Anton Pugachevsky
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Anton Pugachevsky
@antonpugphoto
@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I’m so glad I finally have a real plastic kayak—no more inflating, deflating, or dragging home a sandy mess to rinse and dry. Honestly, I think one of the main reasons I only kayaked once a year before was because I hated dealing with inflatables. They’re convenient in some situations, sure—but this is going to make getting out spontaneously so much easier.

Also helps that New Hampshire has so many gorgeous lakes, ponds, and rivers. Where’s your favorite spot to paddle?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Lupine season doesn’t last long but it is always such a treat to catch these gorgeous blooms! Have you seen lupine fields this year yet?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Shifting gears a bit—my knee’s been acting up this week, and with an overnight elopement coming up this weekend (which I’m very excited about!), I decided to take advantage of this beautiful, sunny evening to test out my new kayak.

I’ve used an inflatable kayak for years, but honestly, the hassle of inflating and deflating it has kept me off the water more than I’d like. This new hard-shell kayak is a game-changer—I’m hoping it’ll make spontaneous paddling way easier.

In summer, I can never get enough of all the activities.

What’s your favorite outdoor thing to do this time of year—if you had to pick just one?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Ahh that golden morning glow of the Colorado Rockies. It’s about time that I finalize my plans for this summer. Hoping to hit one of two areas and bag a couple of 14ers -

Either continuing to work on things in BV - Harvard, Belford, Princeton, and some of the other Collegiates. Or heading down to Durango and hitting Sneffels and Handies.

Who else is hitting some 14ers this summer? 🏔️

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Lupine season in New Hampshire is here! Blooms are peaking this week - don’t miss your opportunity to see the flowers. Comment if you want some recs on some of the best spots to visit!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Can’t wait to get back out there once I wrap up a few house projects this week. #vanlife is calling and I can’t wait to work from more scenic places 😂

Todo:

🛠️ Finish Bathroom Remodel
🐈‍⬛ Bring Mojave to the vet
🧹 Deep clean the house
✈️ Plan some summer adventures
…
🚐 And hopefully get out and camp!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Fly fishing takes incredible focus — but it also works like meditation. Cast, adjust, watch, reel in, repeat. I haven’t yet mastered the art of reading the river — figuring out the best fly to use on a given day, on a given stretch of water. But I’m getting there!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I visit Waterville Valley a lot! It’s a playground all winter for downhill and XC skiing and always feels like a magical snow globe, but in the summer, it’s an adventurous mountain valley with a huge network of bike trails! Makes shifting gears into summer rather easy!

Are you trail and mountain biking this summer? Let me know if you have a road bike, a gravel bike, a recreational bike, a mountain bike, a fat tire bike, or whatever else! E-bike?!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Weekend recap! Rain shifted some of the plans, but tons of great time hanging out with the family, a little trail riding at Waterville, a beautiful hike at Welch Dickey, lots of spring blooms and forest wonders and vibing by the fire. Sometimes it’s the little things.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

It’s almost Memorial Day weekend means camping season is officially upon us! Not sure what adventures this summer will bring, but definitely excited to get out there and hit the road - whether it’s more locally or on a longer journey once again.

Where are you traveling and camping this summer? 🚐

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

That’s a wrap on the 2024–2025 ski season! With most resorts now shifting into summer operations, fresh laps are officially on hold for a while.

I’m curious—what’s keeping you stoked this summer while we wait for the flakes to fly again? Still getting some turns in? Ripping dirt on your MTB? Chasing alpine summits? Or maybe soaking up some time on the water? Personally, I’m all about a little bit of everything.

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@antonpugphoto


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This weekend marked the closing for many ski resorts around the globe. @arapahoe_basin is still spinning, but winter will eventually lose—sad news for all of us powder hounds. Not too mad about it though… I’ve been craving MTB season. Anyone else?

Don’t forget: pedal-powered biking is free at A-Basin (just sign a waiver). And the @ikonpass now includes two bike days at any of their lift-served resorts!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Tips to store your ski gear for the summer season:

🎿 Loosen your binding springs to 0–1 to prevent long-term tension. Write down your original DIN settings on a sticky note so you’re ready when winter returns.

🎿 Remove your boot liners and dry them thoroughly—mold is the enemy! Once dry, reinsert the liners and buckle the boots to help maintain their shape.

🎿 If you use climbing skins, make sure they’re clean and completely dry. Store them on skin savers—not stuck to each other!

BONUS TIP:

🎿 Want a head start next season? Sharpen and wax your skis now before storing them.

Taking care of your gear extends its life, saves you money, and helps protect the resources we all love to play in.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

North Pole hike was well worth it! I hadn’t done this ridge before, but it’s actually easier than Willy’s Wide on East Wall—and the views are out of this world. With MORE SNOW on the way, this is peak East Wall season. Go explore!

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@antonpugphoto

East Wall season is going strong—and totally worth the hike!
The climb is full of huffing and puffing for a low-elevation body, but it’s a great workout with a great reward. One of my goals for next winter is to be in much better cardio shape so I can handle high-elevation adventures with ease. 13,000 feet is humbling—especially in ski boots, carrying skis.

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@antonpugphoto

⁣Sharing a recap of some alpenglow scenery from this past week-there’s something magical about evenings in the mountains. Maybe it’s the colors, so rich and fleeting, or maybe it’s the way alpenglow lasts just a few minutes, sometimes only seconds. It’s a quiet reminder to appreciate the fleeting nature of beauty-and how quickly everything in nature can change.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

44 days. What a season!
I’ve officially broken my previous record for most days on snow.

Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Quebec, Colorado, Utah — tons of lift-served and ski touring adventures from the Appalachians to the Rockies.

I might still squeeze in a day at Killington to hit 45, but it’s pretty much a wrap!

How many days did you spend on the slopes this winter?

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@antonpugphoto

For me, ski touring isn’t about always finding the deepest turns or the wildest lines. Those are nice, but even when you’re just doing some low-angle terrain most of the winter, it’s still just great to be out there. Who’s touring next season?

Oh and my @stio Pinion down jacket kept me so warm and toasty during these crazy spring snow squalls! #stioaffiliate #lettheoutsidein

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Berg Heil! Beautiful afternoon at Gold Hill in Mayflower Gulch. Probably the last backcountry ski for the season, and what a season it has been! Looking forward to doing some longer trips into the backcountry next season - who’s down?! I’ve been weary of venturing too far into avvy terrain because I often ski alone and it’s just not a risk I’m willing to take, but I’m always down a skin, whether it’s in New England or when I’m visiting the Rockies! LFG! 🤩

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@antonpugphoto

Maybasin is ON at The Legend!
This is hands-down my favorite time of year to ski A-Basin: fresh refills, East Wall still firing, long spring days, zero lift lines—and the chairs are spinning into June. Who’s getting after it?

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@antonpugphoto

One of the best things about ski touring is that you’re not tied to lift hours or resort closures. In fact, skinning is still going strong across much of the Rockies. Locally, spots like Berthoud Pass, Mayflower Gulch, and Hoosier Pass still have tons of snow and will offer solid touring conditions for weeks to come.

@_squak was perfect for the tour!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Can’t believe it’s basically May. Spring in the alpine is a short season. One week it looks like deep winter, in a few short weeks wildflowers are budding. This view is perhaps one of my favorite in Colorado - Jacque Peak. Currently hike-to terrain, but @coppermtn’s ambitious plans will eventually zoom skiers up to the top, making it the highest lift-served terrain in North America.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Still plenty of snow up high!
On the way back from Winter Park, I couldn’t resist pulling off for a quick skin at Berthoud. Always worth it.
Have you skied Berthoud Pass this season?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

T-shirt and muddy ski boots kind of days — and I’m here for it! Spending the week in Summit to catch some last runs of the season. Snow’s on the horizon again, and May here usually doesn’t disappoint. The best part? Endless beach parties, no lines, and good vibes!

T-shirt and muddy ski boots kind of days — and I’m here for it! Spending the week in Summit to catch some last runs of the season. Snow’s on the horizon again, and May here usually doesn’t disappoint. The best part? Endless beach parties, no lines, and good vibes!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Bring lush greenery + waterfalls. April may be notoriously stick season, but I think the waterfall action makes up for it!

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@antonpugphoto

Winter is wrapping up here on the east coast but there are still pockets of winter which will continue for a couple more weeks!

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@antonpugphoto

April is delivering the goods! Up to 13 inches of fresh powder at higher elevations in New England. Who’s skiing this weekend?

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@antonpugphoto

Ikon vs Epic — Which one’s your ride?

Just to be clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all. Each ski pass has its merits, and it really comes down to picking what’s right for you.

Ikon Pass
$1,329
Wider selection
More hard terrain
Limited access
Better crowd control
@ikonpas
s

Epic Pass
$1,051
More East Coast
More family friendly
Unlimited access
More of a party vibe
@epicpass

The prices listed are for the full version of each pass. Both Ikon and Epic offer cheaper regional and limited-use options, but for the sake of comparison, this is about their flagship passes.

Ikon includes classic destinations like Aspen, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Banff, Stratton, Taos, Steamboat, Mammoth, and Palisades.
Epic also has some big names like Vail and Whistler, but leans more toward broad coverage across the U.S.—especially in the East and Midwest.

Also worth mentioning:

- Mountain Collective is perfect for nomads looking to hit a few top-tier resorts for a couple of days each—ideal for sampling some of the best mountains in the world without committing to one network.
@mountaincollectiv
epass

- Indy Pass is the underdog favorite—focused on mom-and-pop resorts with no crowds, no fuss, and a more local, authentic vibe.
@indyskipass

Drop your pick below — are you team Ikon, team Epic, or just buying day passes like it’s 2005?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Felt like a snow globe today! @sundayriver is hoping to stay open through the end of the month with more snowflakes on the way!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Savoring every last bit of winter. It’s getting a little thin out there, but in my book, a day on the slopes is always a day well spent. One of the perks of spring skiing? Fewer layers! Not quite shorts-and-T-shirt weather yet, though — the @stio Pinion Down Jacket is keeping me warm on this blustery day. Anyone else hitting the slopes this weekend?
#stioaffiliate #lettheoutsidein

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

POV: it’s 9:01 AM. You’ve got first chair and the whole mountain in front of you. What do you like to shred—fresh corduroy or untouched pow?

Drop your line.

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@antonpugphoto

Snowy magic in the firs of @arapahoe_basin ✨

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@antonpugphoto

With winter wrapping up - transitioning into a hiking mode over here. I didn’t get out to hike much this winter because the skiing was so damn good! But excited to roam by foot a bit more in the coming weeks!

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@antonpugphoto

Still going. Are you?

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@antonpugphoto

As winter winds down, I find myself dreaming of mornings like this.
I’m excited for those early summer wildflower dawns and the fresh scent of grassy meadows—
but there’s something about winter’s stillness, and snowflakes dancing in the golden light,
that still gives me chills.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Everyone flocks to Arches, the Grand Canyon, or Sedona — and yeah, they’re stunning. But some of the most surreal, cinematic views in the Southwest aren’t in a park or on a trail map. They’re just… there. Off a dusty pull-off. No signs, no crowds, just silence and space.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

It’s not over until it’s over! @loonmtnresort’s epic MTB terrain is coming, but for now, we’re all about those free refills! 6” over this weekend, over 80% of terrain still open!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I love being in the forest year-round, but there’s something sacred about an aspen grove in winter. The stillness, the simplicity—it reminds me that sometimes less is more.

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@antonpugphoto

Happy Friday, friends.
Hope your weekend feels as wide open and peaceful as these mountains.
Take a breath, get outside if you can, and soak in something beautiful.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

ome ski Utah’s legendary Ikon Pass resorts!
7 days, 6 incredible mountains—all just a short drive from my base in Cottonwood Heights. Let’s chase powder, soak up the views, and make every turn count.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Fridays at the Bird 🐦 Who’s dropping into the weekend on ⛷️ or 🏂?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

It’s been lovely watching the alpenglow on the Wasatch from my Airbnb this week. What a majestic view!

⁣📍Ancestral lands of the Ute people.

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@antonpugphoto

Alta 🥹 444 inches this season and counting.

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@antonpugphoto

It was dumping literally all day. I felt like I was trapped in a snow globe. Every run was a free refill! March is delivering some incredible conditions in the Wasatch - and I’m so here for it! For anyone hitting Deer Valley this week, Empire is where it’s at. Powder stashes so deep you definitely need your snorkeling set.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Lost in the vastness, found in the silence.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Definitely needed snorkels out there yesterday! More snow is on the way this week across the Wasatch! ❄️❄️❄️

Follow for more snowy content if you’re as obsessed with winter as I am.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Pleasantly surprised by this storm cycle - seems like winter is finally delivering what it didn’t deliver earlier this season! @snowbasinresort is a snow globe this weekend ❄️

Are you still hitting the slopes - or ready for summer?
⁣

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

If you have a passion—pursue it. Money comes and goes. Netflix will always be there. Drinks aren’t going anywhere. But ski season? It won’t wait for you. Get out there. Explore.

Friendly reminder that March and April are still full blown ski months!!! @ikonpass

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

For generations, Americans have cherished our public lands as places of recreation, healing, and shared traditions—offering clean air, water, food, and solace. Decades of underfunding have left roads crumbling, trails neglected, campgrounds falling apart, and rangers overworked. Now, funding cuts and new legislation are stripping away protections, opening millions of acres to drilling, mining, and clear cutting.

For those skeptical about the value of public lands: as someone grateful to have explored every corner of our beautiful country, I urge you to visit a national forest or park. See for yourself why our public lands are America’s Best Idea.

It’s time to put politics aside and protect what matters.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

As the storm clears and the sun emerges, the mountain comes alive - glittering like a shaken snow globe, wild and untamed.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Definitely needed snorkels out there yesterday—winter is back! March is Colorado’s snowiest month, so hopefully, scenes like this are here to stay. ❄️

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

It’s been tough listening to the news lately, so here’s a moment of calm—this week’s mountain night sky has been absolutely mesmerizing. Sometimes, looking up is the best way to reset. Humans and all of our problems, are so, so small in the grand scheme of things. ✨

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

There’s nothing wrong with just a few runs—I’ve had plenty of days where first chair to last feels like too much. But on bluebird days like this, ‘last run’ never quite feels like enough. Who else knows that feeling?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

The Cirque at Snowmass—steep lines, big bowls, and high-alpine vibes at 12,510 ft. Rumor has it the old Poma might be getting swapped for a new T-bar soon. More laps, less waiting? We’ll see.

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@antonpugphoto

Happy Friday, friends! Wishing you a weekend full of powder stashes and bluebird turns. Get out there, soak up the fresh air, and make some epic memories. Cheers to the good vibes and good times ahead! ✨🤟🏻

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul alike. #JohnMuir

Aren’t
places like this worth protecting for all of us to enjoy? I think so…

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

What’s ALWAYS in My Ski Touring Backpack…

One of my favorite features of the Deuter Freerider backpack is its separate wet room section—perfect for keeping avalanche and safety gear organized and easily accessible when every second counts.

Always in my tech/wet room section:

🎿 Shovel
🎿 Probe
🎿 Ski straps, binding buddy, skin wax

I keep these items always in the backpack so I don’t have to remember to bring them every time I tour.

There are a few other items that you should ideally have—at least one set in your touring group:

🎿 First aid kit
🎿 Satellite communicator
🎿 Emergency blanket
🎿 Portable rescue sled

When it comes to backcountry safety, preparedness is everything. What’s a must-have in your ski touring backpack?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Winter’s far from over! Resorts across the country are still getting hammered by snowstorms, keeping the season going strong. Most ski areas are open for at least another month, many for two, and some even into May or June.

With fresh powder still falling, now’s the perfect time to plan your next trip to the mountains.

If you love skiing and the outdoors, hit that follow button for more adventure inspiration, powder updates, and all things winter stoke!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

This winter has been all about the ski days, but I’ve been missing the slower pace of a sunset hike.

There’s something different about being out on the trail at golden hour—the kind of quiet that skiing doesn’t quite capture. As much as I love the rush of fresh powder, I’ve been craving those moments where you just stop, breathe, and take it all in.

👉 What’s your go-to way to find a little stillness this time of year? I’d love to hear what keeps you grounded.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Another spin around the sun! 🌞🎿 Grateful for fresh powder, mountain views, and the good vibes that come with both. Let’s keep the adventure rolling!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Alpenglow magic at @steamboatresort. Nothing like winter evenings in the mountains. What’s your favorite run at Steamboat?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Come with me to enjoy an après-ski soak at Strawberry Hot Springs 🍓

Imagine this: After a day of carving through fresh powder, you slip into the natural warmth of the springs, surrounded by snow and steamy mist—pure mountain magic!

🕒 Reservations are a must! Head to their website to book your spot—no reservation, no entry.

⏰ Go early for a quieter experience. Afternoons can get crowded, but mornings offer a serene escape.

🚗 Winter roads are no joke. You’ll need an AWD or 4WD vehicle or chains. Trust me, I’ve seen way too many cars spin out or get stuck.

💵 Bring cash! Cards aren’t accepted, so make sure you’ve got enough green.

👙 Clothing optional after dusk! If you’re feeling adventurous, the evening vibes get a little more free-spirited.

What’s your favorite way to relax after a day on the slopes?
Let me know in the comments or vote in the poll below!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I’ve been making the most of this winter while it lasts.

For the first time in years, New England got a real winter—deep snow, frozen lakes, and a season that actually feels like winter should. I’ve been making the most of it, getting out every chance I get: downhill skiing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, and just roaming through the quiet, snow-covered woods.

With the way winters are changing, who knows when we’ll get another one like this? Just trying to soak it all in while it lasts.

Drop a ❄️ if you’ve been loving this winter, or comment with your favorite way to enjoy the snow!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

⚠️ PUBLIC LANDS ARE UNDER ATTACK…

Protections are being stripped. Budgets slashed. Public lands—meant for everyone—are being handed over to oil corporations and private interests. If we don’t fight back, we risk losing the wild places that define us.

For a limited time, I’m releasing a special collection of prints that celebrate these landscapes. Every dollar of profit goes directly to protecting them, with donations @wildernesssociety and @npcapics

If
you love the wild, this is your chance to both celebrate our beautiful public lands AND give back. Shop the gallery—link in bio.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

The COG is incredible this time of the year.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I’m sorry, I can’t just sit at home and watch TV on a bluebird day 🤷🏼 Like & FOLLOW if you agree!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Three reasons to start using wax on your climbing skins:

1️⃣ Wax helps prevent wet snow from sticking and balling up on your skins, making movement easier.

2️⃣ Wax improves glide without compromising traction in the backward direction. If your skins make a whoosh-whoosh sound while touring, try waxing them—you’ll notice a much smoother glide!

3️⃣ If you roll your skins for storage, wax helps reduce how much they stick together.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Skiing Eastern Townships: check ☑️

This quiet part of Quebec, just over the Vermont border, shines in winter. If you’re ready to hit the slopes, check out these four ski areas:

⛷️ Bromont, montagne d’expériences – Expansive trails, night skiing, and a family-friendly vibe.

⛷️ Mont Orford – Scenic views, varied runs, and a touch of wilderness.

⛷️ Mont Sutton – Tree-lined trails, great powder, and a relaxed feel.

⛷️ Owl’s Head – Intimate setting, well-groomed trails, and modern amenities.

See you on the slopes!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

What a beautiful day in the Presidentials! This was my second time skinning the COG, and I finally made it to Jacob’s Ladder—plus a bit beyond, reaching about 5,000 feet. Next time, I definitely want to push for the summit, but past Jacob’s Ladder, the snow was a little crusty, and there were some wind-loaded sections that looked like they could slide, so I decided to turn back.

Some beta for those interested:

💡 If ascending the COG, park at the hiker parking lot owned by the COG. Parking is $10—you can pay with cash in an envelope or walk inside as early as 7 AM to pay by card.

💡 If ascending the Ammo Trail (not recommended due to foot traffic and steep terrain), you can park for free with America The Beautiful pass at the USFS lot down the street.

💡 The trail along the COG has a lot of big boulders, so it takes a while to get fully covered and is often difficult to ski until February or later in low-snowpack years.

💡 It took me (I’m fairly slow) about 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Jacob’s Ladder, a common stopping point for those skiing more casually.

💡 If you’re planning on summiting or skiing any of the ravines, make sure you’ve taken an @aiare_official course and have a partner and proper avalanche gear.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

When it comes to cities—traffic, crowds, and constant noise—I’m not a fan. I crave nature, wide open spaces, peace, and quiet. Cities overwhelm my soul, while nature restores it.

Some people thrive in the hustle and bustle, choosing to live in busy cities even if they love the outdoors. But I believe that deep down, humans are naturally drawn to nature—it’s our original home. We’ve created cities, traffic, loud music, and endless stimulation, often without realizing that the very things meant to enhance our lives can also drain them.

Many of us have become so accustomed to constant stimulation that we mistake it for energy, when in reality, our brains are simply addicted to it. The idea of stillness—even boredom—feels foreign in an age of information overload.

But nature is always there, waiting for us. We just need to remember how to slow down, soak in the beauty around us, and reconnect with the simple, grounding peace of the wild.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Located less than an hour from the Denver metro area, Summit County and its four core towns—Silverthorne, Frisco, Dillon, and Breckenridge—are home to year-round outdoor fun. Winter offers abundant skiing at numerous resorts accessible with both the Ikon Pass and Epic Pass, while summer brings endless opportunities for biking, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and hiking.

The communities are vibrant with year-round events, and there are plenty of great spots to enjoy a delicious meal.

Have you visited Summit?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

After years of poor snow conditions in southern New Hampshire, I was finally able to get out and tour Mount Cardigan. One of the most classic ski lines in the Northeast, Cardigan’s skiing is owned and managed by @amcnewhampshire, and the terrain is incredible.

I ascended via Duke’s Trail, a more gradual route that winds through old-growth forest before opening up to snowfields near the summit. Alexandra’s Trail, the more popular option, is steeper and follows a ravine all the way to the summit of Cardigan.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Techniques for ascending hills on you (backcountry) nordic skis…

🎿 For gentle slopes:
If the hill isn’t too steep, build up some speed and shuffle uphill. Your skis should keep you moving smoothly thanks to the scales on the bottom.

🎿 For moderately steep slopes:
If the hill is a little steeper, position your skis in a herringbone pattern and move uphill. This technique allows you to maintain a good pace while climbing.

🎿 For very steep slopes:
If the hill is really steep, you might need to position yourself perpendicular to the slope—keeping your skis likewise perpendicular—and shuffle uphill.

What’s your favorite way to get uphill, for those of you who ski?

Note: These techniques may differ for skate skis. I don’t own a pair, so I’m just sharing what classic/backcountry skiing is like.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Just booked two additional ski trips for this winter, and I’m pumped to take full advantage of my ski pass!

I will be in Aspen in early March, and Salt Lake City end of March. Who’s around?!

Where are you skiing this winter?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

A few tips for booking your @ikonpass Colorado ski vacation:

Summit County
@coppermtn @arapahoe_basin

❄️ Often d
oesn’t get fully covered until February or later. The best skiing here is usually in March and April.

🚐 Overnight parking: Columbine Landing, Walmart, Herman Gulch Trailhead, Mayflower Gulch Trailhead
🏘️ Lodging: Among the most affordable across many Ikon resorts, especially late in the season.

Steamboat
@steamboatresort

❄️
Shorter season than Aspen and Summit, but snowfall is consistent and reliable, especially in January and February. The ski town is one of the best in the country, with amazing happy hours. If tree skiing is your thing, this mountain is for you.

🚐 Overnight parking: Pull-offs on Rabbit Ears Pass / KOA in town
🏘️ Lodging: Hotel capacity is limited, but you can find good rentals on Airbnb and VRBO. Also, check directly with the resort for hotel deals. Lodging is pricier here, but booking early can help you find good rates.

Aspen/Snowmass
@aspensno
wmass

❄️ Harder to get to, and accommodations tend to be more expensive, so plan accordingly.

🚐 Van life: Not very friendly for vans, especially in the winter.
🏘️ Lodging: Airbnb is probably your best bet for reasonable accommodations, but overall, this is the most expensive destination of the four.

Winter Park
@winter
parkresort

❄️ The most crowded on weekends but offers good snow and a long season.

🚐 Overnight parking: You can camp directly in one of the resort lots for a small fee—check with the resort for details.
🏘️ Lodging: Plenty of good hotel and Airbnb options.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Is it sugar, or is it snow? Nature’s patterns always fascinate me. Colorado hasn’t been as much snow as some prior years, but @steamboatresort always has powder stashes, I swear!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

A ski touring group paused at the ruins of Mayflower Gulch to assess the trail conditions ahead. Most of the route features low-angle terrain, but near the end, it steepens significantly, with several avalanche runouts. It’s always crucial to evaluate risk factors with your group. In this case, due to moderate avalanche danger and poor visibility, the group chose to turn back and ski lower-angle terrain instead. If you’re ever uncertain about the terrain ahead, it’s best to play it safe—there’s always another day to ski.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Ever wonder what that crystallized snow is called and what causes it? It’s called surface hoar, and it forms on cold, clear nights when the snowpack loses heat to the air above, becoming colder than the air. As a result, moisture in the air freezes and creates delicate ice crystals on the snow’s surface.

Though beautiful, surface hoar is a key ingredient in the formation of persistent weak layers. Once new snow falls on top, it can create a cohesive slab that rests on the weak layer below, increasing the risk of avalanches.

Snow science is fascinating! Always pay attention when you’re outdoors and see if you can notice avalanche risk factors.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Come skiing at @steamboatresort with me! This quintessentially all-American mountain has everything - a fun but laid back vibe, great infrastructure, tons of tree runs, powder stashes, groomers, cruiser blues, steep gullies, variety runs wild here. Let’s go!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Ski and Snowboard Base Repair 101!

You don’t need to take your skis to a shop for scratch repair!

First, you only really need to repair scratches that either expose the wood core or run along the metal edge. Minor surface scratches don’t require repair unless you’re a racer.

Steps:

1️⃣ Clean the base with rubbing alcohol to remove old wax and oils.

2️⃣ Use a scraper or metal file to remove any loose plastic or uneven surfaces around the scratches.

3️⃣ Melt a P-Tex stick with a butane torch or lighter slowly. Avoid letting the flame get too big. Drip the molten plastic into the damaged areas and let it fully cool (10–15 minutes).

4️⃣ Scrape off excess plastic, then smooth with a metal file and fine-grain (400–600) sandpaper.

5️⃣ Clean the base again with rubbing alcohol.

6️⃣ Wax your skis, and you’re done!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

It’s been an incredible week here at @steamboatresort! A little fresh snow Sunday made all the difference. Heading into February, it looks like we may see a shift in weather patterns that brings more of that world-famous Champagne Powder. But we for now, enjoying the blue bird conditions and no-lift lines!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

There are so many charming ski towns across North America, but Steamboat Springs undeniably has a special magic. Local folklore speaks of the “Yampa Valley Curse,” which says that once someone visits and gazes upon the breathtaking Yampa Valley, they’re destined to return time and time again. Whether it’s the valley’s stunning beauty or the town’s warm and vibrant spirit, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love and keep coming back.

Have you made a trip to Steamboat yet?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Sometimes there’s so much beauty in simplicity.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I’ve met people who don’t understand ski touring. “You go uphill for hours only to come down in 10 minutes?!” Yes. It’s a lot of work, but that 10-minute run feels like such a reward. Interestingly, at the end of the day, you feel just as fulfilled as if you’d skied a crowd-free resort all day. The uphill trek is a huge part of the fun and adventure. It lets you find a meditative rhythm and synchronize with the elements.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

I’ve been skiing since I was 3 years old, but I’ve only had my AT setup for a couple of years—and it’s been life-changing. Many people say, ‘All this work for just one run?!’ But for me, the uphill is just as much a part of the journey as the downhill. It’s a way to wake up, move your body, and a far better workout than running on a treadmill. I’m also incredibly grateful to access terrain I wouldn’t normally get to ski.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Stunning views of the Mahoosuc Range for your weekend enjoyment. @sundayriver

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Living a bluebird dream over here today. @sundayriver @ikonpass

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Wishing everyone a happy Friday and lots of weekend adventures! It looks like we’re in for a snowy weekend across many parts of the country. Will it snow where you are?

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Hey! I’m Anton, captured here in my natural habitat. I figured it’s been quite a while since I reintroduced myself. I’m a software engineer turned professional photographer, based in scenic New Hampshire. Most of the photography on this page revolves around outdoor recreation, my love for nature, and my hope to inspire others to get outside and appreciate just how special our little blue marble is.

But my photographic journey doesn’t stop there. My partner and I have been running an elopement and wedding photography business for a few years now, and each year becomes more exciting. There’s something incredibly special about capturing love and connection in epic places.

As for this page, I love sharing my outdoor adventures and fostering outdoor education. During the winter, I spend most of my free time skiing—whether that’s cross-country skiing, riding lifts from open to close, or ski touring into remote backcountry terrain. I’m all in! In the summer, skiing is replaced by mountain biking, which I’ve grown to love more and more over the years. I also enjoy hiking, fly fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, and just about any kind of outdoor exploration.

Above all, I believe there’s a deep, transformative power in spending time in nature. It grounds us, restores us, and reminds us of our place in something much bigger. For me, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a way of life and a source of endless inspiration. My greatest hope is that my work encourages others to step outside, breathe it in, and reconnect with the beauty that surrounds us.

LET’S GOOOOOOOOO 🤟🏻

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

One of my favorite ways to start the morning… anyone else? Nothing like a long run of hard-earned turns on fresh corduroy!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

If you’re ever in Waterville Valley, head over to Schwendi Hütte at the top of the Oblivion run. They have great beers and delicious alpine fare! Plus, it’s one of the cutest alpine huts in the Northeast.

I didn’t get a chance to visit today, but the view from up there is always incredible. The Oblivion uphill route ends at the hut, making it the perfect spot to switch to downhill mode.

@waterville_valley

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Morningside mornings #IYKYK @steamboatresort

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Reminiscing about frolicking through cool, airy alpine meadows this autumn in the Dolomites. I love the American West and the wilderness our public lands have to offer, but the Alps are an incredible place—extremely accessible and breathtaking. You get epic, airy scenery with minimal effort, thanks to world-class infrastructure—for better or for worse.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

That one time, down by the river, in a van… When van life is out of season, and slot canyon camping is thousands of miles away, having fun with miniatures is the next best thing.

Where do you want to see baby #ullrthevan? Comment and let me know what kind of scenery you want to see next!

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Huge thanks to Paul from @coremountainguides for a weekend packed with learning and adventure. I took the AIARE 1 Recreational course which lays a foundation for safe travel in the backcountry. For those of you who have attended an awareness session or watched YouTube videos or read a book - I highly recommend taking the class because nothing can replace the field session and actually practicing the beacon search, probing, and especially the snow problem identification.

@antonpugphoto

@antonpugphoto

Starting the year with a peaceful nature walk. This little loop may be short, but the feeling of being immersed in the bog is unbeatable—I can’t get enough of the patterns and colors nature creates!

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© Anton Pugachevsky. All Rights Reserved.