Jan 29, 2008

Make a Snow Day a Go Day

Riding a snowmobile might seem a bit daunting. Combining potentially frigid weather with an open-air transportation conveyance that seems a bit alien can give you pause. But to those who have tasted the crisp air in their lungs as they shoot through breathtaking scenery, there is nothing like it. If you haven't tried snowmobiling before, this winter might present a perfect time to test drive one and determine if snowmobiling is right for you. You'll likely learn that operating a snowmobile is less difficult than you may think.

Renting a snowmobile is a great way to establish your comfort and skill level. There are numerous rental agencies throughout the United States conveniently located near groomed trails that can provide you with the best snowmobile equipment and give you a taste of the snowmobiling lifestyle. In fact, many of North America's 230,000 groomed and marked trails are conveniently close to rental agencies.

To purchase a snowmobile, visit a dealer for information. There are 1,840 licensed snowmobile dealers in the United States who can help you decide which snowmobile is best for you, based on your planned usage and your price range. Snowmobiles start at $2,000 for a used model and $6,000 for a new one. The classified sections in the newspaper are also great places to start looking for used snowmobiles. Some three million U.S. families enjoy snowmobiling each winter, and many frequently trade up.

For those interested in learning more about snowmobiling, the Michigan-based International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association can provide you with a wealth of information on both renting and buying snowmobiles. It offers a Web site and a free e-newsletter.