Yellowstone Snowmobiling Regulations
Snowmobiling Regulations Listings: (add your listing)
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Snowmobile operators must have a valid state motor vehicle driver's license in
their possession. Persons possessing a learners permit may not operate a
snowmobile. Snowmobiles must also be properly registered and display a valid
state registration from any U.S. state.
Operate snowmobiles as you would an automobile. Use hand signals when turning
or stopping. Allow enough distance in between snowmobiles when traveling.
Passing is allowed only when safe. If you turn around, you must do so within
the road width.
You must have headlights and taillights on at all times.
Snowmobiles traveling with a guide must remain within one-third of a mile of
their guide.
Snowmobiles may be operated only between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Maximum speed limit is 45 mph (72 kph) or less where posted or as conditions
warrant. Speed is checked by radar. Obey all speed limit signs and stop signs.
Drive on the right side of the road and in single file. When stopping, pull to
the far right and park in single file. Stay to the right even if the roads are
rough. Idling your snowmobile for more than 5 minutes is prohibited.
Snowmobiles may be driven on designated roads only. Sidehilling, berm-riding,
or any off-road travel is prohibited and carries a fine of up to $5000. Report
accidents to a ranger. Towing people on skis, sleds, or other sliding devices
is prohibited except in emergencies.
Operating a snowmobile while intoxicated is illegal. Possession of open
alcoholic beverage containers, including botabags, is illegal.
Snowmobile exhaust and muffler systems must be in good working order. If you
are not traveling with a commercial guide, the maximum noise allowed is 78
decibels when measured during full acceleration at a distance of 50 feet. Most
stock exhaust systems meet this standard; "after-market" ("piped") exhaust
systems often do not. Snowmobiles exceeding the decibel standard will be denied
entry into the park.
Thermal basins, viewpoints, and walkways are snowpacked and icy during winter;
fog reduces visibility. When walking, stay on boardwalks or maintained trails;
walk carefully. Watch your children. Your hand or voice may be too far away if
your child leaves your side.
Wild animals have the right of way. Wildlife are dangerous and unpredictable.
Winter is a time of great stress. When you force an animal to move, it uses
energy which is vital to its survival. Approaching, chasing, molesting, or
feeding animals is prohibited.
If bison or other wildlife are on the road, stop at least 25 yards away and/or
pull your machine as far as possible to the opposite side of the road; give
them a chance to get off the road. If they run toward you, and you can
confidently turn around, do so and move to a safe place to reassess the
situation. If they walk or run toward you, and you cannot turn around, get off
your machine and stand to the side of it, keeping the machine between you and
the animal(s). If they are standing calmly, inch toward them and access their
behavior. If they remain calm, pass on the opposite side of the road at a
moderate speed. Do not make sudden or erratic movements; use groomed pullouts
where possible. If the animal(s) appear agitated, do not attempt to pass as any
advance may cause the animal(s) to charge. Do not chase animals or cause them
to stampede. There is no guarantee of your safety.
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