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The Right Way
Types Of Riding
New to snowmobiling? There are different types of riding based on locations, terrain and your riding preferences.
Before You Ride
Every state and province has its own rules.
Get the paperwork sorted before you load the trailer.
Licensing & Registration
Trail Permits
Snowmobile Insurance
Licensing & Registration
Every snowmobile state and province requires that your snowmobile be properly licensed or registered.
Where to find your requirements
- Every state and province requires that your snowmobile be properly licensed or registered and has licensing requirements for driving a snowmobile.
- Find your requirements through your state or provincial snowmobile association or local natural resource office.
Trail Permits
3 permit rules
- You must have a registered snowmobile and a valid trail permit if you ride on public trails.
- You do not need a trail permit to ride on your own property.
- If you ride on private property you do not own, you must get the landowner’s permission first.
- Where to purchase trail passes varies by state and province.
Snowmobile Insurance
A snowmobile insurance policy can protect against property damage, theft, and injuries. Many states and trail systems require basic liability insurance. Damage insurance is also required when you finance a vehicle.
While snowmobile insurance isn’t required in some areas, coverage is affordable and can be valuable if you’re involved in a snowmobile accident.
Coverage that keeps you moving
From the unexpected to the everyday, our coverage options
help protect what matters most.
Key Coverages Explained
- Liability CoveragePays for injuries or property damage if you crash into someone else. This is often legally required to ride on public trails.
- Collision CoveragePays to fix your sled if damaged in an accident.
- Comprehensive CoveragePays to replace or fix your sled if it is stolen, catches fire, or is damaged by severe weather.
Common
Add-ons
- Accessory CoverageProtects expensive custom parts or add-ons you have installed.
- Safety Apparel CoverageReimburses you for damaged gear, like helmets and jackets.
- Trailer CoverageProtects the trailer you use to haul your sled.
To explore your options, you can easily compare rates and get free quotes online.
Riding Gear
The right gear makes a huge difference — see the
suggestions below.
Cold weather vision is a priority — make sure any eye protection (face shield or goggles) is dual-lens construction.
| Riding Style | Helmet | Jacket | Pants & Bibs | Gloves |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual Riding | Full face, modular or full coverage. DOT certified | Warm, insulated snowmobile jacket | Warm, insulated bibs that provide heat retention, wind protection and waterproofing | Insulated, warm gloves or mittens that provide mobility for riding |
| Active Trail Riding | Full face, modular or snocross/motocross. DOT certified | A warm, insulated jacket or shell with removable warm interior layer | Warm, insulated bibs that provide heat retention, wind protection and waterproofing | Insulated, warm gloves or mittens that provide mobility for riding |
| Crossover Riding | Snocross/motocross or dual sport. DOT certified | Crossover jacket with shell and removable insulated layer, or lightly insulated monosuit | Warm, insulated bibs that provide heat retention, wind protection and waterproofing | Thinner flexible gloves are ideal for riding in deep snow where you will be very active and warm |
| Mountain Riding | Snocross/motocross. DOT certified | A lightweight, uninsulated shell or monosuit | Warm, insulated bibs that provide heat retention, wind protection and waterproofing | Thinner flexible gloves are ideal for riding in deep snow where you will be very active and warm |
| Utility Riding | Full face or modular. DOT certified | Warm, insulated multi-purpose jacket with storage and versatility for your needs | Warm, insulated bibs with storage and versatility for your needs | Insulated, warm gloves or mittens that provide mobility for riding |
Learn To Ride
New to snowmobiling? There are several resources available to help you learn to ride.
- Take a snowmobile safety certification course, which includes riding information for new riders.
- Watch our snowmobile riding tips
- Hire a snowmobile guide from our resources page.
Snowmobile Safety
Training, habits and gear that keep you
and the people you ride with out of trouble.
Safety Requirements
Some areas require a safety class.
Although it may not be required in your area, it is recommended that anyone riding a snowmobile take a safety class, and if you are riding in mountainous terrain, it is recommended you take an avalanche training course.
Find a snowmobiling association in your area for more information.
Riding Safety
Keep yourself and others safe by following basic snowmobile safety tips. Learn more and become a safe rider through the Safe Rider Awareness Program.
- Do not drink and ride.
- Know your abilities and don’t go beyond them.
- Know your riding area. Get a map. Talk to the locals.
- Know and follow local riding regulations.
- Don’t ride alone.
Avalanche Safety
Mountain riding requires additional safety measures to protect you and your group in avalanche terrain. Minimize your risk by taking an avalanche awareness course and carrying the proper equipment.
If you don’t live in the mountains, but plan to ride there occasionally, you should prepare yourself before leaving.
Get the gear
Ensure everyone has an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe, and knows how to use them.
Get the training
Take an avalanche course.
Get the forecast
Make a riding plan based on the current avalanche and weather forecast.
Get the picture
If you see recent avalanche activity, unstable snow exists. Riding on or underneath slopes is dangerous.
Get out of harm’s way
One at a time on all avalanche slopes. Don’t go to help your stuck friend. Don’t group up in runout zones.