Syracuse, NY – When Kristopher S., 38, of Sodus, crashed his snowmobile into an apple tree last February, he suffered serious injuries and a long road to recovery, he wasn’t the only one.
According to the Accident Data Center, about 200 people die in snowmobile crashes annually across the U.S. — often due to speed, low visibility, or rider inexperience. New York authorities say this season’s goal is simple: prevent fatalities through preparation and respect for the law.
New York offers more than 10,500 miles of funded and groomed trails, spanning from the Adirondacks to the Tug Hill Plateau and across the Finger Lakes region. All snowmobiles operated within the state must be registered — regardless of residency — through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Registration costs $45 per year for both residents and nonresidents, and proof of insurance is mandatory.
Helmets are required for all riders and passengers, with no age exceptions. Certain local roads and shoulders may be open to snowmobiles, but only where officially designated and posted by local authorities. Riders should stay within marked corridors and avoid trespassing on private property — a leading cause of trail closures in rural counties.
Law enforcement reminds snowmobilers that DUI laws apply identically to snowmobiles, and operating while intoxicated can lead to criminal charges and loss of driver’s license.
State officials recommend pre-ride inspections, carrying emergency gear, and checking grooming updates before hitting popular trail systems in Old Forge, Inlet, and Tupper Lake.
For registration and safety information, visit parks.ny.gov/recreation/snowmobiles.
