The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says 10 snowmobile fatalities have been reported in the state so far this year and is urging riders to operate safely on the trails.
The DNR recently held its annual Sled Safe education and enforcement weekends, where conservation wardens increased patrols across the state to promote safe riding and watch for impaired or dangerous operation. According to DNR officials, alcohol and excessive speed continue to be the leading factors in serious snowmobile crashes.
During the 2026 Sled Safe patrols:
Wardens patrolled 34 counties
Covered more than 3,600 miles of trails
Monitored 161 frozen waterbodies
Made over 1,300 contacts with riders
Issued more than 100 citations and over 300 warnings
Made 3 OWI arrests and 3 drug-related arrests
Assisted 21 snowmobilers on the trails
Officials say trail conditions have been very good in northern Wisconsin this season, but riders should remain cautious.
The DNR reminds snowmobilers to avoid alcohol or drugs while riding, slow down, stay on marked trails, check both ways before crossing roads, avoid unsafe ice, and ride with others whenever possible.
Riders are also encouraged to check current trail conditions through the Travel Wisconsin Snow Report and visit the DNR’s snowmobiling webpage for safety classes, regulations, and registration information.
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