Snowmobiles find fun in winter

There is only one thing that makes Rochester's winter months tolerable for Al Volkmuth - flying through the snow on his Arctic Cat Panterra. Volkmuth isn't alone as demonstrated by the more than 250 other members of the Hilton Sno-Flyers, a local snowmobile group.

The group was formed in 1969 to develop and maintain riding trails and to provide riders with an opportunity to get together to share concerns and ideas.

"To me winter would be awful long if I wasn't interested in this," he said. Volkmuth, who has been a member for five years, helps head up the club's membership. He would like to see more people join the club. Pointing to the nearly 30,000 registered snowmobiles in Monroe County, Volkmuth said without snowmobile clubs there would be no legal trails for these riders.

The club maintains 88 miles of trail, which includes a route from Adams Basin to Hamlin Beach State Park and another from Hamlin Beach to Letchworth State Park. In addition to updating signage each year and fostering relationships with participating land owners, the Hilton Sno-Flyers also own two groomers that they use for the trail upkeep.

The club has regularly scheduled meetings, which are an opportunity to plan important fundraisers and a chance to discuss snowmobiling with other riders. Club members are active in the community raising money and promoting the club at area festivals including the Hilton Apple Fest and the Parma Winter Fest, February 5. They also host a Legislative Ride; this year's is January 22.

Volkmuth has been riding since 1971 when some friends introduced him to the sport. He bought his first Ski Doo that year for $718, and has been hooked ever since. His current sled costs considerably more than his first, but the thrill is still the same.

For those just starting out, costs can vary drastically. A new sled can run from $3,000 to $10,000. The main manufacturers are Arctic Cat, Polaris, Ski Doo and Yamaha. Riders must also purchase a helmet and a snowmobile suit. Insurance, which is required, can run anywhere from $50 to $1,200. Any youth between the ages of 10 and 16 must first take a safety course. Similar courses are available for first time adult riders as well.

For Volkmuth, getting involved in the club was a way to learn more about snowmobiling and a way to give back.

"I thought to myself 'If I am going to be riding these trails then I should help out,' " he said. To learn more about becoming a member of the Hilton Sno-flyers call Al Volkmuth at 594-9634 or visit their Web site at www.hiltonsnoflyer.net.

Safety tips (provided by the NYS Snowmobile Association)

• Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during snowmobile operation. Alcohol is a contributing factor in almost all fatal accidents.
  
  
• Slow down. Speed is also a contributing factor in nearly all fatal snowmobiling accidents. Drivers should proceed at a pace that will allow ample reaction time for any situation. Drive at moderate speeds, and drive defensively, especially after sunset.
  
  
• Always expect obstacles to be blocking the trail when going around corners and over the crests of hills. You must be able to stop within the distance that you can see in front of you at any given point in time.
  
  
• Carry a first-aid kit, flashlight, knife, compass, map and waterproof matches.
  
  
• Avoid traveling across bodies of water when uncertain of ice thickness or water currents. Snow cover can act as a blanket and prevent safe ice from forming.
  
  
• Dress appropriately, Always wear a helmet with goggles or a face shield to prevent injuries from twigs and flying debris. Wear layers of water-repellent clothing and make sure you have no loose ends that might catch in the machine or tangle in equipment.
  
  
• Stay on marked trails or, where allowed, on the right shoulder of the road. Be alert for fences, tree stumps and stretched wire that may be concealed by snow.
  
  
• Never travel alone. If you must travel alone, tell someone your destination, planned route, and when you will return. Contact him or her when you return.
  
  
• Check your snowmobile to ensure that it is in top condition and follow the "pre-op" checklist outlined in the snowmobile owner's manual before each ride.
  
  
• When crossing roads, come to a complete stop and make sure no traffic is approaching. Cross at a right angle to the road.
  
  
• Be aware of your fatigue level. Wind, sun, glare, cold, vibration and motion can affect you physically and mentally.
  
  
• NYS law requires all snowmobilies to yield the right-of-way to the groomer. When overtaking the groomer from behind, always wait for the groomer to stop before you pass.
  
  
• Stay on the trail or stay home!

All snowmobile operators should read the "New York State Snowmobiler's Guide," available at the Department of Motor Vehicles.