"It’s not about the prize money. It’s not about the energy drink sponsors. It’s about the turn."
Since 1985, the Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom has stood as the spiritual home of competitive snowboarding. Held annually in February, it rejects the polish of the Olympics for the grit of a hand-dug course in a natural halfpipe.
The History
The race was born when snowboarding was still banned at most resorts. Tom Sims and Bob Barci organized the first event with just a handful of riders. The concept was simple: fastest rider down the gully wins.
Over the decades, the Legendary Banked Slalom has become the "Grandaddy" of all snowboard contests. It bridges generations—where 14-year-old groms race on the same course as icons like Terje Håkonsen and Travis Rice.
The Trophy
A spray-painted gold roll of duct tape mounted on wood. A nod to the early days when duct tape was the only way to keep boots and bindings together.
The Prize
An embroidered Carhartt jacket. Money can't buy it; you have to earn it in the berms.
The Course
Located in the natural halfpipe of the White Salmon run, the course is a thigh-burning gauntlet of banked turns. Unlike modern slopestyle courses built by snowcats, the Legendary Banked Slalom course is often hand-shaped by a dedicated crew of diggers. It is technical, steep, and unforgiving.
- Hand-dug berms that get deeper and icier as the day goes on.
- Two runs to qualify, one run to win in the finals.
- "The Rob Morrow Rule": If you fall, you're out. No hiking back up.
Ready to Witness History?
Whether you are racing or spectating, the energy at Mt. Baker during the Legendary Banked Slalom weekend is electric.