aspen_uphillingAspen Snowmass has gotten on the skinning bandwagon and is currently offering uphilling packages at all 4 of its resorts. They even offer rentals and personal inbounds instruction….but for how much? Not surprisingly it’s not cheap….$805 for a day with instructor (gear not included).2015_uphill_guide_cta_100

Here’s they full breakdown of the service:

“Instructors will share tips and proper use for: boot/binding interface, clothing/layering, hydration and nutrition for uphill fitness, putting skins on/off the skis, walking uphill at a reasonable pace, proper routes, etiquette and transitioning to downhill mode. Participant must be an intermediate or above skier and should be acclimatized and feel aerobically comfortable with hiking uphill in the high altitude mountain environment. xAdvance uphill private lesson reservation and payment are required.”screen-shot-2016-11-30-at-8-18-54-amThere are seperate rules and regulations for each of the 4 resorts but here is a basic outline:

Please keep in mind that uphilling is a privilege and not a right. Our rules are put in place to minimize conflicts between uphill and downhill traffic on the slopes and maximize everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Please be aware that no ski area services, including Ski Patrol, are available during hours that the ski areas are not open for business. Please call 911 in the event of an emergency during non-operational hours. You are responsible for your own safety at all times while on Aspen Skiing Company property.

  • Uphilling is allowed during operational hours.
  • Uphillers must remain visible at all times.
  • Uphillers must stay on the side of the trail.
  • Uphillers must be aware of downhill traffic and avoid blind spots.
  • Uphillers must be aware that the slopes are in use 24 hours a day, and to be on guard for snowmobiles, snowcats and other vehicular traffic.
  • Uphillers must stay away from all snowmaking equipment and may not cross snowmaking lines at any time.
  • All uphillers must have a valid lift ticket or pass to ride up any lifts.
  • Uphill traffic may be restricted due to avalanche mitigation efforts or ski area construction and maintenance activities.
  • As with downhill traffic, uphill traffic must obey all on-mountain signage — including closed runs — and ropelines.
  • Dogs are not permitted under any circumstances during operational hours.

Here’s a quote from Aspen Snowmass’s website from a happy customer: 

“Uphilling has become a huge staple of my winter, and it’s a great way to connect with friends and the uphill community in general. We’re lucky it is allowed at the four mountains. There’s nothing quite like it. Not only do you get a great workout in an amazing setting, but you get the reward of skiing down after … can’t do that at the gym!” –Jessica Jacobi

Seems kind of like a canned pseudo backcountry experience but if you are just looking to test out your crossfit strength and drop some serious cheddar in the mountains, why not have bragging rights back in Dallas. maxresdefault

[images from aspensnowmass.com & aspensnowmassliving.com]

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