Where to stay/ride out west

[new_xp]

We are trying to plan a trip for a few couples next year to go out west and try the riding out there. We are in the northern Illinois area looking to maybe fly out (if there is a place to fly to) and rent sleds. I consider the guys to be fairly good riders and the wives ride a couple times a year in northern Wisconsin and do well on the trails. I don't want real high dollar lodging, but somewhere nice that is close to a town for dining and maybe a little shopping (but that is not critical). A hot tub would be a bonus. Decent trail systems with the chance at a little "novice type" off trail riding to get a feel for the deeper powder type riding. The West Yellowstone area seems to be a popular area but we don't need to get into the park. The new rules will probably make us stay out of the park.

I appreciate any input anyone has about where to start looking. Thanks.

Jeff

 

[polarisrider1]

We are trying to plan a trip for a few couples next year to go out west and try the riding out there. We are in the northern Illinois area looking to maybe fly out (if there is a place to fly to) and rent sleds. I consider the guys to be fairly good riders and the wives ride a couple times a year in northern Wisconsin and do well on the trails. I don't want real high dollar lodging, but somewhere nice that is close to a town for dining and maybe a little shopping (but that is not critical). A hot tub would be a bonus. Decent trail systems with the chance at a little "novice type" off trail riding to get a feel for the deeper powder type riding. The West Yellowstone area seems to be a popular area but we don't need to get into the park. The new rules will probably make us stay out of the park.

I appreciate any input anyone has about where to start looking. Thanks.

Jeff

Wow, you are asking for it all. If you are taking the wives and would like senic trail riding go to the Black hills. Shopping in Deadwood along with casinos. It isn't that far for you. Or if you are ready to spend stay in Jackson Hole, lots of shopping, rental sleds, fly right in, etc.

 

[getsome]

Grand Lake C.O.

I have been real pleased with our annual trip to Grand Lake, C.O.
we fly into Denver, drive 2 hrs, rent condo, rent RMK's, great trails, hillclimbs, and backcountry. I can send you some pics and info if you are interested. We like the quick flight and 3 days of weekend riding.

 

[new_xp]

Thanks for the tips so far. I think we'd like to go towards the Colorado/Wyoming/Idaho areas more than the Dakotas only because I think there are more woooded areas out there, maybe I'm wrong. If any one has any lodge/condo names to check out on line that could help. I'll keep checking on line but it's nice to have input from those that have had success out there. Thanks in advance.

getsome - I'd be glad to receive some photos and info. Please send it to jblanck@ringland.com

Jeff

 

[hoffmansledder]

I've never been to Tog, but in most years I hear it is awesome. You can fly into Jackson hole, Wy and there is a shuttle to take you to the lodge. Then rent sleds there. I think it will be a bit more costly than you want but you get what you pay for. I loved the Snowy's when we were there a couple weeks back but I don't know where you can fly into or rent from. We drove it in 15 hrs from just west of Chicago. It wasn't bad at all.

 

[new_xp]

Also, what does everyone think is the best time to go out? I was looking at late January. I assume that is prime time. I'm not sure I want to try for the early or late snow as this would be something I plan for a while and would hate to have it not be the best snow conditions in case of an odd season. Thoughts?

Jeff

 

[blutooth]

Late season out there is end of season for us, especially if you are looking to do only a little off trail - spring snow might be perfect for you because your whole group could ride almost everywhere and not worry too much about being stuck.

That being said the groomed trails out there aren't kept up as nice as they are around here - they are in desolate areas. I am thinking you might have your best bet somewhere in Colorado as the riding areas are closer to larger towns. From what I hear togwotee lodge has all of the things you asked for.

good luck!

 

[polarisrider1]

Late season out there is end of season for us, especially if you are looking to do only a little off trail - spring snow might be perfect for you because your whole group could ride almost everywhere and not worry too much about being stuck.

That being said the groomed trails out there aren't kept up as nice as they are around here - they are in desolate areas. I am thinking you might have your best bet somewhere in Colorado as the riding areas are closer to larger towns. From what I hear togwotee lodge has all of the things you asked for.

good luck!

Tog. has it all but the shopping. Well listen to me, I havw done my Christmas shopping in the Gift shop. In March they clear out the Klim wear for low, low prices. Do it up right and she will love you forever. Take her to Brookes Lake Lodge. They pick you up with a Dog sled if you wish. Way Cool!