Guided Backcountry Skiing – Ouray

Discover the thrill of backcountry skiing in Ouray, Colorado, with a full-day guided adventure offered by Mountain Trip. Priced at $375 per person, this 8-hour journey takes you into the San Juan Mountains, renowned for their powder-filled glades, alpine bowls, and challenging descents. The tour includes pickup service from the designated meeting point at 801 Main St, making logistics straightforward. With expert guides who are AMGA certified or trained, the experience emphasizes safety, education, and customization, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers.

While personal clothing, ski touring gear, and lunch are not included, the tour provides avalanche safety equipment—beacon, shovel, and probe—ensuring your safety throughout. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the winter months, this private tour promises an intimate experience with just your group. Whether you’re seeking stunning scenery or technical terrain, this adventure combines expert guidance with the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s backcountry.

Key Points

• Price of $375 per person for an 8-hour guided backcountry ski trip
• Tailored itineraries based on your skill level and goals
• Expert guides with over 50 years of experience and AMGA accreditation
• Includes avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe)
• Explores powder-filled glades, alpine bowls, and steep descents
• Pickup offered from Ouray meeting point, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point and Convenience of Pickup in Ouray

The tour begins conveniently at 801 Main St, Ouray, CO, with pickup offered for ease of access. The meeting location is easy to find, and the activity ends back at the same spot, simplifying logistics. Tours operate during the winter season from December to May, with daily hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing ample flexibility for planning your day. The private nature of the tour means your group enjoys a personalized experience, away from crowds.

Expert Guides with Decades of Experience

The adventure is led by guides who are AMGA certified or trained, bringing more than 50 years of local expertise to every trip. These guides focus on personalized instruction, offering valuable advice on backcountry techniques, terrain navigation, and avalanche safety. Their deep knowledge of the Red Mountain Pass area ensures you access some of Colorado’s most stunning and less-traveled terrain.

The guides’ passion for creating memorable experiences is evident, and their ability to tailor routes to your skill level makes this tour suitable for beginners and experts alike. Their focus on safety and education guarantees a confident, enjoyable outing, even for those new to backcountry skiing.

Exploring Unmatched Terrain Near Red Mountain Pass

The tour takes place in the San Juan Mountains, an area known for powder-filled glades and alpine bowls. You can expect to navigate through untouched snow, with opportunities for steep descents and challenging runs. The terrain is selected based on your ability and goals, making each trip unique and engaging.

The area’s stunning natural beauty enhances every moment, with expansive vistas and dramatic mountain views. The terrain’s diversity means that there are options for technical descents or more relaxed, scenic runs, depending on your preferences.

Avalanche Safety Equipment and Gear

Safety is a cornerstone of this backcountry skiing experience. The tour includes avalanche gear: a beacon, shovel, and probe, allowing you to participate fully in the adventure while maintaining safety standards.

It’s important to note that personal clothing and ski touring equipment such as skis, boots, skins, and poles are not included. Participants should come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear, or arrange their own. The guides are well-versed in terrain assessment and avalanche safety, providing instruction to build confidence in backcountry techniques.

Flexibility with Booking and Cancellations

Booking this tour is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking. The policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity, offering peace of mind. In case of poor weather conditions, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund or a different date offered.

This flexibility ensures that your plans are protected, especially since the experience relies heavily on favorable weather conditions.

Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

This private guided backcountry skiing adventure suits a broad range of skiers, from beginners eager to learn backcountry techniques to experienced skiers seeking new terrain. The personalized approach means routes are adapted to your ability level, and safety briefings are provided throughout.

While a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, the focus on education and safety makes it accessible to those willing to challenge themselves in Colorado’s stunning mountains. The 8-hour duration offers a thorough, immersive experience, making it ideal for those wanting a full day of adventure in remote, pristine terrain.

The Value of a Fully Guided, Personalized Experience

With over five decades of experience, Mountain Trip brings local knowledge and expertise that few other operators can match. The accredited AMGA guides prioritize safety, education, and fun, ensuring each trip is a memorable and confidence-boosting experience.

The fully customized itinerary, based on your skill level and goals, combined with stunning scenery, makes this tour a compelling choice for backcountry enthusiasts. The inclusion of avalanche safety gear helps you explore with peace of mind, even in challenging conditions.

Final Thoughts on the Ouray Backcountry Skiing Tour

This guided backcountry skiing trip in Ouray offers a balanced mix of adventure, safety, and personalized instruction. The expert guides and stunning terrain ensure an exhilarating day in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The price of $375 reflects a full-day, private experience with tailored routes and comprehensive safety measures.

While personal gear is not included, the tour’s flexibility, safety focus, and breathtaking scenery make it a top pick for those eager to explore Colorado’s remote mountain terrain. Suitable for a range of skill levels, this adventure delivers both fun and learning in equal measure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $375?
The price covers guiding services, avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe), and the private nature of the tour. Personal clothing, ski touring gear, and lunch are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including time for safety briefings, skiing, and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides tailor routes to your skill level, and the focus on education and safety makes it accessible for first-time backcountry skiers with moderate fitness.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and concludes at 801 Main St, Ouray, CO, with pickup offered for convenience.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring personal clothing, ski touring gear if available, and a lunch. The tour provides avalanche safety equipment only.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the activity, and poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refund.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is available online, with confirmation at the time of booking. For questions, contact Mountain Trip directly at +19703691153 or [email protected].

What makes this tour different from others?
The long-standing experience, local knowledge, and AMGA accreditation set this tour apart, along with the focus on education and safety in Colorado’s stunning backcountry.

Is there anything else I should know?
Be aware that terrain and snow conditions can vary, and weather plays a vital role. The guides are committed to safety and will adapt routes accordingly.