Think exploring fresh snow, breathtaking scenery and the wonders of the Rockies only occurs on a groomed ski run? Think again! Snowmobiling is one sure fire way to rev things up when you are looking for a bit of off mountain fun. Of all the activities there are to choose from in the Roaring Fork Valley in winter, only snowmobiling combines white-knuckling speed, miles of intriguing terrain, and pulse rising excitement through sheer horsepower!
Zooming through aspen groves into expansive meadows on a sled is a great way to spend a family day away from the ski hill. Snowmobiling allows riders to cover lots of terrain to while taking in the beauty of winter. Most rides are guided tours that lead to breathtaking views and allow for a bit of free ride time for those fast and furious addicts.
Guests can choose to ride individually or in pairs (especially for children). Kids as young as 3 – on up to 93 – can do a quick 2-hour adventure or enjoy and half-day excursion that will typically include lunch at a cabin tucked into winter cocoon.
From Glenwood to Aspen, find an assortment of snowmobile providers. Operating just minutes from Glenwood, Bair Ranch offers 5500 acres of terrain access with views of canyons and the Colorado River and Sunlight Snowmobile Tours offers magnificent 360-degree views of Mt. Sopris, the West Elk Mountains and the Flattop Wilderness. A tour with Woody Creek based Western Adventures features panoramic views of all four Aspen based ski areas, the Maroon Bells, and Pyramid, Capital, Daly and Sopris Peaks from Kobey Park. Finally, Maroon Bells Outfitters will immerse you in the White River National Forest, to the base of the Bells themselves and features the beautiful and rustic Klondike lunch cabin with a spectacular view of the 14,000 foot Pyramid Peak.
Above all else, be sure to bring your camera! Other equipment should include snowsuit, gloves, goggles, and a warm hat. Once onsite, outfitters provide suits and even boots and recommend that guests wear provided helmets. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
More savvy sledders may opt to rent snowmobiles and go on their own. Wilderness areas surround this valley. Explore Thompson Creek near Carbondale, the Hunter-Frying Pan’s Lenado and Kobey Park, or aim higher and travel along Independence Pass.
Snowmobile Tour Operators & Vendors
High Canyon Adventures
66418 US HWY 6
, Glenwood Springs
(970) 945-9773
www.highcanyon.com
Maroon Bells Outfitters
129 Maroon Creek Road, Aspen
(970) 925-4614
tlazy7@rof.net
Sunlight Mountain Resort Snowmobile Tours
10252 County Road 117, Glenwood Springs
(970) 945-8885
www.sunlightmtn.com
Western Adventures
555 Allen Way, Woody Creek
(970) 923-3337
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