Industry News
Loveland Ski Area, Colorado is requesting permission to introduce guided snowcat (over-the-snow only tracked vehicle) tours into the upper reaches of the Dry Gulch area. Tours would begin at the Lift 8 backcountry access point and head north over a saddle west of the ridgeline of Mt. Trelease. Once over the saddle, the snowcat would travel along the natural drainage within Loveland’s Special Use Permit (SUP) boundary.
They are looking to extend this guided snowcat experience into 210 acres that are adjacent to the northern edge, but outside of the SUP boundary through an Outfitter-Guide permit. The operation would establish three seasonal snowcat snow routes to allow the snowcat to access pick up and drop off points for customers participating in the guided tours. The ski area estimates five to seven runs per trip, with total runs of 160-224 per day. Only one snowcat would be used for these trips. Avalanche mitigation would be achieved by hand tossed charges below the mountain ridgeline.
The Forest Service is inviting public comments on proposed guided snowcat tours within and directly adjacent to the Loveland Ski Area. The Forest Service would like to determine whether this project will enhance recreation and provide further opportunities to skiers and snowboarders in the area. Furthermore, the Forest Service is looking at potential issues and benefits to resources in the project area, including wildlife, fish, and cultural.
Submit comments by August 10, 2018, via one of the following options:
Email: comments-rocky-mountain-arapaho-roosevelt-clear-creek@fs.fed.us with “Loveland Dry Gulch” in the subject line.
Mail: Clear Creek Ranger District Attention: Loveland Dry Gulch, PO Box 3307, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
