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Western Treats
Five Destinations to Fill Your Appetite for ElevationMinnesota Snowmobiling, October 2000
Reprinted with permission
The trend to go west is upon us. After less than ideal winters here in the Midwest coupled with a new breed of mountain specific snowmobiles, the number of riders in search of powder and higher heights is on the grow. This influx of midwestern riders trailering west has had an effect on several western destinations too. Getting around the back country of the Rockies is no longer a test in backwoods navigation. Today, groomed western trails are being forged at a record pace, and are joined by increased signage and improved facilities and amenities, all in an effort to capture a portion of the Midwestern market. Here are. . . western treats sure to please your palette this coming winter:
Big Horns
We're not sure why the Big Horn mountains of central Wyoming haven't become the most popular destination for Midwestern riders, because it should be. The closest of the big rock riding destinations to Minnesota, the Big Horns offer extreme elevations, deep powder meadows and the ability to leave the crowds behind as they continue on down Interstate 94 in search of greener, or should we say whiter pastures.
Dry powder and extreme elevations make the Big Horns one of the most challenging in the West.
The communities of Sheridan and Buffalo are nearby offering plenty of amenities, and great resorts such as Recreational Springs within the hills delivers all the comforts of home, with powder outside your door.
Don't worry about testing your high-marking skills either. They don't call ‘em the Big Horns for nothing. With peaks such as Cloud Peak reaching 13,175 feet above sea level, you'll discover plenty of bowls to test both yours and your machines' abilities. Of course groomed trails slice through the region as well, totaling just over 300 miles of adventure.
