Your First Snowmobile Tour: What to Expect

Don’t worry if you’re new to snowmobiling! Beginner tours in Breckenridge are specially designed for people with little to no experience. Your adventure will be exciting but also very safe and controlled.

Getting Started: No Experience Needed!

When you arrive, your tour company will give you a friendly welcome and get you ready. You’ll join a small group and meet your experienced guide. Before you even touch a snowmobile, you’ll have a safety briefing. This is where your guide will explain how the machines work, show you the controls (like the throttle for gas and the brake), and teach you important hand signals for the trail. They’ll also tell you about the rules of the road – or, in this case, the trail!

Often, there’s a practice area where you can get a feel for the snowmobile before heading out on the main trails. This helps everyone feel comfortable and confident.

Your Guided Adventure

Once everyone is ready, you’ll follow your guide in a single file line. Your guide knows the trails inside and out, making sure you stay on safe paths away from dangers. For beginner tours, the pace is usually easygoing, allowing you to get used to the machine and enjoy the stunning scenery. You’ll often stop at special viewpoints for photos and to take in the amazing Colorado mountains.

Staying Safe on the Snow: Your Top Priority

Safety is the most important part of any snowmobile tour. Following simple rules and listening to your guide will ensure everyone has a fantastic and accident-free time.

Listen to Your Guide

Your snowmobile guide is an expert. They know the terrain, the weather, and how to keep everyone safe. It’s super important to listen carefully to all their instructions and follow their lead. They’ll use hand signals to tell you when to slow down, stop, or be careful. If you have a question or concern, don’t hesitate to ask them!

Keep Your Distance

Always maintain a safe distance between your snowmobile and the one in front of you. This is called a “safety cushion.” If the person in front has to stop suddenly, you’ll have enough room to react and brake safely without bumping into them. It also prevents getting sprayed with snow from their machine!

Know Your Machine

Before you start, pay close attention during the safety briefing about how to operate your snowmobile. Understand where the throttle (to go) and the brake (to stop) are. Practice using them in the designated area until you feel comfortable. Remember, these machines are powerful, so gentle control is key.

Gear Up for Fun! What to Wear and What’s Provided

Staying warm and dry is crucial for enjoying your snowmobile tour. The good news is that tour companies usually provide some essential gear, but you’ll need to dress smart underneath!

What You’ll Likely Get from the Tour Company

• Helmet: This is a must for safety and usually includes a face shield to protect you from wind and snow.
• Insulated Snowsuit: Most companies provide a warm, waterproof, one-piece or two-piece suit (jacket and pants) to wear over your clothes.
• Snow Boots: Heavy-duty, insulated boots will keep your feet warm and dry.

What to Wear Underneath: Layers Are Key!

Think of dressing like an onion – in layers! This lets you add or remove clothing to stay comfortable as the weather changes or as you warm up.

• Base Layer: Start with thermal underwear. Look for materials like wool or synthetic fabrics (polyester, polypropylene) that pull sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton, as it stays wet and will make you cold.
• Mid-Layer: Add a fleece jacket or sweater for extra warmth.
• Outer Layer: You’ll be wearing the provided snowsuit, but having a waterproof, windproof jacket and pants as your own outer layer (if you’re not using their full suit) is always a good idea for any winter activity.

Don’t Forget These Important Items!

• Goggles: Even if your helmet has a face shield, goggles provide better protection from wind, snow, and glare from the sun.
• Warm Gloves or Mittens: Your hands will be exposed to the cold wind, so super warm, waterproof gloves or mittens are a must.
• Neck Gaiter or Balaclava: This protects your neck and lower face from cold wind and snow, fitting perfectly under your helmet.
• Wool Socks: Wear warm, moisture-wicking socks. Again, skip the cotton!
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: The sun can be very strong at high altitudes, and it reflects off the snow. Protect your skin!

Picking the Right Tour in Breckenridge

Breckenridge has several companies offering snowmobile tours. Doing a little research helps you choose the best fit for your beginner adventure.

Choosing a Reputable Company

Look for companies with good reviews that emphasize safety. Check their websites for information on guide training, equipment maintenance, and clear safety rules. You want a company that takes safety seriously and provides well-maintained, modern snowmobiles.

Understanding Tour Types

For beginners, focus on tours labeled “scenic” or “family-friendly.” These tours usually have a slower pace, less challenging trails, and plenty of stops to enjoy the views. If you have younger family members, check age limits for drivers and passengers. Some tours allow kids to ride as passengers, while others have minimum age requirements for driving their own machine.

Your Amazing Breckenridge Snowmobile Experience Awaits!

Getting ready for your first snowmobile tour in Breckenridge is all about knowing what to expect and how to prepare. Remember, these tours are made for beginners, so you don’t need any special skills to start. Your adventure begins with a friendly welcome and an important safety talk where you’ll learn all about your snowmobile’s controls and the rules for the trail. You’ll practice handling the machine before heading out with your expert guide, who will lead you through breathtaking snowy landscapes at a comfortable, fun pace.

Staying safe is the most important part of your trip. Always listen closely to your guide, keep a safe distance from other snowmobilers, and remember what you learned about operating your machine. To ensure you stay warm and cozy, make sure to layer your clothes underneath the provided gear. Most tour companies will give you a helmet, an insulated snowsuit, and warm boots, but you’ll want to wear thermal underwear, a warm fleece, and wool socks underneath. Don’t forget important items like goggles, warm waterproof gloves, a neck gaiter, and even sunscreen to protect against the mountain sun. By picking a reputable tour company that focuses on safety and choosing a scenic beginner tour, you’re all set for an incredible journey. Get ready to explore the stunning snowy trails of Breckenridge with confidence and create memories that will last a lifetime!