Great Escapes Winter 2021 | Page 24

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2021 SNOWMOBILE VACATION GUIDE ADVERTISING SECTION

COLORADO

North Routt
People seeking the ultimate deep-snow destination with abundant trails , powder-filled meadows , plentiful challenges and dramatic scenery should consider this high country destination above Steamboat Springs , Colorado , up near the Wyoming border . It ’ s easy-to-reach for those coming in from the East , yet is also incredibly remote so it isn ’ t overrun by other tourists .
With about 350 inches of snowfall annually – most of which falls as fluffy champagne powder – the high country in the Medicine Bow- Routt National Forests provides deep-snow adventures that other places can only dream about . Whether you ’ re a western riding expert looking for truly unbeatable conditions , a relative novice learning to carve your first deep snow power turns or somewhere in-between , there ’ s something here for everybody .
Best yet , the riding area is typically uncrowded compared to other high-profile riding areas , leaving the powder to you and your riding group to tear up .
In the heart of this tremendous snowy playground is the snowmobile-centric Hahn ’ s Peak Roadhouse . It offers riders the best of everything .
For lodging , you ’ ll find 10 modern and roomy cabins and 6 comfortable motel rooms , offering luxurious and private accommodations to get you well rested for the riding days ahead – with plentiful parking for your truck and trailer .
You don ’ t have to drive out and bring your own machines if you don ’ t want to , though , as the Roadhouse has its own rental fleet that includes some new Ski-Doo Summit 850s , with optional guide service available . There are also highquality food options on the ever-changing menu at the Roadhouse Restaurant ( including the regionally famous Angry Bird chicken sandwich that is sure to please !). The restaurant and bar are open this year – with tables properly spaced to match current social distancing protocols . There ’ s even an on-site convenience store with gas , light groceries , select snowmobiling supplies and more .
When it comes time for true social distancing in the expansive backcountry , you can ride right from the property . Trails bisect the resort , and offer immediate access to snowmobiling bliss . Here ’ s a good multi-day plan : Riders can spent day one going north toward the Wyoming border and enjoy giant , powder-filled meadows , where carving skills can be perfected . The next day , go west toward California Park for more deep-snow playtime , followed by tree riding in dramatic aspens .
Looking for more challenge on day three ? Consider traveling east toward Farewell Mountain and , eventually , Diamond Park , where the snow is always plentiful , the slopes are steep and there is great tree riding as well as more open bowls .
While there you can work your way toward the 10,843-foot Hahn ’ s Peak after which the lodge is named and enjoy endless views .
You can ride for days , explore new terrain or return to some new favorites . Many riders make a week-long adventure out of the trip , stopping at Buffalo Pass on the way in and then hitting the famous Rabbit Ears Pass on the way home . Early season visitors have another reason to come , as the Xtreme Mountain Racing ( XMR ) circuit opens its vintage racing season Saturday , December 19 , at Hahn ’ s Peak Roadhouse .
For more information about this incredible riding destination that ’ s easy-to-reach for folks coming from the Upper Midwest , call 970 / 879-4404 .