Dr. Jim Surrell, Journal columnist

Our 2026 winter season of snowmobiling is now here in our wonderful Upper Peninsula. Today, let us again review some history and some safety tips regarding this great winter activity. Regarding safety, be aware that today’s high-powered modern snowmobiles used throughout the U.P. can achieve very high speeds. Please be cautious and responsible when deciding to ride at these high speeds.

Here is some snowmobile history. In 1913, Virgil White, a Ford dealer in New Hampshire, put tracks on the back and skis on the front of a Model T Ford. Mr. White was the first to use the word “snowmobile”. In 1927, Carl Eliason patented a motorized toboggan which defined the first workable, single-track, one-passenger snowmobile.

In 1922, fifteen year old Canadian J. Armand Bombardier designed a wind driven sleigh with a Model T engine. Mr. Bombardier then spent decades creating and perfecting various snowmobile features. In 1959, Mr. Bombardier brought the first Ski-Doo snowmobile to the marketplace. These first Ski-Doo snowmobiles were propelled by a single track that was as wide as the machine and set behind steerable skis. They were a huge success with the public and many other companies rushed their versions into production, giving rise to the sport of snowmobiling. Within a decade, the snowmobile significantly impacted winter activities in northern climates throughout the world.

Snowmobile safety is extremely important to avoid trauma to one’s self and to others. Clearly, the two most common causes of snowmobile accidents are excess speed and alcohol. It is well documented that speed is a major contributing factor in nearly all fatal snowmobile accidents. Drinking alcohol and then driving a snowmobile is another major factor in many snowmobile accidents and deaths. Consuming alcohol before operating a snowmobile will certainly impair one’s judgment and significantly slows a person’s reaction time. A slowed reaction time from drinking alcohol while snowmobiling will make it difficult for a driver to react to a potentially serious or even life-threatening situation.

It is very important to watch out for all of the following when out riding on your snowmobile. If you choose to go out on a lake or cross a river, be aware of any thin ice and open water. Watch for the presence of any snowmobile trail grooming equipment and always watch for any oncoming snowmobiles. There will always be some unforeseen obstacles beneath the snow and watch carefully for unexpected corners, trail intersections and stops. Pay attention to all road and railway crossings and for any logging and forestry operations. Of course, there will always be snow banks, drifting snow and there may be trees and branches that have fallen on the trail. Always look for wildlife and the presence of any domestic animals. Of course it is essential to always observe and check for other trail users, including any skiers, hikers, and all other snowmobilers.

Ride safe, have fun, and please follow these practical snowmobile safety tips. You and all your family and fellow snowmobile riders will be glad you did.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Jim Surrell is the author of the best-selling “SOS (Stop Only Sugar) Diet” book and his new joke book, entitled “Laughter Is Good Medicine.” Dr. Jim’s website is sosdietbook.com.