Snowbird, UT – For the first time since Mineral Basin opened in 2000, Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort in Utah is offering a guided, backcountry cat skiing experience, called Snowcat Skiing for Nature because proceeds benefit the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation.

“It’s the perfect time to go snowcat skiing in Snowbird’s backcountry,” said Spencer Storm, Snowcat Skiing for Nature guide.

Half-day and private tours are available for groups as large as 10 people, or on an individual basis. Half-day tours cost $300 per person and include lift ticket, breakfast and orientation at Forklift restaurant, located in the Snowbird Center off the Plaza Deck. The tour then sets out for pre-public guided skiing in Mineral Basin, then off to the backcountry terrain and aspen trees of Miller Hill and the north-facing slopes of Mineral Basin.

Custom and private snowcat tours may be arranged.

Cat Skiing for Nature participants must be expert skiers in physical condition for high altitude exertion in variable snow and weather conditions. Tours include some short skis-on hikes. Participants must wear a beacon, which may be provided.

Advance registration is required by calling (801) 947-8222, or in person at the Snowbird Mountain School office located on the Plaza Deck.

Proceeds from the Snowbird Cat Skiing for Nature program benefit the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation and the Wasatch Water Legacy Partnership, a public/private partnership working to improve the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and Salt Lake City’s drinking water.

In related news, Snowbird has also launched the “Chow Cat,” a new food stand staged in Mineral Basin at the base of Baldy Express Chairlift.