Home(s) Away from Home
Last fall was an exciting time for growth in one of my favorite locations on earth, the Red Mountain Divide. I was psyched to participate in the assembly of a number of yurts located on the east side of Red Mountain Pass, which are utilized as field based lodging for San Juan Mountain Guide's Ski and Avalanche Programs.
If you haven't spent an evening with me up at yurts, what are you waiting for?
Maybe you're used to the Mt. Belle, St. Paul’s, or even the roadside Addie S cabin? Trust me, an overnight at the Powerline Yurts, complete with memory foam bunks and an on-site sauna will have you rethinking what backcountry shelters should be!
Not to be outdone by last season, 2019 offers even more options for those looking to shred epic terrain while inhabiting some quality digs. These two new backcountry lodges are sure to blow your mind:
The Mt. Hayden Backcountry Lodge
For the past three years, my good friend Eric Johnson has been chiseling an existence out of the hard scrabble earth of Richmond Basin. Initially established in a plush wall tent, the MHBL has grown to include a historic cabin, completely remodeled with electricity, running H2O, internet/cell service and a cozy wood fired hot tub. It's as rugged and remote as the OPUS Hut with most of the amenities found at a higher priced venue. And did I mention Eric's skills as a climber, bc skier and professional chef?
If you're looking for an authentic, backcountry experience that is as for real as the surrounding terrain, yet remains off the radar of the mainstream masses, Mt. Hayden Backcountry Lodge is the destination for you! But get out there quick, this gem will not remain a secret for long.
The Details:
Find it at 37.9561,-107.7196 13S or 0261064E 4204438N
Accommodations for 8
75$/person/per night
Includes dinner and breakfast
Bring sleeping bag liner, lunch food and BYOB
Getting there- Skin 2.3 miles, gain 1600'
Cabin at 11,100' -7 miles from Ouray, Co
Dogs generally allowed
Cell and WiFi
Wood fired hot tub
Guided or Unguided Backcountry Touring
Great terrain for all abilities
Soul Turns, Peak Climbs, First Descents
Booking requests confirmed via email
Deposit required upon confirmation
Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge
County Road 26Z (43.27 mi) Ouray, Colorado 81427
Eric Johnson eric.j.eldo@gmail.com 303-656-1550
https://www.facebook.com/pg/mt.haydenbackcountrylodge/about/
In contrast to the rugged simplicity of the MHBL, the new Red Mountain Alpine Lodge is a beautifully complex work of art. The owners of San Juan Mountain Guides spent the summer building this off-grid lodge which sits in the shadow of R3 at the edge of the old Red Mountain Townsite. Although the price tag for a stay at the RMAL is higher than other accommodations on the divide, the amenities, food and backcountry opportunities that come with your stay are well worth the investment. And what's not to love about an après ski happy hour at the lodge's tavern- post shred suds at 11k really help you put it all in perspective! Showers, flush toilets, private rooms, delicious breakfasts and dinners and warm and spacious community hang out spaces complement RMAL’s inviting feel. Treat yo'self to this gem this winter.
The Details
Opening 12/21/2018
Located at 11,00ft. just north of RMP
$134/person (Sun night thru Wed night)
$149/person (Thurs night thru Sat night)
Both Loft Spaces and Private Rooms Available
On-site Lodge Staff 24/7
Running Water & Hot Showers
Radiant In Floor Heat & Wood Stove
On-Site Tavern
Wi-Fi
Off-the-Grid & Fully Solar Powered
Private Rooms & Loft Space
Living/Hang Out Areas both Up and Downstairs
Breakfast & Dinner Included in Price
Guided or Unguided Backcountry Touring
Red Mountain Alpine Lodge 2361 County Rd 31 Ouray, CO 81427 866.315.2361 redmountainalpinelodge.com | info@redmountainalpinelodge.com
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