happy trails

Things happen when you’re snowmobiling that just wouldn’t, or couldn’t, anywhere else. A few seasons back we were testing sleds in the Colorado mountains and posing them for pictures. Because I’m not the fastest of our crew, I was aboard a 2-up that needed to be backed into a snowy area overlooking a valley, with some gorgeous peaks beyond that.

We were on a narrow mountain trail and as I began manuevering my big ol’ touring model the reverse lever became balky. I was getting frustrated. Bad words filled my head. Sweat was building under my balaclava. Finally, I thought, I was ready to back in. Soooo, standing and looking over my shoulder I pressed the throttle - but I was still in drive.

I shot back across the trail, nearly launching myself off the sled’s tail. When I regained my composure, but not my dignity, I looked over to see our test rider and buddy Butch Veltum doubled over in laughter on the trail. He said I looked like Austin Powers stuck in the hallway in a golf cart. I laughed too, and still do. It was an awkward, yet hysterical moment that made the day, maybe even the trip, fun and memorable.

Sharing goofy sledding moments with your friends and family, and then re-sharing those stories with others (with some possible embellishment) makes life on the trails a special experience each winter. Enjoy your rides, and make some memories.

Happy Trails!