Riding the Ghost Ski Hills

All over Colorado lie old ski areas that went defunct for some reason or another.

For a few weeks now I've been eying the area just south of Gaunella Pass as there are old trails in the area surrounding Geneva Basin. Geneva has a long history and now is a retired ghost ski hill. Even Ol PBR grew up there during the winters playing a lodge bunny while his parents were out on the slopes patrolling so we know there is a history of tomfoolery and shenanigans. Old stories of Geneva spin a tale of a ghost that haunts the area after a terrible lift accident back in the 70's left him headless.

I'm hoping these mostly southern facing slopes will be free of snow as most of my route will be between 9,000-11,500ft. I've had to change my original route up a bit so I get to and off Gaunella Pass before the thunderstorms hit in the early afternoon. I don't mind being in the trees down lower with a thunderstorm hanging above but Gaunella Pass is above treeline and the trail I'm trying to find has been described a trail that exsists by the Forest Service but probably hasn't been used in ten plus years. Route finding will be key.

2 comments:

  Karlos

June 19, 2009 at 8:09 PM

Sounds like a blast, Be safe, happy trails...

  Kevin aka. PBR

June 20, 2009 at 5:52 PM

Lodge bunny? yah right! My dad was known for his legendary first runs, first tracks with mogul mouse(me) right on his heels! No, he wasn't supposed to take his kid along to open up a bowl but he did anyway! Then of course he had to be last one off the mountain as well again with me in tow. I guess that is where i got my frost bit fingers from! I spent many nights sleeping in the first aid room or the on the floor of the lodge! And yes there were some strange things going on like doors slamming and lights turning on by themselves freaky! The good ol days, can't wait for your report!