Welcome to the heart of Texas, where the sun is shining, the Lone Star beer is flowing, and the snow is.
..wait, what? That’s right, snowboarding in Austin is not only possible, it’s thriving. From shredding the slopes at North Austin’s ski resorts to taking on the terrain parks at Mountain Creek Bike Park, there are plenty of ways to get your fix of snowboarding here in the heart of the Lone Star State. But why stop there? Join the urban shredding scene at House Park, or get creative with some out-of-the-box snowboarding experiences like hitting the water or sand at Quest ATX. And don’t worry if you’re new to snowboarding in Austin – we’ve got tips and tricks to help you navigate the scene and make the most of your time on the slopes. Buckle up, it’s time to shred.
1. Hit the Slopes at North Austin’s Ski Resorts
The mountains may not be at our doorstep, but that doesn’t mean you can’t hit the slopes here in Austin. The North Austin area is home to a few ski resorts where you can shred to your heart’s desire on real snow. Pack your gear, buckle your boots and let’s go.
First up, try out the celebrated indoor slope at Austin’s very own iFLY. Yes, it’s also used for indoor skydiving, but the surface is coated in real snow, giving you the chance to feel like you’re on the real deal. With an ideal location right by the Domain shopping center, it’s easy to drop in for a quick session or spend the whole day practicing your moves.
Next, make your way to the Ice Skating and Winter Sports Center at Chaparral Ice. They have a seasonal outdoor rink with real ice, which occasionally converts to a snow-covered shred spot. It’s a great option for beginners, with easy-to-navigate terrain and equipment rentals available onsite.
Finally, don’t miss out on the Snow Day experience at the Dell Diamond stadium. This family-friendly event brings tons of real snow all the way from New Mexico, transforming the baseball field into a giant playground for snowboarders and skiers alike. It’s usually held over a weekend in December, so keep an eye on the calendar if you want to attend.
Now, grab your board and hit the road. The snow is waiting for you, even here in Texas.
2. Take on the Terrain Parks at Mountain Creek Bike Park
Looking for a unique snowboarding experience in Austin? Look no further than Mountain Creek Bike Park. This park is full of incredible obstacles, rails, and jumps that are sure to challenge and excite even the most seasoned snowboarders.
As part of the larger Barton Creek Greenbelt trail system, Mountain Creek Bike Park offers a range of terrains to suit all levels of riders. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye at this park.
One great thing about Mountain Creek Bike Park is that it’s constantly evolving. The park is always adding new features and obstacles, so every visit is guaranteed to be a new experience. And with daily rates starting at just $10, it’s an affordable way to get your snowboarding fix in Austin.
In addition to the terrain park, there are also trails for cross-country snowboarding and mountain biking. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even try snowboarding down one of the park’s steep hills.
When you’re done riding, be sure to check out the park’s amenities, which include a fully-stocked rental shop and a snack bar. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, too, so you can take a breather before heading back out onto the slopes.
Overall, Mountain Creek Bike Park is an amazing destination for snowboarders in Austin. With its constantly-updated terrain park, stunning natural scenery, and affordable pricing, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique snowboarding experience in the heart of Texas.
3. Join the Urban Shredding Scene at House Park
If you’re looking for an edgy, adrenaline-pumping snowboarding experience in Austin, look no further than House Park. This iconic park, located just west of Downtown Austin, is not only a popular destination for skateboarders and BMX riders, but also a favorite spot for urban snowboarders looking to test their skills on the concrete terrain.
House Park boasts a range of features perfect for snowboarding enthusiasts. The steep steps, ledges and railings provide opportunities for daring and creative tricks. The park is open to all levels of snowboarders, from beginners to seasoned pros.
But be prepared: House Park is not for the faint of heart. This is an urban snowboarding experience, and safety is key. Make sure you wear appropriate protective gear, like a helmet and pads. And be aware of your surroundings at all times since there may be other park-goers there.
So grab your board and prepare to join Austin’s urban shredding scene at House Park. Whether you’re looking to test your skills or simply have some fun with friends, you’re bound to have a memorable experience.
4. Explore Creative Ways to Snowboard in Austin
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try out new ways of snowboarding, Austin has got you covered with creative options that will definitely satisfy your taste for the unconventional. Quest ATX, an action sports park, offers exciting activities like wakeboarding and sandboarding that can be adapted for your love of snowboarding. Here are two ways to explore snowboarding in a unique Austin atmosphere.
A. Snowboarding on the Water at Quest ATX
If you’re looking for a unique adventure in Austin that combines snowboarding with water sports, look no further than Quest ATX. Located just outside of the city, this cable wakeboarding park offers a Snowflex surface that allows you to snowboard on the water. The park provides boards, bindings, and helmets, so you can show up empty-handed and still hit the water.
Quest ATX offers both private and group lessons, making it easy for beginners to learn the ropes. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, and will have you up and shredding in no time.
Not only is snowboarding on the water a blast, but Quest ATX also has other activities like wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, making it a perfect outing for families, groups of friends, or even solo riders.
Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes, because you will definitely get wet. And be prepared to fall – a lot. But that’s all part of the fun, and you’ll be laughing and enjoying yourself the whole time.
Overall, snowboarding on the water at Quest ATX is a thrilling and unique way to experience the sport in Austin. It’s not every day you get to combine snowboarding with wakeboarding in the heart of Texas. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, give it a try and see what all the fuss is about.
B. Snowboarding on the Sand at Quest ATX
When most people think of snowboarding, they think of powdery white snow and cold, crisp air. But what if we told you that you could snowboard in Austin without any of those things? Yes, you read that right. If you’re looking for a unique way to snowboard in Austin, you need to check out Quest ATX’s sandboarding.
Imagine gliding down sand dunes on a snowboard, the wind whipping in your face, and the sun beating down on you. It sounds like a dream, but it’s a reality at Quest ATX. The sandboarding setup at Quest ATX is top-notch, with the latest equipment and experienced instructors to help you get the most out of your experience.
Sandboarding is a great option for those looking for a thrilling and unique snowboarding experience, without the cold temperatures typically associated with snowboarding. Plus, it’s a fun activity for the whole family, with sandboarding available for all skill levels, from beginners to pros.
And if you’re worried about wiping out on sand, don’t be. Sandboarding is much gentler on the body than snowboarding on hard-packed snow. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and head over to Quest ATX for an unforgettable sandboarding experience.
5. Tips and Tricks for Snowboarding in Austin
So you’ve decided to hit the slopes in Austin, Texas, and you want to make sure you’re fully prepared for the experience. Well, fear not my snowboarding compadre. I’ve got a few tips and tricks up my sleeve that will help you make the most of your time shredding in the heart of Texas.
First things first, make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. Austin can get chilly during the winter months, so layering is key. But keep in mind that you’ll be getting pretty warm once you start snowboarding, so you don’t want to overdo it either. A good rule of thumb is to dress for the temperature but add a layer that you can easily remove if you get too hot.
Next up, don’t forget to stretch before hitting the slopes. Snowboarding can be a pretty physically demanding activity, so it’s important to warm up your muscles before you start. Take a few minutes to stretch out your legs, back, and neck to prevent any injuries or strains.
When you’re on the mountain, don’t be afraid to take breaks if you need them. Snowboarding can be pretty intense, so it’s important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. And while you’re taking a breather, make sure you hydrate and fuel up with some snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Another tip I have is to invest in some quality snowboarding lessons. Even if you’re an experienced rider, taking a lesson or two can help you refine your technique and improve your overall performance on the slopes. Plus, it’s always fun to learn some new tricks and skills from a pro!
Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Snowboarding is all about enjoying yourself and pushing your limits, so don’t take it too seriously. Laugh at yourself when you fall, high-five your friends when you make it down a tough run, and soak up the beautiful scenery of Austin while you shred.
There you have it, some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your snowboarding experience in Austin. Stay safe, stay warm, and most importantly, stay stoked!