Snowmobiling is a popular wintertime activity in which one or two people ride in a motorized sled over ice and snow. The sled is called a snowmobile. People use snowmobiles for work or recreation. Snowmobiling also is a popular winter sport in Canada, the northern United States, and the colder regions of Europe.
The first sled-sized snowmobiles built by mass production were manufactured during the late 1950’s. Most snowmobiles measure from 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2.4 meters) long and about 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) wide. Snowmobiles ride on two short skis on the front of the vehicle, and a wide track (belt) toward the rear. An engine of 8 to 100 horsepower (6 to 75 kilowatts) moves the track, propelling the snowmobile. The operator steers with handlebars. Most snowmobiles can go at least 50 miles (80.5 kilometers) per hour, and some can travel more than twice that speed.
Some environmental groups criticize snowmobiling. They believe it destroys trees and other plants and endangers wildlife. They also declare that the noise of snowmobile engines disturbs the peacefulness of wild areas. To deal with these objections, a number of states and provinces restrict snowmobiling to special trails and enforce snowmobile speed limits and noise levels. In addition, snowmobile clubs vigorously promote safe and considerate driving.
