Uphill Policy
For the safety of everyone on the mountain, we ask that anyone participating in skinning or snowshoeing adhere to the following guidelines.
All uphill travel is done at each individual's own risk.
Before You Go
All uphill travelers must check the Uphill Status on the Mountain Report before climbing. Any updates or restrictions due to weather, terrain, or snow conditions will be listed there, and the status may change at any time at Ski Patrol’s discretion.
Uphill Guidelines
UPHILL ROUTES SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Always check Uphill Status on the Mountain Report page for open/closures/and special notifications for routes.
All uphill guests must display a wristband or armband available at Guest Services with purchase of ticket or season pass. This must be visible at all times.
Please keep single-file and stay skier's left/climber's right on the trail when climbing. You must ski/ride down; walking descent is not permitted.
If the Timberline Lift is closed, please check in with ski patrol at the top of Skyline before proceeding further toward the summit, as there may be limited or no patrol coverage beyond this point.
When the Uphill Status is marked open on the Mountain Report, uphill travel is allowed starting at 7 AM and downhill travel starting at 8:30 AM. No downhill travel is permitted before 8:30 AM. As always, downhill travel is limited to open terrain only.
Ski patrol performs closing procedures at the end of operating hours every day. After-hours travel of any kind is not allowed on any trails. If you are on the mountain at this time, you will be required to ski or ride down. Climbers must begin their descent no later than 3:50 PM.
There are three uphill routes to choose from. Always check the Uphill Status on the Mountain Report page for confirmation on which routes are available that day.
Route 1: West Mountain
START FROM GOLF COURSE PARKING LOT: Ascend West Mountain Trail from the golf course parking lot. Follow West Mountain Trail to Chipper Trail which will take you to Bullwinkle’s.
When uphill access above Bullwinkle's is open, utilize Timberline Trail for the remainder of the climb.
Route 2: Bucksaw
START FROM PARKING LOTS E, F, AND G: Ascend Bucksaw Trail and follow route markers, making a right onto Backcut (the trail is not listed on the trail map but marked with uphill signage when applicable). Ascend through Backcut intersection (Hatchet and Cutter) onto Feller Buncher, west to Beaver Tail, Knot Bumper, and then across West Mountain Trail onto Chipper.
When uphill access above Bullwinkle's is open, utilize Timberline Trail for the remainder of the climb.
Route 3: SuperQuad
START AT BASE: From the bottom of SuperQuad, travel west towards Windrow. You'll see signage that marks the uphill route, which continues to Bucksaw Trail. Follow the Bucksaw Trail route.
Uphill signage will be visible and assist in wayfinding when uphill access is open.
Uphill travel equipment must have metal edges, a restraining device or brakes, and an industry-approved binding. AT skis, tele skis, split boards, and snowshoes are all fine.
Nordic equipment is not permitted above the Base Lodge.
All uphill skiers and riders must have a valid season pass or day ticket, and must have the wristband or armband visible while on mountain, even when hiking in Burnt Mountain.
If you do not intend to ride a lift at any point during the day, you can purchase an Uphill Access Day Ticket or an Uphill Access Season Pass. Wristbands and season pass armbands are issued by Guest Services.
Uphill Day Tickets and Uphill Season Passes are available to purchase online or in person at any ticket window. Ticket windows are located in the Base Lodge, so be sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time.
Wristbands and armbands are available to pick up between 7:30 AM and 3:45 PM. Plan ahead if you are starting your ascent before operating hours.
Sorry, pets are not permitted on the mountain trail network above the Base Lodge, including Burnt Mountain.
