Outbound Collective logo

5 Epic Backcountry Skiing Adventures

Winter is coming...

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Winter is just around the corner and while cruising the groomers and indulging in the apres scene is always nice, there’s nothing like hitting the backcountry for a dawn patrol and earning your turns. Start waxing your ride, dust off the old skins, and get ready to hit up one of these 5 epic backcountry skiing adventures.

1. Dawn Patrol Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

Photo: Sam Watson

If you didn’t know, Utah claims the title of “The Greatest Snow On Earth.” The rip off of Barnum and Bailey Circus aside, the snow in Utah is as light and fluffy as you’ll ever ski and this is just one of many epic spots to get your face shots in. Learn more.

2. Backcountry Ski Heliotrope Ridge, Washington

Photo: Elise Sterck

This is a great spot to get some early season turns in and catch amazing views of Mt. Baker and Coleman Glacier along the way. Learn more.

3. Overnight at the Emma and Marcelin Yurts, Colorado

Photo: Chelsea Gribbin

If you’ve never spent the night in a yurt, it’s something you have to try. These yurts also happen to be right in the perfect spot to head out on any backcountry skiing tours. Learn more.

4. Backcountry Skiing Near Mt. Baker, Washington

Photo: Angela Anderson

Another awesome spot with views of Mt. Baker, this are has a variety of terrain which makes it perfect for beginners to learn the ropes. Learn more.

5. Backcountry Snowshoe and Skiing in Herman Gulch, Colorado

Photo: Amy Kesic

Herman Gulch is a popular destination for hiking in the summer with amazing wildflower displays, but in the winter it’s arguably more beautiful and an amazing destination for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Learn more.

Need to restock your winter gear supply? Backcountry.com has everything you need and more.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

Related

Journey to Wyoming’s premier snowmobiling destination: Togwotee Mountain Lodge

Samuel Brockway

Hiking in comfort: a review of Danner Mountain 600 Evo boots

Meghan White

A peek through God's window

Heather Arnold

Big Bend Bound: Crafting Your 3-Day Adventure

Erin Newman-Mitchell

Lake Tahoe's trifecta: 3 Days of adventure at Zephyr Cove

Ranz Navarro