Europeans have long known the pleasure of hut-to-hut travel in the wintertime. Whether cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or backpacking, seeking overnight shelter in a cozy backcountry hut is the perfect reward at the end of an invigorating day of trekking and tracking.
Not for the faint of heart, hut touring is one of the best ways to experience the true essence of Colorado's high country. Wide open spaces merge with thick forests, humans and nature become one, and the views are breathtaking. While not plush resort accommodations, Colorado's hut systems are well-equipped to provide warmth and rest after a vigorous day in the sun and snow.
But be prepared. Backcountry skiing is no walk in the park. These wilderness areas are known for snow pack instability. And you should always expect the unexpected, from potential avalanche danger to sharp elevation gains to suddenly broken trails.
At the very least, you should be fit and strong, stable on your skis and have sufficient equipment. In addition to adequate clothing, metal-edged skis and heavy leather or plastic boots, a detailed topographic map, compass and the knowledge on how to use them are essential for a successful excursion.
Then, all you have to do is be prepared to have the time of your life.
How to plan your hut touring adventure
Several organizations provide resources for hut touring trips:
The
10th Mountain Division Hut System is located between Aspen, Leadville and Vail. Linked by more than 300 miles of trails at an elevation of 9,700 to 11,700 feet, it provides winter recreation enthusiasts access to the White River, Arapaho and San Isabel National Forests. Responsible for 29 huts, the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association sponsors Backcountry Skills and Avalanche Awareness Workshops each winter. For more information on the 10th Mountain Division, visit the
Colorado Ski Museum in Vail to view a videotaped history of these Colorado skiing pioneers. Established in 1976, the museum represents more than 130 years of skiing in Colorado. Call the Colorado Ski Museum at (970) 476-1876, or visit
www.skimuseum.net. For more information on reserving huts for your overnight stay and assistance in mapping your routes, call (970) 925-5775, or visit
www.huts.org.
The
Summit Huts System currently consists of four huts: Francie's Cabin, near Breckenridge; Janet's Cabin, near Copper Mountain Resort; and the Boreas Pass Section House and Ken's Cabin, east of Breckenridge; and there are plans to eventually operate seven or more. This non-profit organization, founded in 1987, operates under special use permit from the USDA Forest Service, in the White River and Pike-San Isabel National Forests. Separate from 10th Mountain, the Summit Huts System also provides opportunities for backcountry workshops—including ethics, winter and avalanche safety and self-sufficiency. For more information, call (970) 453-8583, or visit
www.summithuts.org. For reservations, contact the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association.
Colorado's first ski-oriented hut system, the
Alfred A. Braun Hut System offers six high-mountain cabins in the Elk Mountain Range. Ski hut-to-hut, or spend a couple of nights in one place, making it convenient to venture out and back without the worry of losing your way. Located in the Aspen/Crested Butte area, unlimited mountaineering opportunities abound. For more information and reservations, call the 10th Mountain Hut System at (970) 925-5775, or visit
www.huts.org.
The
Crested Butte Nordic Center is an excellent resource regarding trail and hut systems in the Crested Butte area. Day trips and overnight stays, as well as the Gourmet Get-Away (complete with gourmet dinner, breakfast and comfortable bedding) provide something for everyone. For more information, call (970) 349-1707, or visit
www.cbnordic.org.
With five backcountry ski huts connecting Telluride, Ridgway and Ouray, the
San Juan Hut System offers a route not to be missed. You can travel hut-to-hut or access each hut individually along trails in the beautiful Mount Sneffels Range of the San Juan Mountains. For more information, call (970) 626-3033, or visit
www.sanjuanhuts.com.
Hut touring is a great way to explore the outdoors, challenge your body, feed your soul and nurture friendships. Come soon and experience true adventure in the Colorado backcountry.