The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) reminds snowmobilers to put safety first and ride responsibly. New York State has many outstanding snowmobile opportunities and while it is an exciting way to explore the outdoors in winter, snowmobiling also comes with risks.

The leading causes of snowmobile injuries in New York State are excessive speed, inexperienced or inattentive riders and operator intoxication. Additionally, riding on ice is a risk that should be taken seriously. So, enjoy the recreation and adventure but follow safety guidelines to keep it fun and accident-free.

Top OPRHP safety recommendations include:

• Inspect and properly maintain your snowmobile; make sure it is in good working order and carry emergency supplies (e.g. – food, water, warm clothing and safety equipment).
• ALWAYS wear a helmet with DOT-certified standards and make sure to wear appropriate snowmobile gear including snow bibs, waterproof jackets, boots, and gloves to withstand the elements.
• ALWAYS ride with a buddy or group and tell a responsible person where you will be riding and your expected return time.
• SLOW DOWN. Ride within your ability, ride to the right and always operate at a safe and prudent speed.
• STAY ON MARKED/OPEN TRAILS. Respect landowners, obey posted signs, and ensure trails are officially open to the public. Riders can visit the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) website for more information.
• NEVER ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• AVOID FROZEN BODIES OF WATER. They are not designated trails. If you plan to ride on ice, proceed with caution and be aware of potential hazards under the snow. If you choose to ride on ice, wear a snowmobile suit with flotation built-in and carry a set of ice picks as a precaution.

Everyone operating a snowmobile should be familiar with safe riding practices and all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. The best way to learn is by taking a snowmobile safety course. To find a course, please visit parks.ny.gov/activities/snowmobiling/snowmobile-education.

A safety certificate confirming completion of a course is required for youthful operators between ages 10 and 17, if they want to operate a snowmobile on the New York State trail system. Youthful operators must also keep their snowmobile safety certificate on them when riding on New York State trails.

Before heading out, riders are reminded to check the latest trail conditions with local snowmobile clubs. To find a local club, visit the NYSSA at www.nysnowmobiler.com. To review the latest trail conditions, please visit NYSSA’s newly updated trail map at nyssa.evtrails.com/#. Joining a snowmobile club helps support snowmobiling in New York State. Club members receive a discounted registration fee and help support the clubs who make up the backbone of the New York State snowmobile trail system.

Snowmobile season begins at different times across New York State, with regard to multiple factors: the close of Big Game hunting seasons for both the Northern and Southern Hunting Zones (per the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation: www.dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hunting/deer-bear/seasons), local laws & ordinances, trail conditions and sufficient snow accumulation in your area (trails require at least three inches to be opened). As such, please check with your local snowmobile club or contact NYSSA directly to learn whether local trails are opened or closed.

OPRHP oversees the development, maintenance, and oversight of a statewide snowmobile trail system, which features over 10,500 miles of State-designated snowmobile trails. For more information on snowmobiling in New York and the various programs and grant opportunities overseen by OPRHP, please visit parks.ny.gov/activities/snowmobiling.