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2009 Colorado Freeride Championships | Snowmass, CO United States | 03/06/09, by The Boundary Hunter

Even though the 2009 Helly Hansen Colorado Freeride Championships were held "in-bounds" last weekend at Aspen Snowmass, the venue resembled more of a backcountry rock climbers dream more than a ski run.  There were both skiers and snowboarders giving it their best hucking off the most extreme lines imaginable.  From 50+ foot stomps to incomplete back flips, the event had it all.

Watching these athletes, I couldn't help but imagine where they can practice such extreme skiing? There aren't to many resorts in Colorado that have as severe of in-bound cliffs as Snowmass. With the recent creation of AT freeride specific bindings, are these cliff hucking, back flipping, tail grabbing freeriders looking towards the backcountry for their ultimate playground? While some of us venture to the backcountry for exercise or fresh glades, these big mountain skiers must chart out a run with the largest cliffs possible in mind.

The rather large 1st place purse of $1,900 for men's ski and $1,000 for women's ski attracted skiers from all around. Fortunately, there was minimal carnage considering the number of competitors who didn't stick their landings.  The snow conditions were less than favorable with an abnormally warm week prior to the event and a blue bird 50+ degree weekend, but somehow many of these freeriders adapted to the conditions and didn't seem too affected.

Aspen Snowmass did a great job hosting this unique event with ski patrol on guard and ready to take action if needed. Check out the slide show to see some of the highlight shots.