How old does my child have to be to drive their own snowmobile?
All snowmobile drivers must be 15 years of age or older with a valid learner’s permit to operate their own machine. Drivers must be 18 years of age or older to carry a passenger. See our full list of tour age requirements on our snowmobile tours page.
What is the minimum age for my child to ride as a passenger?
Children must be age 4 or older to ride as a passenger on a parent’s machine. For families with younger children, the Prospector Tour is our most family-friendly option and a great introduction to Colorado backcountry snowmobiling.
How many guests can each snowmobile accommodate?
Each snowmobile has a maximum capacity of 2 people — 1 driver and 1 passenger — regardless of age or child size. If you’d like everyone in your group to have their own machine, our single-rider Performance Tour and High Adventure Tour are great options.
What equipment is provided, and what should we bring?
We provide top-of-the-line snowmobiles and helmets for every rider. Guests should bring their own warm winter clothing, insulated boots, ski goggles or sunglasses for eye protection, and warm gloves or mittens. We also highly recommend sunscreen, a neck gaiter, and your camera — the views near Denver’s Rocky Mountain backcountry are spectacular.
How early should we arrive for our tour or rental?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for check-in. If you are driving yourself to the base camp, please note that winter roads in Colorado can be unpredictable — a 4×4 or all-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended. Plan extra travel time during periods of heavy snow.
Is transportation provided to the base camp?
No — guests must provide their own transportation for all Denver snowmobile tours and rentals. A 4×4 or all-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended and may be required by Colorado State Law during periods of heavy snowfall. Please plan accordingly and allow extra travel time in snowy conditions.
Do your tours and rentals require reservations?
Reservations are strongly recommended. Our Denver snowmobile tours and rentals are among the most popular winter activities in the region and frequently sell out — especially during peak season and holiday weekends. Call us in advance at (866) 998-0696 or locally at (970) 455-4040 to secure your spot. Even if you’re calling for a same-day tour, our friendly reservations team will do their best to accommodate you.
What safety training do your guides receive?
Our guides are the best in the business, with years of snowmobiling experience in the Rocky Mountains. All employees are required to hold a minimum certification in first aid, CPR, and backcountry safety. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities from the moment you arrive at base camp to the moment you return.
I’ve never been on a snowmobile before. Is there a tour for me?
Absolutely — many of our guests are first-time riders and several of our tours have been designed with beginners in mind. Every tour begins with a tutorial covering the operation of your snowmobile and a practice session before heading out on the trails. For first-timers, we recommend the family-friendly Prospector Tour. Call our reservations team at (866) 998-0696 and we’ll help you choose the right tour or rental for your group.
What is the difference between a guided tour and a self-guided rental?
On a guided tour, an experienced local guide leads your group through the terrain, handles navigation, and ensures everyone has a safe and memorable experience. A self-guided rental gives you the freedom to explore the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area at your own pace, with access to over 55,000 acres of terrain and 100+ miles of groomed trails. Not sure which is right for you? Browse our guided tours and rental options or contact us and we’ll help you decide.