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A beautiful winter landscape near Vail, COA beautiful winter landscape near Vail, CO

SnowCat Tours

SnowCat Tours near Vail

Journey deep into the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area on a guided SnowCat Adventure. This 3-hour interpretive tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Colorado’s pristine backcountry from the comfort of a heated SnowCat. Glide across snow-covered ridgelines and hidden valleys as panoramic views of the Rockies unfold around every turn.

Led by expert guides, this small-group excursion combines alpine exploration with fascinating insights into the region’s wildlife, history, and ecology. Guests can step out for photos at scenic overlooks and enjoy a smooth, relaxing ride through some of the most breathtaking terrain in the Vail Valley.

Morning tours include a hearty lunch and bottled water, while afternoon departures feature snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Each tour is limited to 9 guests, ensuring an intimate and immersive mountain experience.

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Quick Details

  • Season: Winter
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Age Requirement: All ages welcome.
  • To reserve within 24 hours, please call our office at (719) 486-2656. We may have availability!
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  • A Nova Guides SnowCat Tour

Peak Passage

Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, this 3-hour guided tour offers a relaxed way to experience the mountains together.

A winter forest near Vail, CO
  • Expert guides: Our experienced guides bring the region to life through stories of local history, wildlife, and ecology. Learn about the Vail Valley’s unique environment and the natural forces that shape this incredible landscape.
  • Your snowcat: The SnowCat features a heated, fully enclosed cabin for maximum comfort, with panoramic windows and a glass roof that showcase sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. Its smooth, stable ride makes it suitable for all ages.

The Rocky Mountains in winter
  • Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area: Travel deep into one of Colorado’s most scenic and storied alpine regions. Located along the Continental Divide, this 55,000-acre winter playground features groomed trails, open meadows, and panoramic views of the Gore, Sawatch, and Tenmile Ranges. The area sits at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, offering true high-country beauty and world-class snow conditions.

A guide and a group of visitors at Nova Guides in winter
  • Heated, climate-controlled SnowCat
  • Expert interpretive guide
  • Lunch or snacks (depending on tour time)
  • Bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages

A Camp Hale visitor entering the lodge

The SnowCat is climate-controlled, but guests should still dress in warm winter layers for photo stops:

  • Winter jacket, snow pants, and snow boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Gloves or mittens and a neck gaiter or scarf
  • Layered clothing and heavy socks

If you’re missing any gear, don’t worry! We offer rentals on-site:

  • Goggles, gloves, and boots: $5 each
  • Full-body snowsuits: $30 each
An aerial view over Camp Hale

Stay

Your next Vail escape starts here
A Nova Guides visitor practicing fly fishing

Activities

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