What could dampen the spirits of a gathering of backcountry skiers? Certainly not a bit of November snow.

The 17th Annual Backcountry Bash, with its long and storied history as the annual fundraising event of the Backcountry Snowsports Alliance (BSA), went off with a bang on Saturday, November 14, at the American Mountaineering Center. Over 250 revelers braved the elements they love best to attend the first attempt by the Colorado Mountain Club to carry on the Bash tradition.

Through both silent and live auctions, ticket sales, and donations, the CMC was able to raise over $20,000 for the Backcountry Snowsports Initiative (BSI), the fruit of last summer’s merger between the BSA and CMC. The BSI continues the strong tradition of conservation within the club, and further expands the reach to the winter months: its highest priorities include engaging in winter travel management planning at Vail Pass, Rabbit Ears Pass, and other popular sites throughout the state.

 “It’s a pleasure to be able to donate products for a good cause like the CMC’s Backcountry Snowsports Initiative,” said CMC member (and former BSA board member) and Osprey Packs representative Tom Gordon. “The CMC does a great job of educating the public on outdoor issues and preserving the special places we play in.

” Former BSA members and CMC members are equally excited about the opportunities of the new initiative. 

“The BSI powerfully expands the reach and efficacy of human-powered winter recreation advocacy in Colorado,” commented Lee Rimel, a CMC board member and longtime BSA member. “The energy and commitment of CMC members combined with the winter advocacy experience of former BSA members will ensure that human-powered recreationists always have access to their favorite snowsports places.” 

If the Bash itself is any guide, club members have plenty of energy to go around.

During the Bash, CMC Conservation Director Bryan Martin introduced Jay Heeter, the new Central Mountains Conservation Coordinator. Jay comes to the club with degrees in law and public policy, as well as experience organizing campaigns and teaching downhill skiing. He is already working hard to implement the Backcountry Snowsports Initiative’s Strategic Plan.  “People around the state know the CMC name,” said Heeter. “And they know that it means a strong commitment to outdoor recreation. The Initiative ensures that CMC voices are heard on conservation issues year-round, not just in the summer months.”

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