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Snowmobile Covers

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Snowmobiles spend summers in garages and sheds. A bare snowmobile accumulates dust and dirt and deteriorates faster. Snowmobile covers can protect snowmobiles from environmental hazards like sun, rain, dirt, and moisture and prolong their life. A well cared for snowmobile requires maintenance less often and will run like new for years to come. Every snowmobiler who considers their snowmobile a prized possession must have an appropriate cover for it.

Types of Snowmobile Covers

There is a variety of snowmobile covers available from different manufacturers. They are of various types and materials.

Custom Fit Covers: A custom fit cover is fabricated for a particular model of the snowmobile. Custom fit covers mimic every curve and bend of the snowmobile and fit it snuggly. The cover does not have loose areas when it envelopes the snowmobile. They cover all parts of the snowmobile except the skis. A custom fit designed for a particular model of snowmobile will not fit another model that has different shape or dimensions.

Universal Fit Covers: A universal fit cover is designed with a generic fit to accommodate multiple snowmobiles having similar size and dimensions. These covers do not fit the snowmobile as well as custom fit covers do. They might have a few loose areas when enveloping the snowmobile. Universal fit covers are available in multiple sizes that start from small for youth snowmobiles and go all the way up to extra-large for adult size snowmobiles. A single universal cover will fit multiple snowmobiles from different manufacturers.

Total Fit Covers: A total fit cover is bigger than both custom and universal fit cover as it shelters the skis along with the body of the snowmobile. The covers have a snug fitting like a customer cover although some generic total fit covers are also available. These covers are great for protecting all parts of the snowmobile. They are ideal for areas that are prone to moisture or heavy dust.

Dust and Underline Covers: Dust and underliner type of snowmobile covers are minimalistic in appearance. These covers protect the outer body of the snowmobile and the headlight while leaving the seats, handlebars, track, and the skis exposed. Dust covers are used indoors as standalone or in addition to other covers. They can protect the body of the snowmobile from scratches and take minimal time to deploy and remove.

Snowmobile Cover Manufacturers

Here are a few popular manufacturers of snowmobile covers. They have a wide variety of covers to suit all market segments.

Snogear

Snogear has a comprehensive range of snowmobile covers. Their range includes custom, universal and total covers for snowmobiles models released decades ago. The covers are made from heavy 600 denier polyester fabric and are mildew resistant. Covers come with hooks and straps to hold them down. They manufacture covers in different color options.

SealSkin Covers

SealSkin fabricates three different types of snowmobile covers. The ProGuard is a starting range of covers made from 300 denier polyester fabric and has a 2-year warranty. The SteelFin is a medium quality cover built from 600 denier polyester fabric and comes with straps and a 5-year warranty. The SealSkin are top of the line covers utilizing heavy 600 denier polyester fabric and have a 10-year warranty. All covers have a UV resistant treatment and are waterproof.

Dowco

Dowco is another manufacturer of snowmobile covers. Their Guardian covers are available in multiple sizes ranging from small to extra-large. 10oz. cotton canvas is used to fabricate their indoor covers. The tri-layer outdoor covers are made from an elastic fabric constituting of polyester, spandex, and TPU. All their covers come with a two-year warranty.

Snowmobile Accessories

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Modern snowmobiles come packed to the brim with features. They are designed to provide a comfortable and adventurous ride to the snowmobiles in all weather conditions. There are many aftermarket snowmobile accessories available that can further enhance the experience of the rider. Some of these are meant for safety while others have a utility aspect. Listed below are a few popular snowmobile accessories that snowmobilers can benefit from.

GPS Navigator

A GPS navigator tops the list of snowmobile accessories for riders who like to explore on their own. The GPS navigators made for snowmobiles have a glove-friendly touch screen that allows the rider to operate them easily. They can be handy if a rider gets lost in the deep woods or on unknown trails. The rider can also share their trail information and position with other riders. These are engineered to resist water and moisture and can withstand harsh climates. Some models might also have inbuilt 2-way radios. GPS Navigators from some manufacturers come preloaded with geocaches and are great for individuals who like searching for them.

Snowmobile Coach

Parents of kids who are too young to ride often face the dilemma of whether to take the kids along on long trips or not. For parents in such a situation, snowmobile coaches are the best investment among all snowmobile accessories. These coaches or sleds can be towed behind an adult snowmobile using a tow cable. Some coaches come with enclosures and inbuilt heaters that keep the kids warm and protect them from snow and winds. They ensure that the kids do not get tired and have maximum fun on the trip.

Communicators and Radios

Communicators and 2-way radio are snowmobile accessories that every serious rider must have. Snowmobilers going into the wild country may face various hazards or get lost. It is important to stay in touch because of the perils that may appear in the form of wild animals, rugged terrain, and climate deterioration. Satellite communicators and radios allow all members of a group to stay in touch and keep track of each other. They are vital in case someone gets lost or is in an unpleasant situation. While a radio works within a certain radius, satellite communicators can be used anywhere provided there is satellite coverage.

Avalanche Airbags and Beacons

Snowmobiling might be fun and exciting, but it requires caution. Snowmobilers who take on mountain slopes and ride on trails at high elevation may find themselves staring at an avalanche out of the blue. At such times, avalanche airbags and tracker beacons can be the difference between survival and a life-threatening situation. Avalanche airbags come as a backpack that contains the airbag. In case of an avalanche, the rider can engage the backpack that will fill the airbag with air in a couple of seconds. The airbag helps the rider stay above the avalanche and prevents them from getting buried under snow. Most avalanche airbags are re-deployable. A beacon is a device that can be activated by the rider in case they are in an emergency situation. It sends out an SOS signal and allows rescue parties to track the riders who may need urgent help. Beacons have a battery that lasts for a couple of days easily.

Snowmobile Shovels

A snowmobiler may need a shovel at any time. They may have to clear out snow around the snowmobile or have to rescue a person from an avalanche. The shovel is a handy snowmobile accessory to have nearby. Snowmobile shovels are made from lightweight yet durable material and occupy minimum space. They might have an extendable handle that makes them fully functional yet easy to store. A few of them might even come with a foldable saw that is ideal for hacking away debris.

Snowmobile Racing

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Snowmobile racing championships are held for adult and youth drivers. There are different types of races like the drag race, snowcross, oval race, water skipping and cross-country racing. A racing event consists of multiple qualifying rounds, semifinals (heat races) and finals (feature). Entrants in a race are classified based on their age and the class of the snowmobile they ride. Some categories only allow snowmobiles with stock components while others may permit limited modification. The governing body decides the participating age for each event. All snowmobile racing events have a set of rules. The race may be between individuals or teams comprising of multiple drivers. Majority of international snowmobile racing championships are organized during the months of winter.

Snowcross

Snowcross snowmobile racing is similar to motocross and the most popular one. The entrants compete on an ice track that involves banked corners and sharp turns. The riders travel at speeds easily over 50 mph and jump 20 to 30 feet in the air while racing along the course. The rider who finishes first is adjudged as the winner. Safety precautions are of utmost importance while competing in these events and the driver is required to wear braces and guards on almost every part of the body. Some of the popular snowcross events include the World Championship Snowmobile Derby, AMSOIL Snocross National, and the X Games.

Hill Climbing

Another popular snowmobile racing type is hill climbing. The event requires the drivers to climb a slope while following a predetermined trail. The driver that crosses the finish line first or in the least time is the winner. The race trail features various elevation changes, has multiple obstacles and twists and turns to test snowmobile rider’s skillset comprehensively. Climbing a mountain slope on a snowmobile is a challenging task and requires the right skill and expertise with years of practice. The Eagle Point Hill Climb held at Beaver and the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb t held at Jackson are hill climbing events.

Water Skipping

Besides being driven on ice and ground, snowmobiles can also go over water. Ridding a snowmobile over water requires the snowmobile to travel at a minimum speed which allows it to hydroplane. Snowmobile racing over water is known as water skipping. The riders are required to complete the course and the one that takes the shortest time wins. The water skipping event may consist of a drag race, an oval lap race or combination of different races. It is a challenging sport as reducing the throttle of the snowmobile will sink it. It is also known as watercross, water skimming, and puddle jumping. The World Championship Snowmobile Watercross is held in Wisconsin every year.

Oval/Lap Racing

Lap racing is one of the oldest snowmobile racing events. An oval track which is one mile long is used to hold the race. The competing drivers have to complete multiple laps of the track. The team or individual who completes the laps in minimum time is declared the winner. The number of laps that a team may be required to complete depends on the competition. The International 500 is one such event that requires the teams to make 500 laps of the one-mile track. It lasts for about eight hours. TLR Cup Tour is another oval racing championship.

Drag Racing

Drag Racing is one of the most popular snowmobile racing events. A two or four-laned ice or grass track is used for drag racing. The length of the track is 500ft. Snowmobile riders travel from start to finish point and compete to finish first. The drag race may consist of multiple rounds. The winner is the racer who takes minimum time. There are various drag racing categories at each event. There are international events centered around each of these. Hay Days is a drag racing event of snowmobiles.

Cross Country Racing

Cross Country events are the most challenging ones in the world of snowmobile racing. The events require participants to race over hundreds or thousands of miles on their snowmobiles across different parts of a state. Teams of two or more riders compete in cross country races. The events last for multiple days. The competing teams are provided adequate breaks in between. Cross country races test the physical and mental endurance of the participants. Iron Dog is a cross-country snowmobile racing event that requires participants to cover 2,031 miles across the state of Alaska.

Snowmobile Trails

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Snowmobiling is best experienced on trails that stretch for miles and go into the wild. There are many snowmobile trails across the country that are well groomed and go through the scenic natural landscapes. While most of these trails receive a high footfall of tourists every year, some of them are serene and peaceful. A few of the most exciting snowmobile trails in the USA include:

West Yellowstone, Montana

The infinite number of snowmobile trails in the region of West Yellowstone make it a must-visit destination for every snowmobiler. Miles and miles of trails encompassed by snow-laden trees provide a picturesque scenery. The area has multiple tourist spots that include the Old Faithful geysers, Grand Teton mountain range, and the Madison River. Snowmobilers might even encounter local wildlife like bison and elks. West Yellowstone attracts a plethora of visitors in winters. The area is populated with many advanced trails and is great for snowmobile enthusiasts.

Old Forge, New York

Old Forge has spectacular snowmobile trails that pass through the Adirondacks mountains. It is a mini village not far from New York and is known for its winter and Christmas festivities. The area receives plenty of snowfall in a year and has trails suited for newbies and advanced snowmobilers. The Snodeo is held here every year in the winter season. The Old Forge is a perfect place for spending family holidays snowmobiling.

Brainerd Lakes Area, Minnesota

The Brainerd Lakes Area in Minnesota boasts of a 1200miles network of interconnected snowmobile trails. The Paul Bunyan Trail is one of the largest and most popular one in the area. The area has hundreds of lakes that freeze in winters and provide charming spots to soak one’s eyes in. With world-class snowmobiling facilities and vast expanses of snow, it is the perfect place for snowmobilers to unleash themselves.

Denali National Park, Alaska

The Denali National Park in Alaska has some of the least touched snowmobile trails. It is a testament to the natural miracles in the form of Mt. Kimley, northern lights and vast expanses of ice. It is the perfect place for snowmobilers looking for an adventure of a lifetime. The area experiences harsh and unpredictable climate and only the bravest and experienced riders venture into it.

Eagle River, Wisconsin

In the town of Eagle River in Wisconsin, snowmobiling is literally in the ice. It is a favorite of snowmobilers due to the well-groomed 500 miles of snowmobile trails voluntarily managed by the members of different local clubs. The nearby town of St. Germain is the home to the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame. The forests, frozen lakes, and valleys in the neighborhood are remarkable sights. The town hosts the AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby which is one of the most popular snowmobiling events.

Katahdin, Maine

Snowmobiling is a popular sport in Maine. The area has hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails. The trails are curated by the local club members and allow snowmobilers to revel in the sport. Popular snowmobiling trails in the area go through the Katahdin Iron Works, Saddleback, Jo-Mary, and Wilkie mountains, and the Gauntlet Falls. Katahdin is a great area to explore for snowmobilers who are looking forward to bringing the max out of their snowmobiles and cameras.

Western Upper Peninsula, Michigan

The Western Upper Peninsula is a dreamland for snowmobiles who want to ride into the horizon. With over 2000 miles of snowmobile trails and plentiful snow due to the nearby Lake Superior, the area is no less than a heaven for snowmobile riders. The trails provide front row seats to the breathtaking scenes of Lake Gogebic, ice caverns, and the Penokee mountain range. Riders might even encounter local wildlife species.

Togwotee, Wyoming

Togwotee is a snowmobile jumpers paradise. The snowmobile trails in the area go over giant peaks and deep valleys allowing all-out fun. The powdery snow is ideal for side hilling and carving. There are national parks in the vicinity for tourists looking to satiate their eyes. The place is about 50 miles from Jackson Holes and receives fewer tourists comparatively. It is a great place for snowmobile riders who are averse to crowds.

Black Hills, South Dakota

The Black Hills have diverse snowmobile trails that will appeal to riders with different interests. The area has some trails that go through flat valleys and others that reach slopes over 6,000 ft. The well-groomed trails in the Black Hills extend for over 350 miles and a few of them go towards Wyoming. Some of the spectacular sights in the area include the Spearfish Canyon, Crooks Tower Peak, and the Cement Ridge Outlook.

Snowmobile Lake Tahoe

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For riders and tourists who want to spend their vacation riding a snowmobile, Lake Tahoe is a must visit place. The area receives snowfall early in the season and continues to do so until spring. Located at an altitude of over 6000 ft., the surrounding area of Lake Tahoe is covered by forests of pines and firs. A great destination for snowmobiles, Lake Tahoe stays frozen throughout the winter season.

There are 200 miles of groomed trails spanning through the 650 square miles of Tahoe National Forest. Beside the groomed trails, the area provides plenty of opportunities to snowmobile riders who want to go off-trail and explore unchartered powder.

Being a hub of winter sports such as snowmobiles, Lake Tahoe receives a high number of tourists. Adventure seekers can even go on a cross-country riding trip riding across the vast fields of powder ice, ascending and descending the towering mountains, and waving through the snow-laden forests.

Hosting different types of trails for snowmobiles, Lake Tahoe is a heaven for beginner and professional snowmobilers alike.

Hope Valley

There are many trails that lead to Hope Valley area which is at an elevation of 7200 ft. in Alpine County and is at a little distance south of the lake. Hope Valley has many scenic spots like the West Fork Carson River and pine forests with large camping grounds. The trails go through the charming valleys, mountain slopes and national forests in the vicinity and provide a visual treat. Snowmobile riders who want to explore the unknown can go deep into the backcountry. There are rapid climbs and steep descents that provide a thrilling experience for snowmobilers who are addicted to adrenaline.

Faith Valley

Faith Valley is a flat area in Alpine Country that allows riders to open the throttle of their snowmobiles and determine how fast they can go. It is a great spot for beginners and tourists who are new to the sport. The trails offer a panoramic view of the expansive Sierra Crest ridgeline towering at over 10,000 ft. The trails travel alongside lakes and creeks and provide a great sense of adventure.

Charity Valley

The Charity Valley is the home to adventurous trails and breathtaking sites that make it a must visit place for riders and tourists. Snowmobile trails in the area provide a stunning view of the county backdropped by the quaint Markleeville Peak. The trails further lead to the Charity Canyon and go by the cabins built by early settlers in the area. The canyon has dense forests like the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest with steep trails going through the snow-laden pine and fir trees. There are several hot geysers and ponds in the area. Some trails climb to an elevation of 8,300 ft. and presents a gorgeous view of the peak named The Nipple. Majority of the snowmobiles trails in the area are well groomed.

Sierra Nevada

The precipitous trails of Sierra Nevada will entice professional riders to get their snowmobile to Lake Tahoe. Situated at a higher elevation than the Hope Valley, the area has trails that start from 7,000 ft. and go over 10,000 ft high peaks. The beautiful scenery has canyons, meadows, lakes, and rivers alongside the trails. Snowmobilers can have fun while reveling in the natural beauty of the area.

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