Discover the thrill of Cat Ski and Cat Skiing

For snow enthusiasts seeking untouched powder and breathtaking mountain adventures, cat skiing is the ultimate winter experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder, cat ski offers unparalleled access to remote, pristine slopes that are typically unreachable by traditional lifts. Explore the exhilarating world of cat skiing and discover why it’s becoming a top choice for adventure seekers worldwide.

What is Cat Skiing?

Cat skiing involves using a snowcat, a tracked vehicle designed for snowy terrain, to transport skiers and snowboarders to the top of remote mountain slopes. There’s usually a comfortable cabin mounted on top of the snow groomer. This cabin has easy access by stairs. There a storage boxes on the side of the cabin to transport your skis or snowboard. Once you reach the drop off point, the guides unload your gear and you can ski down the mountain. Unlike crowded ski resorts, cat skiing takes you to untouched powder fields, allowing you to carve fresh tracks in deep, fluffy snow. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, exclusivity, and natural beauty.

Why Choose Cat Ski?

1. Unmatched Powder: Cat skiing offers access to some of the best powder conditions on the planet. Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding on untouched snow, far from the groomed runs of traditional ski resorts.
2. Exclusive Access: With cat skiing, you can explore remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible. This exclusivity ensures you enjoy a serene and uncrowded skiing experience.
3. Varied Terrain: Whether you prefer gentle tree runs or challenging steep descents, cat skiing terrain caters to all skill levels and preferences. The diverse landscape promises an exciting adventure with every run.
4. Guided Adventure: Expert guides lead the way, ensuring safety and providing valuable insights about the terrain. Their local knowledge helps you find the best runs and enjoy the most exhilarating descents.
5. Small Groups: Cat skiing operations usually involve small groups, which not only enhances the exclusivity of the experience but also allows for a more personalized and flexible approach to choosing runs and routes.

Top Destinations for Cat Skiing

Explore some of the best cat skiing destinations around the world:

1. Cat Skiing in Kyrgyzstan

• Jyrgalan Known for their deep, untouched powder and stunning Tien Shan mountains, Kyrgyzstan offers endless opportunities for cat skiing adventures. The region around Jyrgalan in Kyrgyzstan is unmatched in Central Asia. The terrain is endless and varies a lot. Elevation wise it’s situated between 2200 and 3400 meters. One of the highest cat ski operations in the world. The season lasts from early December till mid April.

2. Cat Skiing in Georgia

• Goderdzi: Often called the Japan of Georgia, Goderdzi provides incredible snow conditions and diverse terrain, making it a top destination for cat skiing in the Caucasus. Elevation wise it’s situated between 1600 and 2400 meters. The season lasts from January until mid March. You can reach Goderdzi from a winding mountain road from Batumi or you can order a pick up by snow cat from the Zarzma side. The terrain is forested (below 2000 meters) and the upper sections are steeper and more challenging. On average there’s a 3-4 meters snow cover in Goderdzi.

3. Cat Skiing in Kosovo

• Accursed Mountains: Experience the beauty and thrill of cat skiing in Kosovo, with elevations ranging from 1600 to 2400 meters and a mix of gentle slopes and steep descents. The best terrain is above the village of Decan in western Kosovo. There’s other operations near Gjeravica and in the ski resort of Brezovica. The terrain near Decan has long runs and the best snow cover. The upper sections are very challenging with cliff drops and open bowls. The lower section provide shelter for snowy/foggy conditions. This is our favorite spot in the Balkans. The season lasts from the End of December till the End of March.

4. Cat Skiing in North Macedonia

• Shar Mountains: With elevations up to 2700 meters, North Macedonia’s Shar Mountains offers ok snow conditions and a variety of terrain for all levels. Unfortunately the available terrain has been massively decrease over the last couple of years. With the creation of a national park in the Shar Mountains, the cat ski operation can only use limited terrain. ESKIMO and Shar Outdoors are the main operators in the area. The season lasts from early January until early March.

5. Cat Skiing in Kazakhstan

• Almaty Mountains: Explore Kazakhstan’s rugged terrain with its expansive powder fields and challenging runs, perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders. Near the Kyrgyzstan border is the nearest cat ski operation of Almaty. They only work with 1 snow groomer at the moment. There’s another cat ski operation in the Altai mountains in Eastern Kazakhstan. This is a long drive though from Almaty or Astana.The terrain near Karkara (Kyrgyzstan border) has great potential and has elevations between 1800 and 2800 meters. The season lasts from early December till early April.

6. Cat Skiing in Turkey

• Kaçkar Mountains: Turkey’s Kaçkar Mountains provide a unique cat skiing experience with pristine powder and stunning vistas, ideal for both seasoned and novice skiers. The operation has been started in 2024 and is not very professional for the moment. It has great potential but it’s very remote. The season lasts from early January till the end of March.

7. Cat Skiing in Canada

• British Columbia and Alberta: With vast, untouched terrain spanning the majestic Rocky Mountains and beyond, Canada offers cat skiing experiences that cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Enjoy the deep, fresh powder in regions like British Columbia and Alberta, where snowcats take you to remote, pristine areas far from the crowds. You’ll explore varied terrain from wide-open bowls to tree-lined runs, ensuring an unforgettable and exhilarating winter escapade in Canada’s stunning wilderness.

8. Cat Skiing in USA

• Utah, Colorado and Montana: Explore renowned destinations like Utah, Colorado, and Montana, where snowcats provide access to remote, pristine slopes far from the hustle of crowded ski resorts. Enjoy the thrill of carving fresh tracks through untouched snow, with diverse terrain ranging from wide-open bowls to challenging tree runs. Guided by experienced professionals, cat skiing in the USA promises an unforgettable adventure, combining the excitement of off-piste skiing with the beauty of America’s stunning mountain landscapes.

9. Cat Skiing in Japan

• Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps: The pristine backcountry of Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps whisk you away to untouched slopes covered in some of the world’s lightest and deepest powder. Snowcat terrain that caters to all levels, from mellow tree runs to exhilarating open bowls, Japan’s cat skiing offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.

10. Cat Skiing in Chili

• Nevados de Chillan and Corralco: Discover the ultimate adventure with cat skiing in Chile, where the Andes Mountains provide an incredible backdrop for your winter escapade. Renowned for its deep, untouched powder and breathtaking vistas, Chile offers unparalleled cat skiing experiences. Explore pristine slopes in areas like Nevados de Chillán and Corralco, where snowcats take you to remote, high-altitude terrains far from the crowds

Benefits of Cat Skiing

• Fresh Tracks Every Run: With cat skiing, you have the chance to carve fresh tracks in deep, untouched snow with every descent.
• Less Crowded: Unlike busy ski resorts, cat skiing offers a more tranquil and private experience in the wilderness.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Guides can choose the best runs based on current weather and snow conditions, ensuring optimal skiing or snowboarding conditions.
• Adventure and Exploration: Cat skiing takes you off the beaten path and into stunning, remote areas, providing a sense of adventure and exploration.

How to Prepare for Cat Skiing

1. Physical Fitness: Ensure you’re in good physical condition, as cat skiing can be physically demanding, especially in deep powder.
2. Proper Gear: Invest in quality ski or snowboard gear designed for backcountry conditions, including avalanche safety equipment.
3. Skill Level: While cat skiing is accessible to various skill levels, having some experience in off-piste skiing or snowboarding can enhance your adventure.
4. Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided cat skiing tour to make the most of your experience and ensure safety in the backcountry.

Book Your Cat Skiing Adventure Today

Cat skiing offers an unmatched winter adventure, combining the thrill of untouched powder with the beauty of remote mountain landscapes. Whether you choose the rugged peaks of Kyrgyzstan, the scenic slopes of Georgia, or the diverse terrains of Kosovo and beyond, cat skiing promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the adventure, carve fresh tracks, and discover the true essence of winter sports with cat skiing.

Book your cat skiing trip now and embark on the ultimate winter adventure.