SALIDA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Above the Tree Line: A Local’s Favorite Snowmobile Circuit into Salida’s High-Mountain Mines
A guided, reservation-only 5-hour snowmobile tour out of Salida that visits three historic mines and two active quarries and includes lunch.
Above the Tree Line: A Local’s Favorite Snowmobile Circuit into Salida’s High-Mountain Mines.
Set against the scale of the Sawatch Range, this 5-hour guided snowmobile tour blends trail and road riding with extended free-riding, carries you past three historic silver and gold mines and two working quarries, and tops out with views from above 11,000 feet. The operator includes a mid-ride lunch; reservations are required.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Trail, Road and Wide-Open Free Riding
The route mixes maintained trails and road sections with generous stretches of free-riding, giving riders a variety of conditions and terrain during the five-hour outing.
Alpine Vistas Above 11,000 Feet
The tour climbs to vantage points above 11,000 feet, offering commanding views of the high-country that frame the historic mining sites and quarry operations below.
Silver and Gold Mines, Plus Working Quarries
Along the route riders visit three historic silver and gold mines and pass two active quarries, combining natural spectacle with the industrial traces of the region’s extractive past.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a tightly run five-hour itinerary that opens at the Monarch Snowmobile Tours staging point, moves through a mix of groomed trail and open road, pauses for on-foot looks at historic mine sites and active quarries, and leaves time for unfettered riding before a included lunch.
THE TERRAIN
Trail, Road and Wide-Open Free Riding
The route mixes maintained trails and road sections with generous stretches of free-riding, giving riders a variety of conditions and terrain during the five-hour outing.
THE VIEWS
Alpine Vistas Above 11,000 Feet
The tour climbs to vantage points above 11,000 feet, offering commanding views of the high-country that frame the historic mining sites and quarry operations below.
THE HISTORY
Silver and Gold Mines, Plus Working Quarries
Along the route riders visit three historic silver and gold mines and pass two active quarries, combining natural spectacle with the industrial traces of the region’s extractive past.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress in layered clothing suitable for skiing; the operator can provide clothing if needed.
If you lack suitable winter outerwear, clothes are available from the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The guided outing lasts five hours.
When do I need to arrive and complete paperwork?
You must show up 30 minutes prior to departure and submit electronic waivers no later than 24 hours before your tour.
Are there age or weight limits?
Passengers must be at least 5 years old; drivers must be at least 15 years old; renters must be 18. Each machine has a 450 lb weight limit.
What are the cancellation and refund rules?
There is no refund within 72 hours of trip departure.
Is insurance available and what does it cost?
Insurance is available for $25 per machine with a $250 deductible.
Are meals included?
Lunch is included with the tour price.
What are the rates and minimum booking?
Single sleds start at $270 (includes lunch) and double sleds at $340 (includes lunch); minimum booking is three machines.