ADVENTURE
Backcountry skiing terrain includes thrilling views COAL BANK PASS
For good spring skiing on firm snow, Coal Bank Pass is your place. Though the main run isn’t steep enough for fresh powder, the wide-open, low angle slopes make it good for backcountry beginners. The total length of the trail is 1.75 miles and begins at 11,000 feet. location: From Durango, 34 miles on Highway 550 North
IRONTON
For easy backcountry skiing close to the road, visit Ironton. Usually, cross country skiers explore three to four miles of groomed trails that lead past the ghost town. However, there are plenty of ungroomed, marked trails to follow, and many more miles of potential ski terrain. location: 7 miles south of Ouray on Highway 550
LIZARD HEAD PASS SKI RESORT
For deep snow and fun descents, look no further than Lizard Head Pass. At a peak elevation of 11,700 feet, Lizard Head Pass receives more snow than the nearby town of Telluride and holds fresh powder all season. The terrain is remote and best explored with a local or a guide. Travelers can stay at High Camp Hut during their backcountry adventure. The two-story cabin sits on the flanks of Sheep Mountain. location: 16 miles southwest of Telluride between Rico and Ophir on Highway 145
OPHIR PASS ULTIMATE SKI
Cold, dry snow falls on Ophir Pass located between Telluride and Silverton. Ophir Pass traverses North to Red Mountain Pass or South toward Lizard Head Pass. OPUS offers access to low angle glades and open slopes. The hut, perched at 11,600 feet, is a three and a half mile hike from Highway 550 on the east side, or an equal distance from the town Ophir on the west side. location: 8.8 miles northwest of Silverton on Highway 550, turn west on Forest Road 679
STONER SKI RESORT
With untracked snow, endless powder and no lift lines, Stoner Ranch is a hidden skiing paradise in the Southwest. There are three main descents – The Face, Sunshine and Shadow Valley – which offer a 1,100-foot plunge into the Dolores River Valley. This spot is perfect for
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WINTER GUIDE
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
2020-21
someone with the “earn your turns” mindset, as private lands separate the road and the ski area, which leads to a strenuous hike to reach the destination. location: 19 miles northeast of Dolores on Highway 145
RED MOUNTAIN PASS
Connecting Ouray and Silverton, Red Mountain Pass is one area particularly popular for experienced skiers. Elevations range from 8,900 feet at the base of Engineer Mountain Road to over 13,000 at the summits of surrounding mountains. The ski area is steep, complex and offers many different tours for levels of backcountry experience. Parking is limited, so avoid creating hazards by parking completely off the roadway. location: 13 miles south of Ouray on Highway 550
