71 WINTER 2021 ISSUE 02 / VOL . 02 SNOWGOER . COM
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The Endless Playgrounds Of CHAMA
Big Snow Down South
5,000 elk each winter , which migrate out of the snow-covered territory on which we were riding . In the summer , those hills are used to grow spinach and potatoes , or tall grasses that are cut into hay to feed local livestock .
Next , it was playtime . Despite the springriding conditions , our guide found some powder to play in and a couple of moderately challenging hills to climb – followed by one dramatic and beautiful descent .
Another highlight for riders coming to the area is a visit to Circus Rocks – where thrill seekers can park their sleds and scale huge boulders , and then look down upon the Cumbres Adventure Tours rental building . It was an awe-inspiring view , but it was also met with sorrow , as it became obvious of ride was coming to an end .
According to official records , the actual city of Chama averages just over 100 inches of snow per year ; the key , though , is that the neighboring backcountry can get upwards of 450 inches per year , according to the locals . All of that snow combined with the seemingly endless high-altitude meadows make for long seasons of powder-playing bliss – despite being located on the below the 37th parallel .
During our short visit , we got to experience almost everything – except the famous deep powder . Ever jinxed , our timing was off and all of the snow that was there was quite set up . That said , we still had an excellent time , and could definitely see the potential for Chama to be among the best powder riding on earth .
And that has us dreaming of a return trip .