Backcountry skiing around Colorado Springs offers a variety of trails and opportunities for enthusiasts. From the iconic Pikes Peak to the nearby ski resorts, the region provides a wealth of options for those seeking the thrill of off-piste skiing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best trails, tips for finding partners, and essential safety precautions to ensure an unforgettable backcountry skiing experience in Colorado Springs.
What are the Best Backcountry Skiing Trails Near Colorado Springs?
The Colorado Springs area boasts several renowned backcountry skiing destinations, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking scenery. Let’s dive into the top trails:
Pikes Peak Trails
- The Little Italy Couloir: A 0.3-mile run with a descent of 785 feet (239.15 meters).
- The Y Couloir – Middle Fork: A 0.4-mile run with a descent of 1,351 feet (411.69 meters).
- The Diamond Couloir: A 1.3-mile run with a descent of 2,804 feet (854.6 meters).
- The Bowl (a.k.a. Big Blue): A 0.5-mile run with a descent of 986 feet (300.54 meters).
Monarch Mountain Trails
- Monarch Mountain: Located 126 miles southwest of Colorado Springs, this resort is known for shorter lift lines and cheaper tickets.
Ski Cooper Trails
- Ski Cooper: Situated 147 miles northwest from the Colorado Springs Airport, Ski Cooper is renowned for its shorter lift lines and more affordable tickets.
Summit County Trails
- Breckenridge Resort: 116 miles northwest from the Colorado Springs Airport, Breckenridge is known for its varied terrain.
- Keystone Ski Resort: 129 miles northeast from the Colorado Springs Airport, Keystone offers a diverse range of skiing options.
- Arapahoe Basin: 134 miles northeast from the Colorado Springs Airport, Arapahoe Basin is renowned for its varied terrain.
How Can I Find a Partner or Group for Backcountry Skiing?
Backcountry skiing is best enjoyed with a partner or group, and there are several ways to connect with like-minded individuals in the Colorado Springs area:
Local Clubs
- Pikes Peak Alpine School: Offers backcountry skiing classes and guided tours.
- Pikes Peak Outdoors: Provides additional backcountry information and resources.
Online Forums
- Reddit: The r/ColoradoSprings and r/COsnow subreddits are active communities for discussing backcountry skiing and finding partners.
Social Media Groups
- Facebook Groups: Join local backcountry skiing groups to connect with other enthusiasts and find partners.
Events
- Local Meetups: Attend backcountry skiing meetups and events in the Colorado Springs area to network with other skiers.
What Safety Precautions and Certifications Should I Consider?
Backcountry skiing requires a heightened level of safety awareness and preparation. Here are some essential safety gear, training courses, and certifications to consider:
Essential Safety Gear
- Avalanche Transceiver: A must-have for backcountry skiing.
- Probe and Shovel: For digging out in case of an avalanche.
- First Aid Kit: For basic medical emergencies.
Recommended Training Courses
- AIARE Level 1: Avalanche safety course for beginners.
- AIARE Level 2: Advanced avalanche safety course.
- AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course: For learning rescue techniques.
Avalanche Awareness Programs
- Colorado Avalanche Information Center: Provides avalanche forecasts and safety information.
Certifications
- AIARE Certification: Beneficial for demonstrating avalanche safety knowledge.
- Certified Guide: Recommended for guided backcountry skiing trips.