February 28, 2024 11:20 pm

Duane L. Coker

Hey fellow mountain enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, the thrill of ascending a snowy peak on skins or a splitboard, followed by the euphoric descent, is what winter dreams are made of. Today, I’m excited to share with you all about uphill skiing and splitboarding at the iconic Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado.

Uphill skiing and splitboarding at Telluride is fun and very accessible.

Whether you’re a seasoned uphill skier or a curious newbie looking to dive into the adventure, Telluride’s got something special in store for you. And, with lift tickets often exceeding $200 these days, uphill skiing and splitboarding isn’t just fun and healthy, it’s a heck of a bargain, too!

I just spent a week skiing Telluride’s amazing slopes, and a big chunk of that time skinning uphill and “earning my turns”. Here are a few pointers from my trip.

Just the Facts

First off, let’s talk logistics. Before you strap on your skis or splitboard, you need to know about access. At the time of writing, no pass is required for uphill travel at Telluride. Check the Telluride Ski Resort website or give them a call at their info line for the most current information.

Now, when and where can you go? Telluride Ski Resort embraces the uphill culture, but it’s important to know where and when you can ascend.

During the ski season, Uphill Access is permitted only on ski trails in the Lift 10 “Sunshine” Area and only from 8 am to 10 pm. According to the trail map, any of the runs in this area are fair game for uphill travel except for Sundance.

From 4:30 pm until 10 pm, Telluride allows “well behaved dogs” to accompany their owners on the trails, but leashes are required.

Safety First

Safety first, folks! Do be aware that downhill skiers will be on these runs when the lifts start turning. Be sure to keep an eye out for someone, who may not be keeping an eye out for you.

While Telluride is an incredible place to experience the mountains, it’s crucial to remember that skiing uphill in a resort setting comes with its own set of rules. Be sure to have proper equipment, including lights for those early morning or late evening ascents, and reflective materials so you’re visible. Always follow the designated routes and respect any closures or instructions from resort staff. They’re there to keep everyone safe, after all.

Perfect for Beginners

And for those of you new to the uphill game, Telluride is a fantastic place to start. The community is welcoming, and there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. From rental gear to guided tours and instructional courses, there’s no shortage of ways to dip your toes into the uphill skiing and splitboarding world.

Further, many of the runs in the Sunshine Lift area aren’t that steep, so it’s a great place to practice without feeling like you are gulping air like a fish out of water.

If you need help getting setup on your splitboard, check out my Ultimate Splitboard Setup guide.

Hit the slopes!

So, what are you waiting for? The mountains are calling, and Telluride Ski Resort is the perfect place to answer that call. Uphill skiing and splitboarding offer a unique way to experience the beauty and challenge of the mountains, combining the joys of skiing with the satisfaction of a climb well done. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from the slopes or enjoying a quiet moment in the snow before a thrilling descent, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Remember to check out the Telluride Ski Resort website for all the nitty-gritty details, including route maps, safety guidelines, and more. Or, give them a call if you’re more of a chat-on-the-phone type. Either way, they’re there to help you make the most of your uphill adventure.

See you on the mountain, folks! Let’s make some unforgettable memories, one step (or slide) at a time.

Uphill Skiing Times8 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Uphill Skiing LocationLift 10 “Sunshine Area” runs except Sundance
Pets?“Well behaved,” leashed pets allowed after 4:30 p.m.
Just the facts!
About the Author

Avid backcountry splitboarder, camper, overlander, traveler, foodie, trained sommelier, and lover of tech and gadgets!

  • Tyrone Dunson says:

    What a cool trip & it’s such a great option to spend a day skinning up the hill on days when snow conditions are less than optimal on steeper terrain or lift lines are crazy long.

  • Just got back from an awesome trip to Telluride and I’m happy to answer questions. Just post them here in comments!

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