I’m sure you know that we have some amazing backcountry & side country ski/snowboard options here in Summit County… But, with 5 ski resorts within a 10 minute drive of our front doors (depending on where you live), it’s easy to forget that the backcountry & side country options can be dangerous.
Every year, thousands of adventurers seek deeper powder, steeper lines and less crowds by veering away from the resorts. Since 1950 avalanches have killed more people in Colorado than any other natural hazard, and in the United States, Colorado accounts for one-third of all avalanche deaths.
Courtesy: CAIC
That’s a pretty big number and it can be avoided! We all need to remember that as much fun as snow can be, it an also be very dangerous.
There are avalanche preparation courses throughout the state. You can take a class through the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Colorado Mountain College or one of he local resorts. With so many educational resources there’s no reason not to be aware of how to react in an avalanche situation. Whether it’s a first time class or a refresher, everyone considering going into the backcountry should take a course.
Local Resources include:
