THE MILLION DOLLAR TRAVERSE
Hut-to-Hut-to-Hut
As featured in Ski Magazine, Outside Magazine, and The New York Times – the Million Dollar Ski Traverse! This is a hut-to-hut-to-hut backcountry touring experience that links up the quintessential mountain towns of Silverton and Ouray, CO via three of the areas prestigous backcountry lodges – The Ophir Pass Ultimate Ski Hut (OPUS) The Red Mountain Alpine Lodge (RMAL) and the Mt. Hayden Backcountry Lodge (MHBL).
Our tour begins in the town of Silverton, where we will shuttle to the trailhead at the junction of Highway 550 and the Ophir Pass Road, which serves as our approach to the OPUS Hut. Arriving to the OPUS around noon will give us an afternoon to explore some tours and terrain in the Ophir Pass area, before returning to the hut for dinner. After a hearty breakfast, the group will gear up for the ascent over a 13,000′ col and subsequent ski descent to Columbine Lake. From there, an inspiring high alpine traverse through upper Porphyry and Mineral Basins takes us to the shoulder of Trico Peak (13,321′) – the point at which 3 Counties meet (San Juan, San Miguel, and Ouray Counties). An enjoyable ski descent takes us to the Red Mountain Alpine Lodge – our accommodations for the next two nights.
The next day, we have the opportunity to ski around Red Mountain Pass which offers a number of inspiring objectives such as Champion Bowl and Hollywood on Red #3. After our second night at RMAL, we’ll gear up for our ascent of Senator Beck Basin towards historic Imogene Basin, where we’ll tour up and over a 13,000′ col, passing by Telluride Peak (13,509′) along the way, and ski right down to the Hayden Backcountry Lodge. The final day of the program allows for a final morning ski tour before heading down into the Camp Bird Rd zone where our shuttle vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Ouray.
Tour Logistics
This one-of-a-kind trip includes guiding and trip leadership from IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guides, premium lodging at the area’s finest new backcountry lodges, as well as chef prepared breakfast/lunch/dinner on the program. You need only bring your touring set up (AT Skis or Splitboard) and a day pack with your day
touring equipment. This insures that your pack is light for the touring days and makes it just like the experience you would expect on similar European high route ski tours. Space is limited so book online or get in touch with our office today to sign up!
Cost & Inclusions
$2,999 per person
INCLUDES:
- Guiding with an IFMGA /AMGA Certified Guide
- All avalanche gear (beacon, probe, shovel)
- 4 nights Lodging at OPUS, RMAL & MHBL
- Breakfast, Lunch (at RMAL only), and Dinner
- Round-trip transportation to and from Red Mountain Pass and our office in Ouray
- Touring skis, skins, boots, and poles are available to rent from our office for an additional rental fee
2025 - 2026 Dates
COSTS
$2,999 per person
Includes
TYPE
Skiing & Avy
LOCATION
Red Mountain Pass
DURATION
5 Days
RATIO - CUSTOMER/GUIDE
4:1; 8:2
DIFFICULTY
The Million Dollar Traverse Itinerary
DAY 0
Meet at SJMG office at 1600 for trip intro and finalize paperwork. It is not required that you show up on this day but we prefer to meet on this day to make sure that everyone has their gear prepped and ready to go for the next day, as we will be heading out into the backcountry early in the morning. Stay in a hotel in Ouray.
DAY 1
Meet at the SJMG office at 0700 and we then shuttle to Silverton and the Ophir Pass Road Trailhead. The group will tour up the Ophir Pass Road eventually ending up at the OPUS Hut. We’ll drop a bit of personal gear, then head out for an afternoon tour from the hut. Given the time of year, the days are long so there is plenty of time to explore and ski some inspiring terrain in the Ophir Pass area. We’ll return to the hut in the afternoon and enjoy a hearty meal in the evening. Stay at OPUS.
DAY 2
Breakfast at the hut and then the group will prepare for an ascent up and over a 13,000′ col and ski descent leading to Columbine Lake. From there, an amazing high alpine traverse takes the group through upper Porphyry and Mineral Basins eventually leading to Trico Peak (13,321′) where 3 Colorado Counties merge (San Juan, San Miguel, and Ouray Counties). From there, a long enjoyable ski descent to highway 550 and the Red Mountain Alpine Lodge (our accommodations for the evening) ensues. What a day! Stay at RMAL.
DAY 3
Breakfast at the lodge and then it is off into the backcountry for tour. Many options exist in the vast and varied backcountry around Red Mountain Pass which offers a number of inspiring objectives such as Champion Bowl and Hollywood on Red #3. Our goal will be to find the best possible ski descent given the conditions and group dynamics. We will return to the lodge for lunch (if appropriate), and then head out for another tour. Return to the lodge in the afternoon enjoy a chef prepared dinner. Stay at RMAL.
DAY 4
Breakfast at the lodge and then the group will tour up Senator Beck Basin towards Telluride Peak, eventually making our way over a col at approximately 13,000′. The group will ski down into Imogene Basin (a long descent!) and then wrap around into Richmond Basin where we will be lodging at the Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge. Appetizers/Soup and Dinner is provided on this evening. Stay at Hayden.
DAY 5
Breakfast at the lodge and then a morning tour highlights the final day of our trip. The group will eventually head out towards Ouray via Camp Bird Road. Participants can generally expect to be back in Ouray by 3 pm on this day.
| Image | Description | Guide Pick |
|---|---|---|
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Duffel Bag
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1 - 2 Large, durable bags for organizing and transporting your gear during airline travel, etc. | Osprey Transporter Duffel Bags |
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Thermos
 |
Coffee is the lifeblood of champions. We highly encourage the consumption of coffee or other hot drink on winter excursions. | 18 oz. Yeti Hotshot Thermos |
|
Water Bottles
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We recommend wide mouth Nalgene (or similar) water bottles for the majority of our programs. One or two 1-liter bottles is the standard for long days in the mountains. | 32 oz. Nalgene Water Bottle |
|
Personal Food
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Lunch begins when breakfast ends and ends when dinner begins. Bring what you LIKE to eat and consider the length, relative difficulty, weight, and other factors when deciding what to bring in the mountains with you. A variety is always best. Don't be afraid of Mr. T. | Personal Food |
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Sunglasses
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A good pair of wrap around sunglasses are an essential item for all of our trips. When the sun shines brightly on fresh snow in the mountains your eyes will thank you for a quality pair of shades. Looking good is important too. | Julbo Shield Sunglasses |
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Sunscreen
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Essential for all of our programs. SPF 30 would be our minimum recommendation. Typically a 4 oz. bottle will suffice but consider trip length when deciding how much to pack. | Dermatone SPF 50 |
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Chapstick
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Chapstick is important to bring on all trips. We recommend getting chapstick with SPF 15 or higher, otherwise it won't do much good to protect you from the intense sun. | SPF Chapstick |
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Headlamp
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A headlamp is recommended for all of our programs and is an essential piece of equipment to have whether or not you plan to be out overnight. You don't want to be caught in the dark without light! | Petzl Actik Core Headlamp |
|
First Aid Kit
 |
An excellent investment for all of our programs. Our guides always carry a comprehensive medical kit but it's nice to have a small kit of your own to take care of blisters, small cuts or scrapes, and to carry any medications you anticipate needing. | Adventure Medical Kits |
|
Socks
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Synthetic or wool socks are a must for all outdoor activities. Select a pair that fits well, is warm, and is comfortable. Socks that extend above the edge of your boots will be most comfortable. Bring 2-3 pairs depending on the length of trip. | Synthetic/Wool Socks |
|
Baselayer Top
 |
Choosing the right baselayer really makes a difference in comfort, moisture-wicking, and the balance between cool and warm at the right time and in the right places. We recommend using a lightweight sun hoodie for most trips. A warmer wool baselayer is great for extra cold days or expeditions. | Himali Sun Hoodie |
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Base Layer Bottom
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An insulative baselayer bottom is a must have for alpine, ski and ice climbing trips and objectives. Wool or synthetic options both work. | Ortovox Base Layer Pants |
|
Mid Weight Top
 |
A lightweight fleece with a gridded interior for increased wicking performance and added breathability is the perfect choice for a midlayer for anything from ski tours to alpine ascents. Hoods let you regulate temperature on the go, and slim fits allow you to wear it under additional layers. | Ortovox Fleece Grid Hooded Jacket |
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Hard Shell Jacket
|
Our Outside Magazine and Men’s Journal “Gear of the Year” award-winning storm shell is engineered for fast-and-light alpine climbs and all-day backcountry tours. You need at minimum either a soft shell jacket or hard shell jacket for local Ouray based winter courses and programs. | Outdoor Research Axiom Jacket |
|
Hardshell Jacket
 |
A waterproof rainshell or hardshell jacket will keep you protected from wind and rain while out in the elements climbing, skiing or hiking. | Ortovox Westalpen 3L Hardshell |
|
Buff
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Simple, effective and infinitely adaptable, Original BUFF® headwear is the product that started the multifunctional headwear revolution. At its core is a moisture-managing microfiber fabric that is wind resistant and able to control odor. We recommend the BUFF for all of our programs as a multi-purpose insulation piece and trendy headgear! | Original Buff |
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Insulated Vest
|
Same spirit, same guts, and same award-winning hybrid-mapped design of the Cathode Hooded Jacket, minus the sleeves and hood. An insulated vest is an optional item on our programs but we do think vests offer excellent flexible layering options in a variety of circumstances, weather conditions, and trip types. | Outdoor Research Cathode Vest |
|
Hand Warmers
 |
An optional item, but nice to have on cold weather climbs and courses. Consider having a few stowed away in your pack so you can break them out if you feel you need them. | Hand Warmers |
|
Stuff Sacks
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Stuff sacks are a great way to organize your gear in your pack and help to keep things tidy in a variety of ways. A great addition to any of our programs. | Outdoor Research Stuff Sacks |
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Baseball Cap
|
A required item on the majority of our programs, a baseball cap helps to keep harmful sun off your face. The Radar Pocket cap is packable, durable, and looks great! | Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap |
|
Lightweight Gloves
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Updated for touchscreen compatibility, the StormTracker Sensor Gloves are equally at home alpine climbing, ski touring or ice climbing. Low-profile GORE® WINDSTOPPER®. Soft Shell fabric deflects biting gusts, and a tricot lining retains valuable heat. | Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves |
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Midweight Gloves
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Built to handle cold mornings on the up-track and powder turns all the way back down, these versatile gloves feature a new stretch nylon shell outer, a goat leather palm with textured fingertips, and a warm, quick-drying wool blend lining. | Outdoor Research Extravert Gloves |
|
Ski Gloves
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Bring at least 2 pairs of gloves: 1 pair warm, waterproof gloves for the downhill and 1 pair lightweight, gloves for skinning. If your hands get cold easily bring extra gloves, mittens and/or handwarmers. | Ortovox Merino Freeride Glove |
|
Avy Transceiver
|
The PIEPS DSP Sport Avalanche Beacon is the go-to beacon for the everyday backcountry traveler, offering circular range, a smart transmitter, and three-antenna accuracy in an easy-to-use package. | PIEPS DSP Sport Avalanche Beacon |
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Touring Skis
|
Touring skis with touring bindings are required for all of our ski programs. We have these skis to rent an our shop in Ouray if you do not have your own. If purchasing your own skis, make sure to select a touring binding that is compatible with your boots. | La Sportiva Hi5 Ski |
|
Ski Poles
 |
Our classic ski touring poles with a pro-level feature set, the all-aluminum Traverse Pro poles feature FlickLock Pro adjustability and an innovative SwitchRelease wrist strap with a lockable release function. | Black Diamond Traverse Pro Ski Poles |
|
Climbing Skins
 |
Climbing Skins are a required item for all of our backcountry ski and avalanche programs in order to ascend uphill on your skis. We offer these to rent at our office in Ouray if you do not have your own for your skis. Please have your skins cut to fit your skis prior to arriving for your trip. | Black Diamond Climbing Skins |
|
Ski Touring Boots
|
Refined for 2016, the Spectre 2.0 is now 5% stiffer while retaining the largest range of cuff rotation in its class. The patented design allows for a full 60˚ of ankle movement, while the vertebra construction provides support on downhill descents. The Spectre 2.0 now works with all tech, tr2 and step-in at bindings, for more versatility and compatibility. | La Sportiva Spectre 2.0 |
|
Avy Shovel
|
With a redesigned blade construction for cleaner snow study and easier stomping through hard avy debris, the Transfer is our workhorse shovel with a removable, extendable shaft for working in deep pits. | Black Diamond Transfer 3 Shovel |
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Avy Probe
|
Built for daily snow study, snow professionals and deeper snowpacks, the Tour Probe 320 features a durable, all-aluminum construction. | Black Diamond Quickdraw Tour Probe 320 |
|
Snow Study Kit
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A snow study kit is optional for Backcountry Ski programs, but it is a great item to carry regardless. For Avalanche Courses please consider purchasing a kit to have with you on the course. Level 2 Course participants should choose the Digital Pro Kit. | Brooks Range Snow Study Kit |
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Ski Backpack
|
The Kamber ABS® compatible 22+10 give you the option to add an inflatable airbag system to a technical ski pack designed to carry everything for a full day in the backcountry. We highly recommend a specific ski touring pack for all of our backcountry ski and avalanche programs. | Osprey Kamber ABS Packs |
|
Ski Jacket
|
Sweating one minute and freezing the next is only fun when you’re jumping from a hot tub into the snow and back—not while you’re skiing. If the words “ski season” make you think about moving uphill as much as downhill, the Skyward Jacket speaks your language. Air-permeable AscentShell technology keeps you cool and dry while skinning up, and keeps the speed-generated windchill out after you peel off your skins and drop in for the descent. | Outdoor Research Skyward Jacket |
|
Ski Pants
 |
Traverse the Rockies’ rugged ridgelines in the Trailbreaker Pants. This highly breathable soft shell pant provides the perfect amount of weather protection and breathable warmth. Pertex® Shield+ lower legs offer complete waterproof protection when you’re breaking trail in the front of the pack. | Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Pants |
|
Ski Puffy
|
Perfect for aerobic climbs and ski tours, this backcountry chameleon provides the warmth of a synthetic puffy one moment and the breathability and quick-dry performance of a fleece the next, all without forcing you to add, remove or adjust your layers. | Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket |
|
Ski Hat
 |
Get out and get after early mornings with fresh powder. The Delegate Beanie is made with a merino wool blend and a warm micro fleece polyester earband. A chunky knit beanie with a knit-in logo, the contrast pom adds a nice funky touch. | Outdoor Research |
|
Ski Goggles
 |
From the sweeping peripheral in the Optimum lens, to the horizon-inspired frame structure, FARGO proves sometimes a quick stop in a small place leads to more than you would have ever expected. Goggles are mandatory on all ski programs and cold weather alpine objectives. | Zeal Fargo Ski Goggles |
|
Ski Repair Kit
 |
A backcountry ski repair kit is well worth the time to put together. Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it! | Example Ski Repair Kit |
Who is the Million Dollar Traverse intended for?
The Million Dollar Traverse is intended for experienced backcountry skiers looking for a multi-day ski touring trip. Guests will have the best time if they are capable of ski touring for several hours a day at altitude.
Can children join the Million Dollar Traverse?
Because guests on the Million Dollar Traverse travels through consequential terrain, we require all participants to be able to perform a beacon rescue. Guests also need to have backcountry ski touring fitness. Please contact the office if you think minors in your family would be able to participate.
How many people will be on the trip with me?
The Million Dollar Traverse is guided at a 4:1 ratio. Let the office know your intended group size so we can reserve guides to accommodate it.
When will I be back in town?
You will return to Ouray around 4:00 PM on the 5th day.
Do I have to bring everything on the Equipment list?
Yes, the equipment list is designed to be comprehensive for a multi-night stay with varied weather/objective possibilities.
Does San Juan Mountain Guides provide lunch?
The Red Mountain Alpine Lodge will provide breakfast and dinner. There will be an opportunity for you to make something simple for lunch or pack a snack at the lodge before heading out. If you have specific lunch needs, please plan on bringing your own lunch or snacks.
I have my own equipment, can I use it?
Yes! If you have your own gear, you are most welcome to use it! Please bring it into the office so that your guide can confirm it will be safe for backcountry travel.
What will the weather be like on the trip?
This trip takes place in a Spring transitional time period. The temperature averages 30 to 35 degrees with highs above 40 and lows in the teens to 20’s. We recommend bringing layers you can shed while touring and put back on while practicing rescue drills. Don’t forget sun protection. As always, participants need to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, from snowstorms to bluebird skies and everything in between.
OURAY, COLORADO: GETTING HERE
Ouray is located in the SW corner of Colorado, approximately 30 minutes south of Montrose. Known as “The Switzerland of America”, the town of Ouray is a vibrant outdoor oriented community. All local businesses are very friendly to the ice climbers who flock each winter to climb in the Ouray Ice Park and surrounding areas.
The best option for flying to the area is to fly into Montrose, CO. Many airline options exist, and most connections originate from Denver, CO, however, many airlines now offer direct flights into Montrose – especially during the summer and winter months.
It is also possible to fly into Grand Junction, Durango, Telluride, or Denver CO. It may be necessary to rent a car and drive to Ouray if you’d like to fly into one of these airports.
Below are some approximate driving times if you’d like to drive to Ouray. If you plan on renting a car, please consider the winter weather when selecting your vehicle and at a minimum choose something that offers either front wheel or all-wheel drive.
- Montrose, CO: 45 minutes
- Durango, CO: 2 hours
- Denver, CO: 5.5 hours
Ouray has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while you’re in the area. Give our office a call at 970-946-0713 if you have any questions about what would suit you best for this trip!
PROGRAM POLICIES
REGISTRATION & CANCELLATION
Advance Registration is required for this program. You have the option to either call our office and register via phone or utilize our secure Online Reservation System. All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies.
INCLUSIONS
- Guiding with an IFMGA /AMGA Certified Guide
- All avalanche gear (beacon, probe, shovel)
- 4 nights Lodging at OPUS, RMAL & MHBL
- Breakfast, Lunch (at RMAL only), and Dinner
- Round-trip transportation to and from Red Mountain Pass and our office in Ouray
- Touring skis, skins, boots, and poles are available to rent from our office for an additional rental fee
EXCLUSIONS
- Transportation to Ouray, CO
- Hotel costs before or after the program
- Guide gratuity
- Lunch food or snacks at OPUS or Hayden
- Personal ski equipment or clothing
- Trip Cancellation Insurance (recommended)
- Costs associated with weather delays or other variables beyond the control of San Juan Mountain Guides
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
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~ Bob Jones, New Climber
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~ Joe Jones, New Climber
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
~ Bob Jones, New Climber
Ius ex oratio repudiandae. Sanctus fuisset usu et. Id iriure legendos complectitur sit, ad altera fabellas est. Mei ex fuisset hendrerit, vulputate scripserit scribentur eum at.
~ Joe Jones, New Climber
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
~ Bob Jones, New Climber
Ius ex oratio repudiandae. Sanctus fuisset usu et. Id iriure legendos complectitur sit, ad altera fabellas est. Mei ex fuisset hendrerit, vulputate scripserit scribentur eum at.
~ Joe Jones, New Climber