Certification and Documentation

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult but they do not need certification.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Before embarking on your snowmobiling adventure, you and your vehicle are required by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to be certified. You must be 12 years old and in possession of a safety certificate to legally operate a snowmobile. Your proof of certification is required to legally operate a snowmobile on public lands in Chippewa Falls, for both residents and nonresidents of the state. Younger children do not need certification but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the same vehicle.
  
  

Types of Trails

• There are more than 300 miles of public snowmobile trails surrounding Chippewa Falls and stretching into the surrounding county. Trail conditions are readily available and riders are encouraged to use these resources. Detailed maps of more popular routes and their grooming schedules are also available online. Not all routes are regularly maintained and groomed, and all routes are seasonal but, weather permitting, they are kept often as late into the spring as possible.
  
  

Clubs and Associations

• If you are looking for more detailed information on a local and statewide basis, a number of local clubs that can help. These organizations will not only help you find trails and guides, but will also sponsor and organize snowmobile events. The Chippewa Valley Snowmobile Organization helps members get certified, finds appropriate equipment and trails, hosts social and sporting events and organizes conventions and workshops for snowmobile enthusiasts.
  
  

Weather and Safety Considerations

• Thin ice and open water are examples of snowmobile hazards caused by inclement weather.Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Safety is key to enjoying your snowmobiling experience no matter where you decide to go. The winter weather in Wisconsin can be harsh and unpredictable. Rural trails may not have regular maintenance, and flooding can also be a factor when weather changes abruptly. Extremely light or heavy snowfall can change the conditions of a trail very quickly. Nighttime safety rules for snowmobiles are different from those during the day. Slower speeds and reflective gear are required.