Guide
What to wear snowmobiling at 10,000 feet.
Leadville's January averages a high of about 30 degrees and a low near 5, and the trail tour runs above that. The tour includes the outer layer. What you bring underneath decides whether you enjoy it.
Provided on every winter tour
A helmet, insulated boots and a snowmobile suit come with every tour, along with a current model year Polaris sled, the guide, fuel and on-trail support. You do not need to own anything.
Bring
Goggles or sunglasses. The sun off snow at 10,000 feet is fierce and the wind on a moving sled will water your eyes without them.
Gloves. Warm, waterproof, and not so thick you cannot feel the throttle. Liner gloves under a shell work well.
A neck warmer or balaclava. The gap between helmet and suit is where the cold gets in.
Layers to wear under the suit: a wicking base layer, a fleece or light insulated mid-layer, wool socks. Cotton stays wet once you sweat on the first climb.
Water. The air is dry and thin and people forget to drink when it is cold.
What the day feels like
Leadville averages about 157 inches of snow a year and the season runs from December into early April. Bluebird days are common after a storm and the light is brutal; overcast days can be warmer but flatter to see in. Tours are around two hours on the trail ride, longer on the High Adventure days, and you warm up fast once you are riding. Dress so you can take a layer off.
Kids and passengers
Riders under 15 cannot drive but can ride double with an adult on the trail tour. Dress them the same way and add a spare pair of gloves; small hands get cold first. The heated-cab winter UTV tour is the warm alternative for young kids and anyone who would rather look than ride.
Related
Ready to ride?
Call (970) 930-7027 or send a booking request. Or let the planner match the tour to your group first.
Quick answers
Is snowmobile gear included on Leadville tours?
Yes. Helmet, boots and snowmobile suit are included on every winter tour with Leadville Offroad Adventures, along with the sled, guide and fuel.
What do I need to bring snowmobiling?
Goggles or sunglasses, warm waterproof gloves, a neck warmer, wicking layers and wool socks to wear under the provided suit, and water.
How cold is Leadville in winter?
Average January high about 29.5 F and low about 4.6 F in town, with around 157 inches of snow a year. Tours run higher than town.
Can kids go snowmobiling in Leadville?
Yes. Drivers must be 15 or older; younger kids ride double with an adult on the trail tour, or the whole family takes the heated-cab winter UTV tour.