Colorado Backcountry: Guided Snowshoe Tour

Colorado Backcountry: Guided Snowshoe Tour

Imagine stepping into a snow-covered landscape where the air is crisp, and the silence is broken only by your crunching snowshoes. For $99 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure takes you into Colorado’s pristine backcountry, led by knowledgeable guides who know the local trails intimately. Whether you’re after a quick half-day trip or a full-day outing, this tour offers a chance to experience Colorado’s winter wilderness while learning about its natural beauty and ecosystems.

What we particularly like about this experience is the small group size—max six participants per guide—which ensures personalized attention and safety. Plus, the inclusion of snowshoes and poles means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear. Another highlight is the variety of options: public tours on Tuesdays that visit the popular Red Mountain Open Space and private, customizable trips any other day. That flexibility makes it appealing whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a small group of friends.

One possible consideration is that proper clothing and weather gear are not included, so you’ll need to bundle up appropriately. But for those who love outdoor activities and want a guided, educational experience in Colorado’s winter scenery, this tour suits outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. If you enjoy learning from local experts and value stunning vistas with a relaxed pace, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personalized guidance and safety.
• All gear provided, including snowshoes and poles, making it easy to participate.
• Stunning scenery, including Lake Dillon and Continental Divide views, features prominently.
• Flexible scheduling with public Tuesday tours and private trips other days.
• Educational experience led by local guides who share insights about the area.
• Affordable price point with high-quality equipment and small group attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Colorado’s Backcountry on Snowshoes

When you think of Colorado in winter, images of snow-draped mountains and peaceful forests probably come to mind. The guided snowshoe tour offered by Colorado Adventure Guides makes that imagery a reality, without the need for prior experience or expensive equipment. For just $99, you get a well-rounded 3.5-hour adventure led by professional guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the area.

The tour departs from Silverthorne, with the public trips taking place on Tuesdays at the nearby Red Mountain Open Space. This location is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its accessible trails and breathtaking views of Lake Dillon, the Continental Divide, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The trails wind through forests of lodgepole pine and aspen, providing a peaceful setting—ideal for those seeking tranquility or some quiet reflection amid nature.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the local guides—with their expertise and friendly manner—bring the landscape alive with stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. Second, the small group size creates an intimate atmosphere where participants can ask questions, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or crowded.

A typical outing includes snowshoes and poles, so all you need to do is dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring your sense of adventure. The tour’s duration offers enough time to enjoy the surroundings without it feeling exhausting, making it suitable for families, casual hikers, or anyone curious about snowshoeing for the first time.

A potential drawback? Since clothing and weather gear aren’t included, you’ll want to plan your outfit carefully—think layered clothing, waterproof boots, and perhaps goggles or sunglasses for glare. This isn’t a problem if you’re prepared, but it’s worth noting so you’re not caught off guard.

Who is this best for? If you love a mix of adventure, scenery, and learning, and you prefer small groups and expert guidance, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to escape crowded resorts and experience Colorado’s wilderness in a relaxed, informative way.

What to Expect on Your Snowshoeing Adventure

From the moment you meet your guide, you’ll notice the focus on safety, education, and fun. The guides are experienced locals who love sharing their knowledge of Colorado’s natural environment. They typically meet at the CAG headquarters in Silverthorne before heading out to the trailhead, which is usually just minutes away—making the logistics straightforward and stress-free.

Once you’re outfitted with snowshoes and poles, the group sets out onto the trail. The terrain is generally gentle, with options to customize the route based on your ability level and interests. For those on Tuesday public trips, the Salt Lick Trail in Red Mountain Open Space offers a scenic loop through lodgepole pines and aspen groves, with spectacular views of Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains.

Throughout the tour, guides will point out interesting features of the landscape, from animal tracks to plant life, and share stories about the area’s history and geology. The pace is relaxed enough for photography, catching your breath, or simply soaking in the scenery. If you’re lucky, you might even see some wildlife, such as deer or birds adapted to winter conditions.

After about 3.5 hours—sometimes a little less or more depending on the group—the tour concludes, leaving you refreshed and inspired. Many participants, including those with little snowshoeing experience, find the activity surprisingly accessible and enjoyable.

We love how the guides tailor the experience, making it accessible for beginners while providing enough challenge for more experienced outdoor lovers. As one reviewer noted, “He was very knowledgeable to the area and I actually went back the following day,” showing how engaging and captivating these guides can be.

Another key point is the focus on safety—guides are trained to manage varying conditions, ensuring everyone feels comfortable even if the snow is deep or the weather turns brisk.

Pricing, Value, and Practical Tips

At $99, this tour offers good value considering the professional guides, gear, and scenic experience. Compared to the cost of renting gear and navigating unfamiliar trails alone, it’s a budget-friendly way to access Colorado’s backcountry. Plus, the small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention, making it feel more personalized than larger tours.

Since the tour includes snowshoes, poles, and sometimes even transportation from the meeting point to the trailhead, it reduces your planning and gear-hunting efforts. The availability of discounted rentals for safety equipment like beacons, shovels, and probes adds extra assurance if you want to explore deeper or venture into more remote areas.

The flexibility to reserve now and pay later, along with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, makes this a low-risk option for travelers who are still firming up their plans.

Travelers should note that clothing isn’t included, so layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear. Good waterproof boots, sunglasses, and gloves will make your experience more comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover eager to see Colorado’s winter landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided snowshoe tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially good for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a safe, educational outdoor outing with local experts.

Travelers who value small groups and personalized attention will appreciate the intimate setting, and those who want to learn about the area’s flora, fauna, and geology will find the guides’ insights enriching.

For seasoned hikers or snowshoers looking for a more challenging experience or longer day, private trips are available and can be tailored to your ability level.

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FAQs About the Colorado Backcountry Snowshoe Tour

What should I wear?
You’ll want to dress in layers suitable for winter outdoor activity—think moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and sunglasses or goggles for glare protection.

Are snowshoes and poles included?
Yes, all necessary gear, including snowshoes and poles, is provided as part of the tour.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tours typically meet at the CAG headquarters in Silverthorne, with transportation provided to the trailhead if needed, based on vehicle availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind to book early.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The terrain and pace are designed to accommodate all levels, and guides are experienced in helping newcomers feel comfortable on snowshoes.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is about 3.5 hours, with options for morning or afternoon outings, depending on availability.

In the end, this guided snowshoe tour in Colorado is a fantastic way to experience the winter landscape in a safe, engaging, and scenic manner. Small group sizes and expert guides mean you’ll get personal attention, learn about the area’s natural features, and enjoy stunning views that make the trip worth every penny. Whether you’re a first-timer or an outdoor enthusiast, this experience delivers authentic Colorado mountain magic with a touch of education and fun.