Page 22 - SRCG_Spring_HTML_2010

New & Noteworthy

in the West

Colorado
Skiers and riders have a new way to utilize their smart-
phones on the slopes. SkiQuest GPS, a new app devel-
oped by Hill Aevium, is the world’s first voice-guided GPS
system. The application gives skiers and riders a moun-
tain—pardon the pun—of opportunities to better enjoy
their skiing experience. Alerts on freshly groomed runs,
trail openings and quick
routes to desired desti-
nations are just a few of
the tools available to
skiers and riders. The
app lets users plan
routes based on skill
level or trail-to-trail. In
an emergency, the sys-
tem can instantly con-
nect to a resort’s ski
patrol. It also helps
users locate activities
off the mountain, such
as restaurants, shops
and spas. It can even
list special deals and
events going on at a Beaver Creek, Colorado
certain location. So far
the application has only been available to skiers and
riders at Beaver Creek and Vail, but more Colorado
resorts are expected to be added by next ski season.
(skiquestgps.com)
Washington
White Pass Resort, a modest, family-owned establish-
ment 50 miles west of Yakima, will double in size next
season as it adds two new chairlifts and a 3,000-square-
foot mid-mountain lodge. The 767-acre expansion will
increase the total size of the mountain to 1,402 acres and
increase its vertical by 600 to 2,050 feet. These new
developments will not only spread out the heavy skier
traffic but also give access to prime backcountry terrain
in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. (skiwhitepass.com)

Crystal Mountain in Ashford premiered a new backcountry
ski and snowboard tour this year. International Mountain
Guides offers overnight and one-day tours in the areas
surrounding Crystal Mountain. The terrain consists of
bowls and steep chutes, ideal for intermediate and expert
skiers. Overnight tours include a night of winter camping
and two days of skiing or split-board riding in Morse
Creek Basin. Participants learn about avalanche safety
and assess winter camping strategies. (360-569-2609,
mountainguides.com/backcountry.shtml)

22 ❖ MIDWEST SKIER SPRING 2010 PLANNING ❖ www.skicmsc.org