Palmyra Peak - ski access for the extremist - right in our back-yard!

Just the other day I had the pleasure to hike and ski Telluride's stunning Palmyra Peak. While most people were skiing corduroy and taking powder turns, my friend and I decided to check out the infamous hike-to terrain that Telluride has to offer. After months of avalanche control and hard work from Telluride's ski patrol, this new terrain is available for the first time in years. This amazing hike-to terrain includes over 200 acres and a 2,000 vertical feet scramble to the 13,320 foot peak. We began our trek at 10:30 in the morning on a crystal clear, blue-sky day with conditions better than ideal. As Palmyra stared down on us, we were unaware of the very strenuous climb ahead. With loose rock, steep terrain, and extreme falls on either side, this was not a hike for the weary. After an hour and a half we finally reached our destination, 13,320 feet in elevation and the most stunning view that I've ever seen in my life. And that was just the beginning...                                                                   

Palmyra Peak

After a much needed break on top, we strapped on our skis and started choosing our lines. We dropped in and immediately had an ear-to-ear grin for the rest of the 10 minute run. With smiles and powder up to our knees, it was worth every step of the 2,000 vertical foot hike. It was truly an amazing day and the best thing is... "What can be considered some of the most spectacular in-bounds terrain in North America", is right here in our backyard!

» Henry C. Lystad's blog
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