Tips for snowmobiling in and around Island Park, Idaho by the locals

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Updated December 2021

I asked some locals what kinds of things we should know before we go snowmobiling around this paradise.  This list is not all everything you need but they all had a lot to say so I am sharing too.  As mentioned here please be sure to know the area and take the avalanche class. SAFETY FIRST.

  •       Find an avalanche class, Ponds Lodge will know of them, and learn about the snow in the area.  The snow has rocks and limbs under it where you least expect it.  

  •       Go with experienced riders, especially your first few times.

  •       Be careful and cautious.  

  •       Do not be a hero, be prepared for problems that may arise and keep you out for longer period of time, have safety items with you to protect you, matches, food, spare parts/belts etc and fuel.

  •       Keep your bum on the seat of your sled.  

  •      Snowmobiling is NOT ALLOWED ON ALL STREETS AND TRAILS.  Most are marked but get a map.    Fremont County Trail Map

  • Take that map. 

  •       Do not sit and visit in the middle of the trail or road and most important, 

  •       check the weather before you go. Weather Report for Macks Inn area of Island Park

  •       Go in group of twos or threes

  •       Tell someone at home your plan, route 

  •       Tell someone when you are planning on arriving back

  •       Please do not go play after dark, especially when you do not know the area or terrain

  •       All trails in Island Park are wonderful 

  •      Do not go up to the mountain tops until you’ve done the avalanche class and have proper gear.

  •      Watch out for creeks and water in open fields!!!

  • Carry spare spark plugs and a belt and most importantly know how to change them.

  •      Carry an avalanche beacon! One experienced rider suggested the BCA Tracker 3 A local favorite 

  •      There are also some beacon testers in West Yellowstone, MT

  •     Check out Back Country Access, they have nice backpacks too.

  •      Always hold up the number of riders behind you when passing someone in the opposite direction. 

  •     Along those lines, also know the hand signals.

  • Stay in your lane on blind corners especially

  •     Respect Private Property.  It is usually the newbies and ‘out of towners’ who do this so just be aware and do not trespass.

  •     Be ready for rescue. There are three parts to the rescue equation that will reduce your risk: what equipment to carry, what to do if you are caught, and what to do if a friend is caught. Rescue gear. A snow shovel, probe and a beacon are the items that everyone who goes into the backcountry should not be without. Do not abandon the search or send searchers out for additional help: You are the buried victim’s best chance for survival.

  • Take a class at Island Park Adventures You can even book a guide for the day 208-558-7581.

  • Images provided by friends of Visit Island Park Idaho Greg Crites, Paula Statham, Thomas Mason and Jay Stark, Cody Sibbett, Aime Pool, Laura & Tony Roberts.