What to Take When You Rent a Snowmobile

Snowmobile on the trail

New to snowmobiling? Get prepared for an exciting and memorable adventure to a winter world of unequalled beauty. It's white everywhere but the sky. All the colors of the rainbow seem to be on vacation. In Grand County, Colorado even the evergreen trees are gone this time of year – transformed by the snow into ghost-like forms covered in white. The rugged landscape looks like an undulating white carpet. It's white everywhere.

In your first 60 minutes on a snowmobile you'll travel further than an extremely fit person traveling on snowshoes can travel for an entire day. The miracle of a state-of-the art snowmobile is that it effortlessly moves you from civilization to a remote corner of the world. It's a remarkable time to share with family and friends. As we like to say, “Fun's out there. Chase it Down.”®

You'll experience a great corner of the world if you are properly prepared, but if not prepared, it can be a hostile place – one that has the potential to deal up a series of life-threatening scenarios. Preparation is the key to having a great and enjoyable experience. So “Be Prepared.”

Weather

Check the weather forecast so you know what to expect and then check it again on the day of your adventure. Make certain the day will be pleasant – avoid snowstorms and strong winds. Falling snow and blowing snow can rob you of visibility and cover trails minutes after they've been traveled on. Avoid excessively cold weather. What's a comfortable temperature is a personal preference but whatever it is, it will feel colder when your snowmobile is moving.

Also consider heading back to your departure area with lots of daylight remaining and a time cushion for unexpected delays. At night the temperature plummets – not to mention how easy it is to become disoriented when all you have is the lights of your snowmobile and maybe light from the moon and stars.

The sun, Colorado 's world-famous blue skies, and high altitude combine to make it important to use a proven sunscreen product. The reflected light from pristine white snow simply adds to the need for sun protection.

Dehydration is another issue created by Colorado's dry climate, and two bottles of water per person is a necessity for an all day outing.

Adequate Clothing

Regardless of the weather forecast, you must be prepared for temperatures that are substantially below freezing. Casual winter clothing simply is not adequate for the winds, snow and low temperatures you possibly will encounter. Most snowmobile rental companies offer good apparel – but there's no question that you should never go snowmobiling without proper clothing and foot protection. Even on a nice day, you should have sufficient clothing available to be comfortable at zero degrees.

Clothing should be layered and should include:

If there's any doubt about the adequacy of your clothing you should ask your outfitter or guide or an experienced snowmobiler. Another option to consider is a short, two hour trip guided snowmobile trip. It's a great way to start and if it happens you miscalculated and are just a little underdressed, it won't become a survival test.

Other Considerations

If you decide to make your trip an unguided one you should also: