Jackson Hole supports a number of snowmobiling options, which provide majestic scenery, wildlife encounters, swimming in hot springs, and plenty of off trail riding. The abundant snowfall in the region ensures an excellent riding season. With the introduction of new technology, snowmobiles are operating cleaner and quieter than ever before providing a great tool to explore this winter playground. Guided or unguided, snowmobiles provide unsurpassed access to areas that would be otherwise be missed.
Yellowstone National Park
Exploring Yellowstone National Park in the winter is truly an amazing experience via snowcoach or snowmobile, the majesty of Yellowstone awaits. This is one of the most popular winter activities. Destinations for these tours are to either of the following destinations:
Grand Canyon:Visiting the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a longer day in mileage and slightly longer in total length. Tour operators generally like to only have one rider per machine due to the length of the day and riding involved. This tour involves 122 miles of trail riding.
Old Faithful: The most popular of the tours in Yellowstone, visiting Old Faithful during the winter is nothing short of magical. The beauty of the geyser basin is unsurpassed with the cold temperatures magnifying the effects of the escaping steam. This tour will encompass 90 miles of on trail riding. Book early, trips fill up fast during peak visitor times.
Yellowstone is a big day, so be prepared changing conditions and temperatures throughout the duration of your tour.
These tours depart very early in the morning, around 6-6:30am, include breakfast, snacks and lunch. Plan on a 10-12 hour day, depending upon the weather conditions. After you depart town it will take approximately 1.5 hour to reach the south entrance of the park where you will begin your snowmobiling adventure. This is a must do experience when visiting the area, you will surely be amazed.
In April 1994, the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee directed that a team from the surrounding forests, parks, and wilderness areas study winter visitor use and associated issues. Through this winter visitor use study agencies gained great insight into visitor and environmental concerns. A high quality visitor experience is maintained within the park. Resources are protected, the necessary infrastructure and staff are in place to support current levels and types of winter use. The park service regulates the number of snowmobiles and snowcoaches allowed through the various park entrances on a daily basis. The park service also requires outfitters that provide tours to use snowmobiles and snowcoaches the operate with lower emissions, and at quieter noise levels.
Togwotee Pass
This high alpine powder paradise provides some of the best off trail riding to be found anywhere. At 9000′ above sea level and an annual snowfall of around 500″ the riding is deep and the season long. The Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail runs through this area, as do many others. There are alpine meadows, trails, hills and plenty of open space to keep any rider satisfied.
Pick up times run between 7-8:00am and a return time around 5:00pm.
Turpin Meadow Ranch, Heart 6 Guest Ranch
A number of lodges are located in the area for dining, overnight lodging, spa and riding experiences. Day trips to the area can be guided, or those looking for a little more adventure, you can rent snowmobiles and go on your own. Breakfast is included and a lunch is scheduled at one the lodges in the area, varying from outfitter to outfitter and specific tour type.
Togwotee Lodge, Brooks Lake Lodge, Scenic Safaris
Gros Ventre Wilderness
The Gros Ventre Wilderness is just north of the town of Jackson. This beautiful area borders the National Elk Refuge. Touring in this area is a great alternative for those looking to see a lot of wildlife, yet not looking for the time commitment of a Yellowstone Tour. Snowmobile into this area stop at a ranch and then continue your exploring after warming up with a hearty meal at the main lodge. Unique and inspiring views of the Tetons and Gros Ventre mountains await you. Breakfast is included and a lunch is scheduled at one the lodges in the area.
Half Day tours pick up times run between 7-8:00am and return around 1:00pm.
Full Day tours pick times run between 7-8:00am and return between 4-5:00pm.
Granite Hot Springs
Located on the southern edge of the Gros Ventre Mountain Range, Granite Hot Springs provides and excellent reward for participants of these trips. There is on and off trail riding, giving you the option to play a little on the way. After snowmobiling in 11 miles you reach your destination, a natural hot spring feeds a large soaking pool. The pool was originally constructed in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Breakfast is included and a delicious meal will be prepared for you by your guide while you enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot spring, or at a a local lodge during your return trip. There are complete facilities there for changing, bring a swimsuit and a towel, a small plastic bag is useful for packing your wet items.
With pick up times around 8:00am and a return time of 4:00pm, the tour makes perfect use of a day.
Grey’s River
South of Jackson through the Snake River Canyon to the Greys River area. The tour provides on and off trail riding. There is often wildlife to be viewed. Lunch is at a rural ranch.
Exploring the Bondurant Area with Green River Outfitters
South of Jackson the wilds of Wyoming await. The Bondurant area is spectacular for riding. Located 45 minutes from Jackson, this area feels worlds away. With fewer tour operators in this area one can expect to experience the isolation and wide open spaces associated with this great state. This tour provides one of the more unique on snow experiences available in the area.
Self Guided Tours
If you want to go on your own, snowmobiles, gear and trial maps are all available locally. This can be an excellent way for the experienced rider to feel at home.
General Information
Pricing for the various trips range from around $160 a person for half-day tours up to $350
a person or more for private full day tours.
On guided tours snacks, and a beverage are typically provided by the vendor, for full day adventures
lunch will be included.
All of the necessary gear is provided, dress in warm layers. Snowmobiles are equipped with hand warmers.
Transportation is often provided.