'Unplug & Play': NYS opens 2 free snowmobiling weekends for visitors to explore state

Registration waived for out-of-state snowmobilers for 2 winter weekends to encourage outdoor recreation

√ Snowmobilers reminded to put safety first while exploring trails 

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Press Release

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 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 Gov. Kathy Hochul’s “Unplug and Play” initiative, New York will again waive registration fees for out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers Feb. 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," State Parks 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 Gov. 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 before hitting the state's trails.

These free snowmobiling weekends help support tourism for state and local economies, and reinforce New York's commitment to the industry. New York remains committed to snowmobile trail maintenance, and the local grants program is funded by snowmobile registration fees collected by the state Department of Motor Vehicles (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."

NYS DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "New York has certainly seen plenty of snow this winter, so it’s a great time for people to enjoy these free snowmobile weekends. Please ride responsibly: Wear a helmet and do not ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Out-of-state visitors who snowmobile here outside of these free weekends must obtain a temporary snowmobile registration. For New Yorkers, they can renew their snowmobile registrations online, and must do so annually.”

State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, "Snowmobiling is a great opportunity to enjoy the robust recreational resources New York has to offer during the winter season, while always riding safely and responsibly. Thanks to Gov. Hochul, these free weekends make it easier and more affordable to get outside and enjoy the beautiful views and landscapes along the thousands of miles of New York’s snowmobile trails."

New York State Snowmobile Association President Rosanne Warner said, "On behalf of the New York State Snowmobile Association, I would like to sincerely thank the hard-working volunteer snowmobile clubs for their dedication and work to make this program a success. These volunteers donate their time to maintain over 10,600 miles of trails throughout this great state, and commit time away from their families to keep our more-than-98,000 members safe as they enjoy the winter season. We thank our gracious landowners and Gov. Hochul for their unwavering support for snowmobiling in New York state. This program would never be possible without their help."

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 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 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 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, visit 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 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.