Chasing Big Lines in Colorado’s Spring Season
By Corbin Hladick | Rider: Telos DST 157 Solid
Photo: Seth Hill | Location: Torreys Peak (14,267 ft)
Spring in Colorado hits with a rhythm all its own. The mornings are crisp, the sun climbs fast, and the alpine finally wakes up. For riders who live for steep chutes, massive bowls, and technical descents—this is go-time.
The season flips from deep winter to high consequence. Avalanche danger doesn’t disappear; it evolves. Colorado’s famous Persistent Slab problem might begin to heal, but warming temps bring new threats: wet slides, glide cracks, and cornice failures.
Timing is everything. Knowledge is currency. And the reward? Big, unforgettable lines painted in perfect corn under a cloudless sky.
The Spring Shift: From Persistent to Predictable (Sort of)
Throughout winter, much of Colorado battles with deep instability. Faceted snow, depth hoar, and touchy layers linger for months. But as spring settles in, the snowpack begins to cycle—freezing overnight and softening with daytime warmth. These melt-freeze patterns can finally bring some stability.
But don’t be fooled—stable doesn’t mean safe forever. Once the surface thaws, it’s a ticking clock. Wet slabs can rip. Cornices can break. Solar slopes can shed like clockwork. The key is riding smart, fast, and with respect.
🏔 10 Essential Tips for Spring Splitboarding & Mountaineering
1. Start Early, End Early
Spring stability is a morning game. Plan to summit before 10 a.m.—that’s when the snow is still supportable and safe. If your skintrack feels like mashed potatoes on the way up, you’re already late.
2. Know the Freeze
A solid overnight freeze is your best friend. No freeze? No ride. A quick look at temps at elevation can tell you whether your line is in play—or off the table.
3. Solar = Sketchy
East- and south-facing aspects cook fast. Prioritize these early, and steer clear once the heat sets in. Afternoon turns may be soft, but they’re often unstable.
4. Cornices Are Killers
They don’t just break when you’re on them—they can drop from above and take your whole party with them. Give them space. Approach ridgelines cautiously.
5. Gear That Moves Fast, Rides Hard
Spring tours often mean long approaches and demanding descents. A board like the Telos DST Split brings freeride confidence to technical terrain—power, edge hold, and float that doesn’t flinch when the pitch kicks up.
6. Don’t Skip the Toolkit
Beacon, shovel, probe. Always. But spring also demands crampons, ice axe, and ski/snowboard crampons depending on the line. Dial your gear before dawn.
7. Plan B > Ego
Your dream line will still be there next week. Be willing to walk away. Having options—and the humility to change plans—is key to staying alive.
8. Stay Informed
Read the avy forecast every day. Know the snowpack history in your zone. Talk to other groups. Spring can lull riders into overconfidence.
9. Crew Dynamics Matter
Ride with people who think critically, not just ride fast. When conditions get spicy, good partners save lives.
10. Celebrate the Wins
Spring lines take planning, patience, and grit. Celebrate the mission—summits, turns, and safe returns all count as victories.
On Torreys Peak: The DST in Its Element
This spring, I set sights on Torreys Peak—one of Colorado’s classic 14ers. It’s a mountain that demands precision, confidence, and gear that won’t second guess you. The Telos DST 157 Solid was flawless—stiff enough to hold on firm morning snow, surfy enough to open up in the softening corn, and damp enough to keep the ride smooth when it mattered most.
You don’t just ride spring lines—you earn them. And the DST feels like a board that’s been earning them right alongside you.
Final Word: Ride Smart. Ride Early. Ride Telos.
Spring in the high alpine is unforgettable—but only if you respect it. Plan ahead. Stay sharp. And choose gear that’s built for precision in high-consequence terrain.
What’s your spring mission? Tag us @telossnowboards and show us the lines you’re chasing.
#RideTelos #SpringLines #PrecisionByDesign
