Two Hours of High-Speed Snowmobile Running Through Gunnison National Forest and Splains Gulch

CRESTED BUTTE SNOWMOBILE FIELD GUIDE

Two Hours of High-Speed Snowmobile Running Through Gunnison National Forest and Splains Gulch

A daily, guided two-hour snowmobile tour that threads quickly paced forest trails and off-trail powder runs — this guide explains what to expect, who can ride, and the practical details.

Two Hours of High-Speed Snowmobile Running Through Gunnison National Forest and Splains Gulch.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Crested Butte
Operator
Colorado Adventure Rentals, LLC
Category
Snowmobile
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the thrill of snowmobiling through the stunning Gunnison National Forest and the exhilarating open fields of Splains Gulch on a guided, small-group outing. Tours run daily with multiple departures and condense a lot of adrenaline into a focused two-hour riding adventure.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Forest trails through Gunnison National Forest

Quickly paced trail riding threads through the stands and bowls of the Gunnison National Forest, delivering sustained, fast sections that make the most of the surrounding winter landscape.

THE PLAYGROUND

Off-trail powder in Splains Gulch

Riders break out of the groomed corridor for off-trail powder riding across the open fields of Splains Gulch — a core reason people choose this tour.

THE GROUP

Small guided groups

Daily departures run with modest group sizes (on average about five snowmobiles plus a guide), which keeps the pace engaging while still manageable for riders of varying experience.

What the day feels like

What the two-hour ride feels like

Expect a focused, energetic two-hour tour that alternates between quick trail sections through the Gunnison National Forest and freer, off-trail runs across Splains Gulch’s open fields. Tours depart multiple times daily, and guides run the group at a pace designed to showcase both trail and powder riding in a compact window of time.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this tour suits — and who to be cautious about

1
Solo RidersWell suited: individuals 16 and older with a valid driver’s license can drive solo and experience the full two-hour ride.
2
Passengers & FamiliesFamilies can participate: carrying a passenger requires the driver be 18 with a valid license; operators recommend passengers be at least 4 years old.
3
Small GroupsDesigned for small groups — the average outing runs about five snowmobiles plus a guide; larger groups can be accommodated if arranged at booking.
4
Young or Inexperienced RidersCaution advised: underage or very young riders should not drive; follow the operator’s age and license rules for drivers and passengers.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Schedule

Tours depart daily at 9am, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm for a two-hour riding adventure.

Group size & operator notes

Average group size is about five snowmobiles plus a guide; if you have a larger party and want to ride together, advise the operator when reserving.

Eligibility & licensing

Drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate a sled solo; drivers must be 18 with a valid license to carry a passenger.

Passenger guidance

Passengers are recommended to be at least 4 years old.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the snowmobile tour?

Each riding departure is a two-hour adventure.

When do tours depart?

Tours depart daily at 9am, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm.

What is the typical group size?

The average group size for this tour is about five snowmobiles plus a guide; larger groups can be accommodated if requested at booking.

What are the age and license requirements to drive or carry a passenger?

You must be 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to drive solo; to carry a passenger you must be 18 with a valid driver’s license. Passengers are recommended to be at least 4 years old.

What type of terrain does the tour cover?

The tour includes quickly-paced trail rides through Gunnison National Forest and off-trail powder riding in the open fields of Splains Gulch.