If you’ve lived in Steamboat long enough, at some point you’ll have earned your turns. Spend time at Steamboat Resort on any given morning and you’ll see an increasing slew of skiers doing just that. With synthetic skins fixed to the base of their skis, this hardy crew opts to ascend Mount Werner under their own steam, typically before the sun rises. 

Skinning, as it is known, is growing in popularity partly due to advances in technology and today’s lightweight gear. “It’s also a natural progression as a skier or boarder to move out of bounds and try new things,” says Kent Vertrees co-owner of Steamboat Powdercats. 

Anyone with a good basic level of fitness can do it. Dress in layers (Gortex is great to keep moisture out), wear a hat and sunglasses, use all-terrain equipment (which offers a walk mode where the heel is free), apply skins to the skis, take a backpack with water, snacks, extra clothing and safety equipment if you plan to be in the backcountry and then off you go. 

When you reach the top, remove damp clothing and peel off the skins, check out the view and refuel, then savor the downhill. After all, you’ve earned your turns. Anyone planning to skin up at Steamboat Resort needs to purchase an uphill use pass and sign a waiver at the Visitor Center at the base area. The resort has strict safety guidelines on where to go and what to avoid, which can be reviewed at www.steamboat.com. Steamboat Powdercats also offers limited guided backcountry skiing and split board tours.