Preparation Helps Keep Snowmobiling Fun

Ray Paige, FWP Trails Program Specialist

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Snowmobiling promises adventure, challenge, and camaraderie to the more than 1.5 million registered snowmobile owners in the U.S.    With over 3,700 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, and plenty of ungroomed areas on public land to explore in Montana, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure.  

The challenge is combining safety with that adventure. Sadly, 20 individuals have died in Montana on snowmobiles caught in avalanches since 1998.   Here are some guidelines that will help keep the safety and the adventure in your snowmobile outings.

AVALANCHES Avalanches are more likely to occur on slopes ranging from 20 to 45 degrees, especially during or after a snowstorm when snow has been blowing and drifting.

Recent avalanche activity is a strong warning that the area is unstable. Historic avalanche areas can be identified by lack of vegetation, such as trees or brush, or by where existing vegetation is bent or broken. Avalanche chutes are particularly noticeable in heavily forested areas because the snow path is void of the tree cover that surrounds it.

If an avalanche-prone area cannot be avoided, expose only one person at a time to the risk.   The rest of the group should wait and watch from a safe distance.

Snowmobilers who like to “high-mark” (see who can ride the furthest up a slope) should do so one at a time.   If a sled becomes stuck, do not assist the rider in digging it out.   Numerous avalanches have been triggered when a second snowmobile rider rides up on the slope to help.

CLOTHING

Select the right combination of clothes to stay warm.   Your entire trip can be miserable if you don’t bring the right items.

If you dress properly, moisture will evaporate away from your body.   If you become too hot and your clothing traps the moisture, you will get cold.   Clothing should be windproof and water repellent.   It should be snug, so that it does not catch in the machine, but it should be loose enough to permit freedom of movement and to keep your blood circulating.   An approved helmet not only helps prevent heat loss, but is essential for safety and must always be worn.

REGISTRATION

Snowmobilers who plan to travel on public lands must register their snowmobiles with their County Treasurer and pay a fee in lieu of tax.   All snowmobiles must also display a current decal in a conspicuous place as visual proof of registration.

The decal fee is $5.   The fee in lieu of tax that is assessed on snowmobiles less than four years old is $22.   The fee is $15 for all other snowmobiles.   Although the fee in lieu of tax is assessed by the county, and used exclusively for county operations, revenue generated from decal sales is used to administer snowmobile grooming and enforcement programs.

CERTIFICATION



Snowmobile operators who do not have a driver’s license must take a snowmobile safety class and obtain a Montana-approved snowmobile safety education certificate before operating on plowed streets or roads this winter.   The snowmobiler must also be in the physical presence and under the supervision of another rider who is 18 years of age or older.   Many snowmobile clubs offer courses. FWP also offers a snowmobile home-study safety course available by calling 406-444-7317 or by email: rpaige@state.mt.us.

PLANNING

Before you leave home, be sure you pack an emergency survival kit and tell a responsible friend or family member where you are going and when you expect to return.  

With some advanced training and preparation, you can safely enjoy Montana’s winter on your snowmobile for many years to come.