So, here’s a tidbit to share for those who are into backcountry skiing and are visiting Snowbird.
I still prefer to use guides on my western backcountry adventures. Private guides are better than a group, but I’ve done both. Prices across numerous western locations are generally in the same ballpark. However, I always like finding a “deal”.
So, Snowbird Mountain Guides offers guided backcountry skiing. It’s $350 for a private guided backcountry day. That’s one of the lower private guide costs you will find. However, their service comes with some perks you don’t get elsewhere.
For starters, the guide service comes with lift access. So, you start your day on an 8:15 Tram and take a few inbounds pre-public warmup runs. Great to get your day going with some easy untracked powder (if you timed your trip right). The Snowbird Guide service then has access to areas off the backside of the resort, so having the lift assist to get you to the summit is a big bonus. They’ll also access White Pine down the road or Cardiff across the street, depends on where the snow is the best, and the lift access doesn’t do anything for you there. Lastly, the Snowbird Guide service includes lunch, which makes packing for the day a bit easier. Oh, and they provide beacon/shovel/probe/pack if you need it. All in all it sounds like a nice service.