Top Ten Snowmobile Destinations in North America

If money were no object, we could follow the snow with our sleds to far-off places like New Zealand, Norway and Chile. But there are a few bucket list snowmobile trips and destinations on the North American continent that could keep you busy for a few seasons. Here are ten of our favorite North American sledding excursions:

Trail Trips

Eagle River, Wisconsin

Deemed the Snowmobile Capital of the World, Eagle River boasts a 500-mile trail network known as the “Eagle River 500.” Every year, Eagle River is home to the AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby, in addition to being the permanent home of the World Snowmobile Headquarters. With high-ranking restaurants and lodging options, not to mention the well-maintained trails and clear trail signage, Eagle River is a very accommodating snowmobile destination.

Quebec, Canada

Brush up on your French for a multi-day trip along Quebec’s Gaspe Peninsula. That’s right, there’s enough trails in this Province to provide a multi-day excursion on your snow pony. Check out DSG team member Tonnya Sayah’s account of her 8-day, 1,588 mile trip in this winter wonderland, HERE. If you’re still not convinced, there is nearly 3,000 miles of snowmobile trails winding through the forests and mountains of this region, just waiting to reel you in.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

With over 2,000 miles of trails and stunning views of Lake Superior, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is definitely a winter destination to explore on snowmobile. The lake effect snow douses the area in white, while scenic sights abound with frozen waterfalls and ice caverns.

Adirondacks, New York

Interconnected trails weave their way through the Adirondacks in Upstate New York. Frozen valleys, lakes and streams dot the wintertime scenery. With close proximity to Lake Ontario, average snowfall hovers around 200 inches. Plenty of lodging and accommodations are waiting to give snowmobilers a warm welcome each winter.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Experiencing Yellowstone National Park in the dead of winter is a special and unique experience. While the bison continue to roam and Old Faithful is just as faithful, Yellowstone is a much quieter park in the wintertime. There are some strict guidelines when it comes to bringing noncommercial snowmobiles into Yellowstone, so you’re encouraged to book a commercial trip with a tour company that will provide you with a quieter sled and a guide who is attuned to the park’s winter ecosystem patterns. You thought the bison were close in summer, well prepare to be even closer!

Backcountry Braapin'

Alaska

Team DSG member and Alaskan resident Kim Black puts it best: “My favorite snowmobiling destination is right outside my remote cabin in Trapper Creek, Alaska. There is really nothing better than waking up to fresh snow and being able to hop on your sled and explore. Close to the cabin there are some epic areas for boon docking, picking through the trees and hill climbing with the backdrop being beautiful Denali, the highest peak in North America.” Rugged and remote, Alaska in winter is best seen from the seat of a snowmobile.

Cooke City, Montana

Famous for late spring riding, riding in the backcountry of Cooke City promises top notch terrain and a long sledding season. Breathtaking scenery competes for a rider’s attention with ample hill climbing and premium boon docking opportunities. Most backcountry riders believe that where the trail ends, the real fun begins, and there’s plenty of fun to be had in the mountains surrounding Cooke City.

Revelstoke, B.C.

With most Revelstoke riding being at an elevation of 5-8,000 feet, it’s no wonder this destination has a reputation for deep powder riding. Revelstoke is a bucket list destination for most sled heads, known for having a variety of terrain and moderate winter temperatures. Carve some tracks and get ready for face shots of powder, with equally top-notch restaurants and resorts to warm you up in the evenings.

Island Park, Idaho

Island Park is a variety pack for any snowmobile group. In addition to the area’s 500 miles of trails, the backcountry terrain feels endless. At an elevation around 6,200 feet, Island Park tends to receive generous amounts of snow each winter. Whether you’re looking for something steep and deep or to go boon docking through the trees, Island Park has something to offer. The best part—all of that is just a snowball’s throw away from the flatland.

Togwotee Pass, Wyoming

It’s no coincidence that DSG’s backcountry clinics previously took place on Togwotee Pass. The network of trails at Togwotee are but a mere lifeline to the backcountry ecosystem available to snowmobilers on Togwotee Pass. Situated at the top of the Continental Divide, sweeping mountain views surround all summits. But if you’re not much of a hill climber, easily accessible meadows are there for your powder cravings.

Where have you been and where are you going? Share with us your snowmobiling destination bucket list! And get some inspiration for your next adventure on our Instagram page.