About This Route
Berthoud Pass, a historic Colorado Rockies gateway west of RMNP, boasts legendary backcountry snowboarding with 1,000-foot runs off the old highway like Dead Dog Bowl. Park at the summit (11,315 feet), skin up gentle rolls for laps. No lift-served, pure sidecountry vibes; popular since 1930s. CAIC logs frequent rider traffic; respect closure signs post-avalanche. Scenario: Early season 2021 exposed stumps snagged boards, echoing top safety tips on thin cover.
Safety Considerations
High avalanche terrain; open bowls load with storm slabs. NSAA: ride one at a time, space drops. I-70 traffic below risks skier-crossing; look before descending. Variable snow: crusts, rocks early (November), corn late. Winds scour to faceted weak layers. Altitude demands sun protection; UV index extreme. Groups beacon-practice pre-run.
Essential Gear
ABS Vasp airbag, Pieps DSP Sport beacon, Voile probe. Helmet (Oakley MOD 5), skins (Pomoca Climb Pro), and beacon tester. Buff, sunscreen (REI 50+ SPF), thermos. Dynafit bindings for quick transitions.