Experts Crave This Tahoe Huckleberry
It's tucked away at the top of the Grandview Express lift at Sierra-At –Tahoe. It's Huckleberry Canyon, a unique backcountry experience opening up some 300 acres of expert terrain for skiers and snowboarders. You can ski it, ride it, and hike it at your own risk. For now.
The terrain is designated as "backcountry." There are five different entry gates for accessing the acreage. A ride down through the canyon is an amazing experience. But, understand this: You will "earn your lines" in the form of a hike back out.
Sierra resort officials are working with the U. S. Forest Service to incorporate the area into the ski resort boundary. The formal terrain expansion -- assuming it comes to fruition -- will significantly increase the amount of expert terrain available.
That official designation will enable the ski area to increase avalanche control into the canyon, thereby enhancing the level of safety in it. Guided tours by Sierra's team of expert instructors will give its expert skiing guests a first-hand experience in the backcountry.
A decision is expected by U.S. Forest Service in April and, if all goes well, Huckleberry Canyon will be open for the '08/09 season.
Here's my advice: Don't be a huckleberry. Enter the canyon for now only if you have previous backcountry experience, are in excellent physical condition (remember the trek back out), and have the necessary gear.
The baseball analogy of "wait 'til next year" may be appropriate.
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Experts Crave This Tahoe Huckleberry
