Jones Pass Cat Skiing
Jones Pass Cat Skiing offers EPIC experiences for winter sports enthusiasts have become powder addicts! Whether a skier or snowboarder, the team of professional guides want to share their knowledge and passion for the backcountry with all of those they guide.
The high altitude combined with good Northern exposure keeps the snow cold and light. Operating in the Jones Pass area with an operating permit of 2,600 acres, Jones Pass Guides have the powder, vertical and adventure for an epic powder experience. Holding true to their powder addiction, they run trips seven days a week. Better yet, they are located only 45 minutes from Denver.
All trips include K2 powder demo skis, safety gear, lunch provided by Rudi’s Deli, and 2 free beers at the end of the day, compliments of Steamworks Brewery. Photography services are available for an additional fee.
Join a day or more as a solo traveler or small group or book the entire snowcat for your own private group of up to 14.
See rates & inclusions here >>
If you have any questions or want to check availability, please
make a booking request.
Ability/Terrain
We want everyone to have a great time! There are, however, some ability issues that should be mentioned. Nobody wants to hold up the rest of the group on a powder day, so here are a few things to consider prior to booking...
Ability
- All guests should be in good physical condition. You will be skiing backcountry powder at high elevations and it demands a lot from your body.
- We do not groom any runs!
- Guests should be comfortable skiing expert runs at developed resorts.
Terrain
Our choice of terrain each day is based on avalanche hazard, snow conditions and skier/rider ability. Guests should be of advanced and expert ability and able to ski in variable snow conditions on a variety of terrain. The terrain ranges in elevation from 10,500’ to 12,500’ and an average day of snow cat skiing is 8-12 runs with plenty of vertical depending on the speed of the group and the terrain available & conditions. The guest to guide ratio is 4:1.
Terrain includes:
- High alpine bowls
- Gladed meadows
- Rock bands
- Open chutes
Check the current snow forecast here >>
Getting There
Jones Pass cat skiing is located just 45 minutes drive from Denver in the Jones Pass Area.
Meet at the Jones Pass trail-head located 9 miles North of Empire Colorado on US 40.
Directions to Basecamp
We will meet here to get ready, check out gear, and briefly orientate everyone about the day.
From I-70, take exit 232 to US 40, proceed northwest approximately 1.7 miles to 409 Park Ave, Empire, CO 80438. There will be parking in front and to the Northwest of the building. From here we will shuttle up to Jones Pass parking lot with our bus.
Directions from I-70 To the Jones Pass Trail Head
From I-70, take exit 232 to US 40, proceed northwest approximately 9 miles to small town of Berthoud Falls.
Turn left at the large sign for cat skiing (Jones Pass/Henderson Mine Road)
Follow Henderson Mine Road for 2.1 miles where it will dead end at Jones Pass Trailhead.
From Winter Park: Take US40 West approx. 16 miles. You will see the large sign directing you to turn right on Henderson Mine Road. Follow that road for 2.1 miles where it will dead end at Jones Pass Trailhead.
You will see the snowcat, and your Guide Team waiting to check you in.
See location map here >>