Please review our Frequently Asked Questions, you just might find the answer you are looking for!
- When does the snowmobile season begin?
- At what age must you have a valid OHRV certification to operate a snowmobile on the trail system?
- Where can I get more information on the laws and regulations for snowmobiling in NH?
- Why should I join a snowmobile club?
- Is there a speed limit on the trails?
- I'd like to join the club, but I don't have much free time to volunteer, should I still join?
- Do I really have to be prepared for an overnight emergency? I have a cell phone if something happens and I need help.
- I've heard people talking about GPS on their snowmobiles, is that a real thing?
- I submitted my online application, but didn't submit my payment from the confirmaiton screen, and now it's gone. Can I still make my payment online?
When does the snowmobile season begin?
» Snowmobiling in NH typically runs from mid to late December (in the great north woods) through March. Seasonal fluctuations can have an impact, but as a club, we enjoy the sport (talking about it, thinking about it) and getting together all year long. In southern NH, the good riding conditions usually begin in mid January, unless we get lucky and mother nature dumps enough snow on us early.
At what age must you have a valid OHRV certification to operate a snowmobile on the trail system?
» Anyone twelve years of age or older must have a snowmobile safety certificate or a driver’s license to operate a snowmobile in the state of New Hampshire. For more information on classes we hold, visit our events page or contact us through this website for class schedules.
Where can I get more information on the laws and regulations for snowmobiling in NH?
» The NH Fish and Game website is one of the best resources available, for more information visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/ohrv/index.html
Why should I join a snowmobile club?
» The easiest answer is because you help support the NH trail system. Part of the money goes towards grooming and State of NH funding for the trail system. You can't imagine the effort that goes into landowner relations, insurance, and general trail care. But beyond that, you will meet like minded people that enjoy the sport of snowmobiling, and want to expand the sport and enjoy it with others. Lastly, membership in an NHSA accredited club earns you discounts on snowmobile registrations at OHRV registration agents.
Is there a speed limit on the trails?
» Yes! NH has a state wide trail speed limit of 45mph, but in many places you will see signs that may lower the speed allowed in a certain area. Unlike some surrounding states, the NH trail system can be more varied, technical, and in some places more narrow. The speed regulations ensure safe riding for all. On frozen bodies of water, speed limits can also vary, so be sure to reference NH Fish & Game OHRV regulations for specific details and laws. Remember, stay in control, and stay to the right!
I'd like to join the club, but I don't have much free time to volunteer, should I still join?
» Yes you should! In addition to your membership supporting the trail system, it supports the club and local trails, and will earn you discounts off snowmobile registrations. But even if you can only spare an hour one weekend, we'll take it, or just stop by say hello and meet the crew, we'll take that too! Building membership is important to any club, and you just might bump into someone on the trails that you met at a club meeting.
Do I really have to be prepared for an overnight emergency? I have a cell phone if something happens and I need help.
» You might have a cell phone, but unless you are in an area near a populated area, you might just find it is more useful to hold your map down while stopped at a trail junction. Cell phones are not reliable throughout many areas of the NH trail system. Don't count on them to be your rescue. Be prepared. Have emergency supplies, flashlights, ways to start a campfire, etc. Many sites list what you should carry to be sure you are safe should something happen. You would rather have something with you and not need it, than need it and not have it!
I've heard people talking about GPS on their snowmobiles, is that a real thing?
» It is a real thing, and it is amazing! There are companies that produce trail maps for Garmin GPS units that resemble road maps. You can set a destination, and navigate to it using turn by turn directions. A GPS can greatly improve your riding experience, as you will have to stop much less to check paper maps or trail junction signs. But you need to be careful as well! Trails can change from one weekend to the next, so use it for what it is, a navigational aid. Always still carry paper maps (in case the GPS fails or the battery dies) and make sure you know where you are going. You wouldn't want to follow a GPS route right off a cliff! To check out this fantastic technology, visit GPSTrailmasters.com or click through via our Industry Links page.
I submitted my online application, but didn't submit my payment from the confirmaiton screen, and now it's gone. Can I still make my payment online?
» Yes! We have a payment page you can use to make payments for online applications that did not have their payment submitted from the confirmation page. Please direct your browser to https://www.southernnhtrailblazers.com/join-the-club/online-membership-application/payment-page/ and make your payment. Thank you.
