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WHAT TO EXPECT

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT WHILE UP AT JONES PASS AND A GEAR LIST FOR ALL YOUR ESSENTIALS

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. Our trips or touring groups are open to expert skiers and riders. Terrain is chosen based on snow conditions, avalanche risks and guest ability.

Abilty

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!

All of our runs consist of natural fallen snow

Guests should be comfortable skiing expert runs at developed resorts

Although we offer a large variety of terrain, in the backcounry being a skilled skier is key

Terrain

Our choice of terrain each day is based on avalanche hazards, 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 snowcat 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.

High Alpine Bowls

Gladded Meadows

Rock Bands

Open Chutes

GEAR LIST

The weather can be very extreme at times and you need to be prepared to make the most of your day. What gear you bring can make monumental differences in how you feel through the day. With that said there is additional room on the cat to store extra layers that may come essential with changing weather. In addition to the beacon, probe and shovel included in your rental, here’s what gear  you need to bring:

Appropriate skiing or riding equipment

Ski boots and Powder Skis or Snowboard Boots and Snowboard

Synthetic or wool socks that are optimum for your boots

Poles (If you are Skiing)

Headwear - visor or cap, hat or helmet

Jacket and Insulating layers

  • Mid-weight base layer fleece or sweater

  • Puffy Jacket

  • Shell Jacket

Eye protection - sunglasses and goggles

Sunscreen and lip balm

Extra base layers in case it is very wet or you sweat profusely

Gloves or mittens

Hand warmers are great to have just in case!

Water bladder or water bottle. (We can refill in the snowcat)

Optional Items

Phone

Camera

Music for the cat (Bluetooth Device)

Snowcat will have an audio system to connect your device for music.

Personal snacks

Lunch is provided but if you want some specific snacks please bring what you like

Optional DEMO EQUipMENT

You may bring your own skis. We recommend a minimum width of 100mm underfoot. All guests have the option of using our fleet of powder skis or snowboards at no additional cost. 

DEMO SKI BRANDS

  • Black Crows

  • DPS

  • RMU

  • Liberty

DEMO SNowboard BRANDS

Never Summer Industries

Snowcat assisted Backcountry Skiing Gear Managment

Snowcat skiing and riding are different from your typical ski resort visits. The snowcat essentially is like 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. 

SafEty Equipment
Is Provided

Each Client will be provided with essential backcountry equipment including the following

BLACK DIAMOND BACKCOUNTRY BACKPACK

with Probe and Shovel

You will be able to put personal items in this but mainly will house rescue gear.

MAMMUT BARRYVOX BEACON

Will be put secured on the base layer & you will not be taking off for the day.

BackcountrySkierwithBackpack