OUTD OO RS
SNOWMOBILING in the Southwest Combine the thrill of a speedy ride with the joy of exploring new terrain in Southwest Colorado on a snowmobile. As the snow accumulates on expansive trail systems and recreation areas, the mountains and valleys become easier to navigate with equipment that glides over the icy landscape. Locals usually call these machines sleds. Zoom through a snowy meadow, visit historic abandoned townsites or enjoy scenic views from atop mountain passes. If snowmobile trails are groomed, they are typically maintained by local volunteers. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, schedule a trip with a regional guide or rent snowmobiles from an area outfitter. ALTA LAKES Alta Lakes is a picturesque 1870s mining town, and a popular snowshoeing and snowmobiling area. It is located about 30 minutes from Telluride and five miles south of Mountain Village on Highway 145. Turn east on Forest Road 623 or Alta Lakes Road, and continue about 3.5 miles to reach the first lake. During the winter, this road is accessible by snowmobile only. BARLOW CREEK Located approximately eight miles north of Rico on Highway 145, Barlow Creek is groomed from the Durango side from Purgatory over Bolam Pass. The
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spectacular views make this area popular for outdoor recreation year-round. Dog-sledders and cross-country skiers also use this trail, so use caution when riding. BOGGY DRAW More than 30 miles of trails await near Dolores, and the nested loops center on Forest Road 527. Turn west off Highway 145 in Dolores on 11th St., also known as County Road 31. Travel 1.5 miles, turn right on County Road W and travel one mile to the plowed parking area. COLORADO BASIN San Juan County, Colorado offers pristine powder at 10,000
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feet above sea level. This ungroomed area is recommended for more experienced riders, and it can be accessed north of Silverton on Highway 110B, passing Silverton Mountain Ski Area and parking at Gladstone Mine. ECHO BASIN Echo Basin is located north of Highway 160 just east of Mancos on County Road 44. Take County Road 44 north for approximately three miles to the parking area. The area includes groomed and ungroomed meadows and mountainsides to explore. FALL CREEK TRAIL This trail near Pagosa Springs is 6.5 miles long. From the Highway 160 and Highway 84 intersection,
