Nathalie and I just spent nearly a month up in the Colorado Rockies. We loved it, and even though we normally snowboard in the Alps, we definitely recommend going to the Rockies to anyone who loves to ski or snowboard. Here are six big reasons why you should plan on heading out there at least once in your life.
Different Slopes
The biggest difference that we noticed was the layout of the mountain. Whereas Europe has wide-open, mostly groomed runs that can run for kilometers, the Rockies boast shorter trails that are often nestled between trees.
 |
| Keystone from the outback hill. From here, you can either go to the side country, cruise a groomer or go for a play in the trees. |
Most resorts only groom parts of their trails, meaning that some slopes are left 'au naturel.' This creates exciting terrain with many natural features such as jumps and moguls. On powder days, these are some of the best runs to hit as they are less-traveled, meaning that the snow accumulates quicker and isn't immediately pushed around by other skiers and riders.
The groomed slopes are equally exciting. Many of them have gently rolling hills excellent for cruising. Many resorts will groom a couple of their black (expert) runs, giving you a chance to break your personal speed records.
Side Country and the 'Pow
Groomed and marked trails are only half of the fun in the Rockies. Resorts such as Keystone and A-Basin pride themselves on their side-country; territory within the bounds of the resort but with no marked trails.
These parts of the ski station are awesome to unleash your inner-adventurer on as you leave the comforts of the chairlift and head out until the (relative) unknown. To access the side country, you'll hike up a mountain ridge or through the forest, in search of untouched snow and fresh powder.
 |
| A panel in the Keystone side country showing the resort boundaries and suggested exit routes. |
Once you've found your spot, often times after 30 minutes of walking, you can take a breather and soak in the amazing panorama of the pristine mountains in front of you. But this is just the beginning of the adventure.
As you drop into the untouched snow in front of you, a sensation of pure euphoria overwhelms your senses. Having spent the previous half hour hiking up a mountain, you're rewarded with some of the best skiing/riding of your life, going from wide open, ungroomed terrain to narrow catwalks under the canape of pine trees.
And unlike going off in the pure back country, the side country is covered by the ski patrol meaning that if you have problems, you'll be able to get assistance. Additionally, they monitor for avalanches, making the adventure a safe endeavor.
The Trees!
Next to the side country, this was my favorite part. Going on tree runs (or glades as they're referred to in the US), is not only challenging, but also extremely satisfying.
Much like moguls, you're forced to navigate uneven terrain. This forces you to make faster turns and have better control of your skis/board. Unlike moguls, though, you can't simply keep going straight, as trees and shrubs stand in your way.
This isn't as bad as it sounds though, in fact, it's far from it. Not only is this type of terrain making you a better skier/rider, it also provides you with an incredible playground to frolic around in. Between the small jumps and natural half-pipes, you'll lose hours going back for more and more fun under the firs.
While there are some places in the Alps where you can hit the trees, all three resorts we went to had plenty of forests for skiers and riders to explore. Breckenridge, especially on peak 7, was my favorite but both Keystone and A-Basin had some amazing glade runs.
Much like moguls, you're forced to navigate uneven terrain. This forces you to make faster turns and have better control of your skis/board. Unlike moguls, though, you can't simply keep going straight, as trees and shrubs stand in your way.
This isn't as bad as it sounds though, in fact, it's far from it. Not only is this type of terrain making you a better skier/rider, it also provides you with an incredible playground to frolic around in. Between the small jumps and natural half-pipes, you'll lose hours going back for more and more fun under the firs.
While there are some places in the Alps where you can hit the trees, all three resorts we went to had plenty of forests for skiers and riders to explore. Breckenridge, especially on peak 7, was my favorite but both Keystone and A-Basin had some amazing glade runs.
Lighter Snow and The Higher Altitude
In general, the resorts in the Colorado Rockies sit much higher above sea-level than their counterparts in Europe. Whereas many ski stations in the Alps finish around 2,800-3,100 meters (9,200-10,200 feet), the resorts in Summit County all began around 3,000 m (10,000 feet). This resulted in two distinct differences. |
| On top of Peak 8 at Breckridge at 3,962 m/13,000 ft above sea level |
Second, the higher altitude has a greater effect on your physical performance. While noticeable at first (you'll feel light-headed and get winded easily), once your body adapts to doing sports at high altitude, you'll soon begin to feel the benefits. The body burns fat and oxygen faster and once you get back down to a more median elevation, your sessions in the gym will kick up to the next step.
As an added bonus, the effects of alcohol are much stronger than at sea-level, with one serving in the mountains being the equivalent of three by the beach. This means you'll get more bang for your buck at the bar. Just remember to drink plenty of water or else the next morning will be rough.
Tons of Choice, All Easily Accessible
One of the greatest benefits of the Rockies, especially in Colorado, is that there are tons of ski stations to explore. And on top of the number of variety, almost all of them are easily accessible.
Interstate I-70 is the main gateway from Denver to not only Summit County (home of Copper Mountain, Keystone, Breckenridge and A-Basin), but also to Vail, Beaver Creek, Steamboat Springs, Aspen and Crested Butte. The roads are well maintained and crews work tirelessly to plow and salt whenever snow falls.
On top of the resorts in Colorado (which is home to 20% of all ski stations in the United States), there are plenty more places to visit, from Montana down to New Mexico. So if you feel like hitting up Utah to visit the western edge of the Rockies, or having a true adventure in Wyoming, the choice is there for the taking.
American Culture On the Mountain
Finally, it's worth seeing the way America does ski culture. While the variety ranges from blue-collar ski stations to posh mega-resorts, the Rockies does share a common thread; the friendliness and relaxed vibe Americans bring with them to the mountains.
At least compared to some places in Alps (looking at you, France) Egos tend to be left at home in the Rockies. People are generally laid back and courteous on the mountain.
 |
| East Wall at A-Basin |
And while the base stations are sometimes a bit over the top and reminiscent of Disneyland in the mountains, they are well laid-out and accessible. Sure, you won't get that old Alpine charm found in Swiss mountain villages (which is equally worth experiencing), but the experience in itself will show you yet another side of American culture that you might not know about.
Is there anything I've left out? What have your experiences in the Rockies been like? Let me know in the comments below!
About the Places Mentioned In This Post
Resorts: Keystone, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, Copper Mountain
How To Get There: From Denver; the best way is to either rent a car or arrange a pick up with the resort. I recommend renting a car as it gives you added mobility. Drive I-70 west until Summit County; exits 205 and 203. This is approximately one hour from Downtown Denver.
Where to Stay: While you can stay at any of the resorts, I recommend staying in Dillon, Silverthorne or Frisco. All four resorts are within a 20-minute drive radius from these centrally located towns and have grocery stores and shopping outlets.
Ski Passes: These vary from day-to-day but range between 90-130 USD per single day. There are discounts for multi-day packs and are early-bird season pass promotions significantly driving down the price. Check Out Epic Pass and the Rocky Mountain Super Pass for more information on the passes.
Season: The ski season runs from late November until mid April, except for A-Basin which is open through June thanks to it's high elevation.
How To Get There: From Denver; the best way is to either rent a car or arrange a pick up with the resort. I recommend renting a car as it gives you added mobility. Drive I-70 west until Summit County; exits 205 and 203. This is approximately one hour from Downtown Denver.
Where to Stay: While you can stay at any of the resorts, I recommend staying in Dillon, Silverthorne or Frisco. All four resorts are within a 20-minute drive radius from these centrally located towns and have grocery stores and shopping outlets.
Ski Passes: These vary from day-to-day but range between 90-130 USD per single day. There are discounts for multi-day packs and are early-bird season pass promotions significantly driving down the price. Check Out Epic Pass and the Rocky Mountain Super Pass for more information on the passes.
Season: The ski season runs from late November until mid April, except for A-Basin which is open through June thanks to it's high elevation.
No comments:
Post a Comment