By Jerrod Cotosman
Photos: Courtesy of Grand Traverse

The Grand Traverse is not your ordinary ski race. It is a grueling test of endurance over 40 miles of backcountry alpine terrain that raises money for the nonprofit Crested Butte Nordic. The course runs from Crested Butte to Aspen and things kick off at 12 a.m. on March 25, 2017. That’s right, midnight. The start time is a shock to those of us used to early morning starts but is necessary to mitigate avalanche danger.

Safety is crucial says former Grand Traverse champion Bryan Wickenhauser, who is also an owner of High Alpine Brewery in Gunnison. “The (required) safety equipment list is no joke,” he said. “I’ve broken bindings twice and had to break out a lot of safety gear. I’ve even broken out a map and compass once when the top five teams were lost halfway to Aspen.” The aforementioned list includes items such as emergency shelters, waterproof maps, GPS units and a Colorado Outdoor Search and Rescue (CORSAR) card, which contributes money to the state’s search and rescue fund. Race officials conduct checks of the gear at the start to ensure compliance.

Racers form two-person teams to compete and the best can finish in about seven hours if conditions are right. Since things start in the darkness, Wickenhauser said, “A high-quality headlamp is a must.” Racers follow the ski track so, barring an unexpected blizzard, the course is readily visible. “That’s part of the reason some of the mandatory gear is a map and compass,” he said. “[The race] can certainly have that wild adventure feel to it.”

The Grand Traverse is not the sort of thing you can just roll out of bed and compete in. Racers train for months to build core strength and prepare for the event. Appropriate gear is important, but as Wickenhauser said, “Be sure to train in your race gear all winter. Don’t buy your gear in early March and expect to race with it.” Since the race is a team effort, he also stresses your partner must be at “a very similar fitness level, both physically and mentally.” Again, any race where search and rescue efforts are a possibility is a race that requires extensive training and preparation.

It also requires a great deal of effort and racers bring all manner of fuel to provide energy. “Having soft, chewable items that won’t freeze like a rock are key,” said Wickenhauser, who also cautions against allowing your hydration tubes to freeze. Something as simple as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich can generate a burst of energy and you can “drink your calories” with things like Nestlé Boost and Red Bull.

The Grand Traverse is an epic test of winter endurance and the premier race of its kind so be sure to check it out if you are in the area. But if you think you might have what it takes to compete, do your research, be prepared and make sure you heed the advice of the champion who’s been there and done that.

Jerrod Cotosman is a Denver-area accountant, author and beer drinker who spends an unwholesome amount of time watching sports.