Colorado Backcountry: Guided Snowshoe Tour

Explore Colorado’s Serene Backcountry on a Guided Snowshoe Tour for $99

This Colorado Backcountry: Guided Snowshoe Tour offers an affordable and accessible way to experience the pristine winter landscapes of Colorado. Priced at $99 per person and lasting around 3.5 hours, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. It departs from Silverthorne and includes snowshoes and poles, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of various skill levels.

The tour is led by local, professional guides who maintain a maximum 6:1 client-to-guide ratio, ensuring personalized attention and safety. Whether you prefer a full-day or half-day experience, this tour adapts to your schedule, with private trips available Wednesday through Monday and public tours on Tuesdays. The Red Mountain Open Space trail, just behind the tour headquarters, showcases spectacular views of Lake Dillon and the Continental Divide.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at $99 per person for a 3.5-hour guided snowshoe adventure
• Small group size with a max 6:1 client-to-guide ratio for personalized attention
• All gear included, with snowshoes and poles provided
• Flexible options: public tours on Tuesdays at Red Mountain Open Space, private trips Wed-Mon
• Educational and safe experience led by local guides
• Accessible for various skill levels, with scenic views of Lake Dillon and the Continental Divide

Starting Point and Tour Schedule in Silverthorne

The tour begins right at the CAG headquarters in Silverthorne, placing you just minutes from the trailhead. On Tuesdays, the public tours set out to the Red Mountain Open Space on the Salt Lick Trail, a popular route that passes through lodgepole pine and aspen groves. The proximity to the headquarters makes for a convenient start, especially for those staying nearby.

The timing is flexible, with tours typically available in the morning and afternoon. Private trips can be scheduled Wednesday through Monday, offering more customization for groups or individuals seeking an exclusive experience. The tour includes transportation from the meeting point if needed, based on vehicle availability, simplifying logistics.

Highlights of the Red Mountain Open Space Trail

The trail chosen on Tuesdays offers a casual and scenic snowshoe experience suitable for beginners and intermediate outdoor lovers. Traversing Salt Lick Trail, guests pass through beautiful stands of lodgepole pine and aspen trees, creating a picturesque winter landscape. The route features views of Lake Dillon and the Continental Divide, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

This trail is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its accessible terrain and breathtaking vistas. The comfortable pace allows guests to enjoy the surroundings and learn from the guides without feeling rushed. The setting is perfect for those looking to escape the resort crowds and enjoy nature.

What’s Included in the Tour Package

The cost of $99 covers everything needed for a successful snowshoe adventure. This includes professional local guides with a maximum 6:1 ratio, ensuring safety and personalized attention. The tour provides snowshoes and poles, so no special equipment is necessary unless you prefer to bring your own or want to rent additional gear.

Guests also benefit from transportation from the meeting point to the trailhead if available, and discounts on ORTOVOX beacons, shovels, and probes, ideal for those interested in safety gear. Demo gear is also offered at a discounted rate, making it easier for beginners to try new equipment.

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Important Items Not Included in the Price

While the tour provides gear and guidance, it does not include lodging, clothing, insurance, tips for guides, or food and water. Travelers should dress appropriately for weather conditions and bring snacks or drinks if desired. The tour is designed as a safe and educational experience, but participants are responsible for their own clothing and personal items.

How the Tour Unfolds: A Typical Snowshoe Journey

Led by experienced guides, the tour begins at the Silverthorne headquarters, where guests are fitted with snowshoes and poles. The journey into the backcountry involves a gentle trek along Salt Lick Trail, passing through forests and open vistas. The guides share insights about local flora, fauna, and the landscape, making it both fun and educational.

Throughout the tour, the pace is adjusted to suit the group’s comfort level, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience. Expect to spend about 3.5 hours on the trail, with plenty of opportunities for photos and short breaks. The views of Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains remain a highlight, providing memorable scenic moments.

The Experience of a Local, Professional Guide

Guides are local experts with extensive knowledge of the area, adding depth to the adventure. Their friendly and informative style helps guests learn about the environment while staying safe. The small group size enhances interaction and allows guides to tailor the experience, whether you’re a novice or an experienced snowshoer.

Reviews praise the guides’ expertise, with mentions of their knowledge of the area and ability to explain local details clearly. This personal touch makes the tour especially engaging and memorable.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your schedule changes unexpectedly. This straightforward policy makes it easier to plan your Colorado winter adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The small group size and local guides stand out as major advantages, leading to a more personalized experience. The all-inclusive gear and convenient starting point in Silverthorne make this tour accessible and straightforward for visitors. The public Tuesday tours offer an affordable option, while private trips provide customization for groups or special occasions.

On top of that, the scenic route at Red Mountain Open Space ensures a scenic, enjoyable snowshoeing experience, even for those new to the activity. The tour combines safety, education, and stunning views—a balanced mix that appeals to outdoor lovers.

Who Will Enjoy This Snowshoe Tour in Colorado

This tour is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a manageable, guided snowshoe experience. It suits beginners and intermediate snowshoers who want to learn about Colorado’s landscapes in a safe, small-group setting. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a flexible, scenic winter activity will find this tour a great fit.

Those interested in personalized trips or more private experiences can opt for the private tours available Wednesday through Monday. While not designed for advanced snowshoers seeking high-altitude or strenuous treks, this tour provides a comfortable, scenic introduction to Colorado’s winter backcountry.

Colorado Backcountry Snowshoe Tour: Final Thoughts

The $99 guided snowshoe tour offers a value-packed way to enjoy Colorado’s winter scenery with the guidance of local, knowledgeable guides. The small group size enhances safety and interaction, making it suitable for those new to snowshoeing as well as experienced outdoor lovers.

The Red Mountain Open Space trail provides a beautiful, accessible route that highlights the area’s natural beauty, all within a short drive from Silverthorne. The all-inclusiveness of gear and flexible scheduling make this tour convenient and enjoyable.

While it doesn’t include lodging or meals, the focus on safety, education, and scenic views makes this a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to experience Colorado’s winter landscape without the hassle of organizing gear or transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the snowshoe tour?
The tour costs $99 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 3.5 hours.

Are the snowshoes and poles included?
Yes, snowshoes and poles are provided as part of the package.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private trips are available Wednesday through Monday.

What routes are used for the public tours?
Public tours on Tuesdays visit the Red Mountain Open Space on the Salt Lick Trail.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation from the designated meeting place to the trailhead is included if needed, based on vehicle availability.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should dress appropriately in clothing suited to weather conditions; personal items like food or water are not included.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route and pace are designed to accommodate all skill levels, especially those new to snowshoeing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who leads the tour?
Local, professional guides lead all tours, ensuring safety and educational insights throughout the experience.

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