snowmobile trail ethics 101

Every year as snowfall starts to pile up across the nation, more than a million registered snowmobiles begin to emerge from hibernation and hit the trails. It is important for snowmobilers to minimize their environmental impact on public and private lands and to behave responsibly toward other trail users and service providers.

Animals
When riding along snowmobile trails it is not uncommon to encounter wildlife, farm animals and domestic animals on or near the trails. They may react by running or simply watching you. Remember that for wildlife, traveling in winter conditions is very energy consuming and you should not chase or harass them in any way. Slow way down or come to a complete stop to let the animal choose its course of action. You should be especially wary of large animals like moose that have even been known to put a hoof through an annoying snowmobile's cowl.

Ground Cover
Ride only in designated areas where snowmobiling is permitted and avoid all designated wilderness areas where all motorized and mechanized vehicles are prohibited. Respect our landowners and stay on marked trails unless there is a clearly marked "Play Area". Ride only with sufficient snowcover; snowmobiling on groomed snowmobile trails causes no environmental harm to the soil beneath the snow. Avoid all areas with inadequate snow cover and areas containing young trees and crops which may be hidden in the snow. Be extra careful with studs and carbides as they can chew up low snowcover areas like lawns and even pavement.

Ground Water
Exercise extreme caution when refueling or adding oil or antifreeze to your snowmobile as these can seep throught the snow and into the local water supply.

Air Pollution
To minimize harmful emissions, keep your engine in tune and use only recommended and certified fuels, lubricants, and additives.

Noise Pollution
Protect the soundscape by avoiding the generation of unnecessary snowmobile noise and not overstaying your welcome in high traffic areas.

Waste & Trash
Dispose of all sanitary waste properly by burying it in the snow or better yet packing it out. Don't litter or bury your trash - pack it out.

Groomers
Groomers should be expected around every corner and atop every hill at all times day or night. Although well marked with colorful paint, warning beacon lights, headlights, rear lights and even radio warning beacon signals, they present a special trail concern for a fast moving snowmobile. In many cases they take up the entire trail width leaving no room for you to get by. They are very slow moving and cumbersome vehicles that depend on you seeing them first and taking evasive action. About all the groomer operator has time to do is stop and pray while watching you try to avoid crashing into his plow blade or come hurtling trough his windshield. If you overtake a groomer, please give the groomer operator significant time to detect that you are behind him. He will then pull over when he has a safe spot to do so and signal you to pass. Don't try to pass without a signal from the operator who just might be starting a left turn in front of you.

Snowmobilers and Other Trail Users
You will encounter snowmobilers and other trail users along the trial including: walkers, hikers, skiers, bikers, dog sledders, and horseback riders. Treat other riders with the respect you would have them treat you with, by moving to the right of the trail and slowing way down or stopping to let them safely pass. If being overtaken, pull over and let the faster riders pass you when it is safe to do so. If you are overtaking someone, wait until they pull over to let you pass. Remember to always operate your snowmobile in a reasonable and prudent manner and to lend a hand when you see someone in need. Finally, know and obey all laws and regulations pertaining to the operation of your snowmobile.

Service Providers
When you arrive at a restaurant, look for a designated snowmobile parking area. If one is not present try to park your sleds close together and avoid taking over the parking lot. An individual sled is hard for a driver to see. When inside, avoid spreading your gear out across numerous other tables. Remember that sometimes snowmobilers have trouble containing their exuberance and that there may be non-snowmobiling families trying to enjoy a peaceful meal. Keep your conversation down and family friendly. Be on your best behavior because you represent the image of all snowmobilers to the general public. When you arrive at a gas station, remember that you are sharing the pumps with the regular customer's cars and trucks and a large group of sleds taking over all of the pumps may not be appreciated by the owner. If you go inside to purchase something, remember to move your sled to a safe location and take the key. Don't leave it at the pump where it prevents others from using the pump and where it may get hit by a car or truck.