Safe Riding Tips

• Always approach the crest of a hill or rise with caution: there could be many hazards on the other side such as another rider, rocks, a drift, pond, or a 1000 ft cliff.
• Always look over your shoulder for oncoming riders before changing your direction of travel on or off the trail.
• Any bump protruding from the surface of powder snow should be suspected as a hazard and should be avoided. These bumps could be from rocks, stumps or steel fence posts. Don’t take any chances.
• The safest way to cross over a fence is to drive very slowly next to a fence post that is clearly visible and where no wires, nor bumps in the snow from wires are visible. Fences in good repair will have a post set approximately every four ft. (Know where you are riding; if you are not sure whether or not a fence is a private property line, don’t cross it.)
• When stopping along the trail, make sure you park in an area visible to oncoming riders, and pull over to the far right to allow other riders plenty of room to pass. Don’t block the trail and force others to go around you. P When parked along the trail, always look over your shoulder for oncoming riders before proceeding down the trail.
• An X made of sticks, poles, skis, etc.. marks a hazardous area to be avoided. • Be courteous to all non-motorized users (X-country skiers, snowshoers and dogsleds) by slowing down and passing them with caution. Our sport depends upon this courtesy.
• When approaching other riders on the trail, indicate how many riders are following in your group by holding up the correct number of fingers. The last rider holds up a fist to indicate that he is the last rider. Example: If there are 3 riders in your group, the first rider shows 2 fingers, the next shows 1 finger (index), and the last rider shows a fist.
• The trails are not a race track. There are many families riding with small children, so please find an open meadow to safely race your buddies.
• Take a snowmobile safety course. Even experienced riders can learn something new. Children will take safety more seriously if their parents take the course with them.