MIDWAY, Utah — Wasatch Excursions has implemented a hybrid system for their snowmobiling tours in response to changing weather patterns. Guests are now transported on ATVs to higher elevations before boarding snowmobiles for the final ascent. Jolee Skinner, a visitor from Texas, noted the unique experience of switching from ATV to snowmobile. However, staff members have encountered challenges this season due to lower snow levels. Lead tour guide Patrick Kessler expressed concern over the brown conditions in the mountains, stating, 'I have not seen the mountains this brown in any season.' The increased elevation of the snow has resulted in longer rides on ATVs before reaching snow-covered areas, making the tours more time-consuming. Kessler emphasized the importance of safety, explaining that they do not want to operate in unsafe conditions. 'We don't want to ride snowmobiles in adverse conditions,' he said. 'It takes having good snow or maintainable snow, and that's been the biggest struggle.' Recent weather changes have brought some hope, with Kessler indicating that more precipitation could improve conditions. 'We could use some more precipitation and some more snow because we struggle to manage the ice,' he added. While Wasatch Excursions had to close their Bear Lake location due to poor winter tourism, the Midway site is seeing better snowpack. Kessler noted that a good snow level is beneficial for operations. Guests have expressed concerns about the snow conditions but have generally enjoyed their experiences. Skinner commented, 'It was a little bit of a treacherous climb at first in the ATV, but once we got up there in those snowmobiles, it was a blast.' The staff is hopeful for more snowfall, with Kessler stating, 'Let's just forget December and pack all of the winter snowpack into January and February.' Wasatch Excursions has explored producing artificial snow but faces challenges due to the warmer temperatures.