2004 DTR - Grand Targhee, Wyoming

If Jackson Hole is the badass hession that rocks a bit harder than you do, Grand Targhee would be his little sister that everyone is afraid to hook up with. Located on the western side of the mighty Tetons, Targhee has the goods: 500 inches of snow a year says it all. If you want more, look for the limitless lines off the backside or a generous assortment of rock drops. Not enough? Check the view from the top where Grand Teton herself glares at you commanding respect. I could go on all day about it, yet the only way to put it in perspective is to go see her for yourself.

Once again the crew was lucky enough to get here just after a dump, and truly blessed to get the private escort up the chair a half and hour before the public. This was all made possible by the nice folks in charge of the dreams do come true department. Along for the ride today was Matt Downey, Rome Snowboards rider, raddog extraordinaire and personal friend Mike Evans who squeezes into starched Wranglers when not ripping his local mountain to shreds. We took a short hike that rewarded us with an untamed playground. Mary's Nipple and Pekid Mtn. are the must session areas if you are willing to earn your turns. It was apparent that today brought out the Tom Burt in all of us. Matt showed us all how it was to ride moving snow over a 30-footrock band, gracefully I might add. Lucky got down with a 360 to rock tap and I almost achieved glory status before exploding in my landing zone. I've got to give it up, today was a good day.

Our experience at Grand Targhee was more than we could ask for. Once again this is the kind of place where everyone will have fun, regardless of ability or age. The staff has to be the most hospitable in the business, the accommodations at The Tineewot Lodge were more than comfortable, and the food and drink left us, how do you say ... satisfied. You name it, can't beat it. The crew wants to give big thanks to Seth and Paul at ski school and Scott, our guide on the snowcat adventure.

SNOWBOARDER Magazine's Best of Grand Targhee:
Instant winner: Nicest staff of employees
Strong contender: Best view and best snowcat operation