Operations
COVID -19 Operations Plan:
Our main priority is client and staff safety when concerning the pandemic. We want to respect every clients opinions, concerns, and feelings therefore, we will be enforcing masks when in the headquarters and in the snowcat. This may make it tricky to eat lunch and coordinate a few of the aspects but masks or face coverings will be required. Additionally, this is still being determined, but staff may be in a separate Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) other than the cat driver and additional staff in the front. This is to keep a good separation from our cleintel in order to keep our staff healthy so we can operate thorough the season. Between every trip the snowcat and items used will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Jones Pass Guides offers authentic epic backcountry experiences for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether a skier or snowboarder, our team of professional guides at Jones Pass Guides want to share their knowledge and passion for the backcountry with all of those they guide.
Jones Pass Guides operation is ideal for quick access from the Front Range of Colorado to quickly find yourself on the snow without hours of driving. The high altitude combined with good Northern exposure keeps the snow cold and light. With our operating permit of 2,600 acres in the Jones Pass area, we have the powder, vertical and adventure for an epic backcountry experience. We run trips seven days a week. Better yet, they are located only 45 minutes from Denver.
All trips include demo skis (if desired), 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 private group of up to 12.
Here is what your trip includes:
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Lunch from Rudi’s Deli in Winter Park. (We can accommodate most dietary concerns or allergies with prior notice.)
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All required safety gear (a backpack with a beacon, probe and shovel). (Note: You are also able to bring your own safety gear. This will be checked by one of your guides, but PLEASE NO PLASTIC SHOVELS.)
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Demo powder skis (boots not included) from Denver-based Confluence Kayak and Ski;
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And when the day is done, you’ll enjoy two Steamworks Brewery Beers courtesy of our beer sponsor based in Durango.
What to Know about Cat Operations
Snowcat skiing and riding are different from your typical ski resort visits. The snowcat essentially is your ski locker, where you can store your additional layers, extra goggles, and other personal equipment instead of bringing it with you on each run. Additionally, the cat cab is heated and multiple individuals will add to that temperature fluctuation. This will ultimately affect what you plan to bring and how snow will affect your gear (i.e. ice buildup on ski boots.) Keep in mind that it still can be quite a cold op on Jones Pass and you should be prepared for that. 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 before booking:
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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.
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We do not groom any runs!
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Guests should be comfortable skiing expert runs at developed resorts. Our choice of terrain each day is based on avalanche hazards, snow conditions, and skier/rider ability.
