Most local ski resorts have closed up shop for the season, but for some Coloradans, that means it's the perfect time to ski—even if they have to hike. "That's why we live in Vail, right? For skiing," says Brian Rodine, who's basking in the mountain's heavy spring snows (Vail Daily). Professional skier Drew Rouse estimates that 90 percent of his friends are still taking turns in the backcountry, despite warnings from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center about "infrequent but very large avalanches."

But not all high-country residents are so keen on making the trek to the back bowls. Many Vail locals are moving on to warmer-weather activities, like golf, or seeking out heat in other places, like Moab (Vail Daily). "Almost every [ski] season, you just get to the point where you're done," Derek Pappas says. "It's time to put on your flip-flops and sun your feet."