After the 45-minute ride up a winding mountain road, I was ready to arrive at the Ice Pirates base camp. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains National Forest, the clearing in which the base camp was organized leant itself to some beautiful picture taking. Upon arrival, I immediately popped out of the large van that had transported us to this winter wonderland and started taking pictures. Once everyone had exited the van it was time to sign wavers and put helmets on. In anticipation of the beautiful terrain we knew we would encounter with snowmobiling, Cody and I attached our GoPro’s to our helmets.
With all our safety gear on and bundled in warm winter clothing, it was time for a short training lecture. Even for this newbie, the training was sufficient to make me feel comfortable enough to drive a single person snowmobile.
Snowflakes started to fall as I selected my snowmobile. To no ones surprise, I selected the only red one and immediately started the motor. With a few last minute tips, we were off on our two-hour snowmobiling adventure.
The guided tour started with us working our way up steeper and steeper hill climbs. At first I was a little scared, but by the time we reached the tallest hill, I was excited to speed to the top. At 12,000 feet in elevation, you could see for miles, allowing for some magnificent views. Once we reached Molas Pass, the tour stopped for a few minutes giving us the opportunity to really appreciate our surroundings, and of course take a few pictures.
The trail eventually narrowed and we were once again in a single file line. As we sped along the trail, I started wishing that this adventure would never end. My initial apprehension had quickly turned to excitement, and I knew that while this tour might be coming to an end, it would not be my last time on a snowmobile with Ice Pirates.
Read Part One of my adventure on this day, it was with Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
What do you think? Ready for a snowmobiling adventure? What other snow activities do you love? Leave me a comment below.