From Boise Idaho, you are just 16
miles from Bogus
Basin, a community owned and operated ski area. The only way to Bogus is a
wild winding access road that warrants black diamond status, and takes 45
minutes in snow – a frequent occurrence in the Rocky Mountains of Idaho.
There is nothing “bogus” about the ski and snowboard terrain at this
non-profit place, you can ski 360-degrees from one of two summits that
encompass 2,600 acres. The bogus name originates from the fool’s gold found
in this basin.
Bogus Basin ski area has multiple faces and an 1,800’ vertical drop. There
are two separate base areas with lodges and numerous parking lots,
befuddling for Bogus first timers. There is nothing fancy about Bogus, the
lodges are rustic – even retro. The history of Bogus Basin is as long as
some of its’ meandering cat walk trails. In 1938, the Forest Service and Alf
Engen (founder of Alta Ski Area in Utah) discovered the ski area site, a
road was built by the CCC, and the first rope lift opened in 1942.
Bogus stretches over 67 runs with 7 lifts (2 are high speed quads). There
are about six areas from the Front side’s Bitterroot for beginner skiers,
and intermediate Morning Star and Deer Point peaks which host a bunch of
blue cruisers. Freestylers will enjoy the well-named Claim Jumper terrain
park. We scored a powder day at Bogus, and found a plethora of steep and
deep double black runs off 7,590’ Shafer Butte in the Pine Creek and
Superior backside, plus one easier route down each, and a traverse cat track
to the frontside.
With its proximity to Boise,
Bogus Basin is a good day (and night) area to
hit if when you’re staying in Boise. Bogus Basin is Idaho’s biggest night
skiing area. Bogus stays open until 10pm, and with $20 kids’ lift tickets,
it bustles on weekends.
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All Stories by Heather Burke
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