Best Places to Snowmobile in Idaho This Winter: Top Spots Revealed!
Idaho isn’t just one of the great snowmobiling destinations in the country; it’s right up at the top. From crisp powder covering endless trails to the remote, occasionally rugged beauty of the backcountry, Idaho offers something special to the first-timer or seasoned rider like myself. Whether you are a seasoned rider as I am or one simply getting ready for that maiden trip on a sled, there is room for everyone to explore, unwind, and challenge themselves.
After years of searching out Idaho’s hotspots, a few stand out as some of the most unforgettable. Here are the top Idaho snowmobiling spots this winter, and a few insider tips on how to make the most out of your ride.
What Makes Idaho Perfect for Snowmobiling?
In all of the United States, Idaho boasts some of the best snowmobiling conditions you will find anywhere in the country-for many reasons:
- Best Quality Powder Snow: The higher elevations in Idaho make the powder drier and fluffier, particularly in places like the Sawtooth Mountains and McCall.
- Diverse Landscapes: Idaho has everything: from mountains to open prairies, from lakes to snow-covered sand dunes. It’s awesome to just hit these offbeat spots outside of town without having to leave the state.
- Access and Infrastructure: Trails are well-marked and maintained, with regular grooming and available amenities to facilitate easy access to trails and backcountry locations.
Now, let’s delve in deeper into the most popular snowmobiling spots in Idaho and precisely which factors make each location unique.
Best Places to Snowmobile in Idaho during Winter 2024
1. McCall, Idaho
McCall is snowmobile heaven, with over 500 miles of groomed trails carving out west-central Idaho as a paradise for all snowmobilers. I couldn’t believe the size of some of the trails the first time I saw McCall-for goodness sake, Warren Wagon Road felt like a snowmobiling highway through dense forests and mountain views.
- Popular Trails: Two should-rides include the Warren Wagon Road and Brundage Mountain Area.
- Why You’ll Love It: McCall offers ideal riding conditions for all levels of experience and varied scenery with meadows and winding forested paths.
- Pro Tips: Stop in town before heading out to grab lunch and coffee at a cozy café or gear up at a local rental shop. Lodging options abound here; use McCall as a convenient base for several days of riding.
2. Island Park
Just a few miles from the Idaho-Montana border, Island Park has the country’s largest groomed trail system, offering 600+ miles of adventure. With scenic views of Yellowstone in the distance, Island Park is hard to beat.
- Popular Trails: Two Top Mountain Trail offers incredible views, and Big Springs Loop is perfect for a full day of riding.
- Why You’ll Love It: This area features sweeping views, scenic pine forests, and ideal conditions for long rides.
- Pro Tips: As Island Park can get busy, try visiting mid-week for fewer crowds. Rentals and cabins are easy to find around the area, making it an excellent spot for families with warming huts along the trails.
3. Sawtooth National Recreation Area
For those seeking solitude, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area provides rugged mountains, frozen lakes, and open meadows. I recall my maiden ride out here; it was that kind of backcountry you only dream about, where the only thing you might hear is your sled and the crunch of snow underfoot.
- Popular Trails: Stanley Basin Trails, Redfish Lake Area Offers epic views and solid riding.
- Why You’ll Love It: Less traffic compared to other areas, and has some of the best backcountry riding in very vast remote areas.
- Pro Tips: Always carry avalanche gear and check the forecast. If new to backcountry riding, consider hiring a local guide. Stanley has some great cabin rentals available with trail access directly out the door.
4. Priest Lake
Priest Lake in northern Idaho offers panoramic lake views and expansive scenic trails; it’s also substantially a gentler ride, which is just perfect should you go there with friends or family members that are new to the sport.
- Popular Trails: Giving spectacular lake views are the Sundance Mountain Trail and the Upper Priest Lake Loop.
- Why You’ll Love It: You get amazing scenery combined with a relaxing ride.
Pro Tips: Make it a day trip and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake. Priest Lake is also great to spend a weekend retreat with cozy lodges around the area.
5. Fairfield/Camas Prairie
Snowmobiling at Fairfield means high-altitude riding amidst open prairie, which feels just like a white desert. I really enjoyed the wide, open terrain that Camas Prairie had to offer for cruising at higher speeds and practicing technical skills.
- Popular Trails: Soldier Mountain Trails and Iron Mountain Area.
- Why You’ll Love It: Open areas equate to laid-back rides with great white landscapes.
- Pro Tips: Fairfield gets real deep snow, so bring the cold condition gear. Also, Soldier Mountain nearby has some nice lodging options, and there’s always a friendly crowd to be found.
6. Big Lost Mountain Range (Copper Basin)
A little out of the way, this place offers snowmobilers the most fantastic experience. With its difficult mountain terrain, open expansiveness, Big Lost Mountain Range can challenge expert riders to go on and take some serious powder.
- Popular Trails: The East Fork Trail and the Upper Big Lost Area provide one heck of a challenge.
- Why You’ll Love It: If you’re looking for a remote, uncrowded experience, this is it.
- Pro Tips: Amenities are a decent drive away, so stock up on fuel and supplies. Also, plan your route accordingly because cell service can be hit or miss in this area.
7. St. Anthony Sand Dunes
Yes, sand dunes! St. Anthony Sand Dunes, famous during summer for ATVing, turn into a completely different playground in winter. I must say, it feels pretty unreal snowmobiling on these dunes covered in snow. It’s like another planet!
- Popular Trails: Dune riding areas and trails connecting to Island Park.
- Why You’ll Love It: A one-of-a-kind experience that mixes the feel of a desert with fresh powder.
- Pro Tips: Dunes can be confusing, so take it with an experienced rider or a guide if you are riding for the first time. Wear sufficient clothes because the wind here can get really strong.
Essential Tips for Snowmobiling in Idaho
- Permits and Fees: Make sure you have your Idaho snowmobile permit; some of the riding areas have additional fees.
- Safety First: Idaho’s backcountry is unstable. If you will be deep in, make sure you have avalanche gear on you and someone knows your route.
- Weather Planning: The weather changes fast in Idaho, so if you are planning a multi-day adventure check the local conditions.
Where to Stay and Rent Gear
Around McCall, Island Park, and Priest Lake, our favorite rental shop is Redline Recreational Toys. We’ve been renting their for years and couldn’t be happier, we even got a membership. For lodging, give a cabin rental with trail access a try. Some of the best lodges in Idaho are found in McCall, Stanley, and Priest Lake and offer easy access to some of the top spots to ride.
Conclusion
From snowmobiling trails with unparalleled endless miles of groomed trails to breathtaking vistas along serene lakes and thrilling backcountry rides that quicken your heartbeat, Idaho boasts one-of-a-kind snowmobiling spots. Something here for every type of rider be it miles of groomed trails, taking in views of serene lakes, or thrilling backcountry rides that get your adrenaline pumping. An avid snowmobiler myself, I attest that Idaho never gets old-every ride is a different adventure.
So pack your gear, check the trail maps, and hit one of these great spots this winter. You won’t just have an amazing ride, but you’ll get that unforgettable winter experience Idaho is so famous for.