The Beat

Waives Registration for Out-of-State Snowmobilers February 28-March 2 and March 7-9

Free Weekends Provide an Affordable Way To Explore New York State, Expanding on Governor’s Ongoing Tourism Initiatives

Builds on Governor’s Unplug and Play Strategy To Encourage Outdoor Recreation

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced two free snowmobile weekends for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers to rev their engines and explore what New York has to offer. New York State will waive registration fees for out-of-state snowmobilers February 28-March 2 and March 7-9, 2025, encouraging out-of-state visitors to come ride the more than 10,000 miles of snowmobile trails in New York State.

Registration Waived for Out-of-State Snowmobilers for First Two Weekends in March

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced two free snowmobile weekends for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers to rev their engines. This year’s events will occur March 1- March 3 and now March 8 - March 10, encouraging out-of-state visitors to come ride the 10,500 miles of snowmobile trails in New York State.

Registration Waived for Out-of-State Snowmobilers for March 3 to 5

First Weekend in March to be Dedicated to Free Snowmobile Weekend Each Year

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that beginning March 3 to 5 this year, and annually thereafter, the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in March, will be free for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers. During this promotional weekend, the requirement to register in New York is waived for properly registered and insured out-of-state snowmobiling enthusiasts wishing to explore New York's 10,500 miles of snowmobile trails.

Transfer of Jurisdiction from DOT to DEC for Tupper Lake-to-Lake Placid Section

Progress Continues along Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor

The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Transportation (DOT), in cooperation with the Office of General Services (OGS), today announced the completion of the transfer of jurisdiction for a 34-mile segment of the Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor. This portion of the future Adirondack Rail Trail between Tupper Lake and Lake Placid was transferred from DOT to DEC, marking the official start of the trail’s design and construction phase and the conversion of the railbed into a shared-use path for hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobile enthusiasts.

Registration Waived for Out-of-State Snowmobilers for Promotional Weekends 

$4.2 Million for Snowmobile Trail Maintenance and Grooming Across New York State 

Governor Kathy Hochul today designated March 5-6 and March 12-13 for free snowmobiling by all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers. During these promotional weekends, the requirement to register in New York is waived for properly registered and insured out-of-state snowmobiling enthusiasts wishing to explore New York's 10,500 miles of snowmobile trails. The Governor also announced up to $4.2 million for snowmobile trail maintenance and grooming will be distributed to local partners across New York State.

Snowmobile Safety Courses Remain Available

Sledders Reminded To Use COVID-19 Safety Measures at Trailheads, During Breaks

At the start of snowmobiling season, New York State urges riders to keep safety in mind, both when operating and during any breaks with fellow riders.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, snowmobile safety courses continue to be offered. Successful completion of this course, results in the issuance of a NYS Snowmobile Safety Certificate.

This certificate is required for youth between ages 10 and 18 to operate a snowmobile, but all riders can benefit from taking a course that provides fundamental information which all should possess to ensure the safety of both rider and other trail users.

Adirondacks, USA - Snowmobilers in the Adirondacks will now have access to an interactive trail map on their phone to better plan their outdoor riding adventures in one of the largest trail networks in New York state. 

The new, free Adirondacks, USA snowmobile app contains information about the trails in Essex, Franklin and Hamilton counties, and nearby gas stations, stores, restaurants and lodging properties that welcome sledders. Additional trails in neighboring counties will eventually be added to provide a more comprehensive map.