Wintersports
Skiing
Black diamond vs. double black diamond ski runs: A guide
Black diamond runs require power and precision, and double black diamond trails offer a one-of-a-kind adrenaline-fueled journey loaded with daring drops.
Once you become a true master on the slopes, you face a big choice. Do you step up to those super formidable black diamond slopes, or do you take a thrilling leap into truly advanced double black diamond runs? One way forward is to fully embrace the pursuit of adrenaline on the mountain, mirroring the spirit of Red Bull freeskier Mac Forehand.
Mac Forehand skies in Mammoth Lakes, California
© Peter Morning / Red Bull Content Pool
“I am most proud of sticking with my main motto of having fun on the hill no matter the circumstances,” Forehand says.
To begin your mountain escapade, you first need to choose your own adventure. Try picking a path that dares you to conquer sensational slopes while keeping you securely within your skill range. To choose which high-skill trail level suits you best, continue reading for a detailed guide on black diamond vs. double black diamond ski runs.
Difficulty levels
If all slopes were one-size-fits-all, you might find yourself either bored or intimidated out on the snow. That’s why there are four main ski trail difficulty levels. North American ski ratings usually go from green circle (the easiest) to double black diamond (the toughest). You’re probably used to these symbols, but they might mean something completely different in other parts of the world, particularly in Europe.
If you’ve already mastered green circle and blue square slopes, your next challenge will be black diamond runs. Before hitting these advanced trails, you should be fully confident in your skiing abilities. Get ready to quickly steer through steeper terrain, small moguls, and obstacles such as rocks and trees. This all might be within your purview if you’re an intermediate skier looking to push your limits and try something new. That said, take it slow to be safe and get the feel of the terrain.
Next up are double black diamond runs, which are meant for expert or extremely advanced skiers. These trails are the most difficult slopes — you might encounter vertical drops or cornices alongside chutes. To face these challenges, you’ll need to be a full-on master when it comes to carving, short turns, long turns, and edge control.
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Terrain and features
Black diamond terrain:
For a black diamond run, the features and terrain might vary depending on the mountain, ski resort, and location of the slope. These runs may be blue-square runs when the snow is groomed or fresh powder, but when snow conditions worsen, the trail becomes more difficult. Common characteristics of a black diamond run include:
Mac Forehand jumps at Red Bull Cascade 2023 in Winter Park, CO
© Daniel Milchev / Red Bull Content Pool
- Steep slopes and cliffs. Gradients larger than 30 degrees indicate a challenging and steep descent.
- Moguls. These large rounded bumps demand strong agility to navigate.
- Trees and glades. Many black diamond runs pass through densely wooded areas or glades, creating obstacles that are an absolute blast to get through.
- Variable snow conditions. Powder, hard-packed snow, and ice patches are common in black diamond terrain. You’ll need to keep up with ever-changing conditions to get through this terrain with finesse and agility.
Double black diamond terrain:
Double black diamond runs are the most challenging and advanced — and adrenaline-packed — terrain. In addition to what you’ll find on Black Diamond runs, these high-level trails often feature:
- Cliffs. Explore cliffs and drops to launch into miraculous moments of airborne freedom.
- Chutes. Navigating these steep channels requires precise turning and control skills.
- Expert-level obstacles. You’ll likely encounter boulders, large moguls, and dense trees.
Paddy Graham in Arlberg, Austria
© Pally Learmond / Red Bull Content Pool
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Skill level and experience
Black Diamond:
Black Diamond runs are for you if you have:
- Good control. Shifting up your speed, direction, and body movements to stay balanced and adapt to dynamic terrain should be second-nature for you.
- Advanced ski skills. You should be a total pro at parallel turning, carving, executing dynamic turns, and swiftly transitioning from edge to edge.
- Terrain awareness. Black diamond runs are advanced enough that you really need to know how to read the mountain. This means recognizing potential hazards, knowing how to ski in all kinds of snow conditions, and making instant decisions.
Double black diamond:
Michelle Parker backcountry skis the Sierra Nevada Mountains
© Christian Pondella / Red Bull Content Pool
You’re set to take on this extreme challenge if you have:
- Unparalleled technical proficiency. You should know carving, side slipping, parallel turning, and obstacle avoidance like the back of your hand.
- Mountain awareness. Way more than terrain features matter when you go double black diamond. You should know just about everything when it comes to trail markings, potential hazards, weather conditions, crowds, and the overall mountain layout.
Choosing the right run
Ready to try your hand at black diamond or double black diamond runs? Maybe wait a second before you dive right in — take these steps before shooting down the slope.
- Read trail maps. Pick up a trail map at your ski resort of choice. You’ll see each run’s difficulty levels and what you can expect on each trail.
- Chat with resort staff. These folks can give you great recommendations based on your skill and experience level. They’ll know the mountain better than just about anyone.
- Seek advice from experienced skiers. Talk to other thrillseekers who have completed the most challenging runs where you’re visiting. You’ll know pretty instinctively whether the trails you have in mind are well-suited for your skill set.
- Honestly self-assess your skills. It’s tempting to brush aside your worries and embrace the daredevil in you when double black diamond runs call your name. That’s understandable, but it’s not worth risking injury to attempt ski runs that might pose lots of risk. Consider your comfort level with various terrain types, slopes, and snow conditions when making your choice.
- Gradually progress. Rushing toward the most advanced run just isn’t worth it. Instead, if you've recently conquered blue square runs, try out black diamond trails and progressively advance to double black diamond runs. You’ll build confidence and skills at a manageable pace that makes even the greatest thrills that much safer.
Take your skiing to the next level
Black diamond and double black diamond ski runs offer unparalleled challenges and excitement. Black diamond runs require power and precision, and double black diamond trails offer a one-of-a-kind adrenaline-fueled journey loaded with daring drops. Finding your sweet spot enables you to show off your skills and embark on a dynamic and breathtaking adventure like never before.
