What You Need to Know (and do) Before You Ride Your Snowmobile
If you live in certain parts of the country, the first snowfall of the year might bring a tear to your eye because it signals that snowmobile season has arrived. But before you head out, are you really ready for whatever nature throws at you? This simple question can often be ignored, and when it is that’s when accidents happen. This list of snowmobiling tips will help you make sure you’re equipped for whatever happens. And if your snowmobile needs parts or service, or if you’re in the market for a new machine altogether, head over to Golden Spike Powersports in Tremonton, Utah. Riders in Salt lake City, Logan, Ogden, and Layton, Utah, as well as Pocatello and Twin Falls, Idaho will find one of the best selections of snowmobiles and riding gear around.
Check the Weather (and Avalanche Reports)
Before you load up to head out, make sure you check the incoming weather conditions in the area to make sure it’s safe to ride. If you’re riding the countryside, you don’t want to get caught in a zero-visibility storm and risk getting lost, and if you’re heading up to the mountain you need to know the avalanche risk before you ride so you can make good decisions. There are apps and websites to help you asses the risk, so do your research to ride safely.
Double Check Your Route
When you’re taking off on your ride it’s always a good idea to have a map of your route, and/or a working GPS unit to help you stay on track. Checking grooming reports can help you stay on a well marked and travelled trail.
Pack For An Emergency
Never assume your snowmobiling adventure will go smoothly. Whether it’s a freak storm that moves, in an avalanche, or any other number of dangers on the trail, you should be packed and ready for anything. An avalanche beacon and a shovel can save your life in an emergency, and a first aid kit and emergency survival pack can buy you precious time in the harsh backcountry if you encounter a disaster.
Dress Smart
Layers, layers layers. Make sure you wear layers when you head out on the trail. You can always remove more throughout the day, but getting stuck halfway through a ride with insufficient protection from the cold can be deadly. Make sure you have several light layers under a sturdy waterproof outer layer. Avoid cotton at all costs. Wool and synthetic materials can hold some of their insulating power when wet, but wet cotton will sap heat from your body and can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
Ride With a Friend
The buddy system is a really important part of snowmobiling. If you’re out enjoying the snow solo in your backyard that’s fine, but once you’re 15 miles out from the trailhead you’re going to need a friend to give you a ride back if your snowmobile breaks down.
Always Leave an Itinerary with a Friend
In addition to riding with a friend, make sure you leave your gameplan with someone who’s not riding. Don’t just say ‘Hey, we’re going up to the mountain tomorrow’. Let your emergency contact know where you’ll be starting your ride, what time you’re taking off, what your proposed route is, and when you’ll be checking in. If you get stranded they need to be able to give search and rescue the best possible information so you can be found quickly.
Sun Protection
Doesn’t always get on someone’s radar before a day of fun in the snow, but keeping yourself protected from UV rays is really important. Make sure you have some good UV protection goggles when you ride, and put on sunscreen. The cold won’t stop you from getting a pretty fierce burn when you ride all day long, so be smart and slap on some SPF 30 before you ride.
There’s nothing quite like blazing a trail and tearing through banks of fresh powder. As long as you’re prepared with the weather report, adequate riding gear, and emergency supplies, you’ll be ready to have an amazing time. If you’re in Salt lake City, Logan, Ogden, or Layton, Utah, stop by our Tremonton showroom and check our amazing selection of snowmobiles. Our experienced staff will get you set up with all the gear you need to hit the snow.