HEENEY SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Slow-Paced Snowmobile Ascent to Long‑Range Vistas from Heeney Outpost
A guided, slow-paced two-hour snowmobile tour from Heeney Outpost that includes instruction, photo stops, and a Cocoa Cabin hot‑chocolate break—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Slow-Paced Snowmobile Ascent to Long‑Range Vistas from Heeney Outpost.
From the Heeney Outpost, High Country Tours runs a slow‑paced scenic snowmobile tour that climbs the mountain to elevated overlooks where, on a clear day, riders can see over 40 miles—looking across the Continental Divide toward Rocky Mountain National Park and north to Rabbit Ears Pass (and, in exceptional visibility, mountains more than 70 miles away). The two‑hour guided outing includes an initial safety and operation briefing, guided trail time with photo stops, and a warm‑up at the Cocoa Cabin, making it well suited to families and beginners.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Panoramic Vistas from an Elevated Overlook
The tour climbs to viewpoints that open onto expansive panoramas: on a clear day you can see more than 40 miles, with views over the Continental Divide toward Rocky Mountain National Park and north to Rabbit Ears Pass. Exceptional visibility can extend to peaks more than 70 miles away.
Slow‑Paced, Guided Trail Time with Photo Stops
The Scenic Tour is deliberately slow paced: after an on‑site operating instruction and safety talk, your guide leads you up the mountain with planned stops to take pictures and enjoy the views—ideal if you want a steady, sight‑focused outing rather than a high‑speed run.
Cocoa Cabin Warm‑Up and Family Options
A guided stop at the Cocoa Cabin lets riders warm up with hot chocolate while overlooking the Eagles Nest Wilderness. The stop also offers a 3/4‑mile track where riders can open the throttle if they wish, and kiddie snowmobiles are available so children can ride under supervision in that area.
What the day feels like
What the Ride Feels Like
You begin with a safety talk and hands‑on instruction, then ride a gently graded trail that steadily ascends the mountain. The outing is paced for sightseeing: guides pause at vantage points for photos and at the Cocoa Cabin for hot chocolate. The tour includes an optional short stretch (a 3/4‑mile track) where riders may choose to open the throttle, and families can use kiddie snowmobiles at that stop. The full experience is scheduled to last approximately two hours, including the safety briefing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should sit this one out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring warm layered clothing (snowsuit or coat and pants), winter boots, gloves, scarf or balaclava, goggles or sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. DOT‑approved open‑face helmets are provided; do not bring ski helmets. Snowsuits, boots, and goggles are available to rent on a first‑come, first‑serve basis (adult sizes only).
Drivers must be 18 years or older and present a valid driver's license or learner’s permit to operate a snowmobile and carry a passenger. Passengers must present a valid photo ID. Minors require their legal guardian to complete a waiver on site.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Scenic Snowmobile Tour last?
Approximately two hours total, which includes the Safety Talk and instruction at the start of the tour.
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at the Heeney Outpost, 7101 Heeney Road, Silverthorne, CO 80498.
What are the departure times?
Standard daily departures are at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. During the Christmas season departure times are 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
What happens if I damage a snowmobile?
You are responsible for repairs of collision damage you cause. High Country Tours offers a Snowmobile Repair Fund: by contributing $30 per driver at booking you limit your out‑of‑pocket responsibility to the first $1,500 of damage; after that the Repair Fund covers additional repair costs.
Can children ride on the tour?
Yes, but all passengers must be able to sit behind the driver and hold on by themselves for the duration of the tour (typically possible for children around 4–6 years old depending on the child). Passengers cannot sit in front of the driver and infants are not allowed. Minors must be accompanied by their legal guardian, who also participates.
What identification do I need to bring?
Drivers must bring a valid driver's license or learner’s permit. Passengers should bring a valid photo ID. Guardians must complete waivers for minors on site.