Snowmobiling is an exhilarating sport beloved by thousands of people across the world. The sport and its virtues appeal to a wide variety of thrill-seekers. One group, in particular, snowmobile enthusiasts, look for adrenaline-pumping fun on the off-trail.
So while some enthusiasts are on their way to tackling the well-groomed snowmobile trails, their counterparts are, in contrast, on the hunt for the deepest powder, limitless adventure, and gnarly trails that can only be found off the beaten track.
If the latter sounds like you and you are biting at the bits to strap on your winter gear and head straight for the nearest off-trail location, keep reading.
Today we are sharing 8 amazing places for off-trail riding that you don’t want to miss.
Note that this list is in no particular order and is not a complete or comprehensive list of all the fantastic off-trail riding spots. Feel free to drop a note to us in the comments if we are missing one of your favorite trails so we can check it out!
1. Wawa, Ontario
First on the list is Wawa, Ontario. Also known as a bit of slice of snowmobilers heaven. Wawa is located along Lake Superior’s shores in northern Ontario, Canada.
The trail system consists of over 2,000 miles of rugged trail and old-growth forests. In contrast to the big mountainous terrain found out west, Wawa is famous for its unique terrain categorized by deep valleys and a rocky contouring landscape.
Wawa is not only a fantastic place for off-trail riding, but it is also an incredible community with little to no traffic and sled-friendly accommodations. Another perk is that because of the location, the snowmobile season lasts well into late March, much longer than that in other parts of the world, giving you even more time to shred!
Also, note that you can pack lighter than usual because you won’t be on mountain terrain and leave your Avalanche safety gear at home.
2. Black Hills, South Dakota
Stop what you are doing and take a quick look at the breathtaking views of Black Hills, South Dakota.
The Black Hills are an isolated mountain range from the Great Plains into western South Dakota and encompass the Black Hills National Forest. The 10,000 square miles is an off-trail snowmobilers paradise as it spans a diverse and rugged terrain.
The backcountry trails of Black Hills take riders through the forest, powder plains, and mountain ranges. Year after year, these trails get ranked top in the nation, and snowmobile enthusiasts continue to flock to this region. If you want to experience rugged, unique terrain, this is your best bet.
3. Moran, Wyoming
Moran, Wyoming, is extremely popular in the sport, and for a good reason. With more than 600 miles and 2.5 million acres of backcountry trending trails, Moran, Wyoming, is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Annually, the area receives over 500 inches (yes, you read that right) of powdery snowfall providing a landscape rich with deep snow. Combined with the interconnected trail system and off-trail riding, the entire area creates an unparalleled experience that all snowmobile enthusiasts will enjoy.
While you are in the area, make sure you check out the Togwotee Mountain Lodge, known as the premier snowmobiling resort lodge. Moran is an epic place to adventure and is an ideal off-trail snowmobile spot.
4. Kremmling, Colorado
What would a list of the top snowmobiling places be without highlighting at least one spot in Colorado? The Kremmling mountain area spans over 300 miles of gnarly snowmobile trails. Half of the tracks are groomed, leaving the other half untouched and ready for you to tackle.
Further, the snowmobile trails are located in the Routt and Arapaho National Forests, providing spectacular views of the landscape and local wildlife.
Kremmling, Colorado, is also a short drive from Denver, so you can make it a day trip if you are staying out of town. However, there are also fantastic places to stay in the Kremmling region.
5. Uinta Mountains, Utah
The Uinta Mountains are the highest mountain range in Utah and include Kings Peak, the tallest point in the state. This range is located in the northeastern part of Utah and rests about 100 miles from Salt Lake City and a short drive from the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.
Most local experts recommend going through the Uinta Basin Snowmobile Complex if you want to get high into the Uinta Mountains. With over 75 miles of groomed trail, you can easily access the off-trail through Vernal.
The complex terrain offers endless possibilities for off-trail snowmobilers, and because of the peaks, the landscape is perfectly rugged and makes for a challenging territory.
*Note that many of the trails that run through the Uinta Mountains are entirely remote, so make sure you pack the proper equipment in case of emergency.
6. Seeley Lake, Montana
Western Montana is known for its breathtaking views and budding wildlife. It is also well-known for having some of the best snowmobiling trails in the country. The snowmobile trails around Seeley Lake, Montana, boast an impressive 365 miles of unique terrain that crisscross the Swan and Mission mountain valleys.
The trails include frozen lakes that offer endless space to roam, speed-race, and ride because of their prime location. If you are lucky, you will be able to catch a glimpse of the area’s incredible wildlife.
Kick off your trip with the 15-mile course around Marshal Lake and build your way up to the gnarliest trails Seeley Lake has to offer.
7. Katahdin Region of Maine
The Katahdin Region of Maine is legendary for snowmobilers and is arguably the best in New England. With over 1,000 miles of snowmobile trails, the possibilities almost seem endless for riders.
Snowmobilers from across the world flock to this area because of the exceptional views and wide variety of trails that include frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.
Even Henry David Thoreau had a lot to say about how beautiful the Katahdin region's landscape is when he wrote: “it was a specimen of what God saw fit to make this world” on his first visit to Mt. Katahdin in 1846. Indeed, every snowmobiler can appreciate the remote beauty of this region’s terrain.
8. The Swiss Alps
Most snowmobilers tend to stay on their turf, meaning that they snowmobile closer to home. However, if you are a snowmobile enthusiast and are willing to make the trip, there is nowhere else on Earth that is better known for its winter sports activities than The Swiss Alps.
Home to the most dramatic and jaw-dropping scenery globally, riding through The Swiss Alps should be on every snowmobilers bucket list. The terrain is rugged, with mountain peaks, isolated frozen lakes, and expansive forests. Most famously, the Splugen Pass ride takes snowmobilers to heights of 7,500 feet above sea level.
Take the plunge; you won't regret it!
Now that you have the locations make sure you have the right gear for off-trail riding. You will also want to make sure you invest in top-of-the-line gear from MOTORFIST for optimal comfort while riding through frigid temperatures.
We recommend the Rekon X Bib
-as one of the most comfortable fitting bibs on the market. It is Ideal for temperature regulation, mobility, and breathability.
You can also check out our Redline Glove, that has you covered for both warm and cold off trail riding adventures!
Reach out to us if you have any questions or need a specific recommendation on gear, or check out our blog on How to store your snowmobile gear during the off-season.