Backcountry Skiing

50,000 acres of exceptional backcountry-ski terrain surrounds Telluride. If you're looking to make virgin tracks down steep chutes and wide open bowls in the Rocky Mountains, then Telluride is the place for you. Experience the ultimate Colorado wilderness delight: untracked powder. 

The backcountry skiing around Telluride is found in the Mount Sneffels Range of the San Juan Mountains, with the season extending from late October through June. And it gets better - it's common to find pre-established skin and boot tracks!  Backcountry skiing is one of our favorite Telluride activities. 

If you are interested in a guided backcountry skiing tour, Telluride Reservations Center works with San Juan Outdoor School to book anything from full-day backcountry to overnight hut trip tours. To book your true Telluride adventure, please contact our local Telluride vacation specialists at 1.888.376.9770!

The San Juan Hut System operates five backcountry ski huts connecting Telluride to Ridgway and Ouray. Above each hut is ample terrain for the adventurous intermediate, advanced, and extreme 'powder pro.' These huts follow the Dallas and Alder Creeks trails. Each hut can be individually accessed or skiers can travel hut-to-hut in the European tradition.

A final note for those interested in backcountry skiing: Make sure to always test the avalanche conditions and carry a beacon and know how to use it. Still, there is no way to guarantee safe backcountry ski conditions. Interested in front countryskiing, Telluride Ski Resort offers another genuines mountain experience.