- Whether it's adrenaline-pumping or a quiet morning run, snowmobiling in Summit County is a perfect winter vacation activity.
- Hire a guide to take the group out for a tour through the pristine mountains around Breckenridge and Keystone.
- Experienced riders have access to a network of national forest trails through the backcountry.
Overview
Combining service, facilities and guiding proficiency, Summit County tour operators lead visitors into a wilderness far removed from the hustle and bustle below. While there are trails for the riders who prefer to focus on the scenery instead of the snowmobiling, the adrenaline-pumping ride is waiting on an independent excursion or an organized Breckenridge snowmobile tour.
Beginners in the snowmobile world will feel comfortable on these machines after a guide introduces them to these safe and easy-to-operate machines. The groomed trails present little trouble for snowmobilers who are just out to try the sport, but more difficult terrain is available as the comfort level increases.
Summit County offers maps and information for the experienced riders seeking the endless system of local trails in the vast backcounty of the region. Those riders who venture into the backcounty unguided should be knowledgeable in backcountry and avalanche safety.
Where to go Snowmobiling
Keystone
Keystone snowmobiling is a great chance to get a feel for the sport. Take a tour for an hour or two, a half day, or even more to experience the mountain vistas within easy access from the town.
Breckenridge
More than just a stroll through the park, taking a chance on Breckenridge snowmobiling will be the highlight of a vacation. Head up the steeps, turn around and drop down into untracked powder on a machine that feeds adrenaline through the handlebars.
White River National Forest
If you have your own machine, or you take advantage of the Breckenridge snowmobile rentals, think about heading out into some of the backcountry forest trails. There is a large network waiting for independents to link together various trails on a custom trip, suited to their skill levels and needs.
Webster Pass Road
This is a great way to get out into the backcountry. Try making a loop out of the day by heading to Deer Creek via Radical Hill.
- Trailhead: Through Keystone, the trailhead is past Montezuma on Hwy. 6.
- Distance: 3.66 miles one-way
- Elevation Gain: 1,493 feet
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Deer Creek Road
Connecting to Webster Pass Road via Radical Hill, this is can be either a great run in itself, or half of a loop with Webster Pass Road.
- Trailhead: Heading through Keystone, Deer Creek Road is just 0.5 miles past Montezuma on Hwy. 6.
- Distance: 3.33 miles to the summit of Radical Hill
- Elevation Gain: 1,772 feet
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Rentals & Fees
Rental prices vary for the size of the machine, the duration of the rental, and the size of the group. Take a look at some of the shops below for specific information.
If the trails are in the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area, there is a fee of $6 per person. Children 13 and under are free.
Hire a Guide
In addition to the ride itself, most individuals enjoy the knowledge brought by a tour operator. They will share their experience of the ecology, biology and geology of the area, adding an educational aspect to the tour.
Tours range from 1, 2 or 3 hours, even a full day. Lunch and dinner tours are also offered, as well as private tours. Operators will gladly customize a trip to accommodate larger groups or special requests.