For die-hard bump skiers and adventurous thrill-seekers, Winter Park Resort in Colorado is one of North America’s premier mogul destinations. While the main Winter Park side offers groomers and family-friendly runs, it’s the Mary Jane Territory—affectionately known as “The Jane”—that has earned legendary status as the bump capital of the Rockies.
This guide explores the best mogul runs at Winter Park Resort, why Mary Jane remains a mecca for bump skiers, and how to make the most of your time on this classic Colorado terrain.
Why Mary Jane Is Bump Heaven
Mary Jane is home to some of the most famous mogul lines in North America. Ski publications consistently rank Winter Park among the top resorts for mogul skiing, and locals proudly boast that “No Pain, No Jane” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a truth earned with every turn.
The Mary Jane side of the resort was intentionally designed to preserve its natural contours, which means fewer groomed runs and more sustained bump fields. The moguls here are shaped by skiers, not machines, giving each run a distinctive personality. From Outhouse to Boiler, Mary Jane is where technical skill meets pure fun.
Top Mogul Runs at Winter Park / Mary Jane
Below are the mogul runs that define the Winter Park experience. Whether you’re a seasoned bump skier or looking to push your limits, each of these trails offers a unique flavor of challenge and flow.
1. Outhouse
No list of Winter Park mogul runs would be complete without Outhouse. It’s steep, sustained, and notorious for testing even expert legs. With no groomed escape once you drop in, Outhouse is a true fall-line mogul run from top to bottom.
Accessed from the Winter Park Gondola or Super Gauge Express Lift, Outhouse begins near the top of Mary Jane and plunges directly down into classic Colorado terrain. Expect large, consistent bumps, tight lines, and a view that will make your heart race before you even click in.
This is one of those runs that defines your day—and your skill level.
2. Railbender
Railbender is another Mary Jane icon. Slightly less intimidating than Outhouse but no less fun, this run is known for its consistent pitch and well-formed moguls. The bumps are usually medium-sized, allowing skiers to find a rhythm quickly.
Its location near the Super Gauge Express makes it easy to lap repeatedly for technique work or to build endurance. On powder days, the troughs soften beautifully, making it one of the more forgiving advanced mogul runs at Winter Park.
3. Boiler
Tighter, steeper, and more technical, Boiler challenges skiers to stay light on their feet. The moguls here can be sharp and irregular, demanding quick reflexes and precision.
Because Boiler tends to see fewer crowds than marquee runs like Outhouse, it often holds its natural shape throughout the day. It’s a great run for strong skiers who want a technical bump challenge without the pressure of onlookers.
4. Derailer
If you’re looking for a mogul run that offers variety and flow, Derailer delivers. It combines steep sections with mellower transitions, allowing skiers to adjust their line and tempo mid-run.
Derailer is a great choice for those seeking a run that rewards both finesse and aggression. You’ll find a mix of bump sizes, and depending on the day’s snow conditions, it can range from sporty to spicy.
5. Phantom Bridge
Phantom Bridge might not get as much fanfare as Outhouse or Railbender, but it’s a hidden gem for mogul enthusiasts. The terrain rolls and shifts subtly, offering playful transitions and a more dynamic skiing experience.
It’s ideal for skiers who enjoy linking turns fluidly and working on smooth absorption and extension. The bridge itself adds a fun visual landmark—and a reminder that you’re deep in Mary Jane’s bump kingdom.
6. Over ’N’ Underwood
While technically located closer to the Winter Park side, Over ’N’ Underwood is a fantastic transitional run for skiers stepping up their bump game. It blends steeper pitches with approachable mogul fields, making it perfect for intermediate-advanced skiers refining their bump technique before tackling Mary Jane’s steepest lines.
How to Plan the Perfect Bump-Skiing Day
1. Start Smart
Warm up with a few groomers off the Gondola or Super Gauge Express before diving into the steeper mogul runs. Your legs will thank you.
2. Progress Strategically
Move from moderate moguls (like Over ’N’ Underwood or Derailer) toward the steeper, more demanding ones (like Outhouse or Boiler) as the day goes on.
3. Mind the Conditions
Early morning moguls tend to be firm and fast, while midday brings softer snow that’s easier on the legs. Late in the day, shadows and ruts can increase the challenge.
4. Hydrate and Pace Yourself
Bump skiing burns serious energy. Take breaks at the Mary Jane base area, refuel, and let your legs recover before heading back up for another round.
Tips for Conquering Moguls at Winter Park
-
Stay Centered: Keep your balance over the balls of your feet to react quickly.
-
Absorb with Your Legs: Let your knees and ankles flex to maintain contact with the snow.
-
Plan Two Turns Ahead: Always look beyond the next bump to anticipate your line.
-
Use Your Poles: Quick, consistent pole plants keep your rhythm steady.
-
Find the Zipper Line: For maximum efficiency, follow the straightest path down the troughs.
-
Train Off-Snow: Strong legs and core muscles make a big difference in stamina and control.
Sample Bump Itinerary
If you’re spending the day chasing bumps, here’s a sample route that balances challenge and variety:
-
Warm up on an intermediate groomer off the Winter Park Gondola.
-
Head to Derailer for a flowing warm-up bump run.
-
Move to Railbender or Boiler for more consistent, challenging moguls.
-
Test yourself on Outhouse once your legs are primed.
-
Wrap up the session with a smoother run down Phantom Bridge before heading to the lodge for a break.
This combination gives you a full tour of Mary Jane’s best mogul lines while managing fatigue.
Why Bump Skiers Love Winter Park
Winter Park’s mogul culture runs deep. It’s not just the terrain—it’s the attitude. Skiers here appreciate the precision, power, and patience that bump skiing demands.
You’ll often see locals trading tips in the lift line, laughing about missed turns, or chasing each other down Outhouse just for bragging rights. That community energy, paired with world-class mogul terrain, makes Mary Jane one of the most authentic ski experiences in Colorado.
Conclusion
Whether you’re perfecting your zipper line or testing your stamina, Winter Park Resort delivers some of the most exhilarating mogul skiing anywhere. Outhouse, Railbender, Boiler, Derailer, and Phantom Bridge are runs that challenge and reward in equal measure.
For skiers who crave rhythm, flow, and adrenaline, Mary Jane is more than a mountain zone—it’s a rite of passage. Every turn on these mogul fields writes its own story, and by day’s end, you’ll know exactly why Winter Park is hailed as the home of the bumps.