Whistler: Wilderness Snowmobile Tour with Guide & Gear

Summary

Ride deep into Whistler’s wild trails and frozen lakes with a local guide

You’ll ride deep into Whistler’s snowy forests with a local guide, crossing hidden trails and pausing on silent frozen lakes. Feel the cold air on your face, hear stories from those who grew up here, and pick up all your gear before heading out—plus roundtrip shuttle so you don’t have to worry about driving home tired.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping off the shuttle was how quiet everything felt—just that soft crunch under my boots and the smell of pine everywhere. Our guide, Mike, handed out helmets and these thick gloves (I’d forgotten mine, so that was lucky). He grinned when he saw me eyeing the snowmobiles—said they’re easy once you get the hang of it. I wasn’t sure I believed him, honestly.

After a quick rundown about controls and safety (Mike kept it light, threw in a joke about “no racing unless you want to lose”), we set off in single file. The engine’s rumble kind of settles into your bones after a while. We zipped through these tight forest trails where sunlight slipped through the branches in weird patterns—at one point I caught this sharp scent of cedar mixed with cold air. It’s hard to explain but it felt really alive out there.

Somewhere about halfway in, we stopped by a frozen lake—just wide white space surrounded by trees. Mike told us stories about growing up nearby and how winter used to mean skating here as kids. I tried standing still for a minute, just listening to nothing but wind and distant laughter from the group behind us. There’s something about being out in Whistler’s backcountry that makes you feel small but good, you know?

The ride back was faster—I got braver, maybe too brave at one turn (don’t ask Mike). My hands were freezing even with the gloves but I didn’t care much by then. When we finally rolled back to base, everyone looked flushed and happy. I still think about that silence on the lake sometimes—it sticks with you longer than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Backcountry snowmobile adventure

• Travel to tour meeting point
• Gear up for snowmobiling
• Receive snowmobile training
• Ride through forested trails
• Explore frozen lakes
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Whistler snowmobile tour?

No, but roundtrip shuttle transportation is included from a central meeting point in Whistler.

How long does the Wilderness Run Snowmobile Tour last?

The total duration is 3 hours including transportation, gearing up, training, and riding time.

Do I need previous snowmobiling experience?

This tour is best for intermediate riders or those experienced with similar machines like ATVs or motorcycles.

What is the minimum age for passengers?

The minimum age for a passenger is 10 years old with a minimum height of 48 inches.

Is all safety gear provided?

Yes, helmet, gloves, goggles, and limited outerwear are provided if needed.

Can children drive their own snowmobile?

No, drivers must be at least 19 years old with an unrestricted valid driver’s license.

Are pregnant women allowed on this tour?

No, pregnant women are not permitted to participate as drivers or passengers on snowmobiles.

What happens if there aren’t enough participants?

If minimum numbers aren’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip shuttle transportation from Whistler village to the base camp where you’ll get fitted with helmet, gloves and goggles (and extra winter gear if needed), plus professional guidance throughout your three-hour snowmobile adventure—including all training before you hit those wild BC trails together.