Silverton Mountain

Silverton Mountain is a ski resort near Silverton, Colorado USA that opened on January 19, 2002. Popular with skiers, Silverton Mountain has one chairlift that carries skiers into in its terrain, which is for advanced and expert skiers. Avalanche gear is required to ride the lift at all times due to the unpatrolled and ungroomed nature of Silverton. In addition to Silverton Mountain's 1,819 acres of lift accessed skiing, Silverton also serves as a base area for over 22,000 acres of helicopter accessed skiing. Also unique, Silverton is only open Thursday through Sunday from December through April.DescriptionSilverton Mountain is located in San Juan County, just six miles from the historic mining town of Silverton, Colorado. The ski area is best known for adventure, powder and steep terrain. At 13,487 feet, it is North America’s highest and, according to its website, most expert ski area.The mountain boasts 1,819 acres of lift accessed terrain and over 22,000 acres of hike to and helicopter accessed terrain. There are no groomed runs and no cut trails. Skiers and snowboarders can access some of the best powder skiing in the world. Due to the high elevation of the San Juan Mountains and limited number of daily skiers the snow quality is typically very good.During certain times of year the ski area only allows guided skiing. Guides are provided by Silverton Mountain. Each guided group of eight skiers or less can expect to typically hike between 5 and 45 minutes to access runs. However, some runs drop straight from the chair lift. Hiking 15 minutes to an hour allows access to large open bowls and steep, tight chutes.Avalanche safety equipment is required to be worn by every skier and rider. Required equipment includes; avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe. These items are available for rent from Silverton Mountain. Reservations are highly recommended for guided skiing as the mountain does book up. Guides are also available during the unguided season.