After being back east for the annual Society of Toxicology meeting last week, I was missing the mountains and anxious to get back to Colorado. Blue skies, sunshine, and warm temperatures continued through the weekend and offered another opporunity to get in some early spring skiing on lines that usually don't set up with low avalanche danger until later in the season. First up: Buffalo Mountain. Most visitors to Colorado will recognize Buffalo Mountain as the large hump rising directly from Silverthorne viewed after traveling westbound through the Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70. Buffalo Mountain is characterized by the long, wide North (or Silver) couloir that splits its north face. This couloir stretching ~2,000 vertical feet is considered one of the longest in Colorado and has long stood among the state's classic ski descents. A large group of 11 met on Saturday morning and ascended the steep east slopes to Buffalo Mtn's summit at 12,777 feet.
Sunrise over Frisco/Dillon/Silverthorne valley:
On the summit, switching gear for the ski descent:
The snow conditions in the couloir were quite variable, ranging from soft spring corn to icy hardpack. We all skied cautiously especially after Brandon fell and slid a ways before arresting without injury. The 2,000 vertical feet of uninterrupted skiing completely satisfied my expectations for the day. It was especially fun to get out with such a large group, although it takes a loooong time when skiing one at a time down short sections between safe zones.
Rainier takes a break:
Myself skiing the upper entrance of the couloir:
Andy turns through spring corn:
Devon reaches the bottom of the couloir with much relief:
Buffalo Mtn and north couloir (right of center) seen from CO-9 north of Silverthorne:
On Sunday, I set out on a solo adventure and returned to Herman Gulch and Citadel Peak. After last weekend's experience, I couldn't resist getting back to this area in hopes of finding similar conditions. This basin is a favorite playground for snowmobilers, and I arrived to see tracks littering Citadel's slopes.
Snowmobiles highmark in every direction:
However, I had the place to my lonesome on this day. My summit attempt was stopped a mere 100 feet shy due to quickly softening snow under the sun's intense rays. However, I was able to get some turns down the summit snowfield before traversing back along the ridge to find untracked snow on north-facing aspects that held plenty of spring powder. Enough so that after one lap, I turned right around and hiked up for another.
Hiking along the south ridge:
Preparing to descend the steep summit snowfield:
Finding the goods (snowmobiles can't get everywhere):
With quick access from Denver, beautiful views, and a myriad of skiing and hiking potential, this area is quickly moving up the list of my favorite places in Colorado.
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