Snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy Wisconsin winters, but a safe ride starts before you hit the trail. Know the rules, ride within your abilities, stay alert, and be prepared for changing trail and weather conditions.

Prairie Riders encourages all snowmobilers—new and experienced—to make safety a priority every time they ride.

Wisconsin Snowmobile Safety Education

Wisconsin requires certain snowmobile operators to complete an approved snowmobile safety course. Anyone who is at least 12 years old and was born on or after January 1, 1985 must have a valid snowmobile safety certificate to operate a snowmobile in Wisconsin.

Even if you aren’t required to complete a course, safety education is a great way to refresh your knowledge of Wisconsin laws, responsible riding practices, trail signs, emergency preparedness, and safe snowmobile operation.

The Wisconsin DNR provides information about snowmobile safety education and available courses. Snowmobile safety courses are also offered locally in Kenosha County when classes are scheduled. Check the DNR course listings for current local opportunities.

Safe Riding Basics

A few simple choices can make every ride safer and more enjoyable:

• Ride at a safe and reasonable speed for the conditions.
• Stay on marked trails and respect all posted signs and closures.
• Never ride on private property outside the designated trail.
• Never drink and ride.
• Keep a safe distance between snowmobiles.
• Use extra caution when crossing roads, railroad tracks, and waterways.
• Dress for the weather and carry basic emergency supplies.
• Let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
• Whenever possible, ride with others rather than alone.

Ice Safety

Ice conditions can change quickly and vary greatly, even on the same body of water. No ice should ever be considered completely safe.

Before riding on lakes or other frozen waterways, check current local conditions and use designated snowmobile routes whenever available. Watch for pressure ridges, open water, changing ice conditions, and areas near bridges, culverts, currents, or moving water.

When riding on a frozen lake for the first time, take your first pass slowly and cautiously. Watch carefully for pressure ridges, ice heaves, cracks, open water, and other unexpected hazards that may be difficult to see at speed.

Never rely on appearance alone to determine whether ice is safe.

Know Before You Ride

Wisconsin snowmobile laws and regulations cover important topics including registration, trail passes, age and safety certification requirements, operating rules, equipment requirements, speed, and alcohol use.

Regulations can change, so riders should always check the current Wisconsin DNR snowmobile regulations before heading out.

Respect the Trails & Our Land Owners!

Many Wisconsin snowmobile trails cross privately owned land. These trails exist because generous landowners allow snowmobilers to travel across their property.

Stay on the marked trail, obey all closures and signs, and never enter areas that are not part of the designated route. Please also slow down near homes, livestock, and other sensitive areas.

Respecting the trail and the landowners who make it possible helps ensure that these routes remain available for everyone to enjoy.