Grand Lake: Snowmobiling Capital of Colorado
Article information compiled with permission from: https://grandlakechamber.com/snowmobile/
Grand Lake, Colorado has received well-deserved, national recognition for its outstanding snowmobiling:
• Ranked as one of the “Top 15 Destination Trails in the Nation” by Snowest Magazine
• Ranked as one of the “Top 10 Snowmobiling Areas in the United States” by America’s Best Online
• Awarded “Honorable Mention as one of the Most Scenic Snowmobiling Areas” by SnowGoer Magazine.
From December through April, snowmobiling enthusiasts from across Colorado and around the world come to Grand Lake, Colorado to enjoy more than 300 miles of snowmobiling trails, including 150 miles of groomed trails.
Known as the Western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, Colorado enjoys an annual snowfall of 185 inches. Town streets are intentionally left snow-packed so that snowmobilers can use their snowmobiles as transportation to and from lodging, dining and shopping.
At an elevation of 8,437 feet, Grand Lake, Colorado offers snowmobiling opportunities for riders of all abilities, with varied terrain to match any interest.
Snowmobilers can wind in and out of forests, rev up and down hills, play in meadows of powder, carve across ridge tops and ride full throttle on cruiser trails.
The snowmobiling trails are clearly marked in and around Grand Lake, and throughout the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park, Arapaho Forest and Roosevelt Forest. Click here to view Grand Lake Trail groomers trail conditions website.
Spectacular views of snowcapped Rockies and the frozen waters of Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby can be seen from almost any vantage point.
Plan a trip to Grand Lake and come explore this Colorado snowmobiling wonderland!
Grand Lake, Colorado Snowmobiling Tours, Rentals, Sales, Service and Registration
Grand Lake is a Colorado snowmobiling dream! Bring your own snowmobile or rent one in town. Explore the scenic terrain on your own or sign up for a guided tour. Grand Lake’s 300 miles of snowmobiling trails offer something for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders.
When you’re planning a Colorado snowmobiling day, prepare for the changing weather and dress in layers of water-resistant clothing. Wear heavy-duty gloves, protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles and bundle up with a neck gator or face mask. Carry lots of sunscreen and water. Most importantly, don’t forget your camera. There are breathtaking, snow-capped views around every turn.
If you’re signing up for a guided tour in the Grand Lake, Colorado area or renting a snowmobile, helmets and snowmobiling boots will be provided.
Visit Grand Lake businesses for snowmobiling tours, snowmobiling rentals, snowmobiling sales, snowmobiling service and snowmobiling clothing.
Please note: All snowmobiles that are operated on public land or trails in Colorado must be registered with Colorado State Parks.
Out-of-state residents who bring snowmobiles into Colorado must purchase a Colorado Non-Resident Snowmobile permit, which is available at a State Park Office, www.parks.state.co.us, or at authorized businesses in Grand Lake.
Grand Lake, Snowmobiling Trails
The best snowmobiling in Colorado can be found in and around Grand Lake.
There are 300 miles of spectacular snowmobiling trails, including 150 miles of groomed trails, with an additional 700 miles of trails available in Grand County.
Trails connect into the charming village of Grand Lake, where it’s legal to ride on the snow- packed roads, and across the frozen waters of Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby. Two miles of trails are available in Rocky Mountain National Park, with hundreds more located in the Arapaho National Forest and Roosevelt National Forest.
There are three primary parking/unloading areas in or near Grand Lake, giving you easy access to some of the best snowmobiling in Colorado:
• South Supply Trail, near Highway 34
• Idlglen Trailhead, five miles south of Grand Lake, off Highway 34
• Buffalo Creek Campground Trailhead, off State Road 125
Visit the Colorado Snowmobiling Association’s website, www.coloradosledcity.com for up-to- date Grand Lake, Colorado snowmobiling trail reports.