Quick Info
Reputation: Colorado's mogul skiing capital. Terrain: Steep bumps, trees, chutes. Skill level: Advanced to expert. Famous runs: Drunken Frenchman, Awe Chute, Derailer, Trestle.
Mary Jane is Winter Park's expert playground and arguably the best mogul skiing in Colorado. While the main Winter Park side offers friendly groomers, Mary Jane delivers steep, long bump runs that have earned a devoted following among serious skiers. If you ski bumps, this is a pilgrimage destination.
The Moguls
Mary Jane's moguls are the real deal - not the small, manicured bumps you'll find at many resorts. These are large, steep, and unforgiving. The runs are long, meaning you need legs that can handle sustained bump skiing.
What makes them special:
- Steep pitch - most runs are 30+ degrees
- Long vertical - 1,000+ foot bump runs
- Natural formation - not machine-made
- Consistent coverage - north-facing aspect holds snow
The bumps grow throughout the season. Early season bumps are smaller; by March they can be waist-high.
Classic Runs
Drunken Frenchman: The most famous run on Mary Jane. Steep, sustained moguls visible from the lift. A rite of passage for bump skiers.
Awe Chute: Narrow, steep, and intimidating. One of the steeper sustained pitches on the mountain.
Derailer: Long bump run off the Super Gauge Express. Tests your endurance as much as your technique.
Trestle: Expert terrain with trees and bumps. Multiple line options.
Outhouse: Steep trees and bumps. Less trafficked than the main runs.
Jeff's Chute: Named for a local legend. Challenging entrance with sustained steeps below.
Tips for Skiing Mary Jane
Warm up first: Don't start your day on Drunken Frenchman. Get your legs working on easier terrain before committing to the steeps.
Pick your line: Look down the run before dropping in. Bumps have rhythm - find the line that works for your style.
Pace yourself: The runs are long. Start with control; you can always add speed as you find rhythm.
Know when to quit: Tired legs lead to poor technique and potential injury. Take breaks.
Weather matters: Fresh snow makes bumps more forgiving. Icy conditions make them punishing. Check conditions before committing.
Getting There
Mary Jane has its own base area separate from Winter Park Village. You can access it via:
- Direct parking at Mary Jane base (limited)
- Skiing over from Winter Park side
- Shuttle from Winter Park Village
The Super Gauge Express lift provides main access to the upper mountain and classic bump runs.
Not Ready for Mary Jane?
Mary Jane earns its expert reputation. If you're not comfortable on steep moguls, stick to the Winter Park side where you'll find groomed terrain for all levels. See our beginner guide or the main resort overview.
Intermediates looking to improve bump skiing can find smaller moguls on select Winter Park runs before graduating to Mary Jane.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they ever groom Mary Jane?
Rarely. A few runs get occasional grooming, but the classic bump runs are left natural. That's the point.
Is it really that hard?
Yes. Mary Jane's moguls are among the most challenging in Colorado. Strong intermediate skiers often struggle here.
When are conditions best?
After fresh snow when bumps are soft. Mid-season (January-February) often has best coverage. Avoid icy days.
Are there any easier options on Mary Jane?
A few intermediate runs exist, but most terrain is advanced to expert. If you want variety, ski Winter Park side and venture to Mary Jane when ready.