Salida Mountain Sports Blog

We're in SwitchbackWe're in Switchback
We're in Switchback

Switchback wrote about how we took over the shop from Nate and Diana Porter, kept the crew together and started making it our own.

Winter Trail Running in the Arkansas ValleyWinter Trail Running in the Arkansas Valley
Winter Trail Running in the Arkansas Valley

Salida's trails don't shut down when it gets cold. Here's how to layer, what traction to use, and how to keep running through winter in the Arkansas Valley.

Avalanche Safety Gear Checklist for the Colorado BackcountryAvalanche Safety Gear Checklist for the Colorado Backcountry
Avalanche Safety Gear Checklist for the Colorado Backcountry

Beacon, shovel, probe and the training to use them. Here's the essential avalanche safety kit for touring near Salida, plus how to check your gear before the season starts.

Try Before You Buy: Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Demos in SalidaTry Before You Buy: Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Demos in Salida
Try Before You Buy: Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Demos in Salida

Not sure which touring setup is right for you? Rent a full AT, telemark or splitboard package from our Salida shop and test it on real snow.

What to Expect at a Ski Boot Fitting in SalidaWhat to Expect at a Ski Boot Fitting in Salida
What to Expect at a Ski Boot Fitting in Salida

Most ski pain starts with the boot. Here's how a boot fitting at Salida Mountain Sports works, from measuring your feet to heat-molding liners and custom footbeds.

Your Pre-Season Ski Tune Checklist (Before Monarch Opens)Your Pre-Season Ski Tune Checklist (Before Monarch Opens)
Your Pre-Season Ski Tune Checklist (Before Monarch Opens)

Rock skis, dull edges and dry bases? Here's how to get your setup dialed before the first chair, plus what each tune at our Salida shop includes.

Salida's Running Problem (and Where to Find It)Salida's Running Problem (and Where to Find It)
Salida's Running Problem (and Where to Find It)

Salida ultra runner Sam McClay shares her favorite trail running routes in the Ark Valley, training tips, and where to refuel after a long run.

I Bought the $300 Shoes I Swore I Didn't Need. I Bought the $300 Shoes I Swore I Didn't Need.
I Bought the $300 Shoes I Swore I Didn't Need.

Here's what happened.