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Article:
A Great Day of Cat Skiing by: Lachlan Brown Snowcat skiing offers strong-intermediate and expert skiers the ultimate powder snow experience. Operators provide full-service guided tours into remote high-mountain regions. Powder snow and 'fresh tracks'¯ are the norm. Uphill transportation is provided by a tracked snowcat having warm, comfortable cabs. They usually accommodate 12 guests, two guides and a driver. Some snowcat operators are based in towns or near highways and offer guests continued access to 'civilization'¯. In some cases, guests use local hotels and restaurants for accommodation and meals. Such operators may offer single-day trips. Other snowcat operators use remote lodges high in the mountains, far from cars and telephones. These lodges provide a multi-day backcountry experience in the midst of pristine alpine wilderness. They also place guests very close to their skiing. Many backcountry 'cat skiing'¯ lodges offer double-occupancy bedrooms complete with private ensuite baths. They have cozy and comfortable sitting areas, dining halls with cathedral ceilings, drying rooms for boots and outside clothing, games rooms, well-stocked bars and 'commercial'¯ kitchens. They offer exercise areas, video players, satellite telephones, perhaps a computer with Internet access and, of course, a well-stocked bar. Guests can enjoy a social drink and spectacular views while luxuriating in an outdoor hot tub, and then step right to their bedrooms for a shower or a nap. No special equipment is required for cat skiing, just boots and clothing. Powder skis can be rented at the lodge. However, snowboarders should bring their own boards. Guests will make the most of their snowcat skiing tour by being in good physical condition. Lodge life is informal and relaxed. Juice and fruit and coffee are served at 7:00 AM and a buffet breakfast is available at about 7:30. Snowcats depart between 8:30 and 9:'00
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