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About this place
Backcountry skiing right across from Antelope Butte ski area is a treat. You can earn your turns in the morning, and then take the lift in the afternoon, either way you can ski all day!
The Bighorns have a whole lot to offer in any season. Most people probably do not think of the Bighorns as a ski destination, partly because there are only 2 ski areas in the whole range, and one, Antelope Butte was closed from 2004 until it reopened in 2018. To the west across the highway is a zone for earning your turns! However, the area is well known to the snow mobile community. Sheridan, is the nearest significant town, it is about 60 miles to the East.
At the highway there is a pullout area to park, from there chances are you will see the skin track or even snowmobile tracks going up to the ridge and eventually Moonlight Peak. There are numerous runs you can take, and if the weather is right you can find fresh powder and untracked snow all over the place. The bottom 2/3 of the climb isn't too challenging, but the top third of the climb is where it gets steeper and the wind can be more of a factor, but once the summit is reached it is completely worth it. The views are wide open, and the snow is waiting for your descent.
As with any situation in the backcountry travel safely, observe the conditions, know your limits and ski with a partner.
Items to Bring:
- Skins
- Skis
- Poles
- Shovel
- Layers
- Camera
- GoPro
- Avy Gear (beacon + probe)