If you’re looking to add a little adrenaline to your winter in Crested Butte, the Top of the Rockies Snowmobile Tour is one of the best ways to experience the backcountry. This isn’t a one-time event—it’s a guided snowmobiling experience offered throughout the winter season, making it a flexible and exciting activity you can plan around your trip.
Operated by Top of the Rockies Snowmobile Tours, this tour has been running in partnership with the United States Forest Service for over 30 years. It’s also the only company permitted to guide snowmobile tours in the stunning Irwin Lake area within the Gunnison National Forest—which means you’re getting access to terrain and views that most visitors never see.
During the tour, you’ll ride through snow-covered forests, open meadows, and high alpine terrain with incredible views of the Ruby Range. Along the way, you may catch glimpses of iconic backcountry spots like Irwin Lodge and other historic landmarks tucked deep in the mountains. It’s the kind of experience that gives you a whole new perspective on the Gunnison Valley in winter.
Whether you’re visiting for skiing, snowboarding, or just want to explore beyond the resort, this tour is a fun and accessible way to get into Colorado’s winter backcountry—no prior snowmobiling experience required.
Tour Details
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Where: Top of the Rockies Snowmobile Tours
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Tour Area: Irwin Lake in the Gunnison National Forest
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Tour Times: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
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Minimum Age: 4 years old
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Capacity: Maximum of 2 people per snowmobile
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Price: Varies by tour and machine (check with tour operator for current pricing)
If you’re planning a winter trip to Crested Butte, this is one of those experiences that consistently makes people say, “That was the highlight of our trip.” It’s not just a ride—it’s a chance to explore some of the most beautiful and untouched terrain in the Colorado Rockies.
As a local Realtor here in Crested Butte, I not only help clients navigate the real estate market, but also share the experiences that truly make this area special—like getting out into the backcountry on a snowmobile. Whether you’re visiting, thinking about making a move, or already own property here, I’m happy to be a resource. If you’d like to talk more about the lifestyle, grab a coffee, or discuss buying, selling, or your property’s value, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you create the right plan for your goals.