Dozens of snowkiters will attach themselves to giant kites so they can harness the wind during Kite Soldier 2010, put on by Snowkite Soldier, in central Idaho Feb. 19-21. Some of these riders on skis and snowboards will fly hundreds of feet in the air, while others will reach speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour, as they zip through a 14-mile course heading uphill thousands of feet to mountain peaks around Idaho's Camas Valley.
During the infamous Poker Run, snowkiters will go through five checkpoints, collecting a poker card at each one. The snowkiters with the highest hands will take away thousands in prizes at the award party Saturday night.
Not sure if you want to try snowkiting? If you are an intermediate skier or snowboarder or better, get ready to learn. There are several places you can start snowkiting in the West.
Photo by Aaron Beck