Snowmobiling in the Rockies
The Holsman family on a snowmobiling trip in 2021.
As the new year begins, the excitement and joy of the holiday season now passed, the long, cold winter months ahead can start to feel daunting. For Coloradans, avoiding cabin fever can be quite easy, as any adrenaline junkie or winter sport enthusiast would agree. Take to the slopes, strap on a pair of skis or lock into a snowboard, and enjoy all the Rocky Mountains have to offer. For the adventurous, snowmobiling is another way to get in on the fun.
Vacquero resident Rob Holsman partakes in snowmobiling as often as he can, and has ventured out on the motorized sleds in various mountain towns over the years. Yet there is one place that has stood out to him among the rest.
For amateurs or aficionados, “Grand Lake is the best spot for snowmobiling,” Rob claimed. “From the lodge, you can get right on the trail, and even keep the snowmobiles at your rental cabin. We would wake up and take off right from our back door, and in the evenings, we could ride into town for dinner.”
Aside from the charming mountain experience he recalled, there are many other benefits to Grand Lake’s park: professionally groomed trails, spanning hundreds of miles through the Arapahoe National Forest. For newer adventurers, the professionally kept trails are marked with guideposts, creating a convenient, safe and inviting experience.
“There’s a balance of open space and forest riding, with lots of elevation changes and professionally kept hills. In Grand Lake, the park leads to the top of the Continental Divide for some stunning views,” Rob explained as to what he thinks makes a good snowmobiling spot. Some of the views would be inaccessible without the powerful sleds.
Whether a wild ride is on the agenda, or a safe venture into the great Rocky Mountains is what would spice up the winter months, snowmobiling could be an exciting option for all.
There are several snowmobiling rental companies in the front range. For the one in Grand Lake, visit, www.onthetrailrentals.com.
Getting air is fun (and a little scary) on the snowmobile trails at Grand Lake.
