At the start of each season, many snowmobilers get caught deciding to go hiking, forgetting that the conditions are not ideal. Snow can hide several traps.
Don’t be fooled by the beautiful white blanket that covers the ground at the first heavy snowfall. Very often, clubs have not had time to secure the trails or groom them. You have to give them time to prepare everything and wait for the volunteers to give the green light. Simply follow the trail conditions map on the fcmq.qc.ca website or on the iMotoneige app.
By trying to go too fast, you may hit obstacles such as branches on the ground, rocks or others, which will cause significant mechanical damage to your snowmobile. This could leave you without it for a while before it is repaired. Naturally, we cannot ignore the risks of injuries that can arise in such circumstances. So, it is advisable to be well informed about trail conditions and to follow the safety instructions to the letter. We can think here of wearing a helmet, respecting the suggested speed and the fact that you must always stay on marked trails.
Also, you should definitely not mix alcohol and hiking, because it can lead to serious accidents, not only for you, but also for other snowmobilers. You must always be aware of your responsibilities when operating a snowmobile.
RESPECT THE CLUBS
It is often mentioned that the snowmobile industry represents more than $3 billion in economic benefits. There are several players in the industry at different levels. But all this windfall would not exist without the contribution of those who create and maintain the Quebec trail network: the club volunteers. There are more than 4,000 of them who literally work every winter to create the trails, which will delight all snowmobilers. Without them, all these beautiful people would no longer be here.
They take care to build safe trails, with adequate signage so that you can tour Quebec without worrying about anything. This contribution is invaluable and must be respected by all snowmobilers who enjoy their favorite leisure activity in winter.
To be able to provide you with trails, they must work for several months.
There is the negotiation of rights of way, preparation on the ground with the clearing of paths, etc. It is also necessary to remove trees that have sometimes fallen and repair bridges and culverts so that the trails are safe.
The last step before the snow arrives is the installation of the signage. Once the snow is there, they have to resurface the trails so they are ready.
All this volunteer work should inspire admiration for these people who ensure that the snowmobiling community runs smoothly every winter.
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