Safety Tips

Snowmobiling can be an exhilarating experience and a fun past time for the winter season, but it can also be dangerous if the proper safety precautions are not taken. To help keep you safe, we've compiled a list of important snowmobile safety tips as well as a safety video for you to watch. We hope these snowmobile safety tips lead to a fun and safe riding experience!

1. Wear appropriate clothes and protective gear. Staying warm and dry during your ride will make it more enjoyable and safer. Wear a snowmobile suit, which consists of a jacket and insulated bibs. If you do not have appropriate gear, jackets, bibs and boots are available to rent. Helmets are included with your rental.
2. Inspect your snowmobile before your ride. Make sure your snowmobile is running properly before heading out on the trail. Familiarize yourself with the snowmobile controls, including the throttle and brake. Before each ride, check fuel and oil levels, battery, brakes, drive belt, skis, throlle, handlebars, headlights and taillights. Also make sure you allow your snowmobile to fully warm up before taking off.
3. Bring a buddy. Riding with a friend or in a group is fun and also safer, especially on trails you have never taken before. Someone else can help you if with your snowmobile in the event of an emergency. It is also recomended to tell a friend or family member your plans and route for your ride. Its always good to have a plan!
4. Stay alert - It is important to be observant and watch for obstacles in your path, such as rocks, fallen trees, fences, ditches, open water, other snowmobiles, snow banks, animals and other obstacles.
5. Avoid frozen waterways - It is impossible to gauge the thickness of ice. Ice can easily crack and give way under your snowmobile. It is safest to stay away from frozen water.
6. Do not speed and drive defensively - Driving at a moderate pace will allow you to react to an unexpected occurrence on your trail and avoid an accident. You should always adjust your speed to trail conditions. Never ride too fast for the terrain, visibility or trail conditions. We do not recommend exceeding 45 MPH on any trails or conditions.
7. Stay on marked trails - Marked trails are safer because they have been properly maintained and are less likely to have hazards. Going off trail can result in accidents because you are treading on unfamiliar terrain. Also, many "public" trails run close to and over private property. Unless you have received permission from the landowner, stay on the marked trail. Failure to do so can result in the trail being closed to the public in the future. Be a responsible rider by following the posted signs and trail markers. Understand the local trail system, laws, regulations and proper trail etiquette including riding signals. A trail map is included with your sled rental.
8. Never drink and drive - Just like driving a car, operating a snowmobile while impaired can lead to delayed responses and cause accidents.