Top Bird Cam
This view is from the top of the Blue Bird Quad, elevation 7640′. View rotates automatically. Click image for larger view.
Experience the thrill of the backcountry!
The Goods
Experience the ultimate adventure at one of Idaho’s best ski resorts by joining us on a guided Snow cat skiing trip into the beautiful backcountry of the Payette National Forest.
Snow cat trips are offered on 17,912 acres of snowy steeps, tree-lined glades and powdery bowls reaching elevations of nearly 8,500 feet. Our expansive backcountry terrain includes three separate mountain peaks as well as a newer area off of Six Mile Ridge.
View the Backcountry Trail Map
Brundage Mountain’s experienced guides – licensed by the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association – will see to it that your adventure into this pristine, snowy wonderland is safe and unforgettable.
Who can go?
Skiers and Snowboarders are welcome on our trips. You should feel comfortable descending forested slopes in powder and mixed snow conditions. Please remember, natural hazards are not marked in the backcountry and avalanches are possible. We provide avalanche beacons and an introductory training session for each of our guests. All of our guides have extensive training in avalanche safety.
Private Snow Cat Adventure
Rent the entire SnowCat for up to 10 people. You choose the members of your group and our guides can tailor the experience just for you!
2023/2024 price:
$5000 plus tax (20% deposit due at time of booking)
Public Snow Cat Adventure
(Public Snow Cat booking will begin Winter 23/24)
No group? No problem! Experience the backcountry and make some new friends along the way. Minimum of 6 people needed to go out.
SNOWCAT F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guided SnowCat Trips at Brundage Mountain
- DO WE NEED TO BRING OUR OWN SKIS OR BOARD?Bring your own skis or board, or pay to rent from our powder-friendly Demo Fleet. This year’s skis include the latest men’s and women’s models from Rossignol, Blizzard, Nordica, Head, Kastle, Black Crows, Elan, and Moment. Available snowboard brands include Burton, Head, Weston, Arbor, Niche, and Drake.
- HOW MANY RUNS CAN WE EXPECT TO MAKE IN A DAY?Most groups will get between 8 and 14 runs, depending on the skiers ability level and the ability of the Snowcat to climb terrain in the given snow conditions.
- HOW MUCH VERTICAL CAN WE EXPECT?Most groups average between 8,000 to 12,000 vertical feet. Our backcountry runs range from 600 to 2800 vertical feet each.
- CAN WE PICK OUR TERRAIN?Our guides do their best to provide untracked powder and provide the best experience for each particular group. Factors such as skill level of the guests, avalanche conditions, lack of snow from a high pressure system and inability to climb the roads can limit the options on a given day.
- WHAT IS THE TYPICAL GRATUITY AND IS IT SHARED WITH THE DRIVER?The most important thing for guests to remember is that guiding is a service business, and all guides throughout the world rely on their tips as a significant part of their earnings. That said, they must earn your gratuity. The standard of the industry is 15-20% of the trip cost. The gratuity is shared equally between guides and driver. If you are coming with a group, it is always a good idea to talk with others about how much they plan to tip, so as to avoid embarrassment. You are welcome to present directly to the guide his/her gratuity in cash or check, or provide the gratuity information prior to the trip. Our Guest Services agents can add that to your credit card total if that is more convenient for you.
Reservations
Your reservation is not final until you have reserved it with a credit card and paid your deposit.
For questions, please call 208-634-4151 or e-mail us at [email protected].
Cancellation Policy – All Trips
Cancellations made by guests 14 days or more before the scheduled trip will be given a full refund.
Cancellations or ‘no shows’ less than 14 days before the trip will be charged the full price of the trip.
Cancellations made less than 14 days before a trip may rebook for the current season for a $500 re-booking fee.
If Brundage cancels your trip, you will receive a full refund.
START YOUR ENGINES!
Brundage Mountain also offers guided snowmobile tours into the Payette National Forest backcountry. Learn More
