Benedict Hut is really two separate huts: Fritz (sleeps 10) and Fabi (sleeps 6) perched high on Smuggler Mountain above Aspen. We had a group of 8 (4 skiers, 4 snowshoers) that occupied Fritz for two nights. While at the hut, we enjoyed fantastic gourmet cuisine (I've never used the phrase "plating techniques" in the backcountry before), an exciting luge track, a few turns of backcountry skiing, and the enjoyment of each others' company.
Setting off from the trailhead The trailhead was located in the middle of a posh Aspen neighborhood (is there any other kind of Aspen neighborhood?)
The snowshoers, taking an early lead on the trail Note Carlos in the back...in shorts...
Jamie and Kevin
Noah
Carissa and Lisa
Lisa along the trail
Fabi Hut (on the left), as seen approaching Benedict Hut is really two huts: Fritz (sleeps 10) and Fabi (sleeps 6)
Brian reaches Fritz's Hut
Recovering from the hike in
Professor Carlos explains the pine beetle epidemic
Lisa and Noah
Looking across to Fabi Hut
Exterior of Fritz Hut
Castle (left) and Cathedral (right) Peaks This is the view from inside the hut
The summit of Castle Peak and the flanks of Electric Pass Peak in the glow of sunrise
The northern flank of Hayden Peak
Sunlight through the trees outside of the hut
Looking out towards the outhouse
The outhouse
Gear out on the front porch
The Admiral! ...not to be confused with Captain Morgan.
Morning coffee around the fire
Story time with Carlos
Relaxing on the rest day
Fresh ski tracks across the valley Hayden Peak in the distance on the left
Noah, Carissa, and Brian head out for a few turns
Brian
Pristine snow below the hut
Lisa and Brian
Noah and Carissa
Reclimbing back up towards Fabi hut
Backside of Fritz Hut
Fritz hut, as seen from Fabi
The glass walls of the outhouse
The view from the outhouse Pyramid Peak, with Maroon Peak just barely visible on the right
Carlos and Lisa
Lisa attempting the luge track with a shovel
Dining on leftovers for lunch Leftover smoked salmon risotto and Caesar salad
Carissa and Noah preparing their chicken stew dinner
One of many games of Hearts
Noah's birthday oatmeal
Noah splits some wood under Carlos's supervision
Carissa
Carlos
The whole group Left to right: Noah, Carissa, Brian, Carlos, Lisa, Jamie, Bridget, Kevin
The back bedroom of the hut There are two other bedrooms slightly smaller than this, both with double beds
