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Spot Leak: Places You Can Still Snowboard This Summer

by Blog Updates |

Summer is officially here, but there are still a few places in North America you can snowboard if you’re willing to work for it. From single to multi-day adventures,  here are six places you can trek into and slash some turns this summer. Much of the remaining snow in these zones is melting quickly and require some bushwhacking to get in and out of, so remember to bring plenty of water, layers, snacks and a solid crew. Check out our guide to summer snowboard gear essentials here.

You can also still sign up for summer camp, but if you just can’t swing camp this year, these alternatives can help satisfy your need to snowboard.

Squamish, British Columbia : Hike/Skin into the Backcounty

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Aaron Leyland in the Squamish backcountry. Photo: Mikey Rencz 

Mikey Rencz is all about the late season split missions in the Squamish backcountry and recently went on his second trip out there this summer. “There is so much snow still from wintertime that it makes it pretty easy to access the snow line,” Mikey told us. “It’s not always like that here, but it’s working this summer,” he continued. Mikey says the hiking trail known as Elfin Lakes will lead you to the snow. Pack your camping gear and stay a night or two.

Mammoth Mountain, California : Lifts Still Spinning

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Greg Bretz, the patriot. Photo: Peter Morning

Mammoth still has its lifts fired up and will be spinning through the 4th of July. Broadway Express, Facelift Express, Chair 23 and the gondola are running with access to Mammoth’s summit and 15 trails. Shred a few laps in the morning, and then blast some bikes laps in the afternoon. Mammoth is the perfect place for a multi-sport, adventure day.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming : Tram Access to Backcountry Gates

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Blake Paul has been getting after it in Jackson’s backcountry. Photo: Wade Dunstan

The tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is open for summer operations from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Take the tram up to access snow through the backcountry gates. Blake Paul has ventured out a few times this summer and offers this bit of advice, “If you’re going snowboarding, get it checked off your list first. It’s too hot mid-day to be in your snow pants… and the snow gets sticky.” Check out Blake shredding Jackson earlier this summer here. 

Independence Pass, Colorado : Hike/Skin into the Backcountry

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It’s still firing on Independence Pass. Photo: Tyler Lindsay

Just outside of Aspen, Colorado sits Independence Pass, which has enough snow for a few solid slashes. At an elevation of 12,095 ft on the Continental Divide in theSawatch Range, the Pass is the highest place on our list, but may have the least amount of snow. Be prepared for a long hike in and out of the zones. Though you may only get a few turns in, the adventure of it all could be well worth it.

The Patch in South Lake Tahoe, Carson Pass : Hike into Snow Zone

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IG Photo: @KodytheSnowGod

Thanks to a few late season storms and 130% better winter than last year, there’s actually still ridable snow in the area known as The Patch. Located outside of South Lake Tahoe on Carson Pass, this bit of snow is popular for jibbing and hiking and hitting little rock features.

St. Mary’s Glacier, Colorado : Hike/Skin into Backcountry 

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Photo: Samo

A backcountry gem, St. Mary’s Glacier outside of Idaho Springs, Colorado, is often overlooked in lieu of the bigger mountains to the west of it. This summer it still has slash-able snow, albeit being sun-crusted and scorched.  Make sure to pack your trunks and go for a swim after you shred.

Source: Transworld Snowboarding