About
When you really need an adventure to let off some steam, head to Snowshoe Mountain. There, you can check out the summer and winter off-road tours. This is one of the best experiences you will have, without a doubt. Even if you do not have a lot of experience, you will have a lot of fun and learn along the way. During a recent trip to the area, we did this with my group of four adults. It was an exhilarating way to spend the time here, not to mention an incredible way to just tear into the mountain and get rid of all of your stress.
At Snowshoe Mountain, you can rent a four-seater. It is enclosed, so you do have some protection. These are side-by-side off-road vehicles. They are a ton of fun to drive if you have a license. The vehicles themselves are durable and can handle the rough roads here – and some of those roads are really rough. The tour lets you check out some pretty amazing sights along the way, too. It’s a really interesting experience.
I really felt this was an excellent adventure. While it seems like it would be physically challenging and take a lot of skill, that is really not the case. The whole experience is a positive one, and you are sure to have a lot of fun laughing and taking in the wilderness around you. It’s not quite the same type of experience as some other off-road experiences, but nonetheless, it is one of the best things to do in the Snowshoe Mountain area. Spend a couple of hours doing this. It’s worth it.
The Area & Trails
When you are ready to start your adventure, you will begin at Cheat Mountain Ridge Trail. This is a pretty large trail in the area. If you are not experienced with the mountain, there are several trails that take you around the mountain. You can actually drive to the trailhead here. You will then follow the trails as it goes down the Fire Tower Trail. If you are one that likes dirt bikes and mountain bikes, you can follow a trail in this area, too, really getting a feel of being in the air as you jump over the rocks and roots.
If you are in the 4-seater, you have a bit more protection, but it is still a fun off road experience like no other. There are some great views of the backcountry in this area, too. You may want to have a camera in your hand, but chances are good that you’ll lose it overboard because of the bumps. Just living the moment instead! As you follow the trail, you will see several types of terrain, though most of it is a dirt road. There are rocks, gravel, and so much more. These views are not easy to have anywhere else, so be sure to take them in.
These are guided tours – you don’t get to go off on your own to explore the area, and really that’s a good thing because the ecosystem is pretty fragile in some areas. The tour takes about 90 minutes. It takes you throughout the mountain and really gives you a different perspective of where you are. There’s no experience necessary, and I highly recommend doing this because of the fun and adventure, but also to check out the area.
RZR Rentals
If you are coming to the area to explore this area, book the Off Road Tour in advance of your trip. That way, you will definitely have what you need available to you. When we went, it was during the week, so it was a little less hectic, and there was a lower cost. For the 2022 season, it was $199 for four passengers, which all fit into one vehicle if you go Monday through Wednesday. For the rest of the week, it was $219. You can book the experience online and see what’s available to fit your needs.
There are some rules you have to know. First, the off-road tours are in the Village Adventure Outpost, which is located in the Big Top area. You can book your ticket and time. Arrive at the location a bit early to get set up. There could be a lot of people taking the tour with you, depending on the crowds and bookings. Make sure to set up your trip before you arrive in the area.
To be a driver, you have to be at least 18 years of age. This adventure is only available to people who are 12 years of age or older. You have to wear an approved helmet that’s provided to you. You have to wear it the whole time. Also, you have to wear shoes that are closed, like tennis shoes.
Local Tips
- Minimum driver age is 18 and the minimum rider age is 12.
- Closed toed shoes required.
- Valid drivers license required for all drivers.
