Snowmobile trail etiquette

Groomed trails

Trail grooming is necessary in order to:

  • Avoid tree plantation areas
  • Disperse snowmobile riders to less-used areas
  • Focus use on narrow corridors through wildlife areas
  • Get rid of drifts
  • Prevent use of snowmobiles on areas ofinadequate snow cover and steep slopes
  • Separate potentially conflicting uses
  • Smooth out rough spots




Once a trail is groomed, it needs time to set up or harden. This takes from three to 18 hours depending on air temperature. When a snowmobile follows the groomer or travels on a recently groomed trail, it usually destroys the ability of the snow to set up. The trail then quickly reverts to its prior ungroomed condition, resulting in a waste of users' Snowmobile Program money. Please don't follow groomer on trails.

Trail tips

  • Ride at a reasonable and prudent speed relative to existing conditions and other trail uses.
  • Use the buddy system for safety. Never snowmobile alone! In case of an accident or machine failure, that second machine and rider may be your only means for a safe return. Before you go, notify someone of where you are headed and when you expect to be back.
  • Do not ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Do not ride in a manner that would endanger lives or property.
  • Use your lights between dusk and dawn.
  • Do not harass or endanger wildlife. Protect winter wildlife populations by viewing animals from a distance, maintaining a constant speed, and staying on your snowmobile when animals are present.
  • Obtain permission from landowners before entering private property.
  • Respect non-motorized sports trails marked with cross-country ski signs or blue diamonds. Snowmobile traffic ruins cross-country ski tracks.
  • Do not enter designated Wilderness Areas.