More Than Just a Skier
Snowbird / Little Cottonwood Canyon
I'm Canyon Whiteside, a 16-year-old competitive freeride skier from Utah. I've been skiing since I was just one year old, and the mountains have been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
Snowbird is my home mountain, and Little Cottonwood Canyon is where I've grown up skiing. From deep powder days to steep, technical terrain, there's nothing better than being in the mountains, finding new lines, and challenging myself.
I'm currently a member of the Altabird Freeride Team, where I continue to develop my skills and compete in the junior freeride circuit.
What started with my first days on skis as a little kid has turned into something I can't imagine my life without.
Over the years, skiing has gone from simply having fun on the mountain to pushing myself in competitions, learning new skills, and seeing how far I can take the sport.
No matter how much I've progressed, the best part is still the same — being on the mountain doing what I love.
2023–24
One of the biggest moments in my skiing career was qualifying for and competing at the National Junior Freeride Championships. It was an opportunity to challenge myself against talented young freeride skiers and gain valuable competition experience.
2024–25
Not every season goes as planned. During the 2024–25 season, I broke my collarbone twice. Being sidelined was frustrating, especially when all I wanted to do was ski.
But the experience taught me patience, resilience, and how important it is to keep moving forward, even when things don't go the way you expect.
2025–26
After recovering from my injuries, I returned to the junior freeride circuit and finished 5th at the Regional Championships.
I also logged 100 days on snow that season. Getting back to competing and spending that much time in the mountains reminded me why I love skiing so much.
First recipient
I'm honored to be the first recipient of the Ski for T Award through the Snowbird Sports Education Foundation (SBSEF).
The award was established in memory of Tanner Baran and recognizes young freeride athletes who share his passion for skiing, commitment to progression, and respect for the mountain community.
Being chosen as the first recipient means a lot to me. I'm proud to be part of something that honors Tanner's legacy and the sport that has given me so much.
When the ski season ends, I don't slow down.
I play football, mountain bike, and race BMX. I love the speed, competition, and challenges that come with each sport.
Mountain biking and BMX help me develop balance, quick reactions, and confidence, while football challenges me to work hard, stay disciplined, and be part of a team.
Whether I'm on skis, a bike, or the football field, I'm happiest when I'm active and pushing myself to improve.
My goal is to continue growing as a competitive freeride skier, take on bigger challenges, and compete at higher levels.
I'm proud to be part of the Rossignol Athlete Sponsorship Program and excited to build relationships with brands that share my passion for skiing, adventure, and the outdoors.
I know there's still a lot to learn and accomplish, and that's what makes the journey exciting.
I'm just getting started.
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