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The Backcountry Snowsports Initiative (BSI) works to protect winter recreation landscapes for backcountry skiers, splitboarders, snowshoers, Nordic skiers, and winter mountaineers. With Winter Travel Planning on the horizon for Colorado Forests, we are working with skiers and land managers to help determine where motorized use should be allowed or restricted on public lands so that sensitive snowscapes, wildlife habitat, and quiet recreation opportunities remain intact. BSI partners with local and national groups and has been involved in winter recreation planning at Vail Pass, Rabbit Ears Pass, and more. Join us to strengthen the voice for human-powered winter recreation in Colorado!
In 2015, the USFS created the Over Snow Vehicle (OSV) rule, which calls on all forests to create winter travel plans. We are working with Colorado forests to draft plans that promote human-powered and sustainable recreation
Get Involved
Each winter, CMC hosts a team of Backcountry Snow Rangers on the Ouray Ranger District to enhance education and safety for backcountry users around Red Mountain Pass.
Learn More!
BSI hosts the Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Fest throughout Colorado each winter to showcase winter recreation and environmental advocacy.
Find a Film Fest Near You!
Geospatial data is helping us advocate for human powered recreation. Join us for a workshop or webinar or click below to learn more about how to get involved.
Start Mapping!
In 2017, Wool Hat Creative produced a film about the Colorado Mountain Club's BSI program called, "Human Power: The Backcountry Snowsports Initiative". It was selected into the Backcountry Film Festival for 2018. It showcases the partnerships and hard work that goes into protecting the Colorado backcountry for human powered use. This work will ensure that future generations will enjoy it as much as we do now.
Watch on YouTube!
Additional Resources
Thank You to our Partners!
Our winter partners make it possible for us to continue doing this fun and exciting work that leads to protecting our backcountry environment. Thank you!