The snow has begun to fly in many parts of New York state, and snowmobile season is finally here.

The New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) reminds snowmobilers throughout the state that local trails are not open until the local club has inspected and officially declared a trail open.

“Although our calendars read winter, there has not been enough snow to open all snowmobiling trails in New York state,” said Dominic Jacangelo, executive director of NYSSA. “We remind snowmobilers to take extra caution in the beginning of the season with low snow depths in many parts of the state. While the number of accidents continues to decrease, inexperience and excess speed are major contributors. It is best to throttle back and take the extra minute to maintain control during your ride.”  

Safe snowmobiling requires the sharpest of senses and there is no room for alcohol on the trails. In addition, trails are designed with safety in mind and all riding should occur only in designated areas on these trails established and maintained by local clubs. NYSSA and all 230 snowmobile clubs encourage zero alcohol consumption while snowmobiling. 

“Every year our club members throughout the state inspect local trails and deem them ready to ride,” said Jim Rolf, trail coordinator of NYSSA. “We must encourage respect to those landowners who graciously allow trails on their lands. Before you put on your helmet and get on your snowmobile, we advise you to reach out to your local club for information on the trails in the area you will be riding, as well as any other important information.”

NYSSA also reminds riders of early season conditions which can, and do, include rocks, ruts, unfrozen water holes, fallen tree limbs, and other hazards which may be lying just below the freshly fallen snow. 

Recently there have been strong winds across New York state, causing trees to fall down on trails. Riders are asked to assist in removing smaller branches and notifying local clubs of bigger trees that need to be removed. 

Please reach out to your local clubs for information on trail closures.

For more information on local clubs, as well as safety tips and trail guides, snowmobilers can go nysnowmobiler.com. The best trail guides are those offered by the local clubs.

The New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) is the largest snowmobile association in the country working on behalf of the 135,000 registered New York snowmobile owners, who contribute approximately $1 billion to the New York economy, and 240 snowmobile clubs to improve trails, facilities and services for participants, and defend snowmobilers against discriminatory legislation.