Snowmobiling adds $65 million to Pennsylvania’s economy each year, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
More than 40,000 snowmobiles are registered with the department, which requires registration and titling of all snowmobiles in the state. Registration is $20 for two years. Titling is $22.50.
In addition, there are 59 local snowmobile clubs with about 4,000 members.
Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of DCNR, noted those numbers in a recent event with members of the Saint Marys Snowmobile Club to highlight snowmobiling and to provide safety tips for outdoor recreation during winter months.
“We at DCNR believe it is important for people to safely enjoy the outdoors year-round,” she said. “Whether you’re riding on a snowmobile or going on a hike, be sure you model safe behaviors and take the necessary precautions when recreating outdoors this winter.”
Noting that DCNR has responded to several snowmobile incidents in state forests and state parks, Dunn offered the following safety tips:
- Wear a helmet, eye protection and suitable clothing.
- Don’t use drugs or alcohol when you ride.
- Ride with others and let someone know where you are riding.
- Stay on trails designated for snowmobiles.
- Always ride at a safe and responsible speed.
- Know your abilities as a rider.
- Always obey the laws.
She also noted the following general safety tips for all outdoor writer recreation:
- Dress appropriately.
- Wear a helmet when applicable.
- Only recreate in approved areas.
- Wear sunscreen on areas not covered by clothing.
- Be aware of others’ movements.
- Carry proper gear.
- Take breaks.
- Do not overwork yourself during activities.
According to Dunn, DCNR has supported snowmobiling in Elk County in the Pennsylvania Wilds, including $600,000 in grants directed to planning and development of the West Creek Recreational Trail, which she traveled by snowmobile as part of the event. In total, the department has supported outdoor recreation in Elk County through nearly $1.6 million in grant funding for multiple projects.
The West Creek Recreational Trail also extends into Cameron County. Elk and Cameron counties are two of the 13 counties that make up the Pennsylvania Wilds tourism region and conservation landscape, including 2.1 million acres of state-owned public lands.
State parks and state forests statewide offer an abundance of activities during winter months and DCNR encourages people to engage in safe behaviors whether hiking, skiing, sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing or any other outdoor activity.
