Snowmobiling is a great way to tap into a dormant playful spirit. And Colorado is one of the best destinations for a snowmobiling adventure in the country. Picture riding on a speedboat or motorcycle… except through a snowy winter wonderland forest with views of rocky mountain peaks. Snowmobiling taps into all the best parts of life: thrilling adventure, staggering nature, and bonding with loved ones. But how convenient is it for Boulder residents? Very. It’s easy to make a weekend trip or a day trip out of snowmobiling. Snowmobiling is just another check on our Boulder realtor team’s list of things that makes this area the perfect palace for active, adventurous, nature-loving households.
The Best Places to Try Colorado Snowmobiling:
If you’re new to the sport, you’re going to want to try it out with a professional guide company the first few times. Luckily, there are several different snowmobiling options near Boulder.
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Grand Adventures
Distance from downtown Boulder:
1 hour and 40 minutes
What makes it great:
Grand Adventures has 5 different riding locations you can choose from. The closest to Boulder is located across the street from the Winter Park Resort. Grand Adventures is a great place for newbies… and for people who are ready to take it to the next level. They offer two-hour guided snowmobile tours that will take you over the Continental Divide. If you feel confident with your skills, you can opt for a 2-4 hour unguided snowmobile option. Snowmobiles can travel up to 120mph. That means you can cover a large swath of wilderness in 4 hours! Wildlife and incredible views are bountiful (Grand Adventures alumni, and a Boulder realtor here at Burgess Group, have even reported seeing moose!)
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High Country Snowmobile Tours
Distance from downtown Boulder:
1 hour and 50 minutes
What makes it great:
At High Country, you can choose between a “Scenic Tour” and an “Action Tour”. Don’t be fooled by the names. Both options are incredibly scenic. The action tour is just a bit more fast-paced. With this outfitter, you can also opt for adding on a stop at a remote tubing hill mid-tour.
All tours at High Country are guided by a professional. They have a ¾ mile-long track near the office where you can get a feel for the snowmobile before heading out.
Are you a history buff? High Country also has an option for a 3-hour historical tour. It will take you through Leadville’s Historic Mining District. You’ll get to see the ruins of old gold and silver mines and learn about the history of the area. Breathtaking views are a given, no matter which option you choose.
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Frisco & Copper Mountain Snowmobile Rentals
Distance from downtown Boulder:
2 hours
What makes it great:
All the tours from this outfitter will take you through stunning panoramas of Colorado’s highest 14,000-foot peaks. Discover hidden high alpine basins and dry powder meadows, perfect for shredding. Glide through Vail Pass on over 50 miles of groomed trails. If you prefer to go off the beaten path, there are 55,000 acres of terrain to explore. Tours and rentals are available for all different skill levels.
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Elk Mountain Snowmobile
Distance from downtown Boulder:
2 hours
What makes it great:
Regular snowmobile tours and “high adventure” tours are available at Elk Mountain Snowmobile. High adventure tours allow you to book a multi-day adventure. Stay overnight in a ride-in, ride-out backcountry lodge. The lodge is a rare opportunity to experience the Colorado wilderness up-close and personal level. It’s a winter paradise. Spend your day exploring the snowy forests and mountain peaks. Spend the evenings cozied up by the fire.
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On The Trail Rentals
Distance from downtown Boulder:
2 hours and 33 minutes
What makes it great:
Ride a snowmobile deep into the Arapahoe National Forest. The trails are well-groomed and gorgeous. Guides will always let you take a break for a quick picture or snowball fight. Beginner tours and intermediate tours are available at On The Trail Rentals.
What Should I Wear?
The nature of snowmobiling is that you’ll be moving quickly through low temperatures. There’s no doubt about it—you’re going to want to bundle up. The right gear is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Snow goggles
- A helmet
- Face mask or buff
- Waterproof snow boots
- Water-Resistant Snow Pants (or full snowsuit)
- Water-Resistant Snow Coat (or full snowsuit)
- Water Resistant Gloves
- Base Layers (we like Merino Wool base layers. They’re moisture-wicking and super warm.)
- Hand Warmers. (Or, splurge for a pair of hand-warming mittens!).
- We also love bringing a thermos of hot tea to enjoy during breaks on the trail.
Ready to be an independent snowmobiler?
If you’re ready to hit the trails on your own, our Boulder real estate agents recommend The Switzerland Trail (40 minutes from downtown). You can also check out any of the 34 different snowmobiling trails in the Arapahoe & Roosevelt National Forest (30 minutes from downtown).
Have fun! Snowmobiling is one of those things that makes Boulder the perfect palace for active, adventurous, nature-loving households.
