CHRIS PUCKETT
Giant Slalom, 1992 (and four-time National Champion) “If I only have an hour or so, I want to make it count. I’ll head straight up to the top and ski down through the Shadows with as few stops as I can. Then I’ll head back up Sundown Express for one more trip down Two O’clock trees, again with as few stops as possible to get a good leg burn. I have to remind myself to watch out for the catwalk crossings, especially in flat light. Then it’s back up the Elkhead lift to rip one fast run down Heavenly Daze and See Me. There’s nothing like ending the session making GS arcs down a big, wide trail to send you home with a smile. Those few runs usually do it for me when I’m in a hurry.”
42 | EXPLORE WINTER 2016-17
TIPS FROM OLYMPIANS
Want to ski the mountain like an Olympian? Heed these tips from a few of Steamboat’s locals who have been to the Big Show. JOHNNY SPILLANE
Nordic Combined, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010 (three silvers) “Having lived and skied in Steamboat all my life, I know the mountain like the back of my hand. My favorite days are when it’s nasty weather and you seek shelter in the trees. Steamboat has some of the best tree skiing in the world, with no shortage of powder stashes. With a little effort you can find great snow almost every day. I love Christmas Tree Bowl and the Gates, but the whole mountain offers great snow if you’re willing to explore. It’s also hard to beat a bluebird day tearing down groomers. If you want to get your legs burning, try a top to bottom run down Vagabond.”
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