About This Route
The Blacktail Plateau ski loop, a 10-mile intermediate circuit from the Blacktail Entrance road, traverses open meadows and aspen groves between Mammoth and Tower Junction. Ungroomed but tracked by locals, it offers rolling terrain with 800 feet elevation change and wolf/bison sightings. NPS permits day use; backcountry camping requires permits. Practical advice: Skin up with fishscale skis for efficient ascents. In 2021, skiers summited during a powder day, but navigated crevasse-like snow drifts from windloading.
Safety Considerations
Avalanche terrain demands Level 1 training; probe weak layers on east-facing bowls. Hypothermia from plateau winds; use insulated booties like Wiggy's. Predatory wildlife low, but carry spray. Follow AIARE trip planning: beacon checks hourly. Layers: Rab Kinetic pants, Montbell Plasma parka.
Essential Gear
Salomon MTN Explore skis; Mammut Barryvox transceiver. Jetboil for hot meals.