SLEDsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Snowmobilers must respect the environment. Without the forests, fields or the mountain ranges, there would be no trails and no off-roading experiences for us. So do your part to take care of our playground by minimizing the impact you have on it! Follow the Tread Lightly principles every time you go for a ride:

T: Travel and explore with minimal impact.

• Keep to areas that are designated for snowmobile use.
• Don’t create new trails or expand existing trails – use what’s already there.
• Only ride when there is adequate snow cover protecting the ground. 

R: Respect the environment and the rights of others.

• Be respectful and considerate of all trail users.
• Yield to non-motorized trail traffic.
• Be respectful of wildlife by keeping your distance.
• Comply with posted signs and markers.
• Always ask permission from landowners before travelling on private property.
• Take anything back with you that you brought on the trail.
• Yield to other riders who are traveling uphill or passing you.
• Don’t be a trail hog. Share the space so everyone can enjoy it.

E: Educate yourself and your group - plan and prepare before you go.

• Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations.
• Equip yourself with the right maps and know how to read them.
• Be sure your machine can handle the terrain where you’ll be riding.

A: Always allow for future use of the outdoors.

• Don’t litter and always pick up any trash you find out there.
• Leave the natural environment the way you found it.
• Keep your use of campfires to a minimum.
• Do your best to restore areas damaged by others.

D: Discover the rewards of responsible recreation.

• Do your part to preserve the natural beauty and landscape. Help keep the trails and backcountry open for future generations.
• Abuse of the environment and careless operation will likely result in loss of the privilege to use it, for yourself and for others. Always be a responsible rider and set an example for others.