Ask a Wyoming rider where to go for a true mountain snowmobile day and you'll hear one name more than any other: Togwotee Pass. It sits on the Continental Divide north of Jackson Hole, it gets buried in snow every winter and it's where our team at Off-Grid Experiences rides all season out of Turpin Meadow Ranch.
Whether you're a first-timer or you've been riding for years, here's what to know before you ride Togwotee.
Where Is Togwotee Pass?
Togwotee (say it TOH-guh-tee) is a high mountain pass at 9,658 feet on the Continental Divide in the Absaroka Range. US Highway 26/287 crosses it between Moran Junction in the Jackson Hole valley and the town of Dubois. The pass sits in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, right next to the Shoshone National Forest.
For most visitors, the riding starts on the west side of the pass. Our home base, Turpin Meadow Ranch, is in the Buffalo Valley near Moran, about an hour north of Jackson, with trails leading straight up toward the pass.
Why Riders Love Togwotee
- The snow. This part of the Bridger-Teton averages more than 400 inches of snow a year, which keeps the trails deep and the meadows soft all winter.
- The trail network. Riders have access to 600+ miles of groomed trails in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail runs right through the area.
- The variety. Wide, groomed trails for cruising, open meadows for learning to play in powder and steep backcountry terrain for advanced riders – all in one place.
- The views. On a clear day the Tetons line up on the horizon. It's the kind of scenery you can't get from the road.
- Lunch with a view. Brooks Lake Lodge, a remote lodge reachable in winter only by snowmobile or snowcoach, makes for a memorable lunch stop on a full-day ride.
When to Go
Trail grooming generally starts in mid-December and runs into early April, depending on snowfall. Each part of the season has its own feel:
- December: Fresh snow, holiday energy and the busiest weeks of the season. Book early if you're coming over Christmas or New Year's.
- January and February: The deepest snow and the coldest days. This is peak powder season, so dress for it.
- March: Longer days, more sunshine and a deep base. Spring break weeks fill fast.
Holiday weeks, Presidents' Day weekend and spring break are always the first to sell out. If your dates are set, book now.
Guided Tour or Rental?
There are two ways to ride Togwotee with us. The right one depends on your experience and how much you want to figure out on your own.
Go Guided If…
- You've never driven a snowmobile, or it's been a while.
- You want pickup and drop-off from Jackson, gear and a meal handled for you.
- You want a local to pick the route based on conditions and your group's skill level.
Good fits for a first Togwotee day:
Rent If…
- You're an experienced rider who's comfortable reading a trail map.
- You want to set your own schedule.
- Everyone driving is 25 or older with a valid driver's license.
Turpin Meadow Ranch rentals put you right on the Togwotee trail system, with Ski-Doo trail sleds and Summit powder sleds available by the half or full day. Every rental includes a helmet, a full tank of gas, a QR code trail map and a walkthrough from our staff before you head out.
Snowmobiling for Beginners
Lots of our Togwotee guests have never driven a sled. That's fine – it's easier to learn than most people expect. Your guide will cover the throttle, brake and body position before you leave, then set a pace that keeps the whole group comfortable. Groomed trails are smooth and wide, so first-timers usually settle in within the first few miles.
A few beginner tips:
- Start with a half day. It's plenty of time to get hooked without wearing yourself out.
- Keep your eyes up. Look where you want to go, not at the snow in front of you.
- Ride double if you're nervous. A passenger seat is a great way to learn the feel of the trail first.
What to Wear Snowmobiling
The right layers make the difference between a great day and a cold one. Guided trips include a snowmobile suit, boots and helmet. Renters can add a suit and boots for $25. Underneath, plan on:
- Base layer: Synthetic or wool long underwear, top and bottom. Skip the cotton – it holds moisture and gets cold fast.
- Mid layer: A fleece or light insulated jacket.
- Socks: One pair of thick wool or synthetic socks, plus a spare in your pocket.
- Gloves: Insulated ski or snowmobile gloves.
- Face and neck: A balaclava or neck gaiter under your helmet.
- Eyes: Goggles or sunglasses. Our full-face helmets have a shield, but sun on snow is bright.
- Extras: Hand and foot warmers, lip balm, sunscreen, water, snacks and a bag to keep your phone dry.
Know Before You Go
- Licenses: Every driver needs a valid driver's license. Renters must be 25 or older.
- Kids: Passengers must be 6 or older. For ages 6 to 9, a private tour is the best experience. Younger riders can also drive their own sled on our kids track at Turpin Meadow Ranch.
- Fuel: Rentals must come back with a full tank. The gas station is at Togwotee Mountain Lodge.
- Avalanche safety: Off-trail riding in the backcountry carries real avalanche risk. Avalanche gear is required on our powder tours, and you can rent a kit if you don't have one. If you're riding on your own, check the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center forecast before you go and stay on groomed trails unless you're trained and equipped.
- Weather: Conditions on the pass can change fast. Your guide or our rental staff will tell you what to expect that day.
Togwotee Pass FAQ
How do you pronounce Togwotee?
TOH-guh-tee. The pass is named for Togwotee, a subchief who guided an 1873 government expedition through the area.
How far is Togwotee Pass from Jackson?
Turpin Meadow Ranch, where our Togwotee rides start, is about an hour north of Jackson. Guided trips include pickup and drop-off from your lodging in Jackson.
Do I need experience to snowmobile Togwotee?
No. Our guided half-day and full-day trips are built for first-timers as well as seasoned riders. Rentals are best for riders who already have some experience.
Is there other riding near Jackson Hole?
Yes. South of Jackson, the Greys River and McCoy Creek areas offer a different mix of on-trail and off-trail riding. Here's why Alpine makes a great basecamp, or see our Full Day Palisades Trail Experience.
Ready to Ride Togwotee?
See all of our winter experiences and book online, or call us at (307) 413-6641 and talk to a real person. We'll help you pick the right ride for your group and get you out on the snow.
