Snowmobiling in the high country of Colorado can be great. If everything goes right you'll have the time of your life.  But if something goes wrong - avalanche, your machine breaks down, someone gets hurt, you get lost, you get stuck - then you could be in a life threatening situation very quickly.  The cold temperatures, deep snow, shorter days and remote locations give you less margin for error. You must prepare well and carry essential gear with you to be able to survive in case of an emergency.  Here are our suggestions of gear that everyone should have to ensure a safe trip.

• Spark plug wrench
• Extra spark plugs
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Extra drive belt
• Starter cord
• Owner's manual
• Extra key
• First aid kit - at least one per group
• Tow rope
• Map & compass
• Lighter, waterproof matches or other firestarter
• Extra food
• Flashlight and batteries
• Flare or Fusee
• Emergency blanket, tarp or other material to build a shelter
• Sunscreen
• Shovel
• You shouldn't snowmobile alone; but if you do, make sure you carry skis or snowshoes to get yourself out if your machine breaks down. Remember, it doesn't take long before you've ridden in farther than you can walk out.
• Always let someone know where you are going and when you'll be back.

Other Gunnison Links

• Avalanche Information
• Tread Lightly! with Snowmobiles
• Lake City Trails
• Alpine Plateau Trails