Help Keep Utah’s Snowmobile Trails Safe This Winter

The Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, in partnership with the Utah Snowmobile Association, is asking for the public’s help in keeping Utah’s snowmobile trails safe, legal, and accessible throughout the winter season. Officials report a recent increase in wheeled vehicles driving on groomed snowmobile trails, a trend that presents serious safety concerns and violates state law.

Under Utah law, any wheeled vehicle weighing more than 800 pounds is prohibited from traveling on groomed snowmobile trails. Drivers who ignore this restriction may face citations, along with costly towing expenses when vehicles become stuck. Law enforcement officials note that many of these incidents involve vehicles that are not equipped for winter terrain and quickly become stranded in deep snow.

The damage caused by wheeled vehicles goes beyond the immediate inconvenience. Tire ruts left in groomed trails create hazardous conditions for snowmobilers, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Once a vehicle is removed, trail groomer operators must spend additional time and resources repairing the damage, delaying grooming schedules and reducing trail quality for everyone who relies on these routes for winter recreation.

Officials Asking The Public To Report

Officials are encouraging the public to report any vehicles spotted on groomed snowmobile trails. Tips can be submitted by calling the UTiP hotline at 800-662-3337 or by sending an anonymous text to 847411. When it can be done safely, reporting parties are asked to collect helpful details such as license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions. The public is strongly discouraged from confronting drivers directly, as these encounters can escalate and become unsafe.

Beyond legal concerns, winter off-roading itself carries significant risks. Snow-covered terrain can hide obstacles, reduce traction, and rapidly change with weather conditions. Vehicles not designed for winter travel can easily become immobilized, putting occupants at risk of exposure, injury, or the need for emergency rescue.

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More information about off-highway vehicle laws and trail use guidelines is available at recreation.utah.gov.