Step Out of Bounds With Friends of Berthoud Pass

Photography by Thomas Gibelly

Backcountry skiing in Colorado has become almost as popular as riding in resorts over the past decade, but this rush of new enthusiasm and interest in stepping out of bounds comes with a whole new slew of dangers for newbies and backcountry vets alike. From crowded couloirs to remotely triggered avalanches and more, the backcountry is as dangerous as it’s ever been.

Enter Friends of Berthoud Pass.

The History of Berthoud Pass

Berthoud Pass first became a popular skiing destination in the 1920s and was later fitted with a rope-tow system in 1937, making it Colorado’s very first formalized ski area. For the next 25 years, the Pass would be a beloved zone for the skiers and snowboarders of the Front Range. Unfortunately, when 2003 came around, the small resort closed due to financial issues.

Although Berthoud Pass was no longer an established ski area, locals continued to flock to the area to chase days in the backcountry. Today, the Pass remains a particularly desirable backcountry destination because of the ease of access and combination of challenging and simple terrain. Seeing the danger in such practices, a group of ski patrollers and backcountry riders founded Friends of Berthoud Pass in 2003.

Who They Are

Friends of Berthoud Pass is a grassroots organization and is entirely volunteer-based. The volunteers who make up the organization are backcountry enthusiasts who are committed to preserving the legacy of public recreation on Berthoud Pass. These passionate individuals work hard to provide free safety education, safe backcountry travel and environmental stewardship.

Backcountry Basics According to FOBP

Looking to become a backcountry skier or rider? Sweet! But it’s important to realize that there’s plenty more that goes into a backcountry tour than simply slapping on skins and walking up a hill; from trip planning, to packing the right gear, to knowing how to actually use that gear, a simple jaunt through the woods to chase fresh pow entails a lot more planning and packing than you’d think.

Because of all that goes into planning a day in the backcountry, FOBP focuses on the very basics of your first tour, which includes what to pack, how to plan, choosing your group and simple snow science.

First things first, make sure you have the gear. Friends of Berthoud Pass teaches that you should never step out of bounds without the essentials: ski-specific backpack (which includes straps for your skis and a separate compartment for your avvy gear), beacon, shovel, probe, first aid kit and walkie talkie. Then, it’s crucial to look at the weather and choose your zone (there are various apps to do so). Pro tip: always have a backup plan!

Be sure to also check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center for the avalanche forecast; each day is rated from 1-5, from least to most dangerous regarding the snowpack. Then, pick your partners. FOBP recommends groups of 3-4: large enough to have support in an emergency situation, but not big enough to do more harm than good. When choosing your group, it’s essential to be on the same page; do they trust you to potentially dig them out of an avalanche? Do you trust them? What’s everyone’s risk tolerance? Do these people listen to the voices of others?

These basics are taught over the course of about 2.5 hours at various locations around the front range, from sponsor warehouses like FlyLow and Wilderness Exchange, to breweries like Denver Beer Co, and storefronts like Arc’teryx RiNo. The organization is slowly moving to other ranges as interest and roster grows. As mentioned, these classes walk through the basics of planning a tour for beginners, but also for those who have experience in the backcountry. They serve as an ample refresher for experienced travelers and spark important conversations.

See Ya Out There

New in 2025, FOBP has also been facilitating Trailhead Outreach Days, where several volunteers post up at the trailhead on Berthoud Pass to answer questions about the forecast, touring, and who they are, with complimentary coffee in tow (if you’re lucky, the might have their cooler handy, so grab a beer from a member after your run). At each event there’s a merch table so you can rep a great organization and encourage others to do so as well: choose from hats, socks, shirts, stickers and koozies!

Another perk: Friends of Berthoud Pass is sponsored by TommyKnocker Brewery out of Idaho Springs, so if you do decide to show up to a class, help yourself to a refreshing seltzer, beer, or soda!

On-Snow Days

The best part about attending what they call a “classroom session” is that you’re eligible to attend an “on-snow” day afterwards. On-snow days are held mid-winter (this year they will be on February 7-9) and are days when the FOBP team is literally “on the snow.” If you attend, they will split attendees into several groups, each paired with 1-2 instructors. Each group will put their knowledge to the test: you’ll dig pits, make snow observations, plan a tour, and have thoughtful conversations about backcountry travel out there in the real world. Be sure to stick around: the best part is the lap afterwards!

Stay in the Know

One of the best parts about Colorado is the accessibility to nature and adventure, but it all comes with a risk. Friends of Berthoud Pass has recognized the need for education, and its volunteers work hard to provide that education and encourage others to step out and enjoy everything Colorado has to offer – safely.

Want to learn more about Friends of Berthoud Pass? Check out their site and follow them on Instagram @berthoudpass.

Looking to attend an event? Check out their schedule here.