Adventure brief
Guided Full-Day Snowshoe Tour
Venture deep into Summit County’s winter wilds with Colorado Adventure Guides’ full-day snowshoe tours. Personalized, safe, and scenic, these treks reveal quiet alpine landscapes few see each season.
Silverthorne, Colorado, sits at the heart of Summit County’s high alpine terrain, offering striking winter landscapes carved by glaciers and dusted with deep, powdery snow. Here, Colorado Adventure Guides leads full-day snowshoe tours that open up a fresh dimension of whitebackcountry travel for all skill levels. With over 20 years guiding experience in this rugged region, they offer more than just a walk in the snow—they provide access to hidden nooks of the Rockies where silence reigns and fresh tracks mean freedom.
The tours typically wind through moose-frequented forests of subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce, across granite boulder fields sculpted during the last ice age, and along frozen streams that catch the low winter sun. Guides offer engaging narratives on the area's natural history, including how the local watershed feeds the Colorado River and the seasonal behavior of native wildlife like pine marten and snowshoe hare. What sets Colorado Adventure Guides apart is their commitment to personalized, safe experiences paired with environmental stewardship.
Their expert guides hold Avalanche Safety certifications and lead groups with a maximum 6:1 ratio, tailoring routes based on weather, snowpack conditions, and group ability. The company’s basecamp in Silverthorne makes it easy for travelers to access a range of terrains across Summit and adjacent counties, from gentle valley floor strolls to more challenging climbs up scenic ridges. Though snowshoeing is often underestimated for its physical demands, these full-day tours are thoughtfully paced to balance exertion with ample breaks for learning and photography opportunities.
With rental gear available and logistics handled, visitors can focus on taking in crystal blue skies and vast mountain vistas. This winter journey on snowshoes is as much about connection as physical activity—header tips on reading snow conditions and backcountry etiquette blend with moments to feel the stillness only winter wilderness can offer. Whether coming from nearby Denver or staying in Silverthorne, users will find this tour a standout gateway to Colorado’s winter wilds.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in Layersessential
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell to adapt to variable snow conditions and changing weather.
- 02Stay Hydratedessential
Cold air can mask dehydration; bring at least two liters of water and drink regularly during the tour.
- 03Use Trekking Polesinfo
Poles help balance on uneven snow and reduce fatigue on ascents and descents.
- 04Prepare for Early Startswarning
Tours typically depart around 8 am; arrive on time to ensure a smooth group meeting and departure.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Snowshoes and Poles
Provided by guides to improve traction and stability in deep snow.
winterEssentialWaterproof Insulated Jacket
Keeps you warm and dry amid cold mountain winds and occasional snow showers.
winterEssentialThermal Base Layers
Critical for moisture management and insulation over long hours outdoors.
winterEssentialSunglasses with UV Protection
Protects eyes from intense sun glare reflected off snow surfaces.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet meadows along Cataract Lake trail offer untouched snowfields perfect for fresh tracks., The upper reaches of Swan Mountain provide panoramic views without heavy traffic.
Local fauna
Snowshoe hare blends into winter landscapes with seasonal camouflage., Pine marten, a rare sight, frequents dense subalpine forests.
Historic heritage
Summit County’s rugged landscape was shaped by glacial activity over the last 20,000 years, with mining booms in the 19th century laying foundations for mountain towns like Silverthorne.
Mindful exploration
Colorado Adventure Guides emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and works closely with USFS to minimize the ecological footprint of backcountry winter use.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Ridge lines overlooking the Blue River Valley, Frozen alpine lakes reflecting snow peaks, Snow-clad fir groves with morning light filtering through
- Subjects
- Snow-covered landscapes, Wildlife tracks, Crystal-clear skies against rugged mountains
- Best times
- Golden hour, Mid-morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How physically fit do I need to be to participate?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to comfortably manage sustained walking in snow and elevation changes. Guides assess trail choices based on fitness.
When and where do I meet my guide?
Your guide contacts you 24-48 hours before to confirm the meeting location, typically the CAG basecamp or a nearby trailhead, with tours often departing by 8 am.
Is gear provided or do I bring my own?
Colorado Adventure Guides provides snowshoes and poles; you should bring appropriate clothing and personal gear like gloves and sunscreen.
Are these tours private or group-based?
Snowshoe tours are private and customizable with a maximum client-to-guide ratio of 6:1, offering personalized instruction and route selection.
What if I have no snowshoeing experience?
No prior experience is needed. Guides provide detailed instruction and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Should I tip my guide?
Tips are not required but appreciated; a 15-20% gratuity reflects recognition of your guide's dedication and expertise.