Brian “Frenchy” Gardel – Backcounty Snowcat Ski Guide

Frenchy’s first season was with Powdercats during the 20/21 season where he worked with our backcountry ski touring program. In 2021/22, we transitioned Frenchy to a snowcat guide as well as helping us with our snow safety program.

Born and raised in France, Brian (Frenchy) left his native home to pursue a college education in the USA. After college, Brian got a taste for ski bum life in Crested Butte, received a Masters degree in CIS from Colorado State University, married the love of his life Holley, and owned and operated several successful internet businesses. Brian and Holley have called Steamboat home since 2009.

Brian’s passion for skiing off-piste began in the French Alps at a very young age, and subsequently developed a curious fascination with snow science and avalanches.

Brian is just as passionate about snow and skiing deep powder as he is about rivers. When Brian’s not gliding on snow, you’ll find him guiding multi-day river trips in Utah and Idaho, riding his mountain bike up Mt Werner, or camping and backpacking in Canyonlands with his wife.