The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) announces two free snowmobile weekends for out-of-state snowmobilers to come explore the more than 10,000 miles of snow-covered trails throughout the state. As part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Unplug and Play” initiative, New York State will again waive registration fees for out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers February 27-March 1 and March 6-8, 2026, encouraging visitors to plan a trip.
"One of the positive benefits of this year’s snow and deep freeze is all the outdoor winter recreation possibilities and snowmobiling is certainly one of the most popular," OPRHP Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said. "New York is the perfect place hop on a sled and explore mountains, forests and miles of well-groomed trails. Thanks to our partnership with snowmobile clubs, counties, and municipalities, New York State offers an extensive and safe trail network. With Governor Hochul’s reminder to ‘Get Offline, Get Outside,’ these annual weekends can open the eyes to many more visitors to take in breathtaking views and adventure. Please remember to put safety first while enjoying these weekends and come back again and again."
During these two weekends, the registration requirement in New York is waived for already properly registered and insured out-of-state snowmobiling enthusiasts – from the Hudson Valley to the North Country to Western New York. Participants must operate a snowmobile that is registered in their home state/province and must carry any applicable insurance, as required. Outside of this promotion, out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers are required to register their snowmobiles with New York State before hitting the State's trails.
These free snowmobiling weekends, February 27-March 1 and March 6-8, 2026, help support tourism for State and local economies, and reinforce New York's commitment to the industry. New York State remains committed to snowmobile trail maintenance, and our local grants program is funded by snowmobile registration fees collected by the State Department of Motor Vehicles are deposited into the Snowmobile Trail Development and Maintenance Fund. County and municipal governments distribute these grants to about 230 snowmobile clubs across the State, which in turn groom and maintain the trails.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "New York is home to thousands of miles of trails all across the state, and the free snowmobiling weekends invite visitors to explore and experience our diverse landscapes and communities in a unique way. These annual events help support regional tourism and small businesses by welcoming out-of-state and Canadian travelers who dine, shop and stay for a weekend or extended getaway."
New York State reminds riders to observe trail conditions and safety procedures while snowmobiling. Trail conditions vary depending on snowfall amounts and other factors. Snowmobilers, fishermen, skiers and snowshoers should put safety first and proceed with extreme caution before venturing on ice- or snow-covered bodies of water. Historically, the two leading causes of snowmobile injuries in New York State are excessive speed and operator intoxication.
Top safety recommendations include:
- INSPECT and properly maintain your snowmobile; carry emergency supplies
- ALWAYS wear a helmet with DOT-certified standards and make sure you wear appropriate snowmobile gear including bibs, jackets, boots, and gloves to withstand the elements
- ALWAYS ride with a buddy or group and tell a responsible person where you will be riding and your expected return time
- SLOW DOWN. Ride within your ability
- STAY ON MARKED TRAILS. Respect landowners and obey posted signs
- NEVER drink alcohol or use drugs and ride
- FROZEN BODIES OF WATER are not designated trails; if you plan to ride on ice, proceed with caution and be aware of potential hazards under the snow. If you choose to ride on ice, wear a snowmobile suit with flotation built-in and carry a set of ice picks as a precaution.
The free snowmobile weekend complements Governor Hochul’s efforts to encourage outdoor recreation with both "Get Offline, Get Outside" and "Unplug and Play." Check the websites of area snowmobile clubs for information on trail conditions, including the status of grooming. Individuals operating a snowmobile should be familiar with safe riding practices and all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The New York State Snowmobile Association website provides information about snowmobiling and snowmobile clubs. Maps of the State snowmobile trail network are available on New York State Parks' website.
Here’s more information on snowmobiling from State Parks and DEC; to plan a great snowmobile getaway and other ways to enjoy winter in New York State is available at iloveny.com/winter.
The DMV reminds New York riders that snowmobile registrations must be renewed annually. DMV allows snowmobilers to renew registrations online on the DMV website, by mail or in person at a DMV office. Snowmobile registration costs $100 but is decreased to $45 if the snowmobiler is a member of a local snowmobile club.
Non-New Yorkers who wish to use a snowmobile in New York State before or after this promotional weekend can use the NYS Registration for Out-of-State Snowmobile service to get a 15-day registration and operate their snowmobile here immediately. DMV will send a permanent registration in the mail.
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