Some people plan their vacations months, sometimes years in advance.  Some people have it down to a science.  For example, a long time friend and his wife plan a cruise every year to commemorate their marriage which was also aboard a cruise.  Immediately after returning home they begin to plan their next cruise in the following year.  That takes some kind of vacation dedication.

Winter is now upon us and while some people have already had their vacation plans for some time, others are just now thinking about what they would like to do this winter.  Some need to take some time off before the New Year and others might be looking for something fun to do in the winter weather.  Whatever your reasoning, the question remains…Where to travel next?

If you like to ski or snowshoe your best bet is the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.  Sure, there are plenty of other activities inColorado.  There are numerous resorts that cater to downhill skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers and the like but these places are crowded and expensive.  If you’re looking for something a little less crowded or a little more unique…How about a hut trip?

Did you know there are backcountry huts all over the United States?  These huts can be driven or hiked to in the summer and cross-country skied or snow shoed to in the winter.  The 10^th Mountain Division Huts in Colorado are a network of 30 huts located between Vail, Aspen and Leadville.  These huts are actually well insulated cabins with wood stoves, full service kitchens and beds for a number of people and they’re fully maintained by the 10^th Mountain Division organization. 

What do you need to plan for?

First, you’ll need to pick a hut.  Huts.org and Hutski.com are great resources and should help you decide which hut to pursue.  Choosing a hut can be difficult because of the things you must take into account.  Some huts are more difficult to ski to and some have avalanche danger.  If you’re an experienced skier these may not be an issue but if you’re a novice you’ll want to find a hut that is more suited to your skills. 

Next, you’ll need equipment.  Since winter routes are typically different than summer routes you should pick up a winter route topographical map.  GPS is great but not necessary; a map and compass are usually enough and sometimes not even needed if the trail is already broken.  Since the hut includes most of the essential living necessities you should only need to pack a sleeping bag, clothes and food. 

Hut kitchen with wood burning stove

Since the huts typically have full service kitchens many backcountry travelers choose to have elegant meals.  Huts have gas burners, wood burning stoves and all the essential kitchenware so you can get creative when planning your meals – pizza is a classic hut meal.

Although some of the modern huts have ammenities like running water, others do not.  In the winter, snow can be melted for water. 

What do you do at the hut?

A backcountry hut experience is unique.  Take the time while you’re there to enjoy your surroundings.  Huts are quiet, peaceful, and away from the distractions of modern civilization.  Enjoy close friends company, make new friends or cuddle with your significant other in front of a fire.  Reading journal entries from previous visitors is also a favorite pastime.  And let’s not forget the awesome snow the backcountry has to offer.  There are miles and miles of fresh snow waiting to be skied.

Traveling to a backcountry hut can be fun and exciting.  They’re not only for skiers but for anyone who loves the outdoors.  Huts are also a relatively cheap alternative to more expensive vacation options and offer more seclusion and tranquility than resorts.  Check out the links below for more information.

www.huts.org

www.hutski.com