Hike to these Colorado sidecountry ski areas for the best powder, fresh runs

Ski with a partner, as help can be far off
Wear avalanche safety gear, including a beacon, shovel and probe
Bring lots of water and dress in layers so you can remove your outer shell while hiking
Pay careful attention to signs. Some ski areas have gates into the backcountry that will lead you not to the bottom of a lift but into a harsh winter wilderness
Don’t enter closed areas. Ski patrol may be conducting avalanche control up here and you could wind up on the wrong end of one.
Step aside for faster hikers behind you. Mountain town locals literally race each other for fresh drops in the upper bowls.