Easterners going to Snowbird
 

I was wondering what the transition is like for easterners going out west to ski/snowboard? I'm gonna go out to Snowbird for a weekend but just trying to get a feel for what to expect.

I've been boarding for only a year though I did love it and was out about 15 times last year. I ride the blues pretty well provided it's not icy.

Will I be ok at Snowbird? I've heard that greens there are blues here, blues are blacks, etc. I still figured if I rode only green trails there, that equates to 800 rideable acres, larger than any resort here in the east.

You'll be fine and you'll love it. The only thing I would worry about is altitude sickness. Some people have a tough time with it. Stay in the Salt Lake Valley the first night so you can get used to it. I'd say check out Alta too, but sorry, no snowboards allowed.

We live in Michigan and ski out west once or twice each year to get some "real" skiing in. Last year we went to Snowbird. GREAT snow. GREAT terrain - if you are expert skiiers like we are. Snowbird is NOT for the timid. Yes there are greens, but not that many. For a relative novice on a first time out west journey, I might suggest some of the Colorado resorts, or Big Sky Montana before Snowbird. Our kids love Snowbird, but they are double black riders and skiiers, comfortable in trees and jumping off cliffs. Also, remember if you stay in SLC, if there is a big storm you may not be able to get up to the resort. On our visit last year we had over 70" of snow during the week. The road up to Snowbird was closed two days - only those of us lucky enough to be staying at the resort got to ski.

You'll be fine and love it. Snowbird's not the greatest mountain to learn how to ski/board, but if you're handling Eastern Blues, youll do fine out West. True the Blues at Snowbird will likely be a little more difficult than the blues on the East, but they are also typically wider and have better snow conditions. Get some local advice on which runs are more difficult Greens and easier blues on which to build your confidence. Then go crazy.

I wouldn't worry too much about altitude sickness. Most people are not affected strongly by it and Snowbird's base is only 8100 feet or so. That's typically lower than the Colorado resorts.

I agree with those above who said you will be fine and you will love it. It won't be icy. The snow will be great. Snowbird is one of the prettiest, most scenic ski resorts. Have a great trip.

Awesome. Thanks, can't wait. I'm gonna stay in the valley , (Sandy) as bm suggested and I'll make sure to keep hydrated to minimize the altitude effects.

My experience has been that the icy conditions messed up my riding more than steepness so good to hear how good it is.