Kyle Skov’s Backcountry Snowmobiling Adventure: Exploring the Bighorn Mountains from Owatonna, Minnesota

When winter hits Owatonna, Minnesota, there’s no better way to embrace it than heading west in search of deep powder and open trails. That’s exactly what I, Kyle Skov, did with my daughter Katie, heading out of southern Minnesota for an unforgettable backcountry snowmobiling trip in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Why We Chose Sheridan

Sheridan sits along the eastern edge of the Bighorn Mountains, offering a quiet, authentic snowmobiling experience that’s a world apart from the crowds of Jackson Hole or Yellowstone. It’s a place where small-town charm meets rugged terrain — a dream for riders like me coming from Owatonna, MN, looking for space to ride without the hustle of major tourist spots.

Snowmobiling in the Bighorn National Forest

Just west of Sheridan lies Bighorn National Forest, a snowmobiler’s playground with over 300 miles of groomed trails and endless off-trail opportunities. As someone who rides regularly in Minnesota, I was blown away by the variety out here:

Open meadows for high-speed runs
Deep powder basins for backcountry adventure
Steep terrain for those who like a challenge
Scenic trails for laid-back cruising

We were able to rent snowmobiles from Sled Wyo and our guides Jeff and Ana were very patient and extremely hard working for a couple of flatlanders from Minnesota. I’m sure they got a good workout from helping us get unstuck too many times to count

Pro Tips for Your Trip

Best time to visit: Mid-December through early March
Conditions: Cold and dry — perfect for powder. Bring layers and goggles.
Fuel: Gas stations are limited in the mountains, so always top off in town before you ride.
First Time: Weather you have your own machines or not, if it is your first time or you don’t have a lot of backcountry snowmobiling experience, hire a guide. Jeff and Ana were great.

Final Thoughts from Kyle Skov

For anyone in southern Minnesota — especially fellow riders in Owatonna — this trip is absolutely worth the drive. Sheridan offers something truly different: incredible snow, untouched terrain, and a chance to ride hard without the resort scene.

This was one of my favorite snowmobiling trips yet. I’d go back in a heartbeat — and if you’re looking for a winter adventure beyond the Midwest, you should too.