Nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, Silverton Mountain offers one of the most authentic and thrilling ski experiences in North America. This backcountry-only mountain isn’t just for the casual skier. It’s for those who crave adventure, steep terrain, and the untouched beauty of the wilderness. For passionate skiers and snowboarders, Silverton is more than a ski area. It’s where raw mountain experiences meet expert-level skiing, creating a space unlike anything else in the lower 48.
The draw
Silverton isn’t your typical ski resort. It’s a mountain for those drawn to the purity of skiing, where après-ski lounges and crowded runs are replaced with untouched powder and breathtaking alpine terrain. The mountain’s new ownership, a team of experts with a background in backcountry skiing and heli-skiing in Canada, has brought a fresh perspective while maintaining the core of what makes Silverton Mountain special.
The thrill of skiing at Silverton Mountain comes from its vast terrain: 12,000 acres of some of the best tree skiing and high-alpine challenges anywhere in the U.S. This isn’t a resort with cushy amenities; it’s a place for serious skiers. Guided skiing runs from December to April, with unguided access available later in the season, offering a wide range of terrain that only the most adventurous will tackle. Add in heli-skiing, and Silverton Mountain stands out as one of the few places in the country where skiers can experience true backcountry bliss.
Silverton’s focus remains on the skiing experience itself, not resort-style luxuries. With some of the most challenging terrain in the U.S., Silverton has always been about “all thrills, no frills.” The mountain’s double chairlift serves expert skiers eager to explore its steeps and deep powder. The heli-skiing option, which has expanded since new ownership, offers access to even more remote wilderness. This is the ultimate backcountry skiing experience for those ready to push their limits.
A commitment to land and community
With such a large portion of the mountain lying on private and BLM land, Silverton Mountain’s environmental stewardship is a top priority. In an era of climate uncertainty, ski areas face significant environmental challenges, and Silverton Mountain is no exception. The ownership team has taken on this responsibility with great care, managing the land in partnership with the local community and federal agencies. With only 100 to 200 skiers on the mountain daily, the environmental impact is carefully minimized to maintain the pristine beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
However, the relationship with the land is only part of the story. Silverton Mountain has worked hard to establish trust within the local community. As the largest winter employer in San Juan County, the mountain plays a crucial role in the local economy. The first year under new ownership focused on building relationships with the team and town and ensuring the mountain’s values aligned with the community. This approach was essential to addressing any concerns that Silverton might become overdeveloped or lose its unique charm.
Growth with a purpose
Silverton Mountain’s growth has been deliberate, focusing on expanding terrain without losing its backcountry soul. They’ve opened up more tree skiing, already considered some of the best in the lower 48, but have kept pricing competitive and fair. There’s no interest in turning Silverton Mountain into an elite playground. Instead, the goal is to remain accessible to those who can ski it—not just those who can afford it. The ownership team has invested in practical upgrades, like a new guide shack and glading work, instead of adding unnecessary frills. The priority is always the experience—and the team. Silverton Mountain’s staff, many of whom were retained from the original owners, are some of the best guides in the business.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Silverton’s mission. The team views the mountain and its surroundings as sacred, deserving of protection and respect. Their partnership with the local town and county ensures the mountain’s impact on the environment and the community is positive. The goal is responsible growth, preserving the area’s natural beauty while offering a world-class adventure.
The new ownership has made it clear that while they’ve brought new energy and ideas to the mountain, the heart of Silverton Mountain remains the same. The spirit of adventure, the focus on expert skiing, and the respect for the land and community are as strong as ever. For those looking for amazing turns in the raw, untouched beauty of the San Juan Mountains, Silverton Mountain offers an experience like no other.
