Snowmobiling
Where Can I Ride?
Idaho has over 7,200 miles of snowmobile trails in 29 grooming programs located throughout the state. Millions of acres of open riding exist on Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, State and private land. The Forest Service and BLM can provide information that identifies open and closed areas, closure dates and other details that may help you plan an enjoyable ride. Many county snowmobile programs also provide trail maps of the areas that are groomed.
Snowmobile Parking Areas
We've created a Google Earth file that identifies all of the snowmobile parking areas in Idaho, for your convenience. If you already have Google Earth downloaded to your computer, you can access the file with the link above. If you'd like a copy of Google Earth, so that you can view these files in the future, the free software can be downnloaded from the Google Earth website.
Snowmobile Safety Tips
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Always keep to the right on snowmobile trails.
- Don't ride alone; two snowmobiles traveling together are much safer than one.
- Don't drink alcohol and ride.
- Always carry basic emergency and survival equipment.
- Be familiar with your snowmobile; try short trips and practice in open areas to become thoroughly familiar with its controls and operation before going on extended trips.
- Always wear adequate winter clothing and protective glasses, goggles or face shields. Use sun screen to protect your skin from sunburn.
Snowmobile Code of Ethics
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I will be a good sports enthusiast. I recognize that people judge all snowmobile owners by my actions. I will use my influence with other snowmobile owners to promote safe snowmobile conduct.
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I will not litter trails or camping areas. I will not pollute streams or lakes.
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I will not damage living trees, shrubs, or other natural features. I will go out only when there is sufficient snow so that I will not damage the land.
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I will respect other peoples property and rights.
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I will lend a helping hand when I see someone in distress.
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I will make myself and my vehicle available to assist search and rescue parties.
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I will not interfere with or harass hikers, skiers, snowshoers, ice anglers or other winter sports enthusiasts. I will respect their rights to enjoy our recreation facilities.
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I will know and obey all federal, state, and local rules regulating the operation of snowmobiles in areas where I plan to ride.
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I will not harass wildlife. I will avoid areas posted for the protection of wildlife.
- I will not ride under the influence of alcohol.
What Are The County Snowmobile And State Snowmobile Accounts?
Each county with a snowmobile program is entitled to 85% of the registration fees designated for that county during the registration period. The money may only be used for county snowmobile programs. The moneys are used for the maintenance and operation of snowmobile trail groomers, signing of snowmobile trails, plowing parking lots, and maintaining warming shelters. Up to 15% of the state snowmobile account generated each year may be used by the department for administrative costs, such as the cost of the sticker and mailing renewal notices.
What Is The County Snowmobile Advisory Committee?
The County commissioners of any county with a designated snowmobile program appoint a snowmobile committee to serve in an advisory capacity relating to the spending of moneys in the county snowmobile fund. Any person selected to be on the committee must be an active snowmobiler. Contact your county commissioners for information on your county snowmobile advisory committee.