This ski tour starts on the Continental Divide and ends up on the north end of Camp Hale. Once on the RR grade, there is no convenient exit until we reach the end point near the canyon leading into Red Cliff. The views are wonderful since we are high above the road for most of the trip.
George Christman mtnlad@outlook.com 970.376.1430
While this is a decent along the no longer used RR right of way/tracks, it is made easier or difficult due to weather, wind and new snow. So it is important to be prepared for all conditions and weather. There is no convenient exit once on the RR grade heading down toward Camp Hale. Depending on the group strenth, the trek could take six to eight hours. I will provide a snow update once we get into the first week of February. Classic cross country skis can be used for this trek. Heavier duty tele skis or three pin touring skis are ideal. Waxable or no wax skis work well since the snow along the route should be very consistant. Skins are of little use since we are on a one percent grade. Kicker skins would be an option over full skins. If you have any concerns or question, please contact me.
The first part of the trek is down a moderate grade though the wood off of Tennessee Pass. It is a gladed area and wide sweeping runs can made. Generally, this first part of the trek is untracked. Once on the RR bed, the views open up and we will follow the RR grade which runs above the Hwy 24 between Red Cliff and Leadville.