Snow, Throttle, and a Perfect Burger: The Klondike Lunch Tour in Aspen’s Backcountry
Ride deep into Colorado’s White River National Forest for mountain views and a hot, unforgettable lunch.
The snow hums under the skis as the throttle wakes, and the White River National Forest answers. Pines lean in like old friends sharing a secret, their branches heavy with fresh powder. Ahead, the trail sweeps toward a ridge, and suddenly Pyramid Peak lifts into view—14,000 feet of serrated stone pushing against the sky. The air is crystal and uncomplicated. Every breath feels like a clean slate.
Trail Wisdom
Layer Like a Local
Wear a moisture-wicking base, warm midlayer, and waterproof shell; conditions can flip from sunny to biting cold fast at altitude.
Hydrate Before You Ride
Drink water in the hours before the tour—altitude and dry winter air can sneak up on you, even on a short ride.
Goggles Beat Sunglasses
Goggles block wind, manage flat light, and keep snow spray out of your eyes for safer, more comfortable riding.
Arrive Early, Ride Relaxed
Plan to be at check-in 30 minutes ahead for waivers and gear—less rush means a smoother start and better instruction time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short spur overlooks along the route that frame Pyramid Peak and the Maroon Creek valley
- •Quiet glades near the cabin where snow pillows the spruce understory
Wildlife
Elk (often seen near meadows in winter), Red fox (occasionally spotted near forest edges)
Conservation Note
Stay on groomed trails to avoid stressing wintering wildlife and compacting sensitive snow layers. Pack out trash and keep noise to a minimum near forest edges.
Aspen rose during the silver boom of the late 1800s, later transforming into a ski and outdoor hub; the Klondike moniker echoes the era’s snowbound ambitions.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Late-season powder days, Quieter midweek tours
Challenges: Variable snowpack, Warmer afternoons can create slush
March into early April can deliver excellent riding after storms, though conditions swing quickly with sun exposure.
summer
Best for: Scouting future winter trips, Hiking and biking nearby
Challenges: No snowmobile operations; roads may be restricted
Snowmobiling pauses; consider hiking Maroon Creek area and planning winter logistics while the roads are dry.
fall
Best for: Leaf-peeping reconnaissance, Cool-weather town time
Challenges: Unpredictable early snow, Limited tour availability
Aspens glow gold and the air turns crisp; tours typically await consistent winter snow.
winter
Best for: Reliable snowmobile conditions, Clear mountain views
Challenges: Cold temps, Icy mornings after freeze-thaw
Peak season. Dress warm, watch for slick spots, and enjoy the best chance at perfect snow and visibility.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated, Waterproof GlovesEssential
Warm, waterproof gloves keep hands responsive on the throttle and brake.
Goggles with Low-Light LensEssential
Amber or rose lenses help with flat light and protect against wind and snow spray.
Neck Gaiter or Balaclava
Seals out wind and spindrift at higher speeds to keep your face warm.
Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential
Dry, warm feet translate to better control and a more enjoyable ride.
Common Questions
Do I need prior snowmobile experience?
No. Guides provide instruction at the trailhead and the route follows groomed trails suitable for first-timers.
How long is the Klondike Lunch Tour?
Plan for 2½–3 hours total, including check-in, riding, and time at the cabin for lunch.
What is the minimum age for passengers?
Passengers must be at least 4 years old.
What are the tour times and days?
Tours typically run Tuesdays through Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., subject to conditions and availability.
How much does it cost?
The tour is $375 for a single rider or $525 for two people sharing one snowmobile.
What should I wear?
Dress in ski-style layers with waterproof outerwear, warm gloves, insulated boots, and goggles for wind and glare control.
What to Pack
Goggles for wind and glare; insulated gloves to keep throttle hand warm; water bottle to stay ahead of altitude; neck gaiter to seal out spindrift and cold.
Did You Know
White River National Forest is the most-visited national forest in the United States, receiving over 10 million visitors annually.
Quick Travel Tips
Book the earlier time for firmer morning snow and clearer views; hydrate the night before to mitigate altitude effects; plan 30 minutes for check-in and gear; parking on Maroon Creek Road can be limited—carpool or use a shuttle if available.
Local Flavor
Back in Aspen, warm up with a bowl of green chili and a Colorado craft beer, then stroll the pedestrian core for galleries and gear shops. Coffee and pastries make a smart pre-ride stop; post-ride, consider a soak or a fireside cocktail before dinner—this town leans into winter comfort like a pro.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Aspen/Pitkin County (ASE). Meeting point: just outside Aspen along Maroon Creek Road. Drive time from downtown Aspen: roughly 10–20 minutes depending on conditions. Cell service: spotty once on trail. Permits: Guests ride under the operator’s permits; no personal permit required.
Sustainability Note
Winter is a critical time for wildlife—elk and fox conserve energy in deep cold. Keep speeds reasonable, stay on designated routes, and skip single-use plastics at the cabin to minimize impact.
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