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The Courses of Far West
Over last five years Far West Freestyle has held competitions on three courses: Hornet's Nest at Northstar, Hills at Palisades-Tahoe (upper mountain), and Secret Garden (Red Dog Face) at Palisades-Tahoe (lower mountain). In the history of Far West, competitions have also been held on The Face at Homewood and North Bowl at Palisades-Tahoe.
Hornet's Nest
Hornet's Nest at Northstar is located off of the Vista Express lift, looker's left, tucked behind the alpine course. Supported by the best in modern snowmaking, it is a reliable course for early season and other competitions. The course length is 210m with a 24 degree pitch.
Walking Accessable
Hills
Hills at Palisades-Tahoe is located on the upper mountain off of the Shirley Lake Express lift, looker's left, just after the ski patrol hut on the ridge. Sheltered on the northside of the upper mountain, Hills collects snow early in the season and holds snow through as late as June. The course length is 180-220m with a 23 to 26 degree pitch.
Skiing
Accessible
Red Dog Face
(Secret Garden)
Red Dog at Palisades-Tahoe on the lower mountain has hosted the US National Championship, many Far West competitions and the Division spring fling. It is visible approaching the resort, located just up from the Red Dog lift base. In 2025, it was longest competition course in the season with a length of 275m. The course length varies from 220-275m, with a pitch of 24-26 degrees depending on grooming, hill location and conditions. It is a skier's favorite, allowing athletes to exhibit a mix of speed, air and turns.
Walking Accessable
