Backcountry Places to Explore
"Peak" Spring Skiing
Although backcountry skiing in Colorado is awesome in the winter on fresh powder days, there are those who relish the coming of spring and perfect corn snow. The ability to safely ski steep peaks in the winter is hampered by access and avalanche danger. After some roads are accessible and the snow has set up in the spring, more peaks can be explored. One must not let down one's guard as wet avalanches are more prevalent in the afternoons. Timing is key so that you have time to get to the top of the peak after the snow has softened to a good corn consistency but before it has a tendency to slide or a thunderstorm arrives. When skiing in the backcountry, always carry and know how to use avalanche beacons, shovels, and a map and compass. Here are three peaks you can explore depending on your ability. If this isn't enough, try more spring skiing in Colorado.
North Star Peak (beginner-intermediate)
From Route 9 south of Breckenridge, travel to Hoosier Pass (elevation 11,500). To get to this peak follow the west ridge from the summit of Hoosier Pass. You can also take the mining road on the south side of the ridge. This will lead to a saddle that meets the ridge just above tree line. The route to the peak is gradual except for three somewhat steep sections located in the beginning, the middle, and the end. Due to the high starting elevation, it is an easier trip than most (round trip: 5 miles). Glades can be found off of either side of the top; however, realize that whatever you ski down, you will have to climb back up.
Mount Toll (intermediate-expert)
This peak, located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is a classic spring ski opportunity. The only obstacles are the wind (which can be nasty at times) and the road in. The pitch is about 35 degrees near the top, but most of the run is closer to 25 degrees. If the Brainard Lake Road is not open, you add 6 miles to your day--and you have to walk most of it as the spring snow is not usually consistent on this road. The ski is well worth the inconvenience. The Brainard Lake area is found just north of Ward on Highway 72. Park at the winter parking area and travel west to Brainard Lake. From Brainard Lake, go to the trailhead marked Mitchell Lake (located to the northwest of the lake). If the road is open, you will be able to drive to the Mitchell Lake parking area. Travel to the south side of Mitchell Lake, and continue up the trail to Blue Lake. Turn left at the south side of Blue Lake and continue up the valley to the south. The peak will be to your right (southwest of Blue Lake). Ascend the east-southeast face of the peak and enjoy the 1600-foot run back to Blue Lake. Round Trip distance: 12 miles (includes the road portion).
Torrey's (expert-extreme)
The northwest flank of Torrey's provides the expert skier a steep 3,000 foot couloir descent into Grizzly Gulch. It is a long sustained ski of 30-35 degrees with potential of ski sloughs or slides, so the ski mountaineer who attempts this outing must be strong and prepared for some unpredictable conditions. Self-arrest grips are recommended. Do not attempt this route until snow conditions are consolidated to avoid potential avalanche danger. Snow conditions are best in June. From the Bakerville exit off I-70, travel south to the parking area. You can see several couloirs in front of you; the couloir/snowfield to the right is your destination. Travel up the road to the intersection of Stephens and Grizzly Gulch. Stephens is the typical route taken when climbing the peak. Grizzly is the route you will come down, so it is recommended as it will allow you to scout the descent for obstacles. The couloir to the west of the summit is recommended due to its more consistent snow and lack of rocky areas that can be found on the other couloirs to the north and east. At the bottom of the run, travel back down the jeep road found on the opposite side of the creek back to your car.