About
We are one of the oldest snowcat skiing operations in Colorado and have been a mainstay in the deep powder snowcat industry since our inception. The history of Steamboat Powdercats started in 1983 when Jupiter and Barbara Jones convinced the Forest Service to allow them to explore the Buffalo Pass region of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, just north of downtown Steamboat Springs. The combination of massive amounts of snow, a variety of terrain and a convenient location near a major ski resort allowed the Joneses to develop Steamboat Powdercats into one of the finest snowcat operations in North America.
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Guides
Trips
Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring
Backcountry ski and splitboard touring is now one of the fastest-growing activities in the winter snow sports industry. As the technology of climbing skins, AT, randonee gear, and splitboards have evolved, the world of uphill skinning and hiking to earn your powder turns has become more and more popular. Come join us to see for yourself why backcountry ski and splitboarding is becoming such a cherished experience.
Our human powered tours are a great escape from the crowds you may find at ski areas or other popular areas. All of these tours are private, where we work with 1 trip leader, and are limited to up to 4 guests with a single guide. If you are bringing more than 4 people, we would add in an additional guide to the group.
This is a very custom experience, one that we will refine with you to maximize whatever your ability level, fitness, or past backcountry skills may be. From the never ever backcountry skier to the more advanced, we will set a custom tour plan with you and work to achieve your goals with this experience.
During the day, we utilize a snowmobile or even a snowcat to bump you and your crew up into the terrain. Once up high, we park the machine and carry out the day earning our turns. Depending on experience and fitness levels we we will take 3-6 runs, transitioning from ski to hike mode many times, averaging 1500-3000 feet of ascent during the day.
Seasonality
Jan-Feb
Dec
Buffalo Pass Multi-terrain Cat Skiing
Ready for a day on the slopes that’ll leave you breathless? Join us for an unforgettable adventure at Buffalo Pass, where you’ll hit up to 16 exhilarating runs between altitudes of 8,000–14,000 vertical feet—all while being guided by our expert team. Our heated snowcats can take you to any terrain—whether you’re an intermediate, advanced, or expert rider—ensuring you tackle runs that match your ability.
Fuel your day with a light breakfast and hot beverages, plus a delicious catered lunch—whether at our cozy cabin or in the snowcat itself, then hit the powder with our top-notch Armada Locator skis and Never Summer snowboards, complete with essential avalanche safety gear.
Snap stunning memories with our on-the-go photographer capturing your epic runs—choose just a few images or download the entire gallery. After an action-packed day, unwind at our post-trip party, sharing stories of your epic descents.
With Buffalo Pass boasting some of Colorado’s deepest snow, you’re guaranteed fresh tracks and unforgettable powder.
Seasonality
Jan-Mar
Dec
AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course
Steamboat Powdercats offers AIARE (The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) Level I avalanche courses typically in early December and January.
The AIARE Level 1 avalanche course is designed as an introductory “stand-alone decision-makers course” for those planning on traveling and recreating in avalanche terrain. Our instructors are AIARE trained and qualified. The 24 hours of course work focuses on the basic skills necessary to manage your risk in the winter backcountry. These courses are 3-days long with the first day spent in the office and field, then the second and third day are fully spent in the field.
To be successful in this course, participants need to be comfortable in powder on Blue/Black runs at any ski area, and have a decent level of fitness as we will be hiking uphill with our skis and splitboards.
This Level 1 course utilizes the AIARE course curriculum. At the end of the course you will be able to:
This Level 1 course utilizes the AIARE course curriculum. At the end of the course you will be able to:
• Plan and prepare for travel in avalanche terrain
• Recognize avalanche terrain
• Describe a basic framework for making decisions in avalanche terrain
• Learn and apply effective companion rescue
• Recognize avalanche terrain
• Describe a basic framework for making decisions in avalanche terrain
• Learn and apply effective companion rescue
Seasonality
Jan
Dec
Steamboat Springs Mountain Biking
Steamboat Powdercats offers custom guided mountain bike tours on Emerald Mountain in downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The tours cater to beginners and advanced riders, providing a unique experience that educates and advances mountain biking skills while showcasing the amazing views and trail system of Emerald Mountain.
The tours are private and customized to each group, ensuring that riders are matched to their ability level and goals. Our experienced guides will work with you to plan the tour, enhance your skills, and educate you on mountain biking in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The tours are ideal for solo riders, families, and anyone looking to explore the trails on Emerald Mountain.
Basic bike handling skills and moderate fitness levels are required for the tour, and guests should expect to climb hills during the ride. We’ll customize your ride based on your group’s skill level, technical ability, and desired experience. Plus, we offer focused skills clinics to help you improve your skills and get the most out of your ride.
Seasonality
May-Oct
AIARE Level 2 Avalanche Course
Steamboat Powdercats offers one AIARE (The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) Level 2 avalanche course in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
This three-day course is designed for those who have already taken an AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue course and since then have had at least one year of backcountry travel experience. The AIARE 2 provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision-making skills.
This Level 2 course utilizes the AIARE course curriculum. At the end of the course you will be able to:
This Level 2 course utilizes the AIARE course curriculum. At the end of the course you will be able to:
• Differentiate where specific avalanche hazards exist within the landscape and identify avalanche terrain where consequences may be more severe.
• Use and interpret weather, snow, and avalanche observations to locate appropriate terrain prior to entering and while in the field.
• Demonstrate leadership skills within a small team that include facilitating small group discussion, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk management strategies.
• Implement a basic forecasting framework that can be used in conjunction with and in the absences of local supporting avalanche information.
• Use and interpret weather, snow, and avalanche observations to locate appropriate terrain prior to entering and while in the field.
• Demonstrate leadership skills within a small team that include facilitating small group discussion, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk management strategies.
• Implement a basic forecasting framework that can be used in conjunction with and in the absences of local supporting avalanche information.
This is an advanced level course for those who already have a AIARE Level 1 and an Avalanche Rescue course along with at least one year of backcountry travel.
Seasonality
Mar
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