Cross-country snowmobiling in Lake George NY is an adventurous and exciting activity. For many, it has become a link with winter’s landscape, and for others, a family sport. Well thought out in advance, properly planned, and safely executed, snowmobiling especially in unfamiliar areas should be challenging and enjoyable.
The following are some timely tips that will help you – Get Ready, Get Set, and Get Going!
Get Ready:
1. Check the Course
With proper information from snowmobile clubs, maps, and chamber of commerce, formulate a course of authorized trails and roads that are open to snowmobiles. Pland you route; then stick with your plan.
2. Regulations
Laws and statues governing snowmobiling must be heeded. This demonstrates good sportsmanship and responsibility which helps to keep the trails open for other riders.
3. Buddy System
Your ride should include at least two people on individual machines in the event of an injury or mechanical failure.
4. Fuel Consumption
Be assured that gasoline is readily available. Weather, driving habits, and terrain can greatly impact your need for gasoline. Anticipate enough for emergency situations as well.
5. Lodging / Accommodations
Reservations for motel or “bed and breakfast” should be made well in advance. It may be wise to carry emergency gear in the event your don’t reach your destination.
6. Let Others Know
Family, friends, snowmobile club members, Department of Conservations, and forest rangers are good sources to inform about your plans in case you get lost, have an accident, or don’t arrive at your destination within a reasonable time.
Get Set:
1. Preventive Maintenance
Practice taking care of all the critical areas and systems of your sled in the convenience of your home work area.
2. Tools & Things
Necessary parts like spark plugs, drive belts, and tools should be part of an “emergency mechanical kits” for quick repairs.
3. Clothing
Proper articles to keep you dry, warm, and sufficiently ventilated my require removing and adding clothing during the day to compensate for changes in body requirements. All exposed skin surfaces should be protected to avoid frostbite or other cold injuries resulting from increased wind velocity from the moving snowmobile.
4. Emergency Survival
High energy foods, flashlights, matches, and sleeping bags are necessary even for short trips because conditions and situations my quickly change and forces you to make very good use of them.
Go
1. Listen to the Weather
Don’t start out in a storm especially if one is predicted. Immediately turn back if bad weather does occur.
2. Trails
Proceed at safe speeds on hills, curves, and steep embankments. Know how to handle the sled on these kinds of terrain before traveling to unfamiliar territory.
3. Bodies of Water
Investigate the thickness and safety of the ice before attempting to cross. Remember, you and your machine pack a good deal of weight.
4. Hard Snow vs. Soft or Deep Snow
Hard Snow: anticipate skidding or sliding when executing turns or stopping, and slow down before making these attempts. Soft or Deep Snow: fresh, deep snow may not be sufficiently dense to support a rider or a sled, so proceed slowly and cautiously.
5. Crossings
Be alert when approaching railroads and crossroads. Stop first. Look both ways. Finally, cross quickly!
6. Don’t Disturb Wildlife
Riding after dark requires slower speeds to keep within the range of the headlights. Take extra care to avoid obstruction. Keep headlamps and visor clean for greater visibility.
With planning, preparation, and precaution, you can control and directly minimize your chances and incurring unfortunate circumstances. Conduct yourself as a safe and courteous operator, setting forth a good example for others to follow.
Looking for more info on Snowmobile Trails?
For more information on area snowmobile touring and snowmobile trails, please contact regional towns, cities, counties, and Chamber of Commerce, as well as the South Warren Snowmobile Club.
Lake George Winter Carnival is held each weekend in February in Lake George Village. Various outdoor fun events are scheduled on and off the ice. These winter weekends are very popular among Snowmobilers. Riders from all over enjoy the various Lake George Region trails, as well as riding on frozen Lake George.
