Winter Safety & Etiquette

An number of regulations are in place to insure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Snowmobilers and other motorized over-snow vehicle users, such as snow cats and truck outfitted with tracks, must adhere to the rules and guidelines listed below.

• Riding is allowed in designated areas only, as outlined in the Forest's Winter Recreation Travel Maps.
• Riding is closed in areas not expressly designated as open to snowmobiles. These closures protect important wildlife areas, Wilderness Areas, or provide separation for different winter recreation uses. Reference your maps often to insure you stay well within designated snowmobiling areas.
• Most roads on the Forest are not maintained in the winter and are closed to motorized wheeled vehicles usually beginning around November each year.
• Snowmobiles can travel in designated areas only after enough snow accumulates to provide cover and protection for ground vegetation.
• Per Utah law, children under 8 years may not operate a snowmobile. Youth from 8 - 15 must possess a Utah safety certificate to operate a snowmobile. To sign up for a class call 1-800-OHV-RIDE.
• Utah Law requires all youth under 18 riding on a snowmobile to wear a DOT approved helmet
• Snowmobiles in Utah must be registered with the State. Out-of-state vehicles must obtain Nonresident Snowmobile Permit before going out on the snow. Go to  for detailed information.
• Private property is off-limits to the general public with out permission of the land owner

Trail Etiquette

With 1.8 million residents living within easy reach of the Wasatch-Cache, it's a popular place year-round. During the winter, many different types of winter sport enthusiasts, such as snowmobilers, skiers, snowshoers, and dog sledders, share National Forest lands. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, please travel with care and be considerate of others. A healthy dose of common courtesy by all visitors will guarantee a rewarding trip for everyone. At a minimum, be sure to slow down and pass with care. Use extra caution when coming around blind corners. And never park a snowmobile in the trail, where it might pose a safety hazard.

Trail Difficulty

Groomed Trails: Suited for snowmobilers of all abilities. These trails follow major roadways and generally have little grade and are relatively wide and straight. They are usually well-traveled and easy to follow. For grooming reports call 1-800-OHV- RIDE.

Ungroomed Trails: Much more challenging and should only be attempted by experienced riders with snowmobiles designed for deep, unpacked snow. These trails follow primitive roads and have longer, steeper slopes and may be narrow and windy. Since they are not marked and well-traveled, route finding skills are essential.

Hazards: Know Before You Go

Winter is a beautiful but unforgiving season. As a visitor on National Forest lands, you have significant responsibility for your personal safety. Avalanches are a particularly grave danger. Avalanche victims are almost exclusively backcountry recreationists ---snowmobilers, climbers, snowboarders, snowshoers, skiers and hikers. Nationwide, Snowmobilers lead the list with twice the number of fatalities as any other activity. The Forest Service's http://utahavalanchecenter.org/ provides 24/7 forecasting of avalanche conditions and offers classes throughout the winter season. Other possible hazards include:

• changing weather conditions
• caves and sinkholes
• overlooks
• falling trees or limbs
• high or rushing water (spring)
• wild animals
• decaying structures, old mines
• changing roads and trail conditions
• becoming lost
• thin ice

Safety Tips

Awareness and preparation are essential to memorable outings. Listed below are a few basic precautions necessary while riding out on the Forest.

• Check the avalanche advisory before you head out.
• Carry and practice with avalanche safety equipment; shovel, probe and beacon if riding in avalanche terrain.
• Only expose one person at a time to avalanche danger.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Never go out alone.
• Dress for changing weather conditions. Layered clothing allows riders to adjust to changes in temperature.
• Always carry a survival kit.
• Never harass or chase wildlife
• Watch out for other recreators: trail groomers, back country skiers, horseback riders, snowshoers, and hikers
• Regularly check your fuel supply. Turn around once you've used almost half your fuel.
• Adults should accompany riders from ages 8 to 15 years old at all times.
• Know your machine. Know its fuel capacity and how to perform basic maintenance. Carry extra spark plugs and drive belt.
• Always carry a basic tool kit and survival kit.
• Ride on the right side of the trail, giving the uphill bound machine the right-of-way.
• Use headlights and taillights in both daylight and darkness.
• Use extra caution when coming around blind corners.
• Never park a snowmobile in the trail, where it might pose a safety hazard.