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Over the weekend snowmobiling’s next generation of riders learned valuable lessons about the back country from some of today’s industry leaders. On Saturday, Ski Doo Ambassador, Matt Downey led kids and their parents through a snowmobile back country clinic, teach the skills to ride safely when far out in the wilderness, and what to do in an emergency.
“…plus the snow that gets kicked up by the machine in front of you. Also be conscious of the riders behind you, so that you can move as a group. When you get to a stop sign, checking and waiting to make sure the entire group gets there, then proceed. Some of the best things you can carry with you are a cell phone. But something to keep in mind is, those are electronic products, and are the first tthing to fail. And it’s really important to make sure that you have other things to rely on, like a compass and map. A hard copy of the map, just in case everything fails.” – Matt Downey, Ski Doo Snowmobile Ambassador
The young riders learned a lot about the back country, and particularly what is good snowmobile etiquette. Downey led the students and their parents for a short trip around South Range, taking the classroom to the real world. Some of the kids even shared what they enjoyed the most about the weekend.
“I would have to say the overall learning experience for the little ones. And just having a great time outside, for a ride.” – Owen Labaddie, Back-Country Clinic Student
“My favorite part was when we were going up the steep hills.” – Wyatt Embick, Back Country Clinic Student
“And these snowmobiles can take you to all of those places. And it’s great to see kids be able to get into this sport. And hopefully have a lifetime of fun. And be able to share it with their grand kids, or children. SO yeah, That really means a lot to me, seeing the sport grow and stay strong.” Matt Downey, Ski Doo Snowmobile Abassador
Matt Downey said that the weekend could not have happened without the help from some of the other leaders in the industry and the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum. You can find more information about Matt Downey’s back country snowmobile tips below, along with additional information about the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum and their upcoming events.
Before heading out on the trail, leave a trail plan with someone in your group, who is not going with you, a close friend or relative, or your hotel staff. A safe and effective trip plan will include the route you plan to take, estimated departure and arrival times, emergency contact information for yourself and others.
Downey emphasized snowmobile etiquette with the clinic, addressing how to ride in a group, road crossings, and planning a trip. Adding that obeying posted speed limits and trail detours are very important, as well as keeping a safe distance between sleds. Maintaining proper speed and distance will help snowmobilers to make emergency maneuvers, or evade potential hazards. Downey also suggests giving a little extra space, especially if snow is light and fluffy, which can result in less visibility between riders.
Downey also teaches students how to navigate trails and the back country without electronics. While cellular, or satellite phones and GPS units are ideal for precise locating. An old fashioned map and compass are important skills to fall back on in case electronic devices are not available.
In the case of an emergency, timing is everything, and knowing your location will help first responders get to your location as quickly as possible. Downey adds that knowing your route ahead of time, and paying attention to trail markers along the way will help crews reach your location. When first arriving to an emergency, assess any other potential hazards before assisting someone else. If there are others around and are able to, ask for help and for one person to contact emergency services. During winter emergencies in the back country, staying warm and in place are essential. Keep an emergency space blanket in your pack, along with a basic first aid kit, water, and a small amount of food, should help you stay alert while waiting for search and rescue to arrive.
Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum:
The youth back country snowmobile clinic this past weekend was put on by the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum. They are located on the eastern side of the Upper Peninsula in Naubinway. The museum opened in 2007, with 62 sleds and nine volunteers, with the mission of preserving the history snowmobiling. Coming up in about a month the museum hosts the 31st Top of the Lake Show and Ride, on February 17th and 18th.
