Just returned from doing some back country skiing in Colorado. It was great fun, and spectacular scenery. Now that I'm back, I'd like to continue skiing backcountry, but I don't know where to do it around here. Any hardcore backcountry folk have any recommendations?

-em

Not an answer to your question but...
what is the story on the old ski area out behind the old Preserve office?

For general cruising around, you can't beat anywhere on the 'gunks ridge - you should know that! WIth enough snow, the old carriageways leading down to Ellenville have some nice descents; enuff snow is the key. For more awe-inspiring scenery you will have to head north.

I've skied some off trail stuff at hunter too. There is stuff on the west side near annapurna and over toward where stimjpy mentioned, and there's stuff over by F lift near K 27. Windham has stuff on the way toward wedel (I think) with some small cliff drops. If you want a short hike and no lift service, you can make your way down off of the trial to plateau mt, you can ski the otis from north lake to palenville if we get lots of snow, or you can find other creative ways down in that general area. Most require more work than they are worth however.