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Mt Baker, USA

Introduction

If sex was a mountain, Mt Baker would be the orgasm, because this treasure is pure snowboarding heaven, with a snowboard history that is written in big letters. In the early days when other ski resorts had their heads up their arses and were banning snowboarders, this amazing place took a far different view. That foresight has crowned Baker as one of the best unspoilt snowboard resorts in the world, with a snow record to be envious of.

Mt Baker is also the home to the legendary Banked Slalom race, which is held every year. Located in the far north of Washington state, Mt Baker was home to the all-time legend Craig Kelly, who liked riding Baker's terrain so much, he moved there. Due to Baker's isolation it has the added advantage that it doesn't attract hoards of day-tripping skiers, leaving the slopes bare and the lift queues at a big fat 'zero'. The slopes span two mountains - Mount Shuskan rising to 2,963m (9,720ft), and Panorama Dome with its more modest summit of 1,524m (5,000ft).

Both mountains offer the opportunity to ride steeps and deep powder, with the majority of advanced piste set out on the Panorama side. Runs like the Chute are set to test anyone, but be warned, parts of it are really steep and carry avalanche warnings. Overall, Baker is a mountain where you need be fully aware of your surroundings and not take any chances. One wrong turn could easily see you returning home to mum in a black body bag!.

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