The Well-Prepared Sledder

Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting sport that enables people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors in the winter. More than 75,000 people snowmobile in Idaho each year, and the sport continues to grow. While snowmobiling is one of the best ways to enjoy Idaho’s backcountry, it can be hazardous if you aren’t prepared. The following information should provide a good starting point for preparing yourself to enjoy Idaho’s groomed snowmobile trails and adjacent play areas.

Free Courses

To learn more about snowmobile safety, we encourage you to take a free snowmobile safety course. Times and dates of IDPR sponsored avalanche classes near you can be found by contacting IDPR Outdoor Recreation Specialists Marty Gangis (Coeur d’ Alene) 208 769-1511, Todd Wernex (Boise) 208 514-2413, or Troy Elmore (Idaho Falls) 208 525-7121.

The 2005-2006 snowmobile season marked the Departments first attempt at presenting the Avalanche Awareness program throughout the state. Click here for details on the success of the program's first season.

Clothing

One of the most important things you can do to ensure an enjoyable day snowmobiling is to dress appropriately. Wearing layers is important in regulating your temperature throughout the day. You can add or remove additional layers as needed with respect to the conditions and level of physical activity. Here is a list of recommended clothing to make your snowmobile trip a safe and comfortable one.

* DOT and SNELL approved helmet * Goggles or face shield * Polypropylene base layer for wicking moisture (long sleeve shirt and pants) * Warm fleece insulating layer (jacket & pants) * Waterproof/windproof/breathable outer layer (jacket and bibs) * Warm merino wool or wool socks that wick moisture * Waterproof/insulated winter pac boots or snowmobile specific boots * Waterproof/insulated gloves or mittens * Warm hat

Prepare for an Overnighter

Do you remember the Boy Scout motto “Be Prepared”? Due to the sometimes harsh winter conditions and remote areas Idaho snowmobilers encounter, the same motto should be closely adhered to when snowmobiling in Idaho’s backcountry. Synthetic, waterproof/windproof clothing has made it easier than ever to be comfortable outdoors in adverse weather conditions. GPS and cell phones have made it easier to know where you are and keep in close contact with people. However, accidents can still occur. Being prepared to spend a night out in the woods if necessary, can mean the difference between being a little uncomfortable or becoming a statistic. Make it a point to assemble a survival kit and be sure to carry it with you every time you go out, and to always let someone know where you are headed.

Prepare to Avoid Avalanches

Approximately half of all avalanche fatalities are snowmobile related. In 90 percent of the avalanche accidents the victim or someone in the victim’s party triggers the avalanche. Avalanche conditions are predictable and many accidents can be prevented. If you are planning to ride in avalanche terrain, be sure to check the local avalanche forecast before your trip. We encourage you to take an avalanche awareness course if you ride in avalanche country, and check the United States Forest Service avalanche center forecast website. Make sure you and the people you ride with carry and know how to use the following avalanche equipment.