Discover Lake Tahoe’s winter magic aboard a luxury snowcat, winding through snowy pines to cozy campfires and starlit skies. Perfect for romantic or family evenings immersed in nature.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as movement occurs primarily inside a snowcat with minimal walking required.
Wildlife
History
The Lake Tahoe area was traditionally used as hunting and trading grounds by the Washoe tribe, who revered the lake’s surrounding peaks.
Conservation
Mountain Scenic Tours emphasizes low-impact travel to protect fragile alpine ecosystems and minimize fire risk during campfire sessions.
Pacific Crest Snowcats
Discover Lake Tahoe’s winter magic aboard a luxury snowcat, winding through snowy pines to cozy campfires and starlit skies. Perfect for romantic or family evenings immersed in nature.
Pacific Crest Snowcats operates guided snowcat-accessed winter adventures between Palisades Tahoe and Sugar Bowl. The company provides a range of experiences — from four-hour snowshoe tours and mountain scenic excursions to full-day snowcat skiing and snowboarding across 3,000 acres of untouched terrain. Trips include small-group and large-group private snowcats, snowcat-assisted backcountry touring, mountaintop snowshoe tours, and customizable scenic evenings with campfire appetizers and wine.
Each outing runs from short, four-hour journeys to full-day backcountry expeditions. Expert guides lead every trip, tailoring runs and routes to skill level and local conditions, and offering instruction for riders and skiers at varied experience levels. For advanced skiers and snowboarders, Pacific Crest Snowcats delivers an off-piste option with seven to ten guided runs and over 11,000 vertical feet of terrain in a single full-day itinerary.
Riders ascend in heated, luxurious snowcats to high alpine vistas, sometimes reaching nearly 8,000 feet, where guests find old-growth forests, unique snow formations, and panoramic mountain views. Private-group options accommodate up to twelve people for focused, faster-paced days, while smaller private cat trips host intimate groups with two expert guides.
Safety, local knowledge, and equipment guidance are emphasized throughout. The provider's combination of experienced guides, tailored itineraries, and access to expansive backcountry terrain creates memorable and responsible winter adventures for families, couples, and advanced athletes.
Bookings are recommended to secure dates and configurations. Guests are advised to bring appropriate gear, food, and layers for varied conditions. Customization options make these outings ideal for romantic evenings, family stargazing, or backcountry objectives.
Tours Offered
7
Varied backcountry and scenic snowcat trips
Group Sizes
Up to 12
Private and small-group options available
Trip Lengths
4 hours–Full Day
Short tours to full-day adventures
Location
Palisades Tahoe–Sugar Bowl
Access to extensive alpine terrain
Select private or guided trips — limited availability during peak winter months. Book early to secure preferred dates.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary widely; wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear to stay warm and dry.
Bring a Camera with a Zoom Lens
Capturing the distant lake and forest vistas is easier with zoom to frame the perfect shot without disturbance.
Avoid Alcohol Before Driving
Enjoy wine responsibly during the campfire but arrange transportation afterward as winter roads can be icy.
Book in Advance for Peak Season
Winter weekends fill quickly; early reservations ensure your preferred time and group size.
Warm insulated jacket
Protects against cold temperatures during outdoor stops.
winter
Gloves and hat
Keeps extremities warm while outside the snowcat.
winter
Water-resistant boots
Ensures comfort walking on snow and ice-covered surfaces.
winter
Binoculars
Enhances views of distant wildlife or landscape details from the vista point.
winter