Go Snowmobiling: Discover Snowmobiling and Share the Passion for Winter
During the most recent Hay Days event in Minnesota, we had the opportunity to meet Jaret Smith, President of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (ISMA), who introduced us to a new industry initiative.
Snowmobiling is much more than a winter pastime. It is a unique way to explore snow-covered landscapes, enjoy the outdoors, and create memorable moments with family and friends. With the Go Snowmobiling initiative, the goal is to introduce more people to the sport and make it easier for new riders to take their first steps into the snowmobiling world.
“Go Snowmobiling is our initiative to bring the industry together and promote the sport of snowmobiling.”
Watch the interview:
Go Snowmobiling: A Gateway to the World of Snowmobiling
The Go Snowmobiling campaign was created to make snowmobiling more accessible. It is designed both for people who want to try snowmobiling for the first time and for experienced riders who want to share their passion with others.
The initiative brings together useful resources that can help people understand how to get started, where to ride, how to rent a snowmobile, how to find a dealer, and how to prepare for a ride.
It also places strong emphasis on snowmobile safety, an essential part of enjoying trails and winter landscapes responsibly.
Introducing a New Generation to Snowmobiling
The future of snowmobiling also depends on welcoming new riders.
Inviting a friend, colleague, or family member to experience their first snowmobile ride can completely change the way they see winter. The sound of the snow beneath the skis, the white landscapes passing by, the cold winter air, and the feeling of freedom all help create a truly unique experience.
The Go Snowmobiling campaign encourages experienced snowmobilers, clubs, and associations to help introduce more people to the sport.
For someone who has never tried snowmobiling before, many questions often come to mind: What kind of snowmobile should I choose? Where can I ride? Can I rent a machine? What gear should I wear? How should I prepare for a first ride?
By bringing useful information and resources together in one place, Go Snowmobiling helps make that first experience easier to understand and more approachable.
Safety Remains at the Heart of the Experience
Discovering snowmobiling also means learning proper riding habits.
Before heading out, it is important to understand your snowmobile, check trail conditions, wear the appropriate gear, and plan your route. Training, caution, and respect for regulations all contribute to a safer environment for everyone on the trails.
Snowmobiling should first and foremost remain an enjoyable activity. Riding responsibly, respecting other trail users, and never consuming alcohol before or during a ride are all essential practices.
A Great Way to Make the Most of Winter
For many enthusiasts, one of the greatest strengths of snowmobiling is the ability to reach places that may otherwise be difficult to access during winter.
Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, mountain regions, and welcoming communities can all become part of an adventure where the journey is often just as important as the destination.
Snowmobiling also creates a strong sense of community. Clubs, volunteers, associations, dealers, and tourism businesses work together to maintain trails and provide quality experiences for riders.
Go Snowmobiling: Share the Passion
If you already snowmobile, why not use the next season as an opportunity to introduce someone new to the sport?
A simple invitation can sometimes create a lifelong passion.
And for those who have never tried it, winter could be the perfect time to discover a new way to enjoy the outdoors and explore snow-covered landscapes.
Go Snowmobiling! Your next winter adventure may be closer than you think.
Quick facts about Jaret Smith
- President of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association (ISMA) since January 15, 2024.
- He brought more than 10 years of snowmobile-industry experience to the role.
- Before joining ISMA, he worked with Yamaha, including as Manager of the North American Snowmobile Division.
- He previously served on several ISMA committees, including technical standards, statistics and communications.
- He is a lifelong snowmobiler and was reported to ride more than 2,500 miles per year across the U.S. and Canada when appointed ISMA president.
- He is also involved at the club level and has served on the board of the Fergus Elora Belwood Snowmobile Club in Ontario.
- His industry work has included snowmobile safety, land access, rider education, government relations and growing participation in the sport.
You may also be interested in this interview: Interview with Matt Hamm of FXR Racing: Performance, Passion and Snowmobile Gear
