Orphan Christmas
“Are you going home for Christmas?” I asked my co-worker, fellow lift-operator Ryan. “Nah, too expensive. Besides, I have to work Christmas Day,” he replied. Thus began a series of similar conversations held between myself and most of my co-workers. Working at a ski resort, while having many perks, also required working all the holidays. [...]
Differences between Mountain Living and City Life
One of the first sensations to be perceived by most when venturing to the mountainous regions of the world would likely be the overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility that they bestow. The clean air, breathtaking views, and rejuvenating spirit of nature are just a few of the elements you’ll find here that all work [...]
Swing ‘em if you got ‘em: A beginner’s guide to ice climbing
As the snow begins to fall, there is a stir in the ice climbing community. The question on many minds is “Is __(insert climbing area)__ in yet?” “In” is a term that is used when the flow of water (whether it be from snow melt or a naturally occurring source such as a stream or [...]
Backcountry Bliss
Some of the most personal and intimate moments we have as mountain folk are the times of quiet and introspection in the midst of beautiful scenery. This in of itself may be one of the main draws to living in mountain communities. From cross country skiing in Grand County, backpacking in the Maroon Bells, or [...]
Wired Mountain 2: Sequel to Telecommuting in the Mountains
Working from home affords many conveniences, and with fewer resources and space available in the mountains, Internet jobs are a logical choice in supplementing or replacing your income entirely. There are many avenues one could take to earn a reputable living online, some were given in part 1, and I just felt compelled to share [...]
Free Your Heel and Your Face Will Follow
October 16th marked the first day of the rest of my life, for this is the season of tele. For those uninitiated, telemarking is a form of backcountry skiing in which the heel does not safely clamp down in a binding. No friends, your heel is as free as a jay bird on a spring [...]
Emergency Winter Checklist
It’s time to call the locksmith and carpenter, because Jack Frost has already kicked the door in this year. And, as seasoned ‘mountaineers’ know, there are a few things you should be aware of and several items to keep handy during the winter months. Here’s are some of the most basic things you should have [...]
A Hike a Day Keeps the Doctor Away?
Well not really, more like a hike a week. And, if you were looking for apples, you might find an apple tree somewhere when hiking near a river or stream, it’s happened before. Anyway, if you live in the mountains and have the desire better your overall health, and to obtain that rock hard physique [...]
Mountain Hunting Season Basics
Hunting season is upon us once more, so here are a few basic things everyone should keep in mind when venturing outdoors. However, the rules, regulations and dates concerning hunting and fishing vary from state to state, so check with your local Division Of Wildlife or equivalent agency for details. Be seen Most of us [...]
Wired Mountain – A Guide To Telecommuting In The Mountains
With the global omnipresence of the Internet and the fast rate of it’s evolvement, living and working in the mountains is now a much more realistic option for many. Here are a few ideas to generate income in the vastness of the computer realm. Writing Online There are many people/companies that are willing to pay [...]

