Elevation Outdoors Winter 2023-24 by Summit Publishing

TAOS ROCKS | POLAR SCHOLARSHIPS | PARTY IN LEADVILLE WINTER 2023–24

FREE!

E L E V AT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

Peak Gear Is Here

Best of the

Backcountry THE WORLD’S GREATEST SNOW DANCE

NORWEGIAN HEROES WHO WILL SAVE THE RESCUERS? WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

JAN 26-28 LONGEST-RUNNING ICE FISHING TOURNAMENT WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI KICK OFF PARTY ON JANUARY 25!

Lake Granby | Shadow Mountain Reservoir | Grand Lake COMPETE FOR TENS OF THOUSANDS IN CASH AND PRIZES!

TO REGISTER, SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT DESTINATIONGRANBY.COM

IN THIS ISSUE WINTER 2023

HIGH QUALITY

LOW WASTE

SUSTAINABLE APPAREL

GIFTS FOR EVERYONE DAILY DEALS → NOV 4 - DEC 23

GET PSYCHED FOR PEAK GEAR: Everybody and their dog is excited to find out who won the

winter iteration of our big bi-annual awards. Find out for yourself on page 22.

DEPARTMENTS 7 EDITOR’S LETTER Will the now $1-trillion outdoor industry save wild places or trample them just like every other industry? 8 QUICK HITS Polar explorer Eric Larsen launches a scholarship program to help BIPOC adventurers follow in the steps of Matthew Henson; we trace the tracks of Norway’s WWII heroes; Loco Por La Aventura ups outdoor participation; Ice Castles pop up in Dillon; Leadville beckons for big winter fun; and more. 12 FLASHPOINT New funding for Colorado’s unsung heroes is a long time coming—but is it enough in the busiest search and rescue state in the nation?

14 HOT SPOT What happens when a ski resort doubles down on its values, returns to its roots, and focuses on preserving the essence of skiing and riding in its purest form? Come on down to Taos Ski Valley.

20 BEST OF THE BACKCOUNTRY The soul of the sport is out away from the lifts. Here, we present awards to the gear that makes skinning out to quiet places with wild snow—and ripping down—even better.

26 THE ROAD Longtime ski and action sport photographer Liam Doran also finds plenty of adrenaline in the challenge of capturing stunning images of wildlife across the globe.

22 THE WINTER 2024 PEAK GEAR AWARDS It’s that time of year again when we hand out hardware to the very best winter equipment we put to the test in the field and on the snow.

30 ELWAYVILLE Peter Kray spins a fiery yarn about the world's greatest snow dance.

FEATURES 18 WILD THINGS On a walk with his dog in the woods, M. John Fayhee ponders tracks, mortality, and the comfortable reality of living with Puma concolor.

ON THE COVER

Eldora’s Raven Overman—with a little help from her fun-loving fur baby Roz—shows off two Peak Gear Award winners, Sweet Protection’s Connor Rig Reflect goggles and Dynafit’s Tigard GTX Pro Jacket, after a full day at the Front Range resort. By Julia Vandenoever juliavandenoever.com Instagram @juliavandenoever

WANT MORE? CATCH UP ON PAST ISSUES, YOUR FAVORITE BLOGGERS, AND DAILY ONLINE CONTENT AT ELEVATIONOUTDOORS.COM.

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

20 Miles West of Boulder

CONTRIBUTORS | 12.23 What nonprofit will you be donating to this season? E DI TOR-I N -CHI E F

DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

doug@elevationoutdoors.com PRE SI DE N T / PUBLI SHE R

BLAKE DEMASO

blake@elevationoutdoors.com CRE AT I VE DI RE CTOR

MELISSA KENNELLY

m.kennelly@elevationoutdoors.com EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION MAN AG I N G E DI TOR

CAMERON MARTINDELL

cameron@elevationoutdoors.com DE PUT Y E DI TOR

TRACY ROSS

SE N I OR E DI TOR

CHRIS KASSAR COPY E DI TOR

MELISSA HOWSAM E DI TOR-AT-LARG E

PETER KRAY

CON T RI BUT I N G E DI TORS

AARON BIBLE, ROB COPPOLILLO, LIAM DORAN, JAMES DZIEZYNSKI, HUDSON LINDENBERGER, SONYA LOONEY, CHRIS VAN LEUVEN CON T RI BUT I N G WRI T E RS

EPIC. WINTER. ADVENTURE. LYONS WINTER ESCAPE

Riders: choose 50KM or 100KM of gravel, snow, climbs, and thrills. Runners: crush the 5K or 10KM course that provides the best of Lyons, CO single track trails, red rock canyon, and gravel paths. Check out Old Man Winter Rally Lyons and register today.

VISIT LYONSCOLORADO.COM

JOSHUA BERMAN, ARON BIBLE, EUGENE BUCHANAN, M. JOHN FAYHEE, ARIELLA NARDIZZI, MITCHELL UTTERBACK DE SI G N E R/ART MAN AG E R

REBECCA CENCEWIZKI art@blueridgeoutdoors.com ADVERTISING + BUSINESS ASSOCI AT E PUBLI SHE R

HANNAH COOPER

hannah@elevationoutdoors.com ACCOUN T E XE CUT I VE

AMANDA LIVERETTE

amanda@elevationoutdoors.com BUSI N E SS MAN AG E R

MELISSA GESSLER

melissa@elevationoutdoors.com CI RCULAT I ON I N QUI RI E S

circulation@elevationoutdoors.com DIGITAL MEDIA ON LI N E DI RE CTOR

CRAIG SNODGRASS DI G I TAL E DI TOR

DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

I continue to support Outdoor Afro and Latino Outdoors, two dedicated organizations bringing more people to the healing and joyous power of the outdoors on their own terms.

HANNAH COOPER

We split our giving between Doctors Without Borders, Community Table, and Western Resource Advocates. That way, we have a global reach, a hyper-local impact, and are doing something to ensure a healthier future for our planet.

CAMERON MARTINDELL

Both of my kids are in Cub Scouts now and we are enjoying participating in and supporting the program.

TRACY ROSS

My family supports American Whitewater, KUNC, CAIC, and conservation through the purchase of hunting licenses, equipment, etc.

ARIELLA NARDIZZI

Girl Ventures and SheJumps! Because we need more women and girls empowering each other in the outdoors.

JOSHUA BERMAN

This season, I’m supporting the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC). Its century-old mission to teach about the Rocky Mountains, and to preserve and protect them, resonates deeply with me—and is just as urgent today as it was in 1912.

AARON BIBLE

I'll be donating to, and continuing to build, Shark Tooth Cycling, a non-profit helping disabled and underprivileged young people race bikes.

MITCHELL UTTERBACK

I’ll be supporting an international nonprofit this winter—the Norwegian military veteran’s association SIOPS (Wounded in International Operations), and helping guide a team of wounded Norwegian warriors on a ski expedition in honor of their World War II forebears (see page 8).

M. JOHN FAYHEE

We donate regularly to several animal rescue groups and a wildlife rehabilitation operation. We also donate to various bartender retirement funds.

PETER KRAY

SUMMIT

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

PUBLISHING

I donate to the local animal shelter, the National Resources Defense Council and the Center for Biological Diversity. I try to give back to the creatures with whom we share the world.

EDITOR'S LETTER | 12.23

INBO

S? D N U

OUT O BOUN F DS?

ALL PATHS LEAD TO POW! LIFT-SERVED & BACKCOUNTRY

WINTER GEAR RENTALS

TOO BIG TO FAIL WILL THE $1-TRILLION OUTDOOR RECREATION INDUSTRY SAVE WILD PLACES OR TRAMPLE THEM? by DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

he term outdoor industry gets tossed around a lot and I certainly know plenty of outdoorsy people who hate it. After all, what exactly is it? The term industry itself pulls such double duty—it is a state-flag motto proclaiming good work and the ability to care for citizens economically but, as we have learned in this era of climate-change-fueled wildfires and overconsumption, it also carries the weight of our species relentless, ever-ravenous burden on the planet. In the words of the great biologist and conservationist E.O. Wilson, “The real problem of humanity is the following: We have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions and godlike technology.” Hello, outdoor industry. Beyond that, is the outdoor industry even a unified thing? Is it simply people who sell packs and climbing shoes? Does it include hunters and bass boats, guiding services and restaurants, the cars that we buy and fuel we use just so we can haul skis and bikes off to once ecologically dynamic places now focused on nothing but fun? Over the past few years, Americans have also had to face the inherent problem that outdoor recreation is certainly a privilege, that racism and elitism have rotted at the core of some of the most important conservation movements. Playing outdoors, that thing that so many of us—me included—feel is so essential to who we are and how we relate to both our culture and the world around us has to come with some sense of responsibility, for people who have been denied it and for the natural world which is feeling the pressure of recreation. To take a step back, it has been essential for the outdoor industry to tell the rest of the nation just what a force it is both economically and culturally.

NEW PERSPECTIVES: SHOULD WE RETHINK THE WAY WE SEE OURSELVES IN NATURE?

For decades, the lesser impacts of recreation have paled in comparison to the extractive industries, which held sway with lawmakers due to their economic windfall and supposed jobs they created while leaving only destruction behind. In 2017, the Outdoor Industry Association was finally able to gain some traction against extractive industries in the halls of Congress by showing that it created $887 billion in economic impact. Those of us who dedicate our lives to the outdoors needed that ammunition to fight against the still ongoing destruction and degradation of public lands. Money talks. Last month, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis declared that the outdoor recreation economy hit $1.1 trillion in output in 2022. That should be reason to rejoice—and on many levels it is—but it also seems to serve as a warning that more and more we are simply seeing wild lands and nature in terms of dollars and jobs. More people are getting outdoors. That is good. That is what we wanted. But at the same time, if the outdoors is nothing but a playground, then is recreation and the outdoor industry just the latest more subtle form of our species trampling the complexity of life on this precious planet? Do ecosystems and wild animals and even water itself have a right to exist without commodifying them? How can the outdoor industry do what’s so hard for so many other industries to do—to hold back when they threaten to destroy their source of wealth? I believe the $1 trillion bellwether represents an opportunity. We can start rethinking the place of recreation on public lands. We can still play, but we need to do it mindfully. This most likely will not be what we want most. There may need to be more management and permits, but we need to prioritize the right of the land to exist as something that has value in no economic value. And then when we get out and ski or hike or bike, we can find better ways to do something most industries don’t talk about—share it.

RENT WINTER A DV E N T U R E

GEAR

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303.964.0708 • WILDERNESSX.COM WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

QUICK HITS | 12.23

TOP OF THE WORLD

“Matthew Henson was a larger-than-life African-American figure from the historical annals of polar exploration and one of my personal heroes,” says Eric Larsen, the Colorado-based explorer who has touched both poles and the top of the world on record-setting expeditions. Henson, a veteran of numerous Arctic expeditions, planted the American flag on the geographic North Pole in 1909 as a member of Robert Peary’s famed expedition. “I think it’s always been important to connect to the past and learn as much as we can from both successes and mistakes,” says Larsen. “As far as Matthew Henson is concerned, his achievements rival that of Peary and many other explorers both before and after.” The resources for adventurers from historically marginalized populations to follow in his footsteps are practically nonexistent, however. In response, Larsen, with generous help from outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin, has created the Polar Academy 2024 BIPOC Scholarship in honor of Matthew Henson. Six individuals will receive a free weeklong polar training course in northern Minnesota, including travel, meals, clothing, and equipment. “Our goal is to remove some of the barriers for participation by providing,” says Larsen, who sees this as a first step to broaden polar exploration for future generations. “I’m excited to meet new people and learn how this experience impacts them. Equally important, I feel that my polar course has a variety of physical and philosophical skills that transfer to any outdoor adventure. And I’m really hopeful some of the people pursue bigger polar objectives on their own as well.” For more information or to apply, go to ericlarsenexplore.com/scholarship/. —Doug Schnitzspahn

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

COURTESY ERIC LARSEN

E X PLORER ERIC L A RSEN L AUNCHE S A BIPOC SCHOL A RSHIP FOR POL A R TR A INING COURSE S TO HELP SUPPORT A DV ENTURERS A ND RECONNECT E X PLOR ATION TO ITS DI V ERSE ROOTS.

THE TRACKS OF HEROES THREE U.S. VETER ANS HELP COMMEMOR ATE THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF A WORLD WAR II COMMANDO R AID IN NORWAY.

MITCH UTTERBACK (X2), TRAILS MAGAZINE BY LAUREN DANILEK

“WHY ARE YOU DRAGGING that snow tire?” someone asked me. They missed the biathlon, roller skiing, orienteering, hut to hut trips, and backcountry skiing in Colorado’s White River National Forest we had already done. “I’m training for a ski expedition across Norway to commemorate a World War II mission,” I replied. “OK. Sounds cold. Good luck!” they said, sounding polite but confused. In February 1943, Norwegian commandos overcame starvation, blizzards, and the German Army to accomplish one of World War II’s most audacious sabotage operations. The stakes could not have been higher– their mission was to disable a component of Hitler’s atomic weapons program and slow the progress on the Nazi A-bomb. Eighty years later, we had plenty of cold, as well as good luck, when we crosscountry skied from Vemork in southern Norway, east to the border with Sweden. Our 12man international expedition of military veterans from the U.S., U.K., and Norway were retracing the route of the “Heroes of Telemark,” as they are often referred to, and

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known in Norway as the “Heavy Water Saboteurs.” Books, miniseries, documentaries, and movies have told their story over the years. Most recently, the movie Oppenheimer made mention of Nazi Germany’s race for the atomic bomb and their need for something produced at the time only in Norway—heavy water. British-trained Norwegian saboteurs parachuted into their homeland in late 1942 and early 1943, landing on the remote Hardangervidda—Norway’s desolate and forbidding mountain plateau. On the night of Feb. 27, 1943, nine of them skied down from the plateau, crossed a deep river gorge thought impassable by the enemy, and, after midnight, snuck into the factory at Vemork, where the heavy water was produced. They blew up the facility and escaped before the Germans knew what had happened. Back on the Hardangervidda, they split up, five of them making for the border with neutral Sweden,

369 miles away. They all made it safely and soon reported back to England. Within months, they returned to Norway by parachute to conduct other secret missions against the German occupiers. Our veteran group did not parachute in (unfortunately), but started our trek, organized by the Scottish adventure travel company SOE Expeditions (soeexpeditions.com), inside the same room—now a museum, where the sabotage was conducted. From there, we climbed to the edge of the Hardangervidda, snapped into our skis and headed toward Sweden. Long days carrying or pulling our gear in subzero weather, were followed by nights in warm, dry huts—the same used by the saboteurs. We slept outdoors the last night, and skied into Sweden in the morning, crossing the border at the same location the heroes did in March 1943. We accomplished our goal to experience exhaustion, hunger, storms, and life-threatening cold like the saboteurs had. We went

through it in their honor, but also for ourselves—to recall what it means to be a member of a small team, in difficult circumstances, focused on an objective greater than yourself—and succeeding. —Mitch Utterback

GEAR WE LOVE NOCS STANDARD ISSUE BINOCULARS

Available in a 8x or 10x magnification, these compact 25mm lens binoculars are waterproof, durable, and provide excellent optics for the price point. Perfectly sized to stash anywhere, they will help aspiring explorers and naturalists see more of the world around them. $95 | NOCSPROVISIONS.COM

BOOKS TRAILS MAGAZINE

In an era of print magazines disappearing, Trails Magazine is pushing back. Designed to live on the coffee table and provide continuous inspiration for the backpacking, thru-hiking, and multiday adventure crowd (current, former, and aspiring), the magazine brings rich stories and photos from life on the trail. $70/YR (QUARTERLY) | TRAILSMAG.NET WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

B R E A K I N G B A R R I ER S F O R A D I V ER SE O U T D O O R S

ANIBAL ROCHETA, FOUNDER of Loco por la Aventura, is on a mission to increase outdoor access for Latinos and people of color across the United States. Anibal, who immigrated to Oregon from his native Venezuela about a decade ago, has decades of experience guiding mountain expeditions, plus a double degree in Tourism Services and Tourism Promotion and Marketing. Overcoming obstacles like transportation, language barriers, and financial limitations, Rocheta created Loco por la Aventura in 2020, which he describes as “a collective that aims to motivate, educate, and support the Spanish-speaking community to stay connected and engaged in outdoor activities.” The organization, he explained in an email interview, offers affordable outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to rock climbing and snow sports. Participants

explore new places, connect with nature, and learn from experts. They are in the process of expanding beyond Oregon and Washington to Colorado, Utah, and Texas. Future plans include a book release and broadening their activities to more states, with the goal of providing transportation for participants. You can support Loco por la Aventura by following them on social media, purchasing their merchandise, or joining their activities, which include a number of ice climbing and other winter trips in Colorado this year. locoporlaaventura.com —Joshua Berman

COOL DIGS

E X P LO R E C RY S TA L L I N E T U N N EL S , TOW ER I N G SP I R E S , A N D EN C H A N T I N G A RC H E S— A L L M A D E O F I C E — I N D I L LO N T H I S W I N T ER . STEP INTO A WORLD OF frozen enchantment at Ice Castles in Dillon, Colorado, a mesmerizing attraction that takes winter wonder to a new level. Constructed by skilled artisans, these frigid fortresses are a testament to the impressive fusion of nature’s beauty and human creativity. Ice Castles offer visitors a chance to explore a magical kingdom of ice and light. Wander through towering ice spires that glisten and gleam, traverse a labyrinth of crystalline tunnels, and marvel at frozen caverns and arches that defy gravity. The event is an immersive, acre-size experience, shaped by the elements and brought to life with the help of embedded

EAT PLAY STAY: LEADVILLE, COLORADO K EEP A LOW P RO FI L E I N O F TOV ER LO O K ED L E A DV I L L E. LEADVILLE IS ALL ABOUT the elevation. Not only is it the highest incorporated city in North America, this town at the head of the Arkansas River is flanked by Colorado’s two highest mountains, 14,433-foot Mt. Elbert and 14,421-foot Mt. Massive. That makes it a prime spot for big adventure. EAT There’s no shortage of delicious food in Leadville. For a hardy allAmerican meal to start the day, pop into the vegetarian friendly Silver Llama Market And Eatery (silverllamamarketandeatery. com) and order some sweet or savory French toast. Or really tank up with the big breakfast: three eggs and bacon alongside biscuits and

gravy! For something quick, including grab-and-go, City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso (cityonahillcoffee.com) is a local favorite catering to vegetarian, vegan, and glutenfree customers. All of the breakfast burrito options are a win, including the Classic with eggs, bacon, roasted potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. You can also grab a sandwich to-go for lunch—two meals solved with one stop. For dinner, squeak into the 20-plusyear-old Tennessee Pass Cafe (tennessee-pass-cafe. business.site), where the proud owners serve local food and homegrown herbs whenever possible. This is a great option for vegetarians, gluten-free customers and meat eaters alike. Be sure to try the flash fried Brussels sprouts. PLAY Leadville is a snow lover’s paradise. The area hosts over 100 miles of groomed multiuse trails for cross-country skiing, fat biking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Downhill enthusiasts will love the quaint neighboring ski area, Ski Cooper (skicooper.com), which averages 250 inches of snow a year and covers 400 skiable acres. Ski Cooper has always been a family friendly ski area, and, in 2020, it added 70 acres of doubleblack diamond terrain to give expert skiers some fun too. Use five lifts to access 59 trails. Off the slopes, get your puppy love on with Alpine Adventures Dogsledding (alpineadventuresdogsledding. com). One of the big parties in town is the Ski Joring event (leadvilleskijoring.us),

CLOCKWIASE FROM TOP: COURTESY LOCO POR LA AVENTURA, CAMERON MARTINDELL, AJ MELLOR

LOCO POR LA AVENTURA

LEDs that illuminate the ice formations at night to create an ethereal ambiance. For eight weeks, a talented team of ice artisans have worked hard to craft these icey marvels. Ice Castles typically opens in late December or early January, and stays open until early March, weather permitting. Tickets ($27 adults, $22 kids) are on sale now at icecastles.com. Be sure to mark your calendars and prepare to be transported to a world of icy artistry. —Ariella Nardizzi

COURTESY PEOPLE FOR BIKES

which happens every year early in March—skiers hold onto a rope attached to a horse or snowmobile and try to collect as many rings from a course full of jumps and turns. For outdoor gear needs, check out the classic Melenzana (melanzana.com) factory—appointments highly recommended. For more than layers, visit Leadville Outdoors and Mountain Market (leadvilleoutdoors.com). STAY Backcountry skiers can book a night at one of the nearby 10th Mountain Division Huts (huts. org), Leadville Backcountry Yurts (leadvillebackcountry. com), or the Tennessee Pass Sleep Yurts (tennesseepass. com). Those looking for in-town lodging should check out the cabins at Freight S.L.umber Yard (freightleadville.com) right along Leadvill’s historic train tracks. This beautifully renovated property offers a rustic feel with modern

comforts. Freight also has a beautiful barn to host weddings and is an easy walk to downtown for access to all the great shopping and eateries. —Cameron Martindell

LOCAL HERO: JENN DICE THE HEAD OF PEOPLE FOR B I K E S B EL I E V E S I N T H E P OW ER O F T WO W H EEL S . GROWING UP IN MITCHELL, South Dakota, Jenn Dice badly wanted a horse. When her parents said no dice to that idea, she decorated her light blue Huffy bike with frills and reins and called it Black Beauty, based upon the horse in the classic novel. “I loved horses and I loved this bike, so my bike became my horse,” she recalls. In 2011, she hiked up Mount

Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, and biked down to help raise $750,000 for nonprofit WorldServe International. Today, as president and CEO of People For Bikes (PFB) in Boulder, she and a staff of 36 run the preeminent nonprofit trade association and bicycle advocacy group. Dice was director of Government Relations at the International Mountain Bicycling Association for 12 years prior to becoming PFB’s CEO in 2020. Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition (now Camber Outdoors) selected her for its 2013 Pioneering Women leadership award in recognition of Dice’s outstanding commitment to mentoring female colleagues. She was also inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame in 2014. She’s an unabashed advocate of bikes of all types—gravel, mountain, single speed, e-bikes, and more, and has led best practices bicycle tours of European cities in Spain,

Denmark, and The Netherlands, where bicycling is a way of life. Weekends will find Dice enjoying the mountain bike trails around Boulder, or on the city’s network of 300 miles of bikeways, often with her Goldendoodle Lucy riding in her cargo bike. “I believe in the power of bikes to bring people together, to heal communities, and to change the world,” she says. “Bikes are tools for empowerment and economic development. When people ride, great things happen.” peopleforbikes.org —Jeff Blumenfeld

SILVERTHORNE, COLORADO

Explore the heart of Summit County and discover where art meets adventure. Take in mountain views with a winter hike or snowshoe, see a show at the Silverthorne Performing Arts Center, unlock your inner artist at the Art Spot Silverthorne Makerspace, or attend a signature First Friday event. Find your next adventure in Silverthorne! SILVERTHORNE.ORG

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

FLASHPOINT | 12.23

“TEAMS ARE BEGINNING TO USE THEIR VOLUNTEER T I M E M O R E F O R S E A R C H - A N D - R E S C U E - R E L AT E D ACTIVITIES SINCE SOME OF THE FINANCIAL BURDEN I S B E I N G A L L E V I A T E D .” — P E R R Y B O Y D S T U N

SENDING OUT AN SOS

NEW FUNDING FOR COLORADO’S UNSUNG HEROES HAS BEEN A LONG TIME COMING. BUT IS IT ENOUGH IN THE COUNTRY’S BUSIEST SEARCH-AND-RESCUE STATE? by ARIELLA NARDIZZI

olorado is nationally renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes, but also for its selfless rescuers. Centennial State is one of the busiest in the nation when it comes to search and rescue (SAR) efforts with over 50 SAR teams and a dedicated force of 2,800 volunteers that make the backbone of a vital lineline for those who get in trouble or suffer injury off the grid. Recent years have found teams struggling to keep up with the massive uptick of rescues amid a booming outdoor recreation economy, however. A report from the Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) shows that SAR teams respond to 3,000 annual incidents across the state, ranging from quickly resolved rescues of illequipped day hikers to risky missions that may take weeks of coordination, technical skills, and human power. The dedicated commitment of SAR

volunteers is not just measured in time; it's also a tremendous financial burden. According to a 2021 study published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), these rescue missions depend heavily on the dedication of local volunteers, each of whom annually shells out an average of $1,500 of their own money on equipment, gas, and related expenses to get the job done. The report further revealed that the combined rescue costs and volunteer time amounts to a hefty $21 million in total every year. That’s a big burden on the people who jump in to help find a lost hiker or backcountry skier. So who can lend a helping hand to the rescuers?

Bridging the Financial Gap

The CPW report, which shed light on issues of burnout, underfunding, and legal exposure, prompted lawmakers to take action to ensure a more sustainable future for Colorado’s

THIS PA SS PROV IDE S ANNUAL ACCESS TO COLOR ADO’S S TAT E PA R K S A N D C O U L D P O T E N T I A L LY CONTRIBUTE AS MUCH AS $2.5 MILLION TO FUND THE S TAT E ’ S S E A R C H A N D RESCUE TEAMS.

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

search and rescue teams through funding and additional support. In 2023, Colorado introduced the Keep Colorado Wild (KCW) pass, a new initiative designed to make donating to SAR teams more accessible. Available for residents who register their vehicles within the state, this pass provides annual access to Colorado’s state parks and could potentially contribute as much as $2.5 million to fund the state’s SAR teams. Since SAR will not receive funding from the KCW pass until 2024, the state legislature offered $1 million allocated by Senate Bill 168 as bridge funding to support teams until then. This new legislation transferred the backcountry SAR responsibilities to the Division of

Colorado Parks & Wildlife, allowing for a larger budget and more support for volunteers, including immunity from civil lawsuits in the event of a failed mission. Furthermore, if a volunteer sustains permanent disability or loses their life on a mission, the law provides their dependents access to higher education. Furthermore, House Bill 1326 provided $2.25 million for multiyear grants for Counties and Backcountry Search and Rescue (BSAR) teams to purchase costly—but necessary—items such as reliable vehicles to respond to incidents more quickly. “Teams have traditionally relied on volunteer-owned equipment for rescues. Funding has opened

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY TK OF COLORADO SEARCH & RESCUE ASSOCIATION (CSAR)

opportunities to purchase more team equipment,” says Perry Boydstun, program manager for BSAR. “Doing so alleviates costs for volunteers, increases safety and enhances equipment accessibility.” Prior to the new legislation, Colorado’s SAR teams had to find funding through a mix of various channels. Teams primarily generated revenue from hunting and fishing licenses; OHV, snowmobile, and boat registrations; and through the sales of Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue CORSAR cards, a voluntary purchase that outdoor recreationists can make that helps reimburse counties that undertake a rescue. This traditional funding was the only statewide money available to Colorado backcountry SAR teams until 2021. Additionally, some SAR teams receive funding through their county, and many fundraise independently. “Fundraising takes quite a bit of time and energy with often very little return. Teams are beginning to use their volunteer time more for searchand-rescue-related activities since some of the financial burden is being alleviated,” says Boydstun. SAR operations are not just a response to emergencies; they are a linchpin in Colorado's robust outdoor recreation economy. A recent report has indicated that a staggering 92% of Colorado residents engage in outdoor recreation each year, underscoring the importance of maintaining a reliable, effective SAR system. “We are focused on supporting the county sheriffs and Colorado’s multibillion-dollar outdoor recreation and tourism economy while also supporting the volunteer BSAR teams across the state,” says Jeff Sparhawk, CSAR executive director. Funding is not the only SOS message SAR teams are sending out, however. CSAR’s spokesperson Anna DeBattiste says teams still face a multitude of obstacles, including recruiting, retaining, and equipping volunteers in mountain towns with high costs of living, mental health support, and public education of backcountry safety to minimize rescues. “Bottom line is, while we expect this funding will help take some strain off our teams, it is too early to know the specifics,” says DeBattiste.

How You Can Help

One of the best ways outdoor enthusiasts can help rescuers is to understand how the system works and how they can take personal responsibility for their own welfare in the wild. Many people who spend time outside don’t realize that the vast majority of backcountry SAR teams in the U.S. are composed of unpaid volunteers. In fact, CSAR estimates its team members give an annual 400,000 volunteer hours, whether they be logging missions in the field,

extensive training, or fundraising. Furthermore, what most recreationists don’t realize is that assistance from SAR in Colorado is completely free. A strong ethical commitment exists to offer these services without imposing expenses. Many cases exist where people who delay seeking help out of concern for expensive rescue fees often attempt to self-rescue, and only find themselves in more precarious conditions, both for the individual and the SAR volunteers who ultimately receive the call. A source, who requested not to divulge their real name out of respect for the individual that was rescued, shared a harrowing story of a friend’s incident on a remote section of the Colorado Trail that was ultimately resolved because of the assistance of SAR volunteers. Nearly 20 miles from civilization, the source’s friend found their health deteriorating rapidly in the backcountry. Within days, their stomach issues resulted in an inability to move. Shivering and sick, they did not have the strength to roll over, let alone hike out. Wary of incurring fees, the individual grappled with the severity of the situation and necessity for outside assistance. When selfambulation was no longer an option, they called SAR, relieved to discover that their friend’s rescue would be free of charge. “I felt guilty about needing to use SAR because you're discouraged from using it,” the source said. “The SAR team didn't make us feel like a burden or like we were doing the wrong thing.” There are many ways to avoid a SAR rescue, especially in winter. In

the snowy landscapes of Colorado, avalanches can be a serious threat, especially in areas known for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Last season, Colorado saw 11 fatalities from slides. Kelsy Been, official for Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), emphasized the importance of being prepared, educated, and wellequipped for wintertime activities. Those venturing into avalanche terrain should always check the forecast; acquire the necessary knowledge and training; and ensure they carry and know how to use proper safety gear, including an avalanche transceiver, probe pole, and shovel. Furthermore, recreationists should plan to be self-sufficient from the outset, learning the skills necessary to avoid becoming a SAR statistic. That goes a long way in the backcountry to prevent incidents and lessen the burden on SAR teams.

Rescuing the Rescuers

While the new legislation for Colorado’s SAR teams is a positive first step in strengthening this vital system, SAR continues to grapple with the challenge of insufficient volunteers to meet growing demands, funding for essential gear and programs, and mental health support. “We encourage Colorado residents and visitors to appreciate the thousands of hours put in by volunteers and sheriffs across the state in helping to keep backcountry recreationists safe,” says DeBattiste. The safety and success of rescuers themselves—who occasionally need a lifeline—depend on the public’s support. That’s not just in dollars,

but in gratitude for their efforts and participation with local SAR teams. It’s now the public’s turn to answer the call—to ensure that the heroes of the backcountry can continue to answer ours when we need them.

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

HOT SPOT | 12.23

THE RESORT OF THE FUTURE? WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A SKI RESORT DOUBLES DOWN ON ITS VALUES, RETURNS TO ITS ROOTS, AND FOCUSES ON PRESERVING THE ESSENCE OF SKIING AND RIDING IN ITS PUREST FORM? COME ON DOWN TO TAOS SKI VALLEY. by CHRIS KASSAR

New Trails, More Turns

Known for spicy steeps, an impossible number of bumps, a laid-back vibe, and an enchanting mountain experience, Taos has something for everyone. This season, there’s even more terrain to explore, including three new trails: Ponsse Scheme (that’s not a typo) and Cache Stash (both black diamonds) and Dadou’s (a double black glade on the front-side steeps running parallel to Al’s Run, a world-famous Taos attraction). The result of ongoing forest health initiatives and forest cleanup in the aftermath of a 2021 wind event that ripped down numerous trees, these

trails deliver fun and greater connectivity across the slopes. And, because the resort replaced two chairlifts (Lift 4 and Pioneers Lift), you’ll be able to move around the mountain more quickly and comfortably, which means less time sitting and more face shots!

The Big Week

Dive deep with a full week of expert coaching to help you not only improve your turns, but also build skills and friendships that will last a lifetime. This Taos tradition, which began in the 1960s and is still the only full-week ski program in North America, just got better. This winter, you can also book a Ski Week package (skitaos.com/deals), complete with immersive lessons, accommodations at The Blake (skitaos.com/stay), demo skis, and daily breakfast.

Come for the Skiing, Stay for the Après After a few-year hiatus, the Iconic Martini Tree Bar (martinitreebar.com) is making its long-awaited return. Unwind in a buzzing atmosphere where you can enjoy live music, play pool, and grab a tasty bite or your favorite bevvie. Plus, a visit here is a nod to Taos Ski Valley’s founder, Ernie Blake, and one of his sassy traditions. Legend has it that Ernie

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would stash pitchers of martinis in the trees across the mountain for skiers who needed a dose of liquid courage before dropping into some of Taos’ more intense terrain. Seeking a dining experience steeped in Euro traditions? Hop on a magical sleigh ride under the stars to the famed Bavarian (skitaos.com/diningwinter), an idyllic alpine lodge located mid-mountain where you’ll be treated to a prix-fixe menu of delicacies and views that make you realize why New Mexico is the Land of Enchantment.

Affordable First-Timer Packages

Never skied before? No problem. Come to Taos and take advantage of a deeply discounted package allowing you to try out skiing or snowboarding for the first time; includes instruction, a novice lift ticket, and equipment rental from Taos Sports in The Blake. Other packages like the Weekend Getaway or Ski and Stay (skitaos.com/deals) deliver special rates for weekday visits or bundling lodging.

Advances in Sustainability

Because it was the first ski resort to be designated a Certified B Corp (bcorporation.net)—which means it meets the highest standards of verified

social and environmental performance, sustainability, public transparency, and legal accountability—you can feel good about spending your precious time and money here. To make things even better, this year Taos has rolled out a Pistenbully 600 E+hybrid snowcat, a fully electric Prinoth Husky eMotion snow groomer, nine electric snowmobiles, and three electric snowblowers. These additions demonstrate Taos’ commitment and ongoing efforts to electrify its fleet and to reduce carbon emissions.

Free CommunityBuilding Activities

Relationships and community—in addition to a love of skiing, the culture of this unique mountain is steeped in these two values. Thus, the resort is bringing back Community Weekend for its second year so locals can experience free base-area activities including sledding, ice skating, and free snowsports lessons for first-timers. But community-oriented activities don’t stop here. All winter, the resort offers free family fun including yoga, live music, and trivia. Plus, old favorites will return too: Freeride, Ridge-A-Thon, New Year’s Eve Celebration & Fireworks, and the Not Forgotten Outreach Ski Week.

PHOTOS COURTESY TAOS SKI VALLEY

triving to be “better, not bigger,” Taos Ski Valley (skitaos.com) consistently demonstrates its commitment to building community, prioritizing sustainability, and improving the ski experience. In doing so, this fiercely independent resort has carved out a unique place in the ski world. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable winter experience steeped in tradition, relationships, powder, and good ol’ fun, head to this world-class destination nestled in the heart of the Sangres. Here are just some of the reasons you’ll want to point the grill to New Mexico this winter.

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E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

THE INTERFACE ZONE

ON A WALK WITH HIS DOG IN THE WOODS, THE AUTHOR PONDERS TRACKS, MORTALITY, AND THE COMFORTABLE REALITY OF LIVING WITH PUMA CONCOLOR. BY M. JOHN FAYHEE

I HAVE NO IDEA HOW LONG I had been following the tracks in the snow. My dog Casey and I were hiking upon one of the closest trails to town, located in what is called by land-use planners the “wildland/urban interface zone.” As if such nomenclature was not demeaning enough, it is a management classification that has an official acronym: WUI, pronounced “woo-ee.” A WUI can informally be defined as one part mostly screwed up and one part very likely to soon be screwed up even more. As usual, I was about 90% oblivious to my surroundings. Buzzing along, happy as a pig in slop. At some point though, the remaining 10% reluctantly emerged when I noticed beneath my feet a set of paw prints that appeared at first blush to be canine in origin. “My, my,” I said to Casey. “That was one sizable dog.” Casey, with her nose ever to the ground, appeared somewhat agitated. I kneeled and put my hand over one of the tracks. My extended digits barely covered it. Casey’s prints were, by comparison, miniscule. Then, almost immediately, I started hiking again, and my thoughts wandered toward Neverland. But something felt a bit amiss on the fight-or-flight front. Reality once more beckoned. I looked down at those tracks again and realized there was no evidence that the pooch had been accompanied by a human. Most times, where there are dog tracks on a trail, there are accompanying people tracks. This struck me as marginally weird enough that I snapped completely out of my on-trail bliss and studied the situation lying at my feet. Could it have been a coyote? A wolf? A

bear? Uh … a mountain lion? Thoughts about food-chain dynamics began to percolate. This is what’s known as a moderate buzzkill. Though I am hardly an expert in the field, I do know that tracks left by a mountain lion closely resemble those of a large dog — except with the claws retracted. I once more leaned over, and, sure enough, no matter how many of them I scrutinized, no matter the angle of observation, nary a claw mark was visible in the snow. So, OK, likely those tracks were left by Puma concolor—the secondlargest feline species in the Western Hemisphere after the jaguar. Given the newness of the snow cover, it was a recent passing. My heart rate began to tick upward. I put Casey on a leash—a rarity—and pulled her closer to me. She considered that a sure sign of imminent doom. A bit farther along the trail, the tracks suddenly ended. I peered in every direction and, nope, nary another track was visible. No additional snow had fallen, so it wasn’t like they were recently covered. They seemingly disappeared into thin air. It was then that I noticed the thick trunk of an old juniper an arm’s length to my left. It was also then that I wondered if I really truly wanted to look up into the branches of that tree, afraid of what I might observe observing me.

here has long been much in the way of press in the West regarding encounters between “wild” (read: living where they’ve always lived) animals and humans who have elbowed their way into erstwhile undisturbed ecosystems. Many have been the reports of pets becoming tasty menu items for coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, et al. Critters with a taste for blood, bone, and sinew. A full-grown man was killed and eaten by a mountain lion outside the town where I live a few years back. That caused quite the local stir.

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People react differently to that kind of news. Many folks rationally argue, usually from the comfort of their den, that it’s man who has moved into habitat that was forever occupied by wildlife. Therefore, such people maintain, it is incumbent upon humans to make appropriate adjustments, one of which is to clearly understand that, when you step foot into the wild, you might end up getting killed. Others argue that the Powers that Be ought to be protecting populated areas from animal invasion, using lethal means if necessary.

any times—though not nearly enough times—I have come in contact with wildlife. I have come face-to-face with numerous bears; I’ve seen a mountain lion as big as a U-Haul van; and I once had a full-grown cow moose whack me with her snout. I’ve seen bobcats, coyotes, wolves, bison, and a whole host of other examples of potentially dangerous fauna. And, yes, there has been some pants-wetting on my part. But never once has the thought entered my head that the authorities ought to come in and “do something about” all these pesky animals “intruding” on our well-marked trails and well-maintained suburban lawns. I can’t even imagine anyone thinking such an inane thing. “Well, you obviously haven’t lost a cat to a fox,” one indignant lady sniffed in my direction when I uttered that sentiment, probably a bit too loudly, in a mountain-town bar. “No, that’s because I’m a responsible pet owner,” I, pretty much a lifelong cat daddy, retorted.

y eyes slowly began moving their way up the trunk of that juniper. Mountain lions are “ambush predators” and, as such, they are masters of camouflage. And they have supercharged reflexes. I squinted and combed the branches, half expecting to soon be wearing a cougar chapeau. The branches above me

were feline free. I was disappointed— though, of course, that’s easy to say now since there was no lion preparing to pounce upon my cranium. I simply could not suss out how those tracks came to disappear midstride. Mountain lions are able to jump something like 20 feet. So, maybe it leaped off the trail into the thick surrounding brush. Either way, time to move along, with frequent backward glances. When I related the story of the tracks in the snow to my chums at happy hour that evening, they all huddled closer together. Many of the people I drink with are disinclined to venture any farther into the proximate national forest than developed picnic grounds or scenic overlooks. They are primarily urban-raised artist types who view the wildness lapping upon the shores of our town as something frightening, something best avoided. They live here despite that wild country, not because of it. Yet, not one of them even hinted that the animal cops ought to go in and remove— much less dispatch—the wildlife that dwells out where the concrete ends, out where reality begins. “Weren’t you scared?” one ceramicist asked, her eyes wide. “Yeah, but only a bit,” I responded, with perhaps a bit too much alcoholinfused bravado. “But that’s why I live here.” At that point, the mountain lion whose tracks Casey and I followed in the snow reverted to the realm of abstraction. Another goddamned abstraction. For 12 years, M. John Fayhee was the editor of the Mountain Gazette. A long-time contributing editor at Backpacker magazine, Fayhee is the author of 13 books, two of which were Colorado Book Awards finalists. After living in the Colorado High Country for a quarter-century, he now calls New Mexico’s Gila Country home.

GAY GANGEL-FAYHEE

Author’s note: The following is an excerpt from my latest book A Long Tangent: Musings by an Old Man & His Young Dog Hiking Every Day for a Year (Mimbres Press of Western New Mexico University). Slightly edited to fit magazine format.

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

THE GOODS | 12.23

BEST OF THE BACKCOUNTRY THE SOUL OF THE SPORT IS OUT AWAY FROM THE LIF TS. HERE, WE PRESENT THE GE AR THAT MADE GET TING TO QUIET PL ACES WITH WILD SNOW AND BIG PE AKS E VEN BET TER. by DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

Arc’teryx Sentinel Relaxed Jacket and Bib

This bombproof kit can withstand any conditions—from deep snow to sleet to sun—without cramping your style thanks to a relaxed fit and a brushed liner that makes the Gore fabric quiet and comfy. It shucks off everything winter can throw at it. But it’s the fit that really sells us—just put it on and you will want to wear it every day. $750 jacket, $700 bib; arcteryx.com

Black Crows Draco Freebird

perfect tour-and-score boot, but the TLT X provides plenty of control and stability in a boot weighing 2 pounds, 4 ounces. The takeaway: Burn by your bros on both the climb up and the way down. $800; dynafit.com

DPS Carbon Pagoda Tour 106

Skiing the backcountry should be creative, playful, an art of melding movement and mountain. This twintip touring ski is just the ticket for that experience. At 110mm underfoot and tipping the scales at just over 4 pounds, this beast can slither up the skin track and absolutely rip through a wide range of snow conditions on the down. $1,150; black-crows.com

At 106mm underfoot, this sports car of a backcountry ski is shockingly light and impressively stable via a construction that melds wood, foam, and bio-based sidewalls. Combine that build with a shape that gives you rocker and a 19-meter turn radius and you will smile the whole way down. We suggest you add DPS’s Phantom base treatment ($179) so you will never have to wax them again. $1,695; dpsskis.com

Dynafit TLT X Boot

Deuter Alproof Tour 38 + 5

It’s no surprise Dynafit has once again excelled when it comes to crafting the

We continue to advocate for the use of airbags—not as a guarantee but as

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the one tool that could actually yank you out of a slide—and this 3-pound10-ounce system makes it hard to claim an airbag pack is too heavy. Plus, it’s got enough space to carry all you need for big excursions and short hut trips. $1,550; deuter.com

Ortovox Diract Voice

Avalanche rescue needs to be calm and efficient and Ortovox has streamlined the process with this beacon that gives you voice instructions when you search to help avoid any errors during a crisis. It also features a big, clear display and weighs a svelte 7.4 ounces. $450; ortovox.com

Marker Confidant Tour

You wear that helmet every day at the resort so why not in the backcountry? Comfy, light, well ventilated and featuring a strap system that you can operate with one hand, this lid leaves you with no excuses. Best of all, it can serve as a bike helmet too. $140; markerbindings.com

Pomoca Free Pro 2

Here’s the skin your big skis crave—it even comes in 120mm and 140mm widths. It’s easy to cut to fit your boards and provides the right amount of both stickiness and glide, impressing us on funky terrain where some friends flailed. $200; pomoca.com

ARTS. PARKS. EATS. LYONS WINTER ESCAPE

Join Our Outdoor Tribe!

This small town offers big views and a unique blend of artsy, down-home, outdoorsy fun. This winter, escape to Lyons, embrace relaxation and linger longer in Lyons. From beautiful wintry hikes, great local eats and easy-access cycling opportunities, Lyons has something for everyone.

VISIT LYONSCOLORADO.COM

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

THE WINTER 2024 PEAK GEAR AWARDS

WE ARE EXCITED TO HAND OUT THIS COVETED HARDWARE TO THE BEST STUFF WE PUT TO THE TEST THIS WINTER—AND KEEP USING EVERY DAY. JOSHUA BERMAN, AARON BIBLE, EUGENE BUCHANAN, CHRIS KASSAR, RADHA MARCUM, CAMERON MARTINDELL, ARIELLA NARDIZZI, TRACY ROSS, RYAN MICHELLE SCAVO, DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

It’s that time of year again when we distribute the Peak Gear Awards to the very best winter equipment we put to the test in the field and on the snow. We believe in the integrity of the results since we determine the winners by asking our top contributors— who, we are proud to admit, spend far more time skiing, riding, and exploring the wild than “working”—to name the best gear they banged up on the hill, the trail, at home, and in the backcountry.

Nordica Unleashed 108 $800; nordica.com

WHY IT WON: The aggressive

design in this ski shines in deep snow and big terrain, thanks to blast-from-the-past traditional camber and a thinner wood/ carbon core that gives it a playful pop while dampening vibrations. An early rise tip and tail maximize flotation in the pow. Note: the “Ice” graphic (pictured left) indicates the stiff version, while the “Tree” version is a bit softer. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Fresh

powder in Steamboat; spring

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corn cruisers and East Wall couloirs at Arapahoe Basin

Tvla The Align[Mat] Cork $85; tvlashop.com

WHY IT WON: Not only does this

beautiful yoga mat give you artfully rendered guidelines to help you stay aligned while you practice, the cork surface is grippy and soft. That means you can use it without a mat towel (even if you sweat buckets) and get a better feel for the surface. It will make you want to go to yoga class. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Studios in

Boulder; retreats in Steamboat and Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Blizzard Sheeva 10 Hilaree Nelson Special Edition $850; blizzard-tecnica.com WHY IT WON: Blizzard did

something to help us when it created a limited run of Sheeva 10s with artwork that honors Hilaree Nelson, who died in an avalanche in the Himalayas in

2022, by honoring the she-wolf in all of us. The art—a howling grown wolf and younger wolves in a pastel colored mountain landscape—was created by Blizzard-Tecnica athlete Malia Reeves and links to a poetic telling of Nelson’s life in a book by Kimberly Beekman. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Nelson

always inspired us to go faster and harder. But when we take these skis out, we’ll also take a moment to recognize the good fortune of being alive. We have tested other Sheevas at Winter Park, Copper and Eldora.

BioLite HeadLamp 800Pro

$75; bioliteenergy.com WHY IT WON: This headlamp—

designed for mountain athletes, explorers, guides, and trail runners—proved extremely useful for those of us hitting the trails during winter's shorter daylight hours. It’s smart features include the ability to connect to an external power source for Pass-Thru Plus charging for uninterrupted operation.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Dark, early

morning hikes in Boulder’s Flatirons and Indian Peaks

Backcountry Access Stash Pro 32

$220; backcountryaccess.com WHY IT WON: This is the

Shangri-La of backcountry ski packs—perfect size, perfect feature sets, not too heavy— that will keep you highly organized with little effort and is made to hold shovel, probe, and even a BCA radio. The sleek design gives you everything you need, nothing you don't. And, the pack is comfy to wear and sits really well/carries solid loads well. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Rocky

Mountain National Park; Monarch Pass; Vail Pass; the top of Mt. Elbert and the Box Creek Couloirs; Teton Pass, Wyoming; Whistler, British Columbia

Fischer One and Two Boots

$70–$180; fischersports.com WHY IT WON: Kids can actually

put on these starter boots all by themselves. The shell of the boot is designed to reduce weight by eliminating material where it is not needed. This makes the boots lighter while still providing the necessary stability to support proper ski technique development. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Eldora

Mountain Resort, Copper Mountain, Steamboat

Chuck Rack Chuck Bucket 1.0 $499; chuckrack.com

WHY IT WON: Simplicity and

functionality. We found this to be the absolute easiest rack for loading and unloading skis and boards from our vehicles— especially bigger rigs and

camper vans—and it’s easy to convert into a six-bike rack. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Eldora

Mountain Resort, Copper Mountain, Monarch Mountain

Tecnica Zero G Tour Scout W

$799; blizzard-tecnica.com WHY IT WON: Versatility. These

boots perform the way we need them to on the downhill at a resort and just as well on a lightweight, backcountry trip. Thanks to a four-buckle design, the cuff locks securely into place—for the confidence to ski anything on the mountain—and the liner’s light, breathable membrane is the most comfortable we have ever fit to our picky feet. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Downhill

days across Colorado’s ski resorts, backcountry hut trips at Vail Pass, skinning around

Brainard Lake, and tours in the Sawatch Range

Arc’teryx RHO Merino Wool LS Crew $120; arcteryx.com

WHY IT WON: We forgot we

were wearing it and still stayed warm all day long. Light and plush on the skin, this fine merino baselayer is our best friend in the winter no matter if we are riding the lifts, touring the backcountry, hiking, or chilling out by the fire at home. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Wolf Creek

Ski Area—for big powder days, clear bluebird days, and everything in between

Dynafit Tigard GTX Pro Jacket $700; dynafit.com

WHY IT WON: While we rightfully

think of Dynafit as a hardgoods expert, this shell proves that the brand also understands the needs of skiers when it comes to apparel too. No shell worth its weight really “breathes,” but we admit that the Gore fabric here doesn’t sweat us out on numerous trips up the skin track with competitive friends and it still handled a wintry mix of conditions on the way down. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Uphill and

downhill at Eldora Mountain Resort, backcountry at Caribou and Berthoud Pass

Atomic Bent 100

$725; atomic.com WHY IT WON: This ski is ready

to party. At 100mm underfoot, it rips groomers like a thinner stick. Get it off-piste and it makes you feel like a ski flick star in the deep stuff. Best of all, it has the guts to crush

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cruddy, difficult snow. And, of course, we love the Chris Benchetler artwork. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Vail and

Beaver Creek, Colorado; Park City and Snowbird, Utah; Whistler, British Columbia

FlyLow Moxie Bib

$430; flylowgear.com WHY IT WON: It’s the first bib we

have tried that does everything and goes everywhere. Waterproof, but also breathable with enough venting for the uphill, it sports a plethora of smart details like a beacon pocket that will actually fit your transceiver. It has everything you need, nothing you don’t. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Skiing 14ers

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Vail and

Eldora Mountain Resort, Colorado; Park City, Utah

TinCup x Colorado Avalanche Bottle $34; shop.tincupwhiskey.com WHY IT WON: This limited-

edition bottle celebrates our favorite NHL team in these parts and we enjoy a sip watching the game or recounting our stories of glory after a ski day. But what we really like is that TinCup is partnering with Zamboni and Uber to provide free, safe rides for fans after Avs games in December as part of National Impaired Driver Prevention Month (use the code TINCUP).

in Colorado; night skiing on lifts in Wisconsin; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Teton Pass, Wyoming; Monarch Mountain, Colorado

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Après in the

Sweet Protection Connor Rig Reflect

$799; tobeouterwear.com

$220; sweetprotection.com WHY IT WON: These wide

goggles gave us the best range of vision we have ever experienced from a goggle. In fact, we did not realize just how much other goggles were limiting our sight and awareness while skiing trees until we started wearing these babies.

parking lot and back home

Tobe Ekta LE

WHY IT WON: Designed with

snowmobilers in mind, this Swedish one-piece snowsuit made us change our minds about the style. It keeps out the elements but still looks sharp and offered up a nice range of motion when we rode our snowboards down—and hopped back on the machines back up to do it all again. WHERE WE TOOK IT: Snowmobiling

on Vail Pass, riding on windy days at Eldora Mountain Resort.

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THE ROAD | 12.23

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

IN THE MOMENT A LONGTIME SKI AND ACTION SPORT PHOTOGRAPHER FINDS PLENT Y OF ADRENALINE IN THE CHALLENGE OF CAPTURING STUNNING IMAGES OF WILDLIFE. Words and Photos by LIAM DORAN

y feet are cold and I’m getting hungry as I wander around a patch of high altitude willows searching for bull moose. The tracks I’ve been following tell a story of what seems to be two bulls moving between a subalpine spruce forest and the adjacent stream and willows. The sun is dropping and I’m about to head home when… movement! Before I can even make out the animal ensconced in the cold, dark shadows, I begin pulling out my camera. Slowly and as quietly as I can, I lower my pack, pull the zipper open, and retrieve my camera. I hear a twig snap, and then he comes into full view—a massive bull moose with paddles that must stretch 4 feet across. He eyes me cautiously but keeps moving forward. Adrenaline instantly rushes from my head to my toes, and the cold and hunger pangs so recently dragging on me evaporate. For the next 20 minutes, I concentrate on nothing but the elements of photography and this incredible animal. That's one of the many great things about wildlife photography. When you are in the moment, everything else just drops away and you allow yourself to be deeply present.

CLOCKWISE: ELK, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (SIGMA 60-600MM S LENS ON SONY A1, 1/500 SEC. F/6.3 ISO 3200); MOUNTAIN GOAT, MOUNT QUANDARY, BRECKENRIDGE COLORADO (SIGMA 150-600MM S LENS ON SONY A9II, 1/2500 SEC. F/5 ISO 640); MOOSE, HOOSIER PASS, COLORADO (SIGMA 100-400MM C LENS ON SONY A7RIV, 1/800 SEC. F/6.3 ISO 1600); GENTOO PENGUINS, ANTARCTICA (SIGMA 70-200MM S LENS ON SONY A1 CAMERA. 1/320 SEC. F/13 ISO 320); BISON, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (SIGMA 60-600MM S LENS ON SONY A1, 1/1000 SEC. F/6.3 ISO 1000). WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

Tongue River Canyon Black Mountain Lookout Porcupine Falls Connor Battlefield State Park Little Horn Canyon North Beaver Creek South Piney Creek Tie Flume The Dead Swede Hunt Mountain Sibley Lake Malcolm Wallop Park Black Tooth Cloud Peak Wilderness Twin Buttes Park Reservoir Shell Falls Wolf Canyon Bighorn Scenic Byway Story Penrose Trail Sawmill Lakes Bucking Mule Falls Cofeen Park Little Bald Mountain Dry Fork Ridge Copper Creek For the Wild at Heart Fallen Kingdom Red Grade Trail System Visit Sheridan, Wyoming #TheBackyard Little Goose

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY IS MUCH LIKE F I N D I N G T H AT PERFECT WAVE OR FIRST TRACKS ON A BOTTOMLESS P O W D E R D A Y.

have been working my way around cameras since the early ’90s when I took a Canon Rebel and 18 rolls of film with me on a NOLS trip. Sadly, those 18 rolls and all my other gear flew off the top of our passenger van never to be seen again. That's a tough way to start a career. Despite the setback, a career did form, and I’m lucky to have spent the last two decades as a full-time professional photographer. If I’m known for anything in the photo world, it would be my action sports work, or more specifically, my ski photography. For the most part, I am new to wildlife photography. Don't get me wrong, I’ve pointed a lens at a few animals over the years, but it's only been the last few where I am actively trying to learn more about wildlife and make better images. Like many of us, I have a lot to

learn. That’s the fun part isn’t it? Getting impactful images that connect a viewer to an animal is challenging. And doing it in a way that respects both the environment and the animals is paramount. One could make the argument that wildlife photography began back in 1906 when George Shiras III had his images of African wildlife published in, you guessed it, National Geographic. From that time until as recently as 2015 there were some major barriers keeping most folks from entering the genre. The biggest of these is gear. One of the most important pieces of gear an aspiring wildlife shooter needs is at least one long telephoto lens. And up until recently, a high-quality 400mm, 500mm, or 600mm telephoto would cost you well in excess of $10,000. This all changed back in 2015 when SIGMA announced

their groundbreaking 150–600mm super telephoto lens for under $2,000. This lifted the financial barrier that kept so many of us from getting the shot of our dreams. Today, you can still spend thousands for one of those fast prime telephoto lenses, but now every major manufacturer makes a few fantastic wildlife lenses ranging from $800– $2,000.

he next hurdle to overcome is finding animals to photograph. Depending on the species you have your heart set on, this could be as easy as a weekend jaunt up to Rocky Mountain National Park to photograph elk or a lifelong quest to get a snow leopard in front of your lens in the high cold deserts of Tibet. But most of us will find our national parks are great places

to begin what for some of us will become an obsession. Within a day's drive, you can get to ecosystems as diverse as Big Bend, Black Canyon of the Gunnison or Grand Teton National Parks. All are great locations to practice the craft. Wildlife photography is much like finding that perfect wave or first tracks on a bottomless powder day. Moments in the presence of this fragile fauna with which we share the planet are fleeting, and that’s what makes them so special. You put in the work; you do the miles; you get shut out more often than not—but when it comes all together, it’s simply exhilarating. You can’t wait for another chance to capture the moment. —See more of Liam Doran’s work at liamdoranphotography.com.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GRIZZLY BEAR AND CUBS, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (SIGMA 60-600MM LENS ON SONY A1, 1/400 SEC. F/6.3 ISO 5000); BROWN BEAR, MCNEIL RIVER, ALASKA (SIGMA 60-600MM S LENS ON SONY A1, 1/2000 SEC. F/7.1 ISO 800); MOUNTAIN GOAT, BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO (SIGMA 100-400MM C LENS ON SONY A7III, 1/800 SEC. F/7.1 ISO 800); CRABEATER SEAL, ANTARCTICA (SIGMA 150600MM S LENS ON SONY A1 CAMERA, 1/1600 SEC. F/7.1 ISO 800).

WINTER 2023–24 / E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S . C O M

THE GREATEST SNOW DANCE IN THE WORLD A STORY OF MY THIC PRECIPITATION AND FIRE (WITH A NOD TO “DOS PESOS DE AGUA,” BY JUAN BOSCH) by PETER KRAY

t was dry in Dogsleep. Too dry for December. Too dry for any month of the year. There hadn’t even been a drizzle since September, when the great fires burned in the West and you could hardly see across the street from all the smoke. But now the sky was so deep and blue, it seemed unbreakable, a permanent window across which nothing moved. Not even a stray cloud. The ski lifts sat idle. And without tourists, or work, only the rich kids were out at the bars. People were starting to get nervous. Maybe a little scared. It’s funny how whatever weather you are having feels like it could last forever. Like that is the only weather in the world. That sad way a lost winter feels like a lost year of your life—because it is. It was Mina who suggested they needed to host a snow dance. Sweet

IN TWO HOURS, A F O OT L AY O N THE GROUND, AND T H E P A C E O N LY QUICKENED AS THE WIND BEGAN TO PILE UP THE DRIFTS. Mina. She always knew just what to do. She said it needed to be serious, driven by intent and purpose. And it needed to shake the snow gods right out of their slumber. She said, “We need to have the greatest snow dance in the world!”

Preparations for a Party

The invitations went out the way they always do, by word of mouth. The party would take place in the field behind the old Waggoner Farm, as pretty and green and wide as a pasture, and right next to Mina’s cabin with the wooden snowflakes carved into the door. Everyone put it at the top of their calendar. Their top of everything, really. There was nothing else to do.

Kegs were bought. Trees were chopped. Joints were rolled and ciders brewed. Weird Bob, who made moonshine, filled 20 Mason jars. Ten with White Lightning. Ten with Mountain Dew. People who lived miles and sometimes days away made plans to drive over. It was all anyone talked about. In preparations for the party, a few ski patrollers put a makeshift band together and named themselves “Snow Burn.” They found a place they could plug in their amplifiers behind the barn. Some lifties made T-shirts—“Snow Dance of the Century”—with a drawing of a dragon spewing fire onto a pile of stacked skis and snowboards. More than anything, people figured out what they wanted to burn, and they wanted to burn a lot. Old skis. Old snowboards. Old boots, and lots of plastic knickknacks to pollute the skies in this sacrificial fever for snow, including old Bee Gees Saturday Night Fever albums and cassette tapes. T-shirts and documents and old photos of those old lovers you love to hate. Holding a ski pole torch wrapped with kerosenesoaked towels, Mina got it all off to a fast start. She stepped up to the pile and said, “The season starts now,” and dropped the torch. “Snow! Snow! Snow!” the crowd chanted as the flames slowly kindled, popping at the ignition of every lonely ski bum’s stack of nudie magazines and each pile of dry sticks. Until suddenly with a “BOOM!” the whole thing blew up. Literally. Because Ricky from human resources brought a tank of gas. There was a stunned silence at the mushroom of flame. Then howls erupted from their throats, guttural screams of release and wild Viking cheers into the abyss as all hell broke loose.

Fire and Sleet

They put everything they could on that fire. More

E L E VAT I O N O U T D O O R S / WINTER 2023–24

albums, T-shirts and every single scrap of cardboard anyone could find. The chairs off the patio, then the couch. Hammocks, maps and just about anything that burned—like all the unpaid electricity notices because everyone was broke. Some drunks even threw the shoes off their feet. The snow gods were impressed. “What madness for the promise of precipitation,” they laughed. As the flames kept growing, they began to add their own contributions to the growing black cloud across the darkening skies, including little puffs of graupel that at first the people below thought was only bonfire ash. “It’s snowing!” some amateur meteorologist screamed, throwing his cap onto the pyre in one last sacrifice as the roof between Earth and the heavens was ripped right off—the people offering fire to the sky as the snow saints and cloud-riding elves responded with sleet, snowballs, and belly laughs of cold thunder, rumbling and roaring as they got into the wet work. That fire might have burned for days, or even weeks. It might have set the whole county ablaze. But slowly and surely, the accelerating pace of accumulation began to put it out. A hastening deluge of wild wet snow and a growing wind that rang the steeple in the town church, then

started whipping across the field, blowing away the impromptu lean-tos and tents. In an hour, more than 5 inches fell. In two hours, a foot lay on the ground, and the pace only quickened as the wind began to pile up the drifts. And, still, the awed, honored snow gods proclaimed, “We have to reward such a snow dance, our most special sacrificial gift!” For two full days the pace quickened, until the whole valley was deep and white. And the beams above Mina’s cabin creaked and the trapped ski bums wondered if they could get out of their stranded trucks one more time to clear a little path. It snowed and it snowed and it snowed until finally, late on the third night, a rumbling sound filled the sky like an unending explosion as all the accumulation began to tear free from the highest peaks, ripping the slopes beneath it bare as waves of powder came crashing down on the village. As if the mountains themselves were falling down in great columns of broken glass. Elevation Outdoors editor-at-large Peter Kray is the author of the God of Skiing and American Snow.

ILLUSTRATION BY KEVINHOWDESHEL/THEBRAVEUNION .COM

ELWAYVILLE | 12.23

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