rom the heart of Central Wisconsin, to the frozen lakes of Minnesota, to Michigan’s UP, snowmobiling in the Midwest is an experience like no other. In fact, if you live in the Midwest, there’s a good chance you don’t live more than 30-40 miles from an authorized snowmobile trail! But it’s not just the Midwest where you’ll find great snowmobiling opportunities! If your state welcomes a true winter each year, chances are there are snowmobile trails nearby.

There are more than 230,000 miles of public and private snowmobile trails in the United States, according to the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA). Here’s where to find some of the best!

Snowmobile trails by state

There are 17 states that offer more than 1,000 miles of snowmobile trails, and as many as a dozen more with shorter stretches of trail throughout. Each state offers unique opportunities for snowmobilers—from the majestic mountain views in Colorado, to the picturesque vistas of Montana.

Whether you’re hitting the trails in your home state or taking a winter vacation in search of adventure, there are no shortage of great opportunities out there. If you’re looking for a snowmobiling experience like no other, here’s where you’ll find it:

• Wisconsin offers snowmobilers more than 25,000 miles of well-groomed snowmobile trails stretching across the state.
• Minnesota boasts over 22,000 miles of snowmobile trails that wind around the state’s numerous wooded areas and lakes.
• Maine may not be the biggest state, but it’s covered in more than 14,500 miles of scenic wonderland snowmobile trails!
• Idaho is the place to be in winter! The state has upwards of 7,200 miles of snowmobile terrain waiting for you to explore.
• New Hampshire welcomes snowmobilers with 7,000 miles of serene wilderness trails that cover much of the state.
• Michigan has more than 6,500 miles of snowmobiling trails in both the Upper Peninsula (UP) and the Lower Peninsula.
• Oregon has 6,000 miles of snowmobile trails and is the place to hit the trails in the Pacific Northwest during the winter months.
• Montana is one of the most scenic states to snowmobile in, with trails that span more than 4,000 miles.
• Vermont has over 3,000 miles of trails for snowmobilers—many of which connect to nearby trails in New York State.
• Washington State boasts 3,000 miles of public snowmobiling trails, including those across mountainous terrain!
• Pennsylvania snowmobile enthusiasts have their choice of more than 3,000 miles of trails that stretch across the state.
• North Dakota brings snowmobilers over 2,800 miles of well-maintained trails, for some of the best winter sightseeing.
• Colorado features 2,700 miles of snowmobile trails that are some of the most serene in the country!
• Wyoming sports over 2,000 miles of snowmobile trails for new and experienced riders alike to explore across the state.
• Massachusetts offers over 2,000 miles of sled trails to residents and visitors, for escapades that cover the upper and central parts of the state.
• South Dakota welcomes snowmobilers with over 1,500 miles of trails stretching across the top half of the state.

Several other states—Illinois, Iowa, Utah, Indiana and Nebraska—offer a variety of trails, totaling under 1,000 cumulative miles across each state. Most of these trails are spread out, with definitive start and end points, making them more appropriate for short out-and-back runs.

Why ride approved trails?

While it might be tempting to take your snowmobile out to the empty acres behind your cabin and ski off into the wilderness, it’s best to hit only approved snowmobile trails. Why?

These trails are carved out by different clubs and state associations, in partnership with local governments. They’re not only well-maintained, they’re designed specifically for rider safety, preservation of nature and compliance with environmental laws. Moreover, these trails are usually funded by and for snowmobilers—riding on them justifies their expense and encourages the development of even more state trails.

Explore the country, one trail at a time

One of the best things about snowmobiling on state trails is experiencing their thoughtful construction. Many trails go through state parks or loop around areas of interest—some even connect up with each other at state lines. Following these trails is a recipe for adventure, and they’ll take you to some of the most beautiful scenic places each state has to offer. There’s no better way to experience local environments in the winter months!