How to Build a Launch Ramp for Skis in the Snow

Whether you have outgrown the jumps at your local mountain and are looking for a new thrill or are just a bit nervous to hit jumps in crowded terrain parks, building a kicker of your own is always a good time. Unlike the jumps at resorts, you have complete control over the jump you build and can shape the takeoff any way you like. All you need is a decently sloped hill and a moderate amount of snow.

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
  • Piece of plywood or other flat surface
  • Gallon of water
  • Table salt
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Find a hill that looks steep enough to get you moving. Make sure that the landing is clear. Grab some friends if possible -- it will make the build a lot quicker and the ensuing session much more fun.

    • 2

      Start shoveling the snow into a pile. If possible, bring a big container, such as a garbage can or wagon, that will help you move large amounts of snow at once. The bigger and longer you want the jump to be, the more snow you will need. Once you have a large enough pile of snow, you can start shaping the jump.

    • 3

      Position the plywood at the base (downhill) part of the jump as a support to pack against. If nothing else, have someone stand at the base and pack the jump uphill while the rest of the crew starts to pack the sides and takeoff down.

    • 4

      Shape the front of the jump with the shovel. The steeper the takeoff, the higher the jump will send you. Once you have the takeoff shaped the way you like, remove the wood or other support from the back of the jump and pack all sides again.

    • 5

      Let the jump sit. If the snow is moist, the jump will be fairly easy to pack and should be firm enough to hit without much waiting. Dry, fluffy snow, however, is difficult to pack, and in these conditions a jug of water and some salt are key.

    • 6

      Sprinkle water and salt all over the jump. Both the water and salt will help the snow melt a bit and then harden into ice. After you have solidified the jump, you can put fresh snow on top so that the takeoff is not icy.

    • 7

      Test the jump. Getting it just right takes some practice, so experiment with the shape and steepness of the takeoff until you get it dialed in.