Birdwatching on Skis

Skiing isn’t just about adrenaline—it’s a passage into a high-altitude world where life endures. Amid the rush down the slopes, we can connect with the environment more deeply. Birds have adapted to thrive in harsh conditions above the tree line and on the sides of your favorite groomer runs. Birding on the slopes lets you explore a new side of skiing, whether on a guided tour or simply observing the species that call these mountains home.

Getting Started with Birdwatching on Skis

Birdwatching on skis isn’t about gear; it’s about shifting your mindset. The first step is slowing down. Instead of rushing down the slopes, take moments to stop, observe, and listen to the natural world around you. Look for signs of life around the edges of the forest, open snowfields, or near streams and riparian areas where birds often gather for food and shelter.

While skiing, it’s easy to overlook these subtle signs. For example, species like the Steller’s Jay are known for their mimicry skills, surprising seasoned birders. Joanna Wheelton, Executive Director of the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, recounts one such moment: “Once, I heard what distinctly sounded like a red-tailed hawk in the woods. But as we got closer, it was actually a Steller’s Jay mimicking the hawk.”

Another surprising sight on the slopes is the Great Horned Owl. Though primarily nocturnal, they can occasionally be seen during the day, especially in the stillness of the trees. Wheelton describes their ghostly presence: “You hardly ever hear them coming.” Night skiing, of course, increases the chances of spotting these elusive predators.

Other Species That Thrive in an Alpine Environment

Alpine birds have evolved to live in places where few others can. The White-tailed Ptarmigan changes its plumage with the seasons—white in winter to blend with the snow and brown in summer to match the rocks. The American Dipper is at home in the icy waters of mountain streams, hunting for insects and larvae. Like the Golden Eagle, Raptors use the slopes as their hunting grounds, scanning the landscape keenly.

The Clark’s Nutcracker acts as a gardener, collecting and burying seeds of the limber pine, many of which grow into new trees. Mountain Chickadees are often seen at the edge of slopes where the forest meets the open snow.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Programs

In Little Cottonwood Canyon, just outside Salt Lake City, skiing and birdwatching go hand in hand. At Alta Ski Area , a one-of-a-kind “Birding on Skis” program invites skiers to discover the local birdlife alongside a knowledgeable guide. It’s a rare chance to enjoy the thrill of the slopes while spotting alpine species, bringing a new appreciation for the mountain’s diverse ecosystem.

Beyond Alta, other ski resorts also offer opportunities for guided wildlife experiences. Snowbird Mountain Resort provides guided snowshoe tours that allow guests to experience the mountain and spot wildlife at a slower pace. Whitewater Ski Resort in British Columbia offers a variety of guided activities where guests can observe the local wildlife.

Birdwatching and Other Ski Regions

Across North America, ski resorts offer opportunities to witness a variety of birds. In the East, the Appalachian Mountains are home to species like the Peregrine Falcon, with ski areas like Vermont’s Killington and New Hampshire’s White Mountains providing chances to spot these raptors. The Midwest’s Upper Peninsula, with resorts like Mount Bohemia, occasionally hosts visits from Snowy Owls during winter, offering a rare treat for observant skiers. Out West, the Rockies are home to species like the Mountain Bluebird, and resorts in Colorado and Wyoming provide a chance to see these colorful birds against a snowy backdrop.

Canada also boasts incredible birdwatching at ski resorts. In British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb and Banff’s Sunshine Village in Alberta provide a chance to see species like the Gray Jay and Bald Eagle. In Alaska, Alyeska Resort offers glimpses into the habitats of the Gyrfalcon and Snowy Owl.

The Balance Between Skiing and Nature

Skiing through these environments requires mindfulness. Our presence always has an impact, and as Wheelton notes, “Anytime we move into a space, there’s going to be an impact.” However, places like Little Cottonwood Canyon are carefully managed to preserve their natural state. “The way this watershed is managed keeps it relatively pristine, allowing for human use to coexist with animals,” she says.

Birdwatching on skis offers a unique chance to connect with the natural world. It shows us that nature endures and adapts even in areas shaped by human activity. Becoming more aware of the wildlife around us enhances our skiing experience and deepens our appreciation for mountain ecosystems. Conservation and adventure can go hand in hand—our encounters with the wild are privileges to protect and cherish.

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