Do I need prior backcountry skiing experience?

Yes, participants should have basic skiing skills and be comfortable in mountain environments.

What is included in the guided trip?

Guided trips include professional guide services, safety briefings, and logistical support.

Are permits required?

Permits are included or issued as part of the guided trip; your guide will handle this.

What should I do if weather turns bad?

Guides have protocols in place for changing plans or turning back for safety.

This trip is designed for experienced skiers; beginners should seek beginner-friendly options.

What about equipment rentals?

Rental gear is available, but participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.

Winter Sports: Lake City Classic Descents by Colorado Climbing Company

Located in the rugged San Juan Mountains of Colorado, Lake City is a top destination for adrenaline-fueled backcountry skiing. The Colorado Climbing Company offers guided trips through the stunning Alpine Loop, where skiers can carve fresh tracks on some of the most iconic high alpine terrain in the region. This area is famed for its expansive slopes, challenging descents, and breathtaking mountain vistas, making it an attractive spot for advanced skiers seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

The trip features renowned runs near 14ers like Uncompahgre and Wetterhorn, as well as the famous Grizzly Gulch, where climbers and powder hounds can challenge themselves on varied snow conditions and steep pitches. The terrain showcases jagged peaks, rugged ridgelines, and expansive bowls—truly a playground for backcountry enthusiasts. The towering Purgatory Chasm and pristine snowfields are also highlights, each offering a distinct challenge and thrill.

Since its early days as a mining town, Lake City has maintained an authentic western charm, blending rich history with daring outdoor pursuits. Guided by experienced mountain guides from the Colorado Climbing Company, participants gain not only a memorable ride but also valuable safety and navigation skills. These guided adventurers help preserve the delicate mountain environment, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles and responsible skiing ethics.

Whether you're an experienced skier craving high-altitude thrills or an adventurous beginner ready to test your skills, Lake City’s varied terrain and stunning scenery elevate each descent. The surrounding wilderness seems endless—each run revealing a new vantage point or untouched patch of snow. This is where the Colorado backcountry reveals its most breathtaking secrets, delivering both challenge and serenity in equal measure. For those seeking soaring peaks, deep powder, and the rugged spirit of Colorado, the Lake City Classic Descents stand out as a must-do experience, offering unforgettable turns in one of the most scenic mountain regions in the U.S.