Hike or Ride the Snowcat to Erickson Bowl

Keystone, Colorado

Description

Hike or ride the snowcat to one of Keystone's premier bowls! Open bowl terrain with some chutes at the upper end of the bowl, glades and small cliffs towards the bottom. Snag a bite to eat or some drinks at the Outpost Restaurant afterwards (but if you sit outside, watch out, since the gray jays will try to steal your food when you aren't watching!)

Please note: this adventure includes expert terrain. Do not attempt unless if you have experience with such terrain.

Hike to the bowl begins by the Outpost Restaurant, or you can pay to ride the snowcat (I think it was $10 or $15, but can't remember since I hiked up). You can hitch a ride at the top of Dercum Mountain or at the top of the Outback. If you hike, follow the signs to Erickson Bowl. The trail to the bowl is groomed so it should be pretty easy to get up. About 1.5 mi to the top of the bowl, but you can always drop in along the side if you don't want to go all the way. Several inches of fresh powder when I visited. It's best to get here earlier rather than later, not only so you can get fresh tracks, but also because the bowl closes at 1:30. Head down to the Outpost Restaurant once the bowls close for lunch and/or drinks (expensive, but food is good).

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Features

Snowboarding

Skiing

Adult Beverages

Bathrooms

Food Nearby

Forest

Scenic

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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