Watch First Descent: Michoaca
- 1969
- 4 Seasons
First Descent: Michoacan is a thrilling and visually stunning showcase of extreme skiing and snowboarding in the heart of the Sierra Madre mountains in Mexico. Produced by Red Bull TV, the show follows a group of professional skiers and snowboarders as they embark on a mission to explore and conquer some of the most challenging and remote terrain in the region, including never-before-skied peaks and couloirs.
Led by veteran skier Daron Rahlves, the team also includes backcountry snowboarder Sophie Lopez, freeride skier Forrest Jillson, and ski racer Cody Townsend. Together, they set out to push themselves to the limit and push the boundaries of what's possible in extreme sports, all while facing harsh weather conditions, high altitude, and the ever-present danger of avalanches.
The show begins with an introduction to the team and their goals, as they journey deep into the mountains to a remote village in Michoacan. From there, they embark on a multi-day trek to reach the peaks and valleys where they will make their descents. The journey is not without its challenges, as the team faces steep climbs, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather. Along the way, they interact with locals and experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
As they reach their first destination, a massive mountain known as El Gigante, the team prepares for their descent. The mountain features a massive chute that has never been skied before. With the help of guide and local legend Chopo DÃaz, the athletes scout the route and plan their approach. The descent proves to be one of the most challenging of the trip, with steep, narrow terrain and plenty of obstacles to navigate.
Undeterred, the team presses on to their next challenge: a towering peak called La Teta. After hiking to the top, they take in the breathtaking views before preparing to tackle the descent. This run features a mix of open faces and narrow couloirs, with plenty of opportunities for high-speed turns and big airs. The team pulls off some incredible tricks and displays incredible skill and courage as they charge down the mountain.
The next location is a hidden valley known as The Holy Grail, a remote and pristine area that has rarely been explored by skiers or snowboarders. Here, the team discovers a series of steep chutes and narrow couloirs that promise some of the most rewarding descents of the trip. With the help of Chopo and other guides, they meticulously plan their routes and execute flawlessly, carving stylish lines down the mountain and launching huge jumps off cliffs and features.
By the end of the trip, the team has not only accomplished their personal goals but also gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty and culture of Michoacan. The show concludes with a celebration of their achievements and a reflection on the camaraderie and teamwork that made it all possible.
Overall, First Descent: Michoacan is an inspiring and exciting journey into the world of extreme skiing and snowboarding. The show features stunning cinematography and expertly captures the adrenaline-fueled action of the athletes as they push themselves to the limit in some of the most challenging terrain on the planet. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves extreme sports or wants to witness the power of human determination and skill in action.
First Descent: Michoaca is a series that ran for 4 seasons (7 episodes) between and on Red Bull TV