PCS Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a brief rundown of common questions posed by past clients of PCH; however, if you do not see your question listed or still need clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or by phone at 530.544.3020.
Q: “How good of a skier or snowboarder do you have to be to go snowcat skiing or snowboarding? Will I be holding the group up, or conversely will someone else be holding me up?”
A: Skiers and snowboarders need to be at least high intermediates able to link turns in all conditions and should not only be comfortable in powder, they should have a passion for it. PCS has the entire spectrum of terrain available for all types of skiers and snowboarders from wide, open powder bowls to steep, technical lines. Ideally, forming your own group of twelve people will insure a like-minded experience as our guides have an endless amount of options to choose from each day. In the case groups of mixed ability levels, keep in mind that we do operate with two guides per snowcat, so the option always exists to split the group.
Q: “How many runs does an average group get in a day? How many vertical feet?”
A: Most groups average somewhere between 8-10 runs during a full day. The average run at PCS is around 1,200 vertical feet with some run options as long as 1,500 feet. This tends to equate to somewhere between 12,000 to 14,000 vertical feet.
Q: : “Do I need fatskis or an extra-wide snowboard? Are there any other special gear requirements I should know about?”
A: Although there is no magic ski or snowboard to make up for experience, the current trends in ski and snowboard technology definitely offer a leg up when it comes to “condition-specific” options such as deep powder…and they definitely do wonders when it comes to conserving energy throughout a day of logging 16,000 feet of vertical. Fatskis, reverse-camber, wavy-edged snowboards, elf-shoes…although there are a lot of options out there, one thing seems to ring true: “Once you go fat, you never go back.” As for other gear needs, simply show up similarly to how you would dress to ski or snowboard at your favorite resort (it’s always a good idea to dress in layers as weather regularly fluctuates throughout the day). If you do not have one, we will supply a beacon (provided as part of the trip cost); probe, shovel and other backcountry gear are optional.
Q: “Is it customary to give the guide and driver a gratuity?”
A: Yes. Although the guides and drivers working at PCS love their jobs, they also greatly appreciate the generosity of the clients to make the long hours and short season worthwhile. As for the appropriate amount, it is difficult to put a dollar figure on an epic, safe adventure in the backcountry…perhaps just keep in mind that the person that brings water to your dinner table expects 18-20%.
Q: “How dangerous is backcountry snowcat skiing or snowboarding?”
A: There are inherent risks involved with the sport both in the snowcat and on the slopes. However, given PCS’s more than eight years of experience in the industry, you can feel secure in knowing you are surrounded by the best guides and drivers in the business. Every precaution is taken to insure the safety of the driver, guides and guests. This may include cancelling the trip due to inclement weather or unstable snowpack concerns. Please understand these decisions are made for the safety of everyone involved. Guests are walked through a safety discussion and proper beacon use that includes familiarization with the snowcat, loading/unloading procedures, rescue scenarios and backcountry protocols. Statistically, snowcat skiing and snowboarding is safer than driving a car…especially in L.A. or New York.