The Ultimate Guide to the State's Best Ski Tours: Backcountry Skiing Series

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable backcountry skiing adventure? The state is home to some of the most breathtaking and challenging ski terrain in the country, and our Backcountry Skiing Series will guide you to the best of the best.

Backcountry Skiing Utah: A Guide to the State's Best Ski Tours (Backcountry Skiing Series)

by Jenny MacKay

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54602 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	297 pages

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Whether you're a seasoned backcountry skier or just starting out, our series has something for everyone. We'll cover a range of tours, from beginner-friendly to expert-only, so you can find the perfect adventure for your skill level.

What is Backcountry Skiing?

Backcountry skiing is a form of skiing that takes place outside of the boundaries of ski resorts. Backcountry skiers use a variety of techniques to travel through the backcountry, including skinning, snowshoeing, and skiing. Backcountry skiing can be a challenging and rewarding experience, and it offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the state.

What to Expect on a Ski Tour

A ski tour typically begins with a skin up to a mountain pass or ridge. Once you reach the top, you'll transition to your skis and ski down the other side. The descent can be anything from a gentle cruise to a steep and challenging couloir. The length of a ski tour can vary from a few hours to several days, and the difficulty can range from beginner to expert.

Essential Gear for Backcountry Skiing

If you're planning on going backcountry skiing, it's important to have the right gear. Essential gear includes:

• Skis and bindings
• Boots
• Skins
• Poles
• Avalanche transceiver
• Avalanche probe
• Avalanche shovel
• First-aid kit
• Map and compass
• Food and water
• Warm clothing

Recommended Tours for Beginners

If you're new to backcountry skiing, we recommend starting with a beginner-friendly tour. These tours are typically shorter and less challenging, and they offer a great opportunity to learn the basics of backcountry skiing.

Here are a few recommended beginner-friendly tours:

• Monarch Pass Loop (Monarch Pass): This 5-mile loop is a great to backcountry skiing. The terrain is gentle and the views are stunning.
• Lost Trail Pass (Crested Butte): This 6-mile tour offers a bit more challenge than the Monarch Pass Loop, but it's still a good option for beginners. The ascent is gradual and the descent is mostly downhill.
• Gothic Mountain (Crested Butte): This 7-mile tour is a bit more challenging, but it's still a good option for beginners who are up for a bit of a climb. The views from the summit are worth the effort.

Recommended Tours for Intermediate Skiers

If you have some experience backcountry skiing, you may be ready for a more challenging tour. These tours are typically longer and more difficult, and they offer a greater sense of accomplishment.

Here are a few recommended intermediate tours:

• Mount Bierstadt (Indian Peaks): This 8-mile tour is a classic Colorado backcountry ski. The ascent is challenging, but the views from the summit are incredible.
• Mount Elbert (Sawatch Range): This 10-mile tour is the highest peak in Colorado. The ascent is long and challenging, but the views from the summit are unmatched.
• Capitol Peak (Elk Mountains): This 12-mile tour is one of the most challenging in Colorado. The ascent is steep and exposed, and the descent is technical. This tour is only recommended for experienced backcountry skiers.

Recommended Tours for Expert Skiers

If you're an experienced backcountry skier looking for a challenge, we have a few tours that will put your skills to the test.

Here are a few recommended expert tours:

• The Narrows (Rocky Mountain National Park): This 15-mile tour is one of the most popular backcountry ski tours in Colorado. The ascent is steep and challenging, and the descent is technical. This tour is only recommended for experienced backcountry skiers.
• The Diamond (Rocky Mountain National Park): This 14-mile tour is another classic Colorado backcountry ski. The ascent is challenging and the descent is steep and exposed. This tour is only recommended for experienced backcountry skiers.
• The Maroon Bells (Elk Mountains): This 16-mile tour is one of the most iconic backcountry ski tours in Colorado. The ascent is long and challenging, and the descent is steep and exposed. This tour is only recommended for experienced backcountry skiers with a high level of fitness.

Safety First

Backcountry skiing can be a dangerous activity, so it's important to put safety first. Always check the avalanche forecast before heading out, and be sure to travel with a partner. Carry a whistle, headlamp, and extra food and water in case of an emergency. And always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

Have Fun!

Backcountry skiing is an amazing way to experience the natural beauty of the state. With a little preparation and planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable adventure. So get out there and explore the backcountry!

Backcountry Skiing Utah: A Guide to the State's Best Ski Tours (Backcountry Skiing Series)

by Jenny MacKay

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54602 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	297 pages

FREE