Hiking Into Spring

As hard as it is for some of us to contemplate packing our ski and snowboard gear away for another season, spring is willing to present us with a slew of outdoor adventure. Hiking is a fantastic way to continue to enjoy the mountains that you love so much, outside of ski season! In the spring and summer, many of your favorite ski areas become the most beautiful hiking stretches that the U.S. has to offer. Regardless of whether you are just trying on your new hiking boots or hitting the trails is your go-to activity during the not-ski seasons, there are ample year-round opportunities to get your altitude fix.

Hiking Into Spring

Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

Breckenridge is highly regarded as one of the premier winter destinations for skiing and riding. However, the area is quickly becoming a must for those seeking the stunning views without all of the white stuff! Many hikes, great for novices and experts alike, can be found within the resort and beyond. If you are new to hiking or don’t spend a lot of time at altitude, Sawmill Reservoir Trail is a great place to start. As you meander along the one and a half mile out and back trail you will encounter lovely views and colorful wildflowers. The more experienced will find something challenging south of town with either Blue Lakes-Monte Cristo Gulch Trail or Quandary Peak.

Angel Fire Ski Resort, New Mexico

When the weather warms, and the winter snows float away, Angel Fire becomes a nature lovers paradise. Hiking through the aspens and wildflowers leads to many outstanding photo opportunities. Wildlife encounters are not uncommon, usually at dawn and dusk, and the varied terrain provides something suitable for all skill levels. Free Flight Ski Trail is a nearly 7-mile loop with a slight grade and elevation gain of a little more than 2000 feet. If you are an avid hiker and backpacker, you might want to test your skills on the 23-mile South Boundary Trail in Carson National Forest, the views are breathtaking.

Alta Ski Resort, Utah

If you have been to Alta during the winter, it has probably become a favorite of yours. If not, an off-season trip will make it so. The hiking trails within the resort are well maintained with lots of interpretive signs along the way. A challenging hike, suitable for anyone in relatively good shape that has some experience hiking in the mountains, is Collins Gulch to Germania Pass. The five-mile round-trip has a significant elevation gain of 2,000 feet, but the views are worth every step. Lower Albion Meadows Interpretive Trail is another Alta option that offers a shorter, more leisurely hike for anyone interested in learning about the natural history of this impressive area.

Destination Deals has what you need to enjoy your vacations year-round, and we are excited to help you get your mountain fix anytime.

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