Snowmobile riding tips to keep you safe on the trail

Hitting the trail on a couple of runs before the winter season ends is a great way to spend a little more time enjoying your snowmobile and the last days of cold weather. Snowmobiling clubs across the country work hard to build trails for both short trips and long, overnight adventures.

If you're planning a trip, take care to be a courteous trail user, so it will be just as nice for the next snowmobiler following in your tracks. Here are some guidelines to follow:

* Stay on the trail. There's a reason snowmobiling groups organize and post signs on trails. It's because they have contacted and received permission from the landowner to develop the trail across that land. If not used properly on the trail, snowmobiles can cause a lot of damage to the land. Trails also have signage to help promote snowmobile safety. Stop signs and turn arrows help a rider avoid collisions with other vehicles or objects.

* Check the weather and the trail organization's information. This is especially important as the end of the season approaches. Weather conditions like rain or warm weather can quickly deteriorate a trail. Organizations that support trails often will have updated phone voicemail or website postings advising if the trail is open or closed.

* Travel with a buddy, but ride single file along the trail. Having another person along for the trip allows you to have a backup system, in case one of your sleds stops working, or someone needs emergency help. And by traveling single file, you are keeping the trail open for other snowmobilers to pass you in both directions.

* Wear good quality snowmobile riding gear to protect yourself from the cold weather. Make sure you have a good helmet that fits, warm clothing and strong boots.

* Know the terrain you'll be traveling, and if you need to practice or study different snowmobile riding techniques prior to hitting the trail. For example, deep and loose snow requires a different riding style than icy, hard-packed terrain. The same goes for hills versus flat fields. It's always good to take a snowmobile safety course to prepare you for the trail conditions you expect to find on your adventure.

And once you hit the trail, be a courteous driver. Don't litter, drive safely and be aware of how you are affecting the trail. The best guide is to try and leave the trail in better condition than the way you found it.