Register
Before you take off, you’ll need to register your sled and place the FREE Sno-Park permit that comes with your registration on your windshield. This may not apply if you rent a sled, but check with your dealer. If you are visiting from out of state, you will need to purchase a one-day or seasonal motorized permit. BONUS: You don’t get a ticket.
Snow the rules
Rules and good conduct are a part of any sport. So be a good sport! Ride on the trails and practice good etiquette as well as safe riding practices. Children between the ages of 12 and 16 must pass a safety education course. However, we recommend this course for any new rider. Courses are offered in the fall and registration begins in August. Check the Winter Recreation website or call (360) 902-8684 for more details. BONUS: You get a certificate and maybe even a cool patch for your coat when you pass the course.
Wear your helmet
We expect this is a no-brainer, but moreover that it will prevent you from head injuries.
BONUS: After your ride, you will still be able to feel your cheeks. Additionally,
dress for well for the conditions. You never know when or where you might get stuck. Brr!
Ride with a pack
Snowmobilers tend to be social creatures and for good reason: there’s safety in numbers. Plus it’s just plain fun! If you don’t know anyone, join a
club or organization! The
Washington State Snowmobile Association (WSSA) is a good place to start looking for snomobuddies!
BONUS: Riding buddies might bring fun—and useful—things like tools, food, dry gloves and spare fuel or a ride out of the woods in case you ran out of gas.
Know before you go
An informed rider is a safe rider. Before you go out, check with the National Weather Service for conditions in the area you plan to ride. And always, always, always check in with the Northwest Avalanche Center. BONUS: You can pretend to be a weather expert.