The Best Backcountry Skiing Routes in Arizona

Larry's is the first wide-open line encountered in the Upper Bowl. Find it by simply following the main boot trail from the top of Agassiz lift. Larry's is likely where you'll see the most tracks, as most people don't hike out farther than this....

This is the wide open center of Upper Bowl, reached with a hike out from the top of Agassiz chairlift. When Upper Bowl is open, the established track usually extends this far, but few people follow it all the way....

Possibly the most coveted first tracks on the mountain, Rustler is proud east slope that catches all eyes from the chairlift. Because it's so prominent, and because it melts out so fast, it's often the first thing skied after a storm....

Arizona Snowbowl allows uphill access for skinning, snowshoeing and hiking within certain areas and times. This route called "Bowl Side" is what's usually available, but only outside of open hours and later in the season when snow base is sufficient....

Arizona Snowbowl allows uphill access for skinning, snowshoeing and hiking within certain areas and outside of lift operating hours. This route called "Ridge Side" is usually off limits due to operations like snowmaking and winching, but may be open during periods of exceptional snow cover....

This is one of the first lines encountered when hiking into the Upper Bowl, and it's marked with a trail sign. A wide shot of moderate grade, with glades on either side, it feels a lot like the other black diamond tree runs on the mountain....

Most people don't traverse all the way out to Shiprocks in the Upper Bowl, so you could find some really good skiing for your efforts. This is the one spot in the bowl with rocks big enough to be called cliffs....