Lacking most any semblance to a formal skiing vacation destination, Wolf Creek is concerned much more with providing hard-core backcountry terrain than it is about being a resort. Trails are generally not marked, and Wolf Creek does not go crazy clearing the slopes of rocks and fallen trees – they just let the tremendous amounts of snow take care of the dirty work. The family owned operation has limited facilities (with one small version of everything – a bar, ski shop, cafeteria, restaurant, rental shop and restrooms), but a great homey feel surrounded by pristine wilderness. But be prepared: this high elevation, Alpine ski area (10,300 feet at the base) comes with safety instructions – wear sunglasses and sunscreen, drink water, and take it easy on your first day to avoid altitude sickness.
The versatile terrain of Wolf Creek spans across a high alpine ridge with a number of chutes and ridges above timberline, transitioning into areas of pine forest glades. For challenging black diamond runs, take the Alberta Lift up between Horseshoe Bowl and the Water Fall area. Mostly tree skiing and boarding, the area also has intermediate terrain that requires serious navigation skills. With a bit of hiking extreme skiers and riders will head over to Horseshoe Bowl, on the eastern most side of the area. Lower-level intermediate skiers should try trails like Charisma, Powder Puff, and Windjammer. Beginners should stay with Bunny Hop or Kelley Boyce trails, serviced by a Magic Carpet moving conveyor lift and beginners lift right in front of the lodge. Wolfcreek sticks with natural terrain – snowboarders will not find any pipes or parks.
6 lifts including 1 surface lift and 5 chair lifts.
$$ (Moderately Priced)77 runs - 20% beginner, 35% intermediate, 45% expert. Longest run is 10,560 feet.
10 km of Cross Country trails.
Mountain Statistics: 1,604 feet vertical drop, 11,904 feet summit elevation, 1,600 acres, average annual accumulation 465 inches.
Wolf Creek is a high alpine ski resort, 10,300 feet at the base and 11,900 feet at the summit.