Valle Nevado’s steepest maintained trails carry a black diamond rating, but the advanced terrain offering is limited. Only six black diamond runs exist, all above mid-mountain, and none are more difficult than a typical advanced run at a North American resort. About half are groomed regularly; the rest build moguls depending on conditions. The resort also uses the double black diamond symbol—but not to mark extreme terrain. Instead, it denotes freeride zones that are unpatrolled and not avalanche-controlled. While some require short hikes or traverses, the terrain is generally mild compared to La Parva or the backside of El Colorado. Still, off-piste skiing at Valle Nevado requires caution. Most freeride areas are not maintained, and avalanche risk is unmanaged. Snow coverage can be thin, with rocks lurking beneath the surface. The canyons to the east are especially hazardous—remote, avalanche-prone, and over 2,000 feet below the base village. Only enter these zones if you’re fully ...