A Backcountry Ski Race on Skinny Skis: Simi Hamilton and Ben Koons Take Second at the 2022 Montane Grand Traverse

Nordic Nation

Last weekend, roughly 200 intrepid skiers lined up at the base of the Mount Crested Butte ski resort, awaiting a midnight race start that would send them 40 miles north through the rugged Elk Mountains to Aspen, Colorado. Among the masses, most of whom were on lightweight ski mountaineering or alpine touring setups, was a pair looking to return the Grand Traverse ski race to its cross country ski roots. The pair was Simi Hamilton and Ben Koons, wearing Fischer skate skis that had seen World Cup air time.

For those unfamiliar with the Grand Traverse, it’s an iconic backcountry ski race put on by the Crested Butte Nordic Center with deep routes in local cross country ski lore. You’’ hear more about the race, its history, and how the night went down during the conversation, but those new to the “backcountry cross country” concept want to check out the show notes on FasterSkier for a closer look at the route and some photos that will inspire you to take up the challenge in future years.

Thanks for listening.