Hi guys,
I'm a climber in Colorado, and I want to start skiing, and I'm looking for some advice for how to get into it.
I realize that I could probably learn fastest by going to resorts, but I'm poor, and I figure that skiing existed before resorts, so it must be possible to learn how to ski without paying for lift tickets. (Also, I just like the solitude of the backcountry).
As I'm already a climber who enjoys the mountains in the winter months, I'm looking more towards eventually getting into ski-mountaineering and alpine touring and not pure downhill / resort-style skiing.
What kind of (used) skis, boots, and bindings should I buy? Do I need ski boots or can I use my mountaineering boots? Where are some gentle areas in Colorado I can try out first?
(Yes, I've taken Avy 1, have shovel, probe, beacon, and am committed to continuing my avalanche education).
Thanks,
Chase