pool and sharing stories by the fire.
We’re breaking ground on this ambitious project in 2025. To find out more, simply provide us with your name and email address. By doing so, you’ll be invited to join our exclusive mailing list. As part of this list you’ll gain access to insider information, behind-the-scenes content, and a highly personalized email experience reserved only for members of The Astrid community.
