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The Rock

Snowbasin

A run that has incredible rewards for little effort.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
831 m
Ascent
138 m
Descent
202 m
Low Point
2.4 km
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
38˚
The Rock Map

This is a must-hit run on a powder day. Even though Middle Bowl chair runs right by the run not many people know how to access it. 10-12 deep powder shots are the reward after side-stepping up a small hill. This run is only recommended for Advanced or Expert skiers. This run can be accessed off of Needles Gondola or Middle Bowl Chair. After exiting the lift/gondola pick your way down Strawberry Traverse, Fro-Zone, or Pork Barrel until you meet up with Porcupine Traverse. Follow the groomer until you hit the intersection with Middle Bowl Traverse. Take a right and immediately take a left off the the traverse towards the hills and trees that will be downhill from you. There will more than likely be a packed down ski trail that leads over to the run called 119. Follow this trail until you start to turn left. Unless you are the first person down the mountain you will notice side-step tracks to your right which head up a small hill. If you keep your speed up you will be able to skip almost all of the step but usually you'll have to side step for about 25 feet. The side step will lead through a hallway of trees until it tops off. Once you are on top you can choose your line. To your right there is a more mellow descent. To your left will be a steeper aspect with some small cliff/rock shots which you can jib off on a good powder day. Enjoy the epic snow until you meet up with Boardwalk which will take you down Middle Bowl Chair, the top of Wildcat, or Needles Gondola all the way at the base area.

Description

This run is solid from opening day to closing day. During early and late season be aware of uncovered rocks which will likely ding up your skis. The dings will be worth it though as this run is hardly skied out even on a Saturday powder day!

There is no avalanche danger as Ski Patrol bombs the run daily.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between November and March

Features

  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area