Earning turns is one of the great experiences in the Colorado mountains: quiet skin tracks through the trees, untouched powder, and terrain you have to yourself. It is also genuinely dangerous, and the barrier to entry is real — education first, then gear. Here is the honest introduction.
| Popular zones | Berthoud Pass, Loveland Pass, Vail Pass, Mayflower Gulch, and the 10th Mountain Division hut system |
|---|---|
| What you need | Alpine-touring (AT) or splitboard setup + climbing skins, the avalanche rescue trio, and training |
| Season | Roughly November–May, depending on snow and stability |
| The danger | Avalanches — check the CAIC forecast daily and get trained before you go |
What backcountry skiing involves
Instead of a lift, you climb under your own power — on alpine-touring (AT) skis with a free heel and grippy climbing skins, or a splitboard that separates into skis for the way up. At the top you switch over and ride down ungroomed, unpatrolled terrain. Some tours link backcountry huts (the 10th Mountain Division system is famous) for multi-day trips. It demands fitness, skill, and above all, judgment.
Safety comes first — always
There is no shortcut here. Before traveling in avalanche terrain: take an AIARE 1 avalanche course, read the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) forecast every single day, never go alone, and carry — and know how to use — a beacon, probe, and shovel. Colorado's continental snowpack forms persistent weak layers that catch out even experts, so humility and good decision-making matter more than fitness or gear. Our avalanche safety gear guide covers the essential kit.
Where people go near Summit County
Roadside zones like Berthoud Pass and Loveland Pass (right at the top of I-70) and Vail Pass are classic access points, and Mayflower Gulch near Copper is a scenic favorite. Many resorts also allow uphill travel (skinning up the ski area) under specific policies — a great, lower-risk way to get fit and practice the up-track. Always confirm current rules and conditions.
Gear
Beyond an AT or splitboard setup, skins, and touring boots, the non-negotiable additions are the avalanche rescue trio (beacon, probe, shovel) for everyone in the group. Dress in moisture-wicking base layers (you'll sweat climbing, then chill up top), pack warm gloves and goggles, and mind the altitude.
Backcountry skiing FAQ
Is backcountry skiing dangerous?
Yes — it takes place in unpatrolled avalanche terrain, and Colorado leads the nation in avalanche fatalities because of its tricky, persistent-weak-layer snowpack. With avalanche training, the daily CAIC forecast, trained partners, and the rescue trio, the risk can be managed — but it is never zero.
What do I need to start backcountry skiing in Colorado?
An alpine-touring or splitboard setup with climbing skins and touring boots, the avalanche rescue trio (beacon, probe, shovel) for everyone, and — most importantly — an AIARE avalanche course and the habit of checking the CAIC forecast.
Where can I backcountry ski near Summit County?
Classic roadside zones include Berthoud Pass, Loveland Pass (top of I-70), and Vail Pass, plus Mayflower Gulch near Copper. Many resorts also allow uphill travel under specific policies — a lower-risk way to skin and practice. Always check conditions and rules.
Do I need avalanche gear even for mellow tours?
If you're in or below avalanche terrain, yes — carry the full trio and know how to use it, and travel with trained partners. Terrain that looks mellow can still be exposed to slides from above. When in doubt, check the CAIC forecast and choose lower-angle, lower-risk terrain.
Can I skin up at a ski resort?
Often, yes — many Colorado resorts permit uphill travel under specific policies (designated routes, hours, and a pass in some cases). It's a popular, lower-avalanche-risk way to get fit and practice the up-track. Check each resort's current uphill policy.