Backcountry Skiing at its Best
Summit County is the ideal environment for those who want to traverse snow-covered trails and open terrain on skis, snowmobiles, snowshoes and even dogsleds. While many visitors to the High Country of Colorado come for the challenge of the ski runs of our many fabulous resorts, others are more enamored with getting off the beaten path and exploring the trails less travelled.
Skiers intimately familiar with the High Country landscape and the cautions inherent with venturing into backcountry terrain know how and when to traverse hills and valleys and arrive safely to their destinations. Those less acquainted with the nuances of backcountry adventures may certainly enjoy such adventures to their fullest, but in the interest of fun and safety, engaging the services of knowledgeable guides and tour leaders is a must.
Tours are available through multiple Summit County area businesses that can provide equipment, training, guidance in appropriate preparation, and can even arrange snacks or meals as part of the total package. This can ensure you get the most from your backcountry experience, and also that you can avoid areas at risk for slides or avalanches.
Why Explore the Backcountry?
Taking to trails in the backcountry provides a different experience in communing with nature in a more intimate setting, often shared with family, friends, business teams, or small groups. The spectacular setting of Summit County provides the perfect environment of snow-covered trails and mountains that make cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other guided tours an adventure that will be remembered for years by participants of every age and skill level.
Backcountry Tour Providers
There are a number of quality and safety-minded companies providing a variety of backcountry tours and adventures in the Summit County High Country.
CBST Adventures offers tours and mountain experiences in the backcountry for every skill level in the group. Specialized services include corporate team-building programs for groups of all sizes. Rest assured that the guides are skilled experts that know the terrain well, and can educate tour participants on the fascinating ecology and history of the area. They are also trained in first aid, and many have additional medical training.
High Country Tours offers another alternative for excitement in the backcountry – snowmobile tours. They host snowmobile and snow tubing tours of 1, 2, 3, or 4 hours for groups or families and participants from beginners to advanced. Snowmobile gear such as snowsuits, helmets, and boots are furnished at no additional cost. Combination tours are available that include a snowmobile tour to a destination where snow tubing takes over for an hour, before the return snowmobile journey. Tours include snowmobile operation instruction, and there are even kid-sized snowmobiles for participants under 70 pounds.
Apex Mountain School is the #1 rated private mountaineering in the Summit County area. Apex offers a wide variety of services including private instruction, courses, clinics, and unique multi-day backcountry trips that include overnight stays in well-equipped huts with gourmet meals prepared by staff members. Apex guides are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable available, and will leave participants with enhanced skill levels and satisfying experiences. Tours can be customized for singles, couples, and groups.
Winterhawk Dogsled Adventures offers a totally different backcountry experience. Take to the trails and snow-covered meadows on a dogsled powered by a team of Alaskan Huskies, led by a trained guide. Snuggle under warm blankets as the team glides you through the beautiful backcountry scenery. Tours are available for private parties, large groups, and families.
Frisco Inn on Galena – Your Backcountry Base Camp
Frisco Inn on Galena is a boutique bed and breakfast that is conveniently located for access to backcountry activities and the plentiful cross-country trails in Summit County. Our courteous staff is ready to help you locate the backcountry arrangements that most suit your taste for adventure.
After your backcountry adventures, return to the Inn for comfortable rooms, cozy fireplaces, a game room well equipped for the whole family, and impeccable service. Frisco’s historic Main Street is steps away, with eateries available for every palate, unique shopping, and popular night spots for a variety of entertainment after your backcountry adventures.
Frisco Inn on Galena is your home away from home for unparalleled service and hospitality, a complimentary gourmet breakfast, modern amenities including flat screen televisions in rooms, and WiFi throughout the facility. Don’t miss our daily complimentary happy hour, including wine, cheeses, and homemade specialties.
Make the Frisco Inn on Galena your backcountry headquarters, and find out why Frisco is known as the “Main Street to the Rockies”. We’re sure you’ll be back.
