Black diamond runs are challenging for even the most advanced skiers and riders, and a double black diamond will push those daring enough to their absolute limit. Many people may not be aware that a third, even more extreme option exists at a few resorts across North America—the elusive, sought-after, and intimidating triple black diamond.
“The methodology for designating trails as triple black diamond includes exposure to uncontrollable falls along a steep, continuous pitch, route complexity, and high consequence terrain,” Big Sky Ski Patrol states on its official site, one of the few ski resorts to boast such runs. The triple black diamond run seems to come due to inconsistent grading across ski resorts as no official governing body dictates what constitutes a single or double black, the more commonly seen grades for extreme terrain. A double black diamond at one resort might have just steep terrain or some scattered trees, while another might have large cliff drops and avalanche danger. The triple black diamond comes as a response to this differentiation, marking these trails only for the most advanced and thrill-seeking skiers and riders.
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Big Sky Resort, Montana
Montana is known for its massive vertical and striking peaks. Montana itself translates to Mountain, and for good reason. No place embodies this more than Big Sky Resort, a world-renowned destination for those seeking the extreme. If you want to push yourself, make your way to the 11,166-foot Lone Peak portion of the mountain, where most of the triple black runs are located. Known for its extremely steep and fluffy rocky mountain powder, those looking for adventure are guaranteed to find it at the top of Lone Peak Tram. For those looking for the most committed drop-ins, hike to the Upper A-Z chutes and prepare for a run unlike any other, or test yourself on the Big Couloir near the summit of the peak.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Vermont
Many would think all of the triple Black diamond runs on this list would be located in the western portion of the United States, but Vermont proves this is far from the case. Smugglers’ Notch Resort has one of the most extreme runs with the intimidating name of “Black Hole.” Littered with cliffs and tight trees, all while boasting an impressive 35-degree pitch, this run is for the most advanced skiers only. Resembling a black hole as you blast down the whirlwind of pines, catching air over the dense moguls, this run and resort will have you coming back time and time again.
Sutton Resort, Quebec
The next resort on this list is Mont Sutton, Canada, which boasts a highly sought-after triple black run. These triple black runs are known for their tight glades and steep pitches. Sutton’s signature triple black, Bou Bou, is the pinnacle of any Canadian skier’s aspirations. Named for the long, flowing African garment, this run requires the skier or rider to weave and flow through tight trees and drops on one of the mountain’s longest runs.
Mt Bohemia, Michigan
Finally, we head to the Midwest, a part of the United States rarely associated with the extreme anything. Michigan, however, proves those preconceived notions wrong in the best way possible. Located at the very top of the state in the Keweenaw Peninsula, jutting out into Lake Superior sits Mt. Bohemia. Crowned the “best ski resort” in the United States by USA Today, this Midwest monster is a place best skied and ridden for experienced skiers and riders only.
Known for having no green runs and almost completely black diamonds or above, Bohemia is a mountain in its own category. “Mount Bohemia in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has the longest runs with the highest vertical and deepest powder in the Midwest. This hidden secret is a true treasure for backcountry skiers & riders. The average snowfall in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula is 273 inches,” Mt Bohemia’s official site states. “The lake effect snow is dry and similar to western resorts, which accumulate as untouched powder because we do not groom. This makes for a great morning to make the first tracks.” Drop into Bohemia’s “Wandering Grizzley” triple black to get the best of that deep lake effect snow while burning your way down towards the mighty Lake Superior.
With the leaves beginning to change and chilly weather on the way, it is nearly that time of year to strap the boots on and catch fresh tracks at any of these unique and extreme resorts. While all of these runs are guaranteed to create a memory of a lifetime, a few warm-up laps on a blue or green groomer might be advisable before you dive into one of these triple black diamond challenges.
