Adventure brief
Intro to Backcountry Course: Hut Trip
Learn essential winter backcountry skills while experiencing the solitude of off-grid huts in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. This three-day guided course offers avalanche safety training and hands-on adventures near Silverthorne.
Venture into the heart of Colorado's high country with the Intro to Backcountry Course: Hut Trip, a three-day winter experience designed for those eager to gain confidence navigating snowy wilderness. Based out of Silverthorne, Colorado, this trip immerses participants in the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, combining skill-building with unforgettable winter adventure. The course focuses on essential backcountry travel techniques, avalanche safety, and hut living etiquette, all facilitated by knowledgeable guides who ensure a safe and educational journey.
Set against a backdrop of sharp ridgelines and deep powder, this trip takes place in off-grid huts that provide a rare blend of rustic charm and practical shelter in the winter backcountry. These huts are accessed by snowshoe or ski, surrounded by pristine alpine forests and wide-open slopes. Their location offers an unmatched sense of solitude and connection with winter’s raw landscape.
The course is an excellent introduction to winter backcountry travel, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to build foundational skills before tackling more advanced terrain or longer expeditions. Avalanche training is integral to the trip, with hands-on practice using beacon searches, probe lines, and rescue strategies. Participants also learn to read terrain critically and manage risk effectively, skills that are critical for safe travel in avalanche-prone zones.
Hut etiquette is another unique facet of this course. Guests gain insight into living sustainably in sensitive mountain environments, including low-impact cooking and waste management. This respect for the environment and community creates a thoughtful adventure that benefits both visitors and the fragile alpine ecosystem.
Silverthorne is a gateway to nearby resorts and wilderness areas, making it a convenient base for travelers. Those who stay here enjoy access to both winter sport culture and the tranquility of the backcountry. The proximity to the Gore Range and the Tenmile Range give glimpses of iconic Colorado peaks, white with snow and perfect for photography or quiet reflection after the day's lessons.
This Intro to Backcountry Course offers not just skills, but a deepened appreciation for Colorado’s winter landscapes and the competence to explore them with confidence. Whether you’re an aspiring backcountry skier, snowshoer, or winter hiker, this trip equips you with the knowledge and camaraderie to continue exploring safely, long after the course ends.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Layer for fluctuating mountain temperaturesessential
Start early with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulation, and bring a waterproof shell to adjust as conditions change.
- 02Practice beacon use dailyessential
Familiarity with avalanche transceivers is a must; practice before heading into deeper backcountry to build confidence.
- 03Respect hut etiquetteinfo
Keep noise low, help with chores, and conserve resources to maintain a positive group experience.
- 04Hydrate frequently despite coldinfo
Cold weather can mask dehydration; drink water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel
Essential safety gear for avalanche search and rescue training on this backcountry trip.
winterEssentialInsulated, waterproof boots
Keeps feet warm and dry in snowy terrain over multiple days.
winterEssentialLayered clothing system
Allows adaptation to changing temperatures and activity levels during backcountry travel.
winterEssentialHeadlamp with extra batteries
Necessary for early starts and evenings in huts with limited lighting.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
A nearby frozen alpine lake accessible via a short snowshoe hike, Secluded ridge viewpoints offering panoramic mountain vistas
Local fauna
Mountain goats adapted to snowy slopes, Red foxes occasionally seen hunting in the early morning
Historic heritage
Silverthorne’s mining roots date to the late 1800s, but winter backcountry exploration here has grown since the early 2000s with hut networks fostering conservation.
Mindful exploration
The program emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and sustainable hut use to protect fragile alpine ecosystems during winter recreation.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the hut deck overlooking the valley, Summit of a nearby ridge trail, Frozen waterfalls accessible by short ski trek
- Subjects
- Snow-covered peaks, Winter wildlife like mountain goats, Cozy interior scenes of the hut
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior avalanche experience?
No prior experience is required; the course provides foundational avalanche safety training ideal for beginners.
What type of huts will we stay in?
Participants stay in remote, off-grid huts designed for winter backcountry use, offering basic shelter and communal spaces.
Is rental gear available on site?
Please inquire directly with the operator for current rental options for skis, snowshoes, and avalanche safety gear.
How physically demanding is the course?
The trip requires good fitness due to snow travel and altitude; moderate endurance and comfort on skis or snowshoes are recommended.
What is the group size?
Groups are kept small to ensure personalized instruction and safety, typically under 10 participants.
Can beginners participate in this trip?
Yes, the course is designed as an introduction to backcountry skills, welcoming beginners with guidance from expert guides.