This organization manages a system of over 30 backcountry huts across Colorado – a few with wood-burning saunas. Most are connected by 350 miles of trails ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer. The majority are located between Vail and Aspen, but there are growing networks in Summit and Grand counties.
Securing reservations is no easy feat, however, as space is limited and they are extremely popular. Winter reservations for the following year begin with a member-only lottery on March 1 (annual membership $35). Call-in reservations for nonmembers open up on June 1. Summer usually requires less advance planning. The huts sleep anywhere from three to 20 people.
In winter, you should use extreme caution for avalanches on the approaches to several huts, especially outside the Aspen area, where approaches pass known avalanche paths. This means carrying a beacon, shovel and probe, knowing how to identify and avoid dangerous terrain, and knowing how to use your equipment and protect people in your party. If you don't know these things, go with a guide such as Aspen Expeditions or stick to the ski area slopes until the summer.