Your Guide to Snowmobile Tours in and around Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole supports a number of snowmobile tour options available which provide majestic scenery,
wildlife encounters, swimming in hot springs, and/or 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.
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 either the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone or the Old Faithful Geyser. With
diminished crowds during the winter months, the overall park experience is magnified.
In April 1994, the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee directed a team from the surrounding
forests, parks, and wilderness areas study winter visitor use issues. Through the winter visitor use study the
agencies hope to ensure that high quality visitor experiences are maintained within the park, resources
are protected, the necessary infrastructure and staff are in place to support acceptable levels and types
of winter use.
As a result of this survey the park service is currently limiting the number of snowmobiles and snowcoaches
allowed through the various park entrances on a daily basis. The park service is also requiring
outfitters that provide tours to use snowmobiles with lower emissions, and operate at quieter noise levels.
Winter use is still under review and the exact future of winter visitation in Yellowstone National
Park remains uncertain. Take advantage of this opportunity before it is changes or is potentially lost.
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.
Old Faithful Tour in Yellowstone National Park
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.
Grand Canyon Tour in Yellowstone National Park
Visiting the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is another other option available for exploring Yellowstone in winter. This 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.
Togwotee Pass Tours
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 season is deep and 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.
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. Pick up times run between 7-8:00am and a return time around 5:00pm.
Gros Ventre Wilderness Tours
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. Snowmoibile 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.
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.
Breakfast is included and a lunch is scheduled at one the lodges in the area.
Granite Hot Springs Tour
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 contructed 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.
Rates are a little lower than many of other tours.
Grey's River Tour
Information to come.
Bondurant Area-Green River Outfitters
Information to come.
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 $250 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; if not.
Cancellation policies for these companies vary, from 24 hours prior to the trip to 2 weeks notice, otherwise there is a 100% cancellation fee. Verify the cancellation policy at the time of booking the activity.
The Hole Concierge is not responsible for the individual cancellation policies of these companies.
Not interested in having a guide? Consult our staff if you are looking for the inside line on a great place to explore. We have maps, directions and the local knowledge to fit your needs for any expedition.
For more information on snowmobiling and other activities in Jackson Hole, please contact us.