Do you know exactly where the “heart” of the Rockies is? The heart is considered the center of Colorado and also happens to be where the most 14ers in the state of Colorado rise up, in Chaffee County. The heart of the Rockies is home to the tallest peaks in Colorado as well as a valley floor where the Arkansas River runs. The terrain is diverse and the area is known as an Alpine Desert. You might not believe it, but some of the best snowmobiling in the country is in here in Chaffee County, near the alpine desert. If you’re a resident of Denver, Colorado Springs, visiting Summit County or anywhere near Buena Vista, Colorado, you don’t want to miss snowmobiling at Cottonwood Pass!
Snowmobiling is a great winter activity for a family, a group on vacation or for outdoor adventurers who never want to stop exploring. It doesn’t require tremendous exertion so is a great acclimation activity for visitors. Small children can ride with their parents. Unlike skiing, there’s no waiting at the bottom of a ski run for others to catch up.
Pulling in to Buena Vista, Colorado, you won’t see a ton of snow on the ground, even in the middle of winter. You might think this valley with a wide river and tons of amazing rock formations wouldn’t be a great place for snowmobiling, but you’d be wrong! Just a short 10-15 minute drive from town center in Buena Vista, going west on 306, you’ll make an ascent up Cottonwood Pass. The road dead ends where it closes for the winter time due to the enormous amount of snow making passenger vehicle travel too dangerous and difficult. But the road is open to snowmobiles!
Riders can go all the way to the summit of Cottonwood Pass and enjoy 360 views of incredible vistas from surrounding mountain ranges and the Collegiate Peaks. This summit is one of the best in the state of Colorado! Cottonwood Pass also offers huge bowls, wide-open powder fields and snake trails through the trees. This is where some of the best snowmobilers in the country ride for practice. And just another perk- you won’t encounter any crowds. This area is a snowmobiling hidden gem!
Near our Buena Vista outpost in downtown Buena Vista, there is a wide selection of dining choices, one of the best breweries in the state (Eddyline) and a variety of boutique shopping. The streets are sunny and uncrowded. This is the perfect day trip to get away from the masses in Summit County or to see a different part of the state when visiting the Vail area.
Our guides will take your group of snowmobilers to the best and safest parts of Cottonwood Pass for your experience level. Enjoy free time on your own in the powder bowl and don’t worry about getting lost in the tree trails because we know the area well!
Snowmobiling is the perfect winter activity for groups and families of all sizes. To book a snowmobile tour on Cottonwood Pass, call Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals today at (970) 471-8491
