Berthoud Pass CO
Pumphouse Basin South

Berthoud Pass

Berthoud Pass, a high mountain gap in Colorado, is an iconic destination for backcountry skiing enthusiasts. This legendary spot, once home to the Berthoud Pass Ski Area, has undergone significant changes over the years. The dismantling of the ski lodge and the removal of ski lifts have transformed it from a traditional ski resort to a pristine, unadulterated haven for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Despite these changes, Berthoud Pass continues to draw skiers and riders from all over, thanks to its easily accessible terrain. The beauty of backcountry skiing here lies in its simplicity and the raw challenge it offers. Skiers can still use the remnants of the old ski area, including the parking lot at the pass’s summit, as a gateway to endless powder runs. This spot offers a unique blend of convenience and adventure, as visitors can embark on their skiing journey right from their car.

The area around Berthoud Pass is crisscrossed with trails on every side of the pass, offering diverse options for all skill levels. The old trail map of the ski area, still available to adventurers, serves as a nostalgic reminder of the past and a useful guide to the terrain’s myriad possibilities.

Situated along US Route 40, Berthoud Pass is not just a gateway to exceptional skiing but also a scenic route connecting skiers to the broader Colorado skiing landscape. Located about 15 miles north of Interstate 70, it’s a stone’s throw away from the Winter Park ski resort, making it an essential stop for those exploring the state’s ski offerings.

The transformation of Berthoud Pass from a traditional ski resort to a backcountry skiing destination reflects a broader trend in the skiing community. As more enthusiasts seek out natural, untouched skiing experiences, places like Berthoud Pass stand out as gems in the rugged Colorado terrain. It offers a unique blend of accessibility, challenging terrain, and the serenity of skiing in the backcountry. For those willing to venture beyond the comfort of groomed slopes and ski lifts, Berthoud Pass offers a timeless skiing experience, rooted in the spirit of exploration and adventure.

Berthoud Pass: West Side

The West Side of the former Berthoud Pass Ski area remains a bustling hub for skiers, mirroring its popularity during its operational days. Despite the absence of lifts and a lodge, this area offers easy access to a high vantage point leading to a variety of zones such as Pumphouse Basin, Current Creek, the 90s, and routes that loop back to the Pass itself. It’s especially renowned for the West Side Cliff area, stretching from Rush Chute to Nitro Chute, a section once highlighted in the Berthoud Pass Bad Ass big mountain series, showcasing its significance in the region’s skiing legacy.

Start of the skin track on the West Side
Start of the skin track on the West Side

Berthoud Pass: Pumphouse Basin South

Pumphouse Basin South offers a diverse range of skiing terrain suitable for various skill levels, particularly favored for its lower-angle terrain during mid-winter. Access to the upper glades, namely Placer Basin and Trapper Glades, is provided through the West Side skin track. This south-facing area is optimal for skiing after significant snowfall and before the sun affects the snow surface, creating ideal conditions for skiing.

Looking up No Name Bench CO
Looking up No Name Bench, accessed from Pumphouse Basin

The south side of Pumphouse Basin is varied, with terrain that includes extreme faces as well as gentler powder runs. Notably, Russell Face is a key feature of this area, having hosted the finals of the Berthoud Pass Bad Ass big mountain competition. This challenging terrain is often best skied in spring when snow conditions are more stable.

Adjacent to the more intense areas, No Name Bench offers a quieter and less frequented north-facing zone. For those seeking a longer run with easier tree skiing, No Name Bench can be followed west from the top, offering an extended route that caters to skiers looking for a more mellow experience in the trees. This area’s reduced traffic makes it an attractive option for skiers seeking solitude and uninterrupted runs.