Backcountry Skiing/Spiltboarding
Ride the unparalleled terrain of the silverton backountry
Backcountry Skiing/Splitboarding overview
Our programs are designed to accommodate a wide variety of experience levels and ski/snowboard backgrounds. Whether you’re a seasoned resort veteran looking to try the backcountry for the first time, or an experienced backcountry enthusiast seeking the hidden local stashes, we will show you a fantastic day of human powered pow-riding.
Silverton is home to some of the best backcountry terrain in the country and regularly receives storms that blanket the mountains in deep, fluffy pow. A popular destination for skiers and riders from all over the world, Silverton is home to a large majority of our AMGA certified & trained guide staff. With a wealth of local knowledge at your disposal our guides are uniquely qualified to take you for a day of backcountry skiing you will never forget.
Whether you are looking to ski bottomless trees to town or get up into the alpine and sample some of the more technical objectives that occupy many skiers wishlists skiing in Silverton delivers.
who we are
We stand behind and hand-select everyone of our guides/instructors. All of our guides are educators first and experienced mountain athletes second. This year we have two guides that have been listed for “Piolet D’or” awards and have previously received grants for cutting edge expeditions around the world. Our team is sponsored by “The North Face” and contribute to the new product lines of technical outerwear. We have a reputation for safety in the rugged and dynamic environment of the San Juan Mountains and we take safety very seriously. We are respected in the local Durango/Silverton, community and by our happy loyal clients (see our Google reviews).
Where You Will Stay
Silverton provides an ideal base camp for a backcountry excursion. The town is conveniently positioned a short distance from the million-dollar highway on the Southern side of Red Mountain Pass. Nestled in a yawning valley surrounded by a crown of peaks looming above, access to technical terrain is fantastic. The historic town emanates the vibe of a remote outpost but the parallels to a rugged frontiers town stop there. Historic Greene St. hosts a variety of coffee shops, restaurants, bars and more to indulge in on your off time. With no shortage of places to rest your muscles after a long day in the mountains, our lodging partners The Columbine Road House, Avon Hotel, and The Wyman Hotel offer San Juan Expeditions guests a 10% discount on their preferred lodging. If you have any additional questions on lodging feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
where we will meet
Most days of skiing will begin at San Juan Expeditions HQ on Greene St. in Silverton, CO (unless otherwise specified by your guide). You will meet your guide first thing in the morning and between eating breakfast and drinking coffee your guide will bring you up to speed on the day’s tour plan. In addition we will be sure you have all the necessary equipment before heading out into the backcountry.
What is Included in the cost?
– AMGA certified & trained guide
– Federal land usage surcharge (USFS/BLM)
– Avalanche rescue equipment (beacon, shovel, and probe)
– Guide gratuity
– Snow travel equipment (splitboard or AT skis)
– Personal clothing/gear
* If you need to rent equipment locally visit our partners at Cripple Creek Backcountry and pick up your gear at our shop in Silverton.
Skiing Gallery
(Click for full size image)
Waiver
Anyone participating in our programs must fill out a waiver beforehand. If you are under 18, please have your parent/guardian complete.
cancellation
Please familiarize yourself with our Booking & Cancellation Policies.
preparation
Skiers/riders should be in good physical condition, and confident/comfortable on their method of snow travel (backcountry touring skis or splitboard).