Popular Skiing Zones & Routes

While specific route names are often kept secret by operators to preserve the pristine nature of the snow and ensure safety, snowcat tours typically access vast areas with a variety of terrain features. Here’s what you can expect:

• Open Bowls: Imagine wide, treeless expanses covered in deep, soft snow. These are perfect for making big, arcing turns and feeling like you’re floating on air.
• Gladed Tree Runs: For those who love skiing through trees, Phippsburg offers beautiful aspen and evergreen glades with perfectly spaced trees. These runs are often protected from the wind, meaning the powder stays lighter and deeper.
• Ridge Lines and Mellow Pitches: Some areas offer gentler slopes that are great for warming up or for groups with varying skill levels. These still deliver plenty of fresh turns.

The beauty of a guided snowcat tour is that your guides will pick the best terrain for the day, based on snow conditions, weather, and the group’s ability. They know where the hidden gems are, ensuring you get the most out of your Steamboat Springs backcountry skiing adventure.

Best Time of Year for Deep Powder

Most Steamboat Springs snowcat tours kick off in December and run through April.

• Mid-Winter (January – February): This is prime time for deep powder. The temperatures are usually colder, keeping the snow light and fluffy. If you’re dreaming of endless face shots in waist-deep snow, this is your window.
• Late Winter/Early Spring (March – April): As spring approaches, the days get longer and sunnier. You might find “corn snow” – a super fun type of snow that melts slightly during the day and refreezes overnight, creating perfect, carve-able granules in the morning. March can still offer amazing powder days, while April provides warmer temperatures for a more relaxed experience.
• Early Season (December): While exciting, early season can be a bit variable. Some years bring tons of early snow, while others need more time to build a deep base. Guides will always ensure there’s enough snow for safe and fun skiing.

Daily Timing & What to Expect

Snowcat adventures are usually full-day affairs. You’ll typically meet in the morning, get briefed, and then head out for a day of non-stop fun. Most tours aim for anywhere from 8 to 12+ runs, depending on the terrain, snow conditions, and how quickly your group moves. It’s a full day of smiles and fresh tracks!

Essential Equipment Checklist

Here’s what you’ll want to have:

• Skis or Snowboard:
  • Wide “Powder Skis” or “Freeride Snowboard”: These are wider than regular resort gear, which helps you float on top of deep snow instead of sinking.
  • Touring Bindings and Boots (Optional but helpful): If you plan on doing some uphill “skinning” in the future, these are designed for it. For snowcat tours, regular downhill bindings and boots are usually fine, as long as they are comfortable and perform well.
• Ski Poles: Essential for balance and propulsion.
• Helmet: Protect your head! This is a must-have for any skiing or snowboarding.
• Goggles and Sunglasses: Goggles for snowy days, sunglasses for sunny ones. You’ll want to protect your eyes.
• Layered Clothing:
  • Base Layers: Wicking material (like wool or synthetic) close to your skin to pull sweat away.
  • Mid-Layers: Fleece or puffy jackets for warmth.
  • Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against snow and weather. Think “ski jacket” and “ski pants.”
• Gloves or Mittens: Bring a warm, waterproof pair, and maybe a lighter pair as a backup.
• Backpack: A small one (around 20-30 liters) to carry water, snacks, extra layers, and safety gear.
• Water & Snacks: Staying hydrated and fueled is key for a full day of activity.

Crucial Safety Gear (Often Provided!)

This gear is absolutely essential for anyone venturing into the backcountry, including snowcat skiing. The good news is that most reputable snowcat tour operators near Steamboat Springs will provide or rent you these items as part of your package, and, more importantly, teach you how to use them:

• Avalanche Beacon (or Transceiver): A small electronic device that sends and receives radio signals, used to locate someone buried in an avalanche. You wear it close to your body.
• Avalanche Shovel: A strong, collapsible shovel used to dig out someone buried in an avalanche.
• Avalanche Probe: A collapsible pole, usually 2-3 meters long, used to pinpoint the exact location of someone buried under the snow after their beacon has been located.

Even though guides are with you, knowing how to use this gear yourself is super important for anyone in the group. Your guides will likely give you a quick lesson before you head out.

The Golden Rules of Backcountry Safety

• Never Go Alone: Always ski or ride with a partner or, even better, in a guided group.
• Go with Experts: For snowcat trips, this is built-in! Your guides are highly trained professionals.
• Check the Avalanche Forecast: Before heading out, professional guides will have thoroughly reviewed the local avalanche forecast (like the one from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center – CAIC). This tells you about the risk of avalanches for the day.
• Know Your Limits: Be honest about your skiing or riding ability and fitness level. Don’t push yourself beyond what you’re comfortable with.
• Communicate: Talk with your group and guides. Let them know if you’re tired, cold, or have concerns.
• Practice with Safety Gear: If you’re bringing your own beacon, shovel, and probe, know how to use them BEFORE you go. If the tour provides them, pay close attention during their safety briefing.
• Respect the Terrain and Weather: Mountains can change quickly. Listen to your guides and understand that conditions can vary throughout the day.

Why Snowcat Operators Prioritize Safety

Reputable snowcat operators in the Phippsburg and Steamboat Springs area put safety above all else. Here’s how they do it:

• Highly Trained Guides: Their guides have extensive training in avalanche safety (often certified by organizations like the American Avalanche Association), wilderness first aid, and mountain rescue techniques.
• Expert Terrain Knowledge: They know the terrain intimately – where the stable snow is, where potential hazards lie, and how to navigate safely in all conditions.
• Avalanche Control: Some operators use methods to reduce avalanche risk, like controlled blasting or specific snowpack tests, to ensure the safest possible skiing.
• Emergency Protocols: They have clear plans for what to do in case of an emergency, including communication systems and evacuation procedures.

By choosing a guided snowcat adventure, you’re tapping into years of experience and expertise, allowing you to focus on the pure joy of backcountry skiing.