A Squaw Frontcountry Tour

'Backcountry' is the phrase typically used in the States for going ski-hiking back in the wilds. 'Sidecountry' is a newer word used to describe terrain that you can access from a resort's boundaries. And 'frontcountry' is the word we lazier skiers use when talking to those who go after the other 'countries.' It makes us feel like we actually accomplished something special - and in front of the right audience it sounds pretty cool. Today my group skied the frontcountry and we did it right.

Touring is something that's well known throughout the ski world. Usually it requires adapted gear and special skills that help folks reach lofty goals and loftier peaks. Avalanche training, guides and maps are all part of the game. So maybe you don't have all that stuff nor do you really care about letting a lot hang out just so you can get some fresh air in the mountains. Well, sometimes I feel exactly the same way - like today.

A classic Squaw frontcountry tour goes from one end of the joint to the other - Squaw Creek all the way over to Solitude then a lap on Silverado and finally Broken Arrow. It takes about 2 hours to get from one side to the other and just like any classic backountry tour, this one ends with a Holy Grail at the end of the trail: The Arc Bar at Gold Coast.

For those of you who didn't schralp the windbuff today (FR), you may have The Hikes to look forward to for the weekend. Today most of them were closed so Saturday could see, as it has for weeks in a row now, fresh-track-chances for all who want them. The Hikes include: Palisades, Granite Peak & Mainline Pocket. Go get 'em!

For more bloggin' by Big Al go to http://squawblog.com