Colorado Backcountry Skiing: It Takes Your Breath Away - By: Art Gib

Skiing in the Colorado back country is a peaceful way to enjoy the glorious beauty and majesty of the Rocky Mountains. It's also a fabulous way to explore pristine powder, away from the ski lines and the hubbub of the resort areas. Make sure you dress warmly and in layers, depending on the weather conditions.

Vacationers who venture into the backcountry should always have an experienced guide who knows where the safe areas are. Avalanche danger is very real in these mountains as they are in most other recreational areas. Don't underestimate the power of nature.

Colorado resort areas offer many opportunities for skiers to enjoy a backcountry experience: in fact, it has become a popular part of many adventurers' ski vacations. Snowcats take skiers in comfort deep into the mountains where experienced guides lead them on peaceful day long cross country excursions across scenic snow bowls and hills or thrilling downhill schusses on green treed slopes.

Colorado backcountry skiing is unique in that elevations soar to nearly 13,000 feet across the Continental Divide. The electric blue skies and snow capped peaks will take your breath away and the 1400 feet vertical drops will too!

Helicopter drops are another way to enjoy skiing untouched slopes. An outfitter may offer single or multi day runs in the glorious wilds of the San Juan range. If you choose to explore the backcountry this way, plan on opening your wallet: it doesn't come cheaply. But you will certainly have the experience of a lifetime!

Visitors with limited backcountry experience who want to cross country ski alone are wise to stick to the many Nordic centers which dot the Colorado ski areas. Unguided ventures into the backcountry would require complete avalanche and survival gear that most vacationers do not want to deal with, and specialized training as well. Impeccably groomed cross country trails are abundant and easily accessible.

All of Colorado's ski resorts maintain facilities for cross country enthusiasts apart from the lines and crowds of the downhill set, so you're sure to experience the peace and solitude you are seeking. Many resorts have separate trails for snowshoers as well, if you're in the mood for trying something different.

Colorado's backcountry offers the very best in North American skiing for enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels. Resorts will be more than happy to hook you up with outfitters whose guided adventures will make your ski vacation truly unforgettable.

About the Author

If you are interested in exciting Colorado ski vacations, contact the professionals at The Mountains USA (http://www.themountainsusa.com/). Art Gib is a freelance writer.

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