vail pass

Hidden Gem Winter Activity

Posted on by Kristi Stanford

If you love cutting fresh tracks, just want to ski or ride without dodging beginner skiers, children and crowds, we think we’ve got just the hidden gem activity for you. If you’re an experienced skier or rider who dreams of hitting the backcountry powder but without the avalanche danger, going full send off a cliff and the grueling uphill trek, keep reading.

Have you heard the term “earn your turns”? It’s a phrase coined by backcountry skiers to playfully shame those who ride the lift to get to the top of the mountain. But what if you’re a beginner backcountry enthusiast without the knowledge, or coming from sea level where an uphill climb in the snow isn’t how you want to spend your vacation? How does motorized-assisted turn-earning sound?

Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals is the only Eagle County outfitter with tow-in snowmobiles. Three backcountry peaks in the Vail Pass Recreation Area. No hiking and no lift lines. Powder, lots of powder! The ride up holding onto a tow rope behind a snowmobile is a bit like water skiing.

The terrain is 99% avalanche free. The conditions are monitored daily and you will receive thorough directions and instructions before heading out.

The only comparable experience is snow-cat skiing, however, tow-in skiing will provide you with more runs in a shorter amount of time, more control over your choice of terrain with the ability to easily traverse to different peaks, all at a lower cost. Difficulty can range from hard intermediate to expert. There are even some groomed trails to choose.

Most of the terrain is above tree line without the danger of tree wells and hidden objects making tow-in skiing perfect for backcountry newbies, but experienced backcountry users will love it too and the opportunity it provides to get in more runs than hike-to allows. Ledges can be found at varying difficulty levels as well.

All backcountry users should always have a buddy regardless of the activity and you will need your buddy for tow-in skiing. One will drive the snowmobile up and back down while the other is pulled up by the tow rope and then skis or boards down their chosen line under the watch of their buddy on the snowmobile. Our tow-in sleds are equipped with racks for ski and ride equipment.

If you need to rent downhill equipment, we can point you in the right direction.

Dressing in layers is crucial- the adrenaline fueled by this amazing experience will get your heart rate going!

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) promotes safety awareness, forecasts and education for backcountry users. A quick look at the home page of their website or social media accounts offers up-to-date information on conditions and warnings for the backcountry. Know the danger of tree wells, keep your buddy nearby and don’t venture into terrain beyond your ability. The CAIC offers avalanche safety courses for backcountry users. Always carry the proper equipment.

It’s a new season and never too late to try something new, to ski “out of bounds” without breaking resort or forest service rules. Give Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals a call and broaden your outdoor adventure experience this winter. 970.471.8491

Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat- Winter Version

Posted on by Kristi Stanford

Our Summer Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat Package is so popular, we now have one for the winter season. It’s likely the most amazing deal you’ll find anywhere in Colorado for the 2021-2022 winter season. We’ve done all the planning and you will have all the fun! The Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat Winter Package includes all you need to get fed, rested, and stoked for a true adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Make some fresh tracks and explore backcountry powder, glamp at the beautiful Green Bridge Inn in Red Cliff, Colorado and then explore a new area the next day. This amazing winter package can be one, two, or three days long!

Included in your Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat Winter Package is 10% off rentals from Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals, 10% off 4 meals at Mango’s Mountain Grill, and 10% off 3 nights of lodging at Green Bridge Inn. This is the ultimate weekend or half-week adventure. See details below.

Our winter season typically begins end of November or early December, dependent on the Forest Service and Mother Nature.

Day One: Whether it’s your first time on a snowmobile or you are a seasoned rider, we’ve got the best machine for your ability. Your Rocky Mountain winter adventure begins as you head out the back door of Red Cliff, Colorado on Shrine Pass Road. Explore 66,000 acres of backcountry wonderland on Vail Pass and Camp Hale. Packed trails will guide the way for beginner riders and more experienced riders can venture off into playgrounds of fresh powder in open meadows or trees. Sensational views of the Gore and Sawatch Ranges provide perfect photo opportunities and awe-inspiring backdrops. Terrain types vary and are suitable for all levels.

Day Two: After resting up overnight at the Green Bridge Inn and plenty to eat at Mango’s Mountain Grill, you’re ready for another day of adventure. Skip the lines, crowds and boring chairlift rides at the ski resorts and make some fresh tracks on your skis or board in the backcountry. You don’t even have to “earn your turns.” You can ride up or be towed up on our exclusive utility snowmobiles, designed with equipment racks for skis or boards. If you’ve wanted to try backcountry skiing, this is the way to do it without hassle and within safe bounds.

Day Three: You’re a true outdoor adventure seeker and can’t get enough of the winter-time thrills. We get it! There’s more to do and see. We invite you to change up your machine and try out the fastest-growing winter sport- Timbersleds (think dirt biking on snow). Travel south to Buena Vista and explore Cottonwood Pass with a final destination at over 12,000 feet to a frozen alpine lake. The charming town of Buena Vista sits at the base of the Continental Divide with the backdrop of Colorado’s tallest mountain peaks. Cottonwood Pass is Colorado’s best-kept snowmobiling secret.

The Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat Winter Package was created by our local experts with YOU in mind. Likely your Colorado ski vacation time is never long enough and you want to make the most of it. Our local staff knows the Rocky Mountain backcountry like no one else. For you this means maximum fun and no guesswork. Consider us your local friends with the insider tips. We will listen to the particular wants and needs of your group and offer customized suggestions for each day of your stay in the Colorado mountains near Vail or Buena Vista, Colorado. Please give us a call today, we are eager to hear from you.

Red Cliff location (970) 471-8491 / Buena Vista location (719) 966-5233

*Minimum requirements to qualify for the Eat, Sleep, Ride, Repeat Winter Package are a 2-day rental from RMAR and a 1-night stay at the Green Bridge Inn. Holidays are excluded.