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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

MAP LOCATION

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/

The Red Mountain Alpine Lodge

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

MAP LOCATION

Red Mountain Alpine Lodge 2361 County Rd 31 Ouray, CO 81427 866.315.2361 redmountainalpinelodge.com | info@redmountainalpinelodge.com

READ MORE of MICHAEL's BLOG HERE

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