Going Against Gravity: Uphill Ski Insight for Summit County
Uphill skiing, also known as ski touring, is a form of skiing where skiers travel uphill using specialized equipment before skiing back down. Unlike traditional downhill skiing at resorts, uphill skiing allows enthusiasts to explore natural, often untouched mountain terrain by climbing slopes with the help of climbing skins attached to their skis.
Similarly, snowshoeing is a popular uphill activity that involves walking over snow with the help of wide, lightweight footwear designed to distribute weight and prevent sinking. Both uphill skiing and snowshoeing offer unique ways to explore winter landscapes, providing a rewarding workout and the chance to experience peaceful, snow-covered wilderness away from crowded resort areas.
Need to rent Gear? Alpine sports and Ski Butlers will outfit you.
Use this link for 10% off: https://www.skibutlers.com/portal/AlpineOutposts
This is a comprehensive list of on resort access, for backcountry information please see https://www.kbyg.org/
Breckenridge Up Hill Access Policy is HERE
Basic Rules:
- Stay on designated trails.
- Stay in the middle of the trail.
- Position yourself so that you are visible from above.
- Wear brightly colored and reflective clothing.
- Obey all pertinent signage.
- Avoid all areas where machinery is operating.
- Be aware that ski area emergency services are not available.
- No motorized vehicles.
When: Outside of public hours, no lift use, may encounter snow making/grooming machinery
Breckenridge Parking for Uphill Access: Free parking is allowed in the North Gondola lot, Stables lot at Peak 8, and the Beaver Run Parking lot between 6AM and the resort opening time). For evening access, hourly rates and rules apply.
Click HERE for a free UP HILL Parking Permit
- All cars utilizing these lots will need a free uphill access parking permit. To get a permit, please fill out the form.
- There is no parking permitted between the hours of 2AM to 6AM in any Breckenridge Ski Resort lots.
- Regular parking rates apply after the resort opening time. Non-paid users will receive a violation.
- Pass needed: to uphill no, yes to park
- Dogs: No
Trails: (970) 547-5627
Keystone Up Hill Access Policy is: HERE
Rules:
As an uphill traveler, you’ll always cede the right-of-way to downhill traffic and will need to be aware of mountain operations going on around you. Below, a few tips to keep in mind:
Stay on designated trails and/or to the side of trails during daylight hours, and remain visible from above at all times.
Respect all trail closures, ropes, and warning signs.
Wear bright colors and/or items with reflective elements to maximize your visibility.
Stay clear of all snowmaking and snow grooming equipment.
When: before the resort opens to the public
Parking for uphill access: free options at the River Run Gondola Lot (which can fill quickly) and the Mountain House East lot, which offers the closest free parking to the Peru Express Lift.
Pass: to uphill no, yes to park
Dogs: No
Trails: (970) 496-4033
Copper
Parking: Free parking interior lots after 2 pm and before 8:30am.
When: 5-8:30am or 4:30 - 10pm (free weekly uphill meetups Tuesdays & Thursdays) (private uphill tours)
Pass: Free for Copper or Ikon passholders but must register, wear armband with pass in, pickup pass at Mammut Store in Center Village
Dogs: No
Trails: Current Trails and Conditions
Abasin
Rules/Trails/When: before and after resort opens any trail on front of the mountain,during operational hours skin up to Black Mountain Lodge and follow uphill route on skinners left of High Noon or through trees between High Noon and Sundance.
Pass: Need uphill access pass 109$ or 29$ to add -on to season pass and worn on armband, online purchase only, pickup in person 08:00 - 4:30 pm
Dogs: Yes!