photos by Stephen Eginoire

Donuts sizzle atop the wood burning stove inside the base area tent. The sweet aroma of freshly brewed coffee hangs in the air. Life is good at 10,910 feet. At their operation above Molas Pass, Silverton Powder Cats is one of several local cat skiing outfits that open the backcountry to average Joes and Jills. Incomparable views, fresh turns and a five-star lunch await just north of Durango.

Silverton Powder Cats honcho Jon Krueger takes the helm over the weekend. Corinne Rysler drops a knee under ethereal skies on Molas Pass. Prepped for action. Corinne Rysler enjoys fresh powder on Molas. A group of ski partners boot up by a hot fire in the Powder Cats base area tent Tim Kuss rips through the Aspens. A snownado engulfs the crowd.