Can I drive to any of the hiking huts and use them as a base camp?
Yes. With 4×4 and/or a high clearance vehicle you can drive to the Blue Lakes and Burn Huts.
How far apart are the hiking huts?
The hiking huts are about 4.5 to 8.5 miles apart.
What do I need to do about drinking water at the hiking huts?
You will get your water from local springs, streams, and ponds near the huts. You will need to decide what type of water purification works best for your group and treat water accordingly. For most people who are not allergic to shellfish, we recommend using iodine tablets as they are light,effective, and can’t break.
What do I need to bring with me to the hiking huts?
You will need to bring your food, means to purify water (iodine, filter, or UV light stick), and appropriate clothing for the weather to the hiking huts. A complete gear list is also provided upon booking. Feel free to contact us with any questions about what to bring and remember the whole point of using…
Who can provide transportation for me?
San Juan Huts offers custom winter shuttles. Must be booked at least 30 days in advance. TelluRides is another option: www.TelluRides.com [email protected] 970.626.5121
Where can I find lodging?
Ridgway Chipeta Sun Lodge (970) 626-3737 Ridgway Lodge and Suites (970) 626-5444 Orvis Hotsprings (970) 626-5324 Telluride Visit the Telluride Chamber of Commerce Visit the Telluride Visitor Center
Where can I rent ski equipment?
Ridgway Adventre Sports | https://www.ridgwayadventuresports.com/ (970) 626-8500 (Skis, boots, poles, climbing skins, shovel, beacons) Boot Doctors | www.bootdoctors.com (970) 728-4581 (Skis, boots, poles, climbing skins, shovel, beacons) Peak Mountain Guides | www.peakguides.com (970) 325-7342 (Skis, boots)
What kind of skis should I use?
Light to medium weight gear works getting to and between the huts. Except for Spring Creek and Blue Lakes, skis with climbing skins are recommended. Above the huts, full “backcountry” gear is recommended. Is there any other information you can provide to help us prepare for the trip? Get out in the snow before you…
What about avalanche conditions above the huts?
Above most huts a variety of non-avalanche as well as potential avalanche terrain exists. Skiers should have at a minimum some working knowledge of avalanche ‘mechanics’ while venturing above the huts. Proper avalanche equipment (shovel, beacon, probe, and a brain) is also recommended.
What are avalanche conditions like between huts?
Between most huts avalanche danger is very minimal with one exception. Between Last Dollar and North Pole Huts there are eight points of potential avalanche danger, and two of the eight points require real avy-savvy to negotiate.