For many, the winter months are an opportune time to hibernate indoors with a good book and a roaring fireplace. For us Idahoans, it can be difficult to relate. There are just SO many great winter activities to take advantage of in our state. From the state’s longest snow tubing run to a winter mountain roller coaster that whisks you away into a forest, there’s never a dull moment during an Idaho winter. However, one of the most exciting adventures you’ll embark on is this guided snowmobile ride in Idaho. This thrilling experience at Smiley Creek Lodge is the adrenaline rush you need this winter season, so read on to learn all about it!
Located in the tiny community of Sawtooth City, Smiley Creek Lodge is a year-round getaway destination that is every nature lover’s dream come true. From the cozy dining and lodging accommodations to the endless seasonal activities, it’s a must for anyone with an adventurous spirit.
Tim Tower/Google
Winter is an especially great time to visit this backcountry lodge and take in the breathtaking Sawtooth Valley. The region’s snowcapped peaks and powder-filled meadows are a sight to be seen and will leave you in complete awe of its inspiring beauty.
Smiley Creek Lodge/Facebook
Not to mention, there are so many ways to enjoy this winter wonderland and the quiet serenity it has to offer. Boasting miles of groomed Nordic ski and snowshoe trails, visitors can enjoy the snow-covered landscapes at a leisurely pace. However, there’s a more exciting and fast-paced option that you’ll definitely want to consider!
Jill Simmons Smith/Google
Smiley Creek Lodge offers guided snowmobile tours that lead you out into the vast network of groomed snowmobile trails in the area. These snowmobile rides in Idaho vary in destinations and the beautiful landscapes that you will see.
Smiley Creek Lodge/Facebook You can also sign up for the Sled Sisters Clinics. These clinics will help you learn the basics of snowmobile riding and will give you a chance to perfect your skills.
No matter what tour option you choose, you will be led by an experienced guide, and you’ll witness some of the grandest spots the Sawtooth Basin has to offer during your trip.
Jonathan Van Wagoner/Google If you do not want to ride with a guide, snowmobile rentals are also available. However, two of the four tour options require a guide.
Snowmobiling is an iconic winter activity here in Idaho and we can see why. Snowmobiles allow you to explore areas that you typically can’t reach by foot or car, and the payoff is huge. Winter scenery like this is worth the effort it takes to find it! Of course, it’s also an absolute blast from beginning to end.
Smiley Creek Lodge/Facebook
Idaho winters were made for adventure so be sure not to let this season pass you by without experiencing some of this winter beauty for yourself.
Smiley Creek Lodge/Facebook
To learn more about a custom snowmobile ride in Idaho and to learn about the Smiley Creek Lodge, click here.
Tim Tower/Google
Smiley Creek Lodge/Facebook
Jill Simmons Smith/Google
You can also sign up for the Sled Sisters Clinics. These clinics will help you learn the basics of snowmobile riding and will give you a chance to perfect your skills.
Jonathan Van Wagoner/Google
If you do not want to ride with a guide, snowmobile rentals are also available. However, two of the four tour options require a guide.
Have you ever been on a guided snowmobile ride in Idaho? Where did you go? We’d love to hear all about your winter experience in the comments.
What do you think? Are you up for a guided snowmobile trip across the Sawtooth Basin? For even more winter fun in Idaho, how about a chilly weekend road trip? Check out our itinerary here.
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Address: 16546 State Hwy 75, Ketchum, ID 83340, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Snowmobile ride in Idaho February 05, 2022 Courtnie Erickson What are some of the best winter activities in Idaho? There is something special about winter in Idaho. The Gem State is home to a long list of incredible activities that the entire family will enjoy. One of our favorite winter activities in Idaho is a day spent snow tubing. There are many excellent snow tubing hills in Idaho. For example, head to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area in Boise and tackle the popular and exciting 800-foot snow tubing hill. In the northern part of the state, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Idaho, hosts nighttime snow tubing. There is something special about racing down a snow-covered hill under the stars and this is a great activity to spend together as a family. If you aren’t in the mood for snow tubing, head to one of the best sled riding hills in Idaho. In southeastern Idaho, head to Russ Freeman Park, which is home to many excellent sled riding hills. This large park is located in Idaho Falls and has multiple hills so you can easily find space for your entire family. Another excellent way to enjoy winter in Idaho is to take a gondola ride. At Silver Mountain Resort, located in Kellogg, you can enjoy Idaho’s beautiful winter landscape high in the air. This scenic gondola ride is 3.1-miles long and you will receive some of the most breathtaking views of this ski resort in Idaho and the surrounding area.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Snowmobile ride in Idaho
February 05, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are some of the best winter activities in Idaho? There is something special about winter in Idaho. The Gem State is home to a long list of incredible activities that the entire family will enjoy. One of our favorite winter activities in Idaho is a day spent snow tubing. There are many excellent snow tubing hills in Idaho. For example, head to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area in Boise and tackle the popular and exciting 800-foot snow tubing hill. In the northern part of the state, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Idaho, hosts nighttime snow tubing. There is something special about racing down a snow-covered hill under the stars and this is a great activity to spend together as a family. If you aren’t in the mood for snow tubing, head to one of the best sled riding hills in Idaho. In southeastern Idaho, head to Russ Freeman Park, which is home to many excellent sled riding hills. This large park is located in Idaho Falls and has multiple hills so you can easily find space for your entire family. Another excellent way to enjoy winter in Idaho is to take a gondola ride. At Silver Mountain Resort, located in Kellogg, you can enjoy Idaho’s beautiful winter landscape high in the air. This scenic gondola ride is 3.1-miles long and you will receive some of the most breathtaking views of this ski resort in Idaho and the surrounding area.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There is something special about winter in Idaho. The Gem State is home to a long list of incredible activities that the entire family will enjoy. One of our favorite winter activities in Idaho is a day spent snow tubing. There are many excellent snow tubing hills in Idaho. For example, head to Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area in Boise and tackle the popular and exciting 800-foot snow tubing hill. In the northern part of the state, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Idaho, hosts nighttime snow tubing. There is something special about racing down a snow-covered hill under the stars and this is a great activity to spend together as a family.
If you aren’t in the mood for snow tubing, head to one of the best sled riding hills in Idaho. In southeastern Idaho, head to Russ Freeman Park, which is home to many excellent sled riding hills. This large park is located in Idaho Falls and has multiple hills so you can easily find space for your entire family.
Another excellent way to enjoy winter in Idaho is to take a gondola ride. At Silver Mountain Resort, located in Kellogg, you can enjoy Idaho’s beautiful winter landscape high in the air. This scenic gondola ride is 3.1-miles long and you will receive some of the most breathtaking views of this ski resort in Idaho and the surrounding area.
