09/27/05

Double-black diamonds and exciting backcountry provide a thrilling escape.

by Contributor

The Scene
Serious skiers looking for serious powder and hard pack. Eastside tech workers abound, getting in a few opportune runs when inspiration--and the perfect conditions--strike.

The Slopes
This is no place for beginners. Alpental's most challenging runs feature craggy cliffs, sheer faces and menacingly steep chutes. Experts head straight to Upper Internationale, a picture-perfect face with moguls that test not only the thighs, but also endurance. It's here that Northwest ski hero, Debbie Armstrong, trained (eventually winning a 1984 Olympic gold medal in the women's giant slalom).

Vital Stats
Vertical drop: 2,200 feet
Base elevation: 2,600 feet
Top elevation: 5,400 feet
Lifts: 20
Beginner terrain: 34 percent
Advanced terrain: 36 percent
Expert terrain: 20 percent