Description

Moderately Easy Backcountry Skiing or Snowboarding.

Snowshoeing.

Dogs OK. The pass is located on the Idaho/Montana border north of the Island Park area.

From the Junction of US 20 and Idaho 87, it is approximately 9.5 miles northeast on Idaho 87 to the top of Raynolds Pass.

Parking is available on the top of the pass. From the top of the pass, the tour follows the ridge (Continental Divide) to the southwest.

Some great downhill slopes are found at the start of the tour, and when the snow is good, some skiers may never get beyond this first slope.

The tour continues along the ridge.

Most of the slopes are moderate and avalanche danger, for the most part, is low, except in some of the steeper leeward areas. The views along the divide of the Targhee Mountains, Henry's Lake, and across the Island Park country is unmatched. Many route options exist, with some special hidden-away basins that will keep tourers exploring for hours. On the return trip, any number of descents can be made to points lower on Idaho Highway 87.

Once at the highway, skiers can walk or ski back up to the vehicles on the top of the pass. Snowmobile use is heavy throughout much of the Island Park countryside, but Raynolds Peak is normally a sanctuary away from the commotion of the machines.

For mellow backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, it's a place to be treasured.