The second part of our ski trip to Colorado a few weeks ago took us to Silverton Mountain.  It is a new ski resort that opened in 2003 with a different skiing philosophy.  They have one lift that takes you to backcountry terrain that can be accessed via short hikes.
You ski in guided groups for safety and to preserve untracked snow.  The idea is that you get to ski steep terrain with fresh powder.

Silverton Mountain chairlift

Hiking to the top.

The downside to Silverton is that it requires more physical exertion for fewer runs.  We skiied 4 runs the first day, and 5 the second day.  We happened to hit it just after a big snowstorm, but the thermometer also hit 60 degrees both days.  There was great powder in the trees, but the snow in the sun was very thick and heavy.  It wasn’t ideal, but we still had a great time and could appreciate the potential the mountain holds.  The clear skies gave us great views of the surrounding scenery.

Storm Peak and the Grande Couloir.

Storm peak and the back side of Silverton, taken from the exit road.

The view from Tiger Claw.

Silverton is definitely a ski area for bros.  The base lodge is a tent with a wood stove and no running water.  It’s main purpose is to serve beer, and it has an interesting collection of bench seats from mini vans to for seating.  The equipment shed is an old school bus buried in the snow.

When you finish a run, this bus picks you up and brings you back to the lift.

The base lodge is a tent. The equipment shed is an old school bus.

Inside the base lodge.