About This Route
Jerry's Run at Badger Pass Ski Area delivers thrilling intermediate snowboarding through forested glades and moderate pitches, dropping 800 vertical feet from the top of Jerry Hill. This blue-square run winds past Jeffrey pines and offers carve-friendly groomers with occasional rollers. NPS highlights Badger Pass for its family-friendly vibe, but intermediates must respect variable conditions like wind-packed snow. Ride the Jerry chairlift for repeated laps, enjoying panoramas of Wawona's meadows blanketed in white.
Safety Considerations
Maintain speed control on steeper sections to avoid yard sales (full gear wipeouts), a common mishap per REI snow safety reports. Check NPS daily avalanche forecasts, even on lift-served terrain, as slides can affect boundaries. Yield to uphill traffic per National Ski Areas Association rules. Watch for tree wells hidden under fresh powder, which cause 20% of off-piste injuries. Hydrate frequently; Yosemite's dry winter air leads to dehydration mimicking fatigue. Pair up for mutual spotting on ungroomed sections.
Essential Gear
Select a mid-flex all-mountain board (Jones Mountain Twin) with bindings like Union Force. Layer with breathable base (Smartwool), fleece mid (REI Co-op), and hardshell pants/jacket (Marmot). Mandatory: MIPS helmet (Giro), anti-fog goggles (Anon), insulated boots (Salomon), and avalanche airbag for sidecountry edges (optional but wise). Pack energy gels, multi-tool, and headlamp for extended days.
Emergency Tips
If caught in whiteout, deploy whistle and stay put; ski patrol uses transceivers. For sprains, immobilize with ski pole splint and toboggan to base. NPS advises carrying InReach satellite communicator for no-service zones near run edges.
Master Jerry's Run safely with these evidence-based tips: progressive edging builds confidence, while vigilance turns potential disasters into epic days.