Snowmobiling comes with inherent risks. The machines are powerful. The weather is cold. Snow conditions vary.
"In 19 years [of renting snowmobiles], we've had 50 machines totaled," said Mike Wartman of Beaver Bay Sports.
Others have come back damaged, and riders have had to pay for repairs. In that spirit, Mike and Cindy Wartman offer the following tips for riders:
* Stay on groomed trails: "Sometimes people leave the packed track and get sucked in by that quicksand [deep snow], and there are boulders and stumps down there," Mike says.
* Allow plenty of distance between machines: That will give you plenty of stopping time. Riders ahead should use arm signals when slowing, stopping or meeting other machines. Riders often raise fingers to indicate to oncoming riders how many snow machines are in their group.
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* Dress warmly: "Once you get cold, the fun's over," Cindy Wartman says. Machines have heated hand grips and thumb grips. Wear plenty of layers and a balaclava beneath your helmet. Consider chemical toe-warmers for boots and carry extras. Wear mittens, not gloves.
* Avoid traffic: "On Saturdays and Sundays, stay up on the Moose Walk Trail," Mike Wartman said. "The North Shore State Trail is the 35W of our trail system."
* Carry a map: Pick up a trail system map from local merchants. Each person should carry one. Pick a destination for the ride. That way, if you get separated from your group, you can meet at the predetermined destination.
