If you’re an off-road enthusiast like me, who loves speed and adventure, you must have taken a snowmobile for a spin on Wisconsin’s trails. From the expansive forests to the frozen tundra, Wisconsin offers over 25,000 miles of snowmobile trails that are second to none. However, navigating the trails alone can be dangerous, especially for beginners who are not familiar with the terrain. Wisconsin snowmobile clubs are a great way to meet other riders, learn from experienced guides, and most importantly, ride safely. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of joining a Wisconsin snowmobile club and take a look at some of the most popular clubs in the area.
Why Join Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs?
Joining Wisconsin snowmobile clubs has countless benefits, including:
Safety – Riding alone on trails can be dangerous, especially if you’re not familiar with the terrain. Riding with experienced riders can keep you safe, get any tips on the trail conditions, learn new riding techniques, and get help in case of injury.
Information – Club members share insights into the best trails, hidden spots, and unique experiences. The clubs have trail maps, maintain the trails, report the conditions, and have helpful tips on everything from dressing tips to mechanical know-how.
Social – Snowmobiling is a fun activity that one can enjoy with friends and family. Clubs provide a great opportunity to meet new people and have fun with other like-minded individuals who share your love for snowmobiling.
Events – Wisconsin snowmobile clubs host various events that keep the riding season exciting year-round. Such activities include bonfires, fundraisers, potluck dinners, volunteering in local charity events, Christmas parties, and awareness campaigns.
Popular Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs:
Wisconsin snowmobile clubs come in different sizes, and they cater to all riders. The following are some of the most popular Wisconsin snowmobile clubs:
Dairyland Snowmobile Club – Founded in 1968, it’s the oldest club in the region. It is located in Chippewa County, near the Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area. The club is famous for embarking on fun adventures such as overnight trips and weekend rides.
Brule River Riders Snowmobile Club – It is located in Douglas County, in the North-western part of the state. The club boasts of embracing technology with its interactive club website and high-quality trail maps.
Harrison Hills Snowmobile Club – This Club is located in Lincoln County, and they are responsible for 162 miles of maintained trails. The club is famous for their Annual Shiver Run in February, which attracts hundreds of riders from all over the country.
How to Join a Wisconsin Snowmobile Club
Joining a Wisconsin snowmobile club is an easy process. Simply visit their website, fill out the membership application, and pay the membership fee. The fees vary depending on the club, but on average, they cost around $20 to $50 per year. Membership fees go directly to fuelling club activities such as maintaining trails, installing new signs, grooming, and preparing for annual events.
Snowmobile Safety Guidelines
Safety is a top priority when it comes to snowmobiling. Before any ride, you should conduct an overall inspection of your machine. Check the brakes, headlights, skis, mirrors, and throttle. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions, and always wear a helmet. Remember to ride at a safe speed, stay on the right side of the trail, and avoid distractions like cell phones or loud music. Lastly, file a snowmobile travel plan with a responsible party, in case emergency services are needed.
Wisconsin snowmobile clubs offer a great opportunity for snowmobilers to connect, learn, and stay safe on the trails. On top of the rides, they provide a sense of community that is hard to come by, especially in such rural settings. If you’re taking up snowmobiling or looking for camaraderie, consider joining one of these Wisconsin snowmobile clubs. The experience will be unforgettable!