When the Colorado Rockies are blanketed with powdery snow, Winter Park turns into a winter wonderland just waiting to be explored. If you want to discover this area beyond the ski slopes, snowmobiling opens up a whole new way to journey through this mountain paradise. With hundreds of miles of trails through open meadows and pristine forests, Winter Park is the ideal place for an unforgettable snowmobiling adventure.
After a long day on the snowmobile trails, settle into one of our conveniently located Winter Park House vacation rentals and enjoy a cozy, relaxing winter retreat.
Here are all the details you need to plan your snowmobiling excursion in Winter Park.
What to Know About Snowmobiling in Winter Park
Located a little over an hour from Denver and 45 minutes south of Rocky Mountain National Park, Winter Park is an ideal home base for snowmobiling in Grand County. You’ll have your pick of over 300 miles of trails throughout Winter Park, Grand Lake, and Fraser Valley to take in the jaw-dropping views of the Colorado Rockies.
Popular routes in this area include Rabbit Ears Pass, Arapaho National Forest trails, and groomed trails throughout Grand Lake.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when embarking on your Winter Park snowmobile adventure:
- Make reservations early, as tours and rentals can book out quickly, especially during holiday weekends and peak ski season (December to March).
- Snow and weather conditions can change rapidly in the Rockies, so check with your tour provider about the latest conditions.
- Warm, waterproof layers are your friend, as well as snow pants, insulated gloves, snow boots, and sunglasses for snow glare.
- Sunscreen, water, and a snack are essential for longer rides – snowmobiling can be a surprising workout!
- Fuel up or relax after your ride at a Winter Park brewery or restaurant, as well as options in Granby and Grand Lake.
When to Go Snowmobiling in Winter Park
The snowmobiling season in Winter Park typically kicks off in early December and can extend through April, depending on snow conditions. This high-altitude region enjoys a long winter season with plenty of snow, ensuring some of the best riding conditions you’ll find anywhere in Colorado.
While it’s best to check for seasonal updates, most snowmobiling outfitters in the area start offering tours and rentals once the snow hits about 12 inches deep and consistently sticks around. Visiting between January and early April is your best bet for top conditions, as it’s considered the peak season for snowmobiling when snow levels are usually at their highest.
Where to Go Snowmobiling In and Around Winter Park
The areas around Winter Park are crossed with snowmobiling trails from easy paths to rugged wilderness. With guided tours for all skill levels and trails that showcase the raw beauty of the Rockies, there’s no better way to experience Colorado in winter.
1. Winter Park
Winter Park offers access to some of the most exciting snowmobiling trails in the area. The stunning Continental Divide Trail is easily accessible to all skill levels here, with well-groomed trails and incredible views of Fraser Valley. Intermediate and advanced riders can also tackle the remote Corona Pass Trail, which offers sweeping mountain views and a technical ascent.
Nearby Fraser Valley Sports Complex serves as a hub for family-friendly trails, where gentle slopes and a relaxed pace make it enjoyable for beginners.
Snowmobile Rentals
Snowmobile rentals are available through Grand Adventures. If your little ones want in on the action, Colorado Adventure Park has got you covered with their snow scoots, which are miniaturized snowmobiles perfect for kids under 5 feet and 90 pounds. This popular spot is located just 2 miles from Winter Park, and the tubing hill is great fun for adults and older kids as well.
2. Grand Lake
Known as Colorado’s Snowmobiling Capital, you won’t want to miss the trails in Grand Lake. Over 300 miles of trails connect in and around town, winding through the nearby slopes and connecting to Granby through the Arapaho National Forest. Both Grand Adventures and On The Trail Rentals offer tours and rentals in Grand Lake.
If you want to explore rugged terrain, Arapaho National Forest is a great place to start. The forest has a variety of trails ranging from easy, maintained trails to off-trail areas perfect for advanced riders.
One of the highlights here is the Stillwater Pass Trail, which travels through alpine forests and open meadows, with frequent opportunities to spot wildlife like elk and deer. Another excellent option is the Idleglen Trail, which is well-marked and offers a central starting point with access to multiple trail systems, like the classic Grand Lake Trail.
Winter Park Snowmobiling Tours
1. Grand Adventures Trailblazer Snowmobile Tours
As one of the most popular snowmobiling outfitters in Winter Park, Grand Adventures is known for its quality tours along the beautiful trails climbing into the scenic peaks of the Continental Divide.
Grand Adventures offers guided tours with knowledgeable guides to take you through the groomed trails and high meadows of Fraser and Winter Park. Their iconic Continental Divide tour takes you up to 12,000 feet to see breathtaking views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Fraser Valley. Rentals are also available if you prefer to embark solo on an unguided tour of the trails through Winter Park and Grand Lake.
Prices will vary, but you can expect to pay between $200-$300 for a guided or self-guided 2-hour tour, with options for full-day tours as well.
2. On The Trail Snowmobile Tours
On The Trail offers rentals and tours in nearby Grand Lake, with a variety of tour options that allow you to venture off on your own or join a guide. They provide all the essentials, so all you have to do is show up and get ready for a fun ride. Their tours cover diverse terrain, from wide, groomed trails to backcountry areas around Grand Lake.
Tours will take you into Arapaho National Forest and through the trail system between Grand Lake and Granby. Guided tours start at around $300 for a two-hour tour, with options to accommodate single or double riders on Polaris and Ski-Doo snowmobiles.
Snowmobile and Stay in Winter Park
Winter Park is more than just a skiing destination; it’s a fantastic place to explore Colorado’s winter landscape from the seat of a snowmobile. Experience Colorado’s backcountry with a guided tour or fly through the groomed trails on your own – however you decide to experience Colorado’s backcountry, you’ll be in for spectacular views and exhilarating thrills.
Set up your snowmobiling base camp at a Winter Park House vacation rental, and get ready for some high-octane winter fun!