ESTES PARK SKI FIELD GUIDE

A Full Day of Ridge Lines and Forest Laps: Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding in Rocky Mountain National Park

A guide-led, full-day backcountry ski and splitboard outing through varied alpine terrain in Rocky Mountain National Park, with routes chosen to match participant skill and current snow and avalanche conditions.

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A Full Day of Ridge Lines and Forest Laps: Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Duration

8-10 hours

Location

Estes Park

Operator

Colorado Climbing Company

Outing Highlights

THE TERRAIN

Varied alpine terrain across the park

The park contains a variety of terrain in numerous locations, from lower forested tours to more classic big lines when conditions are stable—guides choose areas that suit the group and the snowpack.

THE GUIDES

Routes matched to skill and snow

Guides select terrain appropriate to participants’ skill levels and the current snow and avalanche conditions, ensuring the day’s objectives are safe and achievable.

THE DAY

Longer days, more options

Full-day outings give guides the flexibility to explore multiple zones during a single trip, allowing participants to get more turns and sample varied terrain when conditions permit.

What the day feels like

A full-day outing in Rocky Mountain National Park is a purposeful exploration of whatever terrain conditions allow: guides evaluate snow and avalanche conditions, select suitable zones within the park, and lead a day—typically 8–10 hours—of guided backcountry skiing or splitboarding tailored to the group.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits and who should reconsider.

Active families with older childrenSuitable for families with children aged 8 and older; the operator sets an age minimum of 8 years.

Small groups and private partiesWell suited to small groups—operator capacities are up to 8 people—making it a good option for friend groups or small private bookings.

Endurance-capable skiers and ridersThis is a full-day outing (8–10 hours), so it fits participants who are prepared for a long day in the backcountry and can manage their gear and nutrition accordingly.

Those seeking a guided, condition-based outingIdeal for travelers who want guides to pick terrain based on current snow and avalanche conditions and tailor the day to the group’s ability.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

You are expected to have a backcountry touring setup (skis with touring bindings, skins, backcountry boots) plus personal clothing and footwear, snacks and water; also plan for transportation to sites, guide gratuities, trip insurance and any other costs not provided by the operator.

Logistics & additional costs

Bring transportation arrangements for access to climbing or touring sites and be prepared for costs outside the operator’s services (gratuities, travel, insurance).

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is a full-day backcountry trip?

Full-day outings run approximately 8–10 hours.

Where do we meet for the trip?

Meeting location varies depending on the day and chosen terrain.

What equipment do I need to bring?

You should bring a backcountry touring setup (skis with touring bindings, skins, backcountry boots), personal clothing and footwear, snacks and water, plus transportation to sites, gratuities, and trip insurance as needed.

What are the age and group-size limits?

The trip is available to participants aged 8 and up and groups are limited to up to 8 people.

Will the guide pick the route each day?

Yes. Guides select terrain appropriate to the participants’ skill levels and current snow and avalanche conditions.

Are longer days beneficial?

Longer days provide the opportunity to check out more options and get more riding in when conditions allow.