Midway between Redstone and Marble, Colorado, in the Crystal River Valley, is the road to McClure Pass. From the top of the pass, Forest Service roads run north and south. The southern route is Ragged Mountain Road. To the north is Huntsmans Ridge. The latter offers great views of the Crystal River valley, Chair Mountain and the Raggeds (as well as Treasure Mountain, just outside of Marble), and continues around the south and west sides of the Coal Basin.
Most foot traffic, including skiers and snowshoers, follows the easier Ragged Mountain Road. While pleasant enough of a hike, the views and experience, in my opinion, are superior on Huntsmans Ridge. Climbing about 1,000 feet per mile, it's relatively steep, but that's just what my friend Dana calls "efficient."
Today, I was able to follow the tracks of backcountry skiers who had skinned up much of the way. From then on, I was breaking trail, which wasn't too bad, because I didn't sink so much in the heavy snow that fell this past week. The trees were blanketed in snow, which made for some interesting photos. The views were spectacular. I think I'll go back up there tomorrow.
