The concept remains the same – 12 of the world’s best freeriders reaching some of the most challenging and varied backcountry terrain that the mountains have to offer.
The inspirational mobile format of the event ensures that the riders are free to roam the Alps with no fixed destination in a quest to find the best snow and mountain faces for the varying conditions.
However, the element of adventure is pushed to the next level this year with the riders poised to hike to more remote backcountry, and camp the nights in mountain huts. This ensures that in addition to the big mountain days on steep rock faces, there will be a more varied mix of freeriding to enjoy.

The success and popularity of the rider judged format of the competition sees its continuation for the third year running. Wherever the final face may be, the riders will head to Saalbach-Hinterglemm back in Austria for the unique judging session where they all judge each other’s runs. An overall winner will be crowned, as well as a winner for skiing and one for snowboarding, with a total prizemoney of $60,000 on offer.
The Big Mountain Pro 2009 will kick off on February 3rd St. Anton in the Arlberg range in the Austrian Alps – the birthplace of alpine skiing and the freeride mecca of Austria.
Where it will head from there is anyone’s guess – the only certain element is that it will follow the best snow conditions, and will end with a spectacular party in Saalbach-Hinterglemm on February 10th.