Most families and travelers looking for a fabulous winter vacation think warm, beach, water. Why not snowmobiling? It isn’t just for adults; it isn’t just for the experienced rider. Snowmobile vacations are fun and allow you to take advantage of a winter landscape that few people ever see and access to places that few people ever have during this time of year. This could be the best vacation of your life!
Snowmobiling has gone through a phase of transformation. Once a popular sport among hunters and a “club” type sport, it has expanded and truly can be experienced by everyone. Knowing where to start is often half the battle. Snowmobiling is still considered an adventure sport by many mainstream travel outlets, but that is relaxing more and more. The single best resource will be local Chambers of Commerce and the internet.
You will need to choose a destination. Think cold; nearly everywhere that sees a significant and sustainable amount of snowfall will have recreational snowmobiling. Some of the best places are in and around U.S. National Parks. Two popular venues are Yellowstone in Montana/Wyoming and Voyageurs in Minnesota. While each offers a different experience, each is well worth the trip. Most U.S. Midwestern states offer excellent snowmobiling, as do the mountainous west coast states. Call or write to the Chamber of Commerce well in advance for brochures.
Most lodges and resorts will offer packages, including guided or unguided snowmobiling, or both. These packages can fill up during peak season, so plan early. Ideally, the best snowmobiling is from mid-January through late-March. This can vary depending upon the season and location. You will find that some areas such as Yellowstone close by mid-March and others are open well into April. Although many of these snowmobiling hotspots open in December, you will be taking a chance on having enough snow pack to ride.
Guided snowmobiling, although statistically safer offers a very different experience as you are at the mercy of the group and your ability to stop and enjoy the surroundings is limited. Guided tours of varying lengths (1 hour to several days) are readily available from numerous local operators wherever you go. If you have never ridden before, it is the safe bet. However, for those looking for a bit more adventure, independent rentals are readily available. The cost will be less and you will receive a brief lesson on operation. Note that in some areas, most recently, Yellowstone, unguided snowmobiling has been prohibited, although you can enjoy nearby recreational trails.
Although snowmobiling isn’t a cheap sport or vacation, the thrill and exploration that it provides is incomparable. For guided trips, expect to pay $100 per person and up for as little as one hour. Like everything else, it does become cheaper in larger blocks, with a half-day averaging $150 and up and a full-day averaging $200 and up. Sharing a “double” will cut the cost significantly, but beware of weight restrictions. As weight does impact the smoothness of the ride, many people ride single. Unguided rentals will average between $100-$150 per day, with some machines available for as low as $79 during off-peak times.
Now that you have chosen a destination, you will need to stay on top of the local weather conditions as your departure nears. Riding isn’t typically hampered by heavy snow, unless it hinders visibility. You will find that lack of snowfall, cold temperatures or an early melt can impact riding conditions, so it is important to be aware before departing. Check with either your local lodge or you will find that several area clubs or even the National Park Service will update conditions regularly throughout the season.
You’ll need to pack and dress warmly. Layers will be the key to a comfortable ride. Wear thermal undergarments, a light shirt and a fleece or other non-permeable material that will keep you warm even if it gets wet. All guided tours and most rental locations will also have snowmobile suits, boots, gloves and helmets available for use or rent. It is important to dress so that you have little to no exposed skin and ALWAYS wear a helmet. Frostbite can set in quickly, but more importantly, in the event you are stranded, you want to be able to survive in the bitter cold until help arrives. I also recommend bringing high carbohydrate, high calorie and high sugar foods in addition to water and basic first-aid supplies in the event of an emergency. Remember, although this is fun, it can turn dangerous if you don’t follow the proper safety precautions.
The best part of this trip will be each night when you return to your hotel or lodge, sit in front of a crackling fire, use the steam sauna or Jacuzzi and relax after an exciting day of exploring and adventure. Kids love it, adults love it and it makes a great winter family vacation. Try it and you’ll be hooked!
