Welcome to the Mountains.
It's funny to hear all the contradicting information! This is because you are getting replies from all types of riders that have had all types of experiences.
The facts:
1) Riding deep snow in the mountains is different than riding in the mid-west US.
2) Avalanche safety is for real, and there are places where you can learn about it and rent equipment.
3) Without actually calling these places, you don't know what deals they have to offer and how good their snow is.
4) Having a good time takes $$$...cutting corners may cost more in the long run
5) Riding in an unknown area usually results in a group of guys racing around in some beat meadow adjacent to the trail, then yelling at each other about where they are on the map and constantly checking their watches and fuel gauges, praying that they won't run out of gas or have to come back way after dark - trying to follow their own tracks towing a broke sled back to the trailer; never riding on any hills because they don't know enough about the orientation or snowpack to make wise choices.
It's funny to hear all the contradicting information! This is because you are getting replies from all types of riders that have had all types of experiences.
The facts:
1) Riding deep snow in the mountains is different than riding in the mid-west US.
2) Avalanche safety is for real, and there are places where you can learn about it and rent equipment.
3) Without actually calling these places, you don't know what deals they have to offer and how good their snow is.
4) Having a good time takes $$$...cutting corners may cost more in the long run
5) Riding in an unknown area usually results in a group of guys racing around in some beat meadow adjacent to the trail, then yelling at each other about where they are on the map and constantly checking their watches and fuel gauges, praying that they won't run out of gas or have to come back way after dark - trying to follow their own tracks towing a broke sled back to the trailer; never riding on any hills because they don't know enough about the orientation or snowpack to make wise choices.
