Skiing in June
What's not to love - you'll be skiing in the off season!
What a marvelous day this was! The first week of June, we packed our skis, boots, and avi gear in our packs, and pushed on with our hiking shoes on our feet. May could have been potentially the most opportune time for this adventure, but we made June work!
The hike you will take is the traditional Notch Mountain Hike. It begins at the Fall Creek trailhead off of Tigiwon Rd, near Minturn Colorado. I'd advise having a 4x4 vehicle to approach the trailhead, but you should be alright with a low clearance vehicle as well - just take her nice and slow.
The first two miles of the hike lead you through the high alpine, occasionally popping out on a cliff side to take in the views. At the two mile marker you will see a a split in the trail. Straight on will take you toward Tuhare Lakes / Lake Constantine. The trail to your right will take you up Notch Mountain. Also - to note - this is a good break spot.
After you take your right turn, the climb begins, for another mile you'll find yourself in and out of the trees, approaching tree-line. Once you find yourself fully immersed in the tundra, the switchbacks will become more apparent (here you'll be about two miles from the top). Just before reaching the top you'll want to keep an eye out for the cliffs and chutes to your right of the switchbacks. These chutes are where you'll be able to drop in to ski out. Reference the last photo in the series for lines. Once you find where you’ll ski, you can ditch your gear, and hike the last .5 miles to the top to catch the views.
Upon making it to the top of Notch Mountain you'll be greeted by the most glamours views of Holy Cross, you'll also be able to check out the stone hut that lives at the top of the Notch Mountain.
Once you complete your summit, eat your lunch and enjoy all there is to offer, head back to your gear and ski out! Once you reach the bottom of your line, you'll follow the river/ creek / drainage till it intersects back with the trail taking you out and back to the packing lot.
As to be advised, be sure to carry all your avalanche gear, helmet, etc... and take caution when attempting something of this nature. Not for the inexperienced.
You’ll not find any photos of us actually skiing, …. because we were to in the moment to care about documenting that!
