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Last year we had the pleasure of volunteering for San Juan Mountains Association at the spectacular Ice Lakes Trailhead. This area saw an unprecedented number of visitors in the last few years and the SJMA trailhead ambassadors did their part to encourage responsible use and leave no trace ethics. We were happy to be a part of the effort to increase awareness and conservation.
In October of 2020 a fire damaged large sections of the trails (although not the lakes themselves) leaving it quite hazardous to hikers this year. The USDA Forest Service has deemed it unsafe and decided to close the trail for the summer months. For now, Ice Lakes basin gets a chance to breath, restore and regrow without human impact.
USDA Forest Service- San Juan National Forest
NEWS RELEASE: The Ice Fire area closure on the San Juan National Forest Columbine Ranger District has been extended until September 15. Post-fire hazards resulted in the need to extend the closure order time frame. Hazards include falling trees and boulders, and also the potential for debris flows during monsoon rains.
The closure order extends the original closure area to include South Mineral Campground and the lower Ice Lakes Trail. The closure applies to all public entry, including hikers, mountain bikers, and all motor vehicles.
See the news release for more details: Ice Fire Closure Extended; Ice Lakes Trail Remains Closed
Maybe you’ve seen other telemarkers carving beautiful turns on the mountain, maybe you are looking for a new challenge, or maybe you want to really work those quads–either way, getting into telemarking is fun and challenging.
Telemark skiing is a blend of Nordic and alpine skiing that combines the grace of cross-country with the thrill of downhill turns. Central to this style is the telemark binding, which allows the heel to lift, enabling a skier to lunge gracefully through turns.
Ready to pick up some telemark gear? Here’s some great news: Unlike downhill bindings, telemark bindings don’t get put on indemnified lists, meaning there is no set age at which they cannot be mounted. This meansbuying used telemark gear can be a great deal.
Backcountry skiing lets you carve fresh tracks in untouched snow far from the crowds. You can explore, conquer, test yourself, and more, all far from the resort boundaries.
With access to untouched, remote slopes comes the need for specialized equipment. Going into the backcountry unprepared can mean not only a rough time, but it could create real safety problems. The right gear ensures not only performance but safety, enabling you to handle the unpredictable nature of the wilderness.
No, getting a high-quality backcountry skiing setup is not cheap, but the good news is you can buy almost everything used.Durango Outdoor Exchange has top-quality used gear that will have you climbing the mountain in style. This guide will show you what you need to get started.
Don’t let winter’s cold keep you indoors, and don’t let the expense and crowds of downhill skiing keep you out of the mountains. Cross-country skiing lets you get outside to enjoy the mountains and winter but costs very little. Whether you're new to the sport or a veteran, one of the best ways to enjoy cross-country skiing without breaking the bank is by opting forused gear. Buying used gear makes the sport affordable and accessible to a huge audience. Read on to learn more.