Bring on the Snow... It's Hut Trip Season!

All ready to go!

And the snowflakes have arrived...   An end to our backcountry adventures?  Or just the beginning?  A few weeks ago, we ventured to the Colorado backcountry on a hut trip.  Now I know what you are thinking... What is a hut trip?  I would define it as the perfect extension of our love for backpacking  without the constant cold of winter camping.  The 10th Mountain Division Hut Association is named in honor of the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army which trained in central Colorado in World War II.  This association manages several huts in the central Colorado area.  Individuals who make use of these huts share the love of the outdoors and sense of adventure the men of the 10th Mountain Division did in their day. 

Our hut experience began at the parking area at Vail Pass where we climbed out of the station wagon, donned our winter gear - snow pants, hat, goggles, and unloaded the trunk.  Gear included our backpacks, snowshoes, and a homemade pulk (a sled with lines and PVC pipe supporting so the sled can be pulled up and down the mountain with a measure of control).  And of course two eager little boys.

The views were inspiring!

We quickly found the trailhead, strapped on our snowshoes and were off!  Well, not really.  Gus was lying down in the snow more than up hiking.  Jack persisted with his slow and steady pace.  But it didn't take long before Matt resorted to pulling Gus in the pulk.  But our homemade pulk was a bit less than optimal, and we could see why others were willing to pay around $300 for this piece of equipment.  Gus was still spending more time lying in the snow than making forward progress.  We considered turning back.  But, have no fear, a few adjustments in the load and some hot cocoa and we were off. 

The path took us along a stream and clearing.  The clear sky let us see the surrounding snow covered peaks and a nearby ski resort.  We passed a few snowshoers who were headed down.  Otherwise, though, the silence the snow allowed was amazing.  We ascended only about 500 feet and traveled about 3 miles all together.  We got to a point where we crossed the clearing into a wooded area and found Shrine Mountain Inn.  Ours was the third in the group of three... Walter's Cabin.  I was told it was the best, and was not disappointed.  The view was amazing.

Our home for the night...  Walter's Cabin

Inside we were happy to find a propane heater and stove as well as running water and cookware.  Our sleeping bags were needed on top of the supplied mattresses and pillows.  There was a table and chairs in the living area...  In terms of backcountry experiences, this place was plush!

Warm and cozy...

We heated up some chili, fixed cocoa for the boys and peppermint patties for Matt and I and settled in.  We read books, played Uno, and just relaxed.  And in our exhaustion from the hike, were all to sleep by 7:30 or so.

In the morning, having the luxury of a stove, we had a great breakfast of eggs, bacon and bagels.  We were pleased to have another sunny day for our hike out.  Downhill, of course, was much easier.  We finished with some sledding on the way back.  All in all, a fantastic time!

We will see you on the trail!

Mama Bear