Snowboarding in Steamboat Powdercats
Photo credits: Steamboat Powdercats

We have put together a list of everything you need to know about Steamboat Powdercats.

Steamboat Powdercats Overview

Steamboat Powdercats operates at Buffalo Pass and is one of the oldest snowcat skiing operations in Colorado. The area is known to receive an abundance of Champagne Powder every year and holds the record of Colorado’s deepest snowpack of 184 inches.

Ski Terrain

Steamboat Powdercats offers intermediate, advanced, and expert terrain. For snowcat skiing, expect between 8-16 runs and 8,000-14,00 vertical feet on average in a day. For backcountry skiing, expect between 3-6 runs and an average of 1,500-3,000 vertical feet in a day. 

Mountain Statistics

Summit elevation: 9895 feet

Skiable area: 4000 acre

Average Snowfall: 500+ inch

Steamboat Powdercats Tours

Steamboat Powdercats offers two types of tours: Snowcat skiing tours and backcountry ski and splitboard tours.

Snowcat Skiing Tours

Steamboat Powdercats’ snowcat skiing tours can be in a group or private, with a maximum of ten people per snowcat. The groups are divided by skill level to maximize the skiing experience and will have three guides per snowcat.

The tour also includes:

  • Rental of Armada powder skis or Never Summer snowboards
  • Avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe
  • Light breakfast, snacks, and a full-catered lunch
  • Post-tour party

There will be a photographer to capture the moment with options to purchase the images. A courtesy shuttle is also available for transportation to and from lodging and up to Buffalo Pass.

For private tours, you can extend your trip by 1 hour in February and March at an additional cost.

Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Tours

Steamboat Powdercats’ Backcountry tours are private full-day tours only and are limited to up to 4 people plus one guide. It is customized to your skill level and requires you to hike to reach the runs. The tour includes snacks, lunch, a beacon, a shovel, and a probe. You will need to rent or bring your own ski equipment.

The price is $600 for one person and $250 for each additional person in the group (prices are subject to change).

Nearest Town to Steamboat Powercats

Steamboat Powdercats’ operating area of Buffalo Pass is just 25 minutes away from the ski town Steamboat Springs. Steamboat Springs is home to Howelsen Hill Ski Area and is also just a 3.5-mile drive away from Steamboat Ski Resort, one of Colorado’s most popular ski destinations. With easy access to three skiing locations, Steamboat Springs is a great location to stay if you want to visit multiple ski resorts in one vacation trip.

Restaurants Near Steamboat Powdercats

There is no on-mountain dining but there are several highly rated restaurants in the Steamboat Mountain area.

Cafe Diva

The best American fine dining in Steamboat Mountain.

Opening hours (subject to change): 5:30 am to 9 pm (daily)

Google Maps

Slopeside Grill

A local favorite for après skiing and lounging near the Steamboat Springs slopes at Steamboat Ski Resort.

Opening hours (subject to change): 11 am - 9 pm (Thu-Mon)

Google Maps

The Paramount

One of Steamboat Springs' finest breakfast and lunch venues is located right at Steamboat Ski Resort.

Opening hours (subject to change): 8:30 am - 5 pm (daily)

Google Maps

Steamboat Powdercats Contact Information

Address: 1724 Mt Werner Cir, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, United States

Phone number: (970) 879-5188

Email: [email protected] 

Google Maps | Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there ski packages to Steamboat Powdercats?

There are no ski vacation packages to Steamboat Powdercats as they operate in smaller batches with 3 snowcats each day. However, there are ski vacation packages to most Colorado ski resorts, including Steamboat Ski Resort.

What is the best time to go snowcat skiing?

February is a prime time to visit Steamboat Powdercats, as it offers consistent snowstorms and colder temperatures, ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Regardless of the air temperatures or snow conditions, Steamboat Powdercats remains dedicated to providing tours and adventures for guests. 

Can I rent skis or snowboard from Steamboat Powdercats?

For cat skiing, Armada specialty powder skis and Never Summer snowboards are included in the trip cost. However, if you prefer to bring your own equipment, there is no discount. For backcountry tours, no rental equipment is included so you will need to rent or bring your own.