The 21st Annual Backcountry Film Festival returns to Gunnison! Come early to create some winter art, then stay to celebrate the beauty and importance of our winter wildlands with a curated lineup of short films. The 21st Annual Backcountry Film Festival will be screening in Gunnison at the UC Theater on Western Colorado University's campus Thursday, January 15 at 5:00 PM. In partnership with the Trailhead Children's Museum we will be hosting a special Art Hour before the films begin! Design your very own sticker to slap on your favorite water bottle, skis, or helmet. Artists of all ages are invited to design a sticker that expresses your love for the backcountry, skiing, or your favorite thing about the outdoors! All materials for the art project will be provided by The Trailhead. Each year, this festival serves as a community event dedicated to championing backcountry recreation, public lands, and mountain communities. This year’s lineup is packed with inspiring, snowy adventures that are sure to fuel your winter pursuits. Winter Wildlands Alliance, a national nonprofit, works to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes. By partnering with local groups like HCCA, the Winter Wildlands Alliance helps raise crucial funds for these organizations to continue their vital work. Through captivating films filled with adventure, character, joy, and deep powder, this festival supports local projects that promote access to and stewardship of our shared public lands. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy incredible films, support a worthy cause, and connect with fellow winter enthusiasts in celebrating and preserving the wild places we love. All proceeds will benefit High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA), supporting our efforts to protect and conserve the Gunnison Country’s public lands, waters, and wildlife.

Hosted by High Country Conservation Alliance (HCCA) and LEAD Office! Doors open at 6:30 pm. $20 General Admission. Western students (with ID) are free!