Backcountry Bear Creek Basin

RULES & REGS         GROUP ETIQUETTE        AVALANCHE SAFETY        BUYING A BEACON        BEAR CREEK

Bear Creek Basin

Bear Creek Basin offers some of the most spectacular ski and snowboard terrain in the Rockies. It is an uncontrolled backcountry area, accessible through USFS gates at the Telluride Ski Resort or by hiking over from Ophir. This terrain is avalanche-prone, and contains multiple cliff bands, rock outcroppings and close-out routes. It also contains many chutes and faces where it may be difficult to determine if skiers are exposed below.

Considering these factors, the local saying regarding Bear Creek is “Don’t go if you don’t know.” Please use the utmost caution and preparation  before considering Bear Creek.

 - NOTICE -

The Telluride Ski Area is conducting a Snow Study Analysis in Upper Bear Creek from February 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009.  The Study Area will be closed daily from 6:00A.M. Until 10:00 A.M.  This Study includes forecasting, explosives testing and other elements.  It DOES NOT ELIMINATE THE NORMAL BACK COUNTRY RISKS, not is it designed to ensure against avalanches.  Users should not rely on this study to protect them in any fashion and must ASSUME ALL RISKS.

WARNING!  This area is out-of-bounds and it is not patrolled or maintained.  Multiple hazards exist, including: getting lost, avalanche, immersion, hypothermia, unpredictable snow conditions, unmarked hazards and others.

CAUTION!  Deep snow or tree wells can expose you to the risk of snow immersion injuries or fatalities.  Educate yourself on how to reduce the risks and always ski or ride with a partner and keep them in sight.  Depending on conditions, rescue may be lengthy or unavailable.  You will be responsible for any costs related to rescue.  Before you pass through this gate have a beacon, probe, shovel, and a partner with knowledge of the terrain.  Skiers and snowboarders have DIED in Bear Creek.