2026/27 Snow Traveler’s Guide to Vermont   	
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Safety
how to read trail signs
Corridor Trail Number
This number identifies the trail that 
you are on and corresponds with 
the VAST Trail Map. In this picture, 
you are on trails 5 and 25 where 
they run together before going in 
separate directions.
Intersection Number
This number corresponds with the VAST map 
and lets you know what intersection you are at. 
The letters are the first and last of the county 
that you are in (Orange County in this example) 
and the number is unique to that intersection.
Next Intersection Number
This is the next 
intersection that you  
will encounter if you head 
down this trail. 
Services
These represent the 
services that are in this 
direction.
Arrow
The arrow tells you 
which direction to 
follow and corresponds 
with the information on 
the sign.
Club Logo
This is the logo of the 
club who maintains the 
trail that you are on.
Trail Direction
This tells you 
what general 
direction the 
trail heads: 
North, East, 
South, or 
West.
Town or Destination
This identifies 
the next town or 
destination point 
that you will come 
to on the trail in this 
direction.
Snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy 
Vermont’s winter landscape, but safe 
riding requires training, experience, 
awareness and good judgment. 
Weather, cold, glare, vibration, speed 
and fatigue can all affect both drivers 
and passengers.
ALCOHOL & SNOWMOBILING 
DO NOT MIX!
Alcohol does not warm your body. It 
can increase the risk of hypothermia, 
increase fatigue, impair judgment and 
slow reaction time. ***Vermont law 
prohibits operating a snowmobile 
while under the influence of alcohol.***
AS A SAFE RIDER, YOU:
Know your abilities and your 
machine’s limits. Know the area 
where you are riding, carry a map and 
learn local trail conditions. Keep your 
snowmobile properly maintained and 
complete a pre-ride inspection before 
each trip.
SAFE CROSSING
Come to a complete stop before 
crossing any road. Make sure traffic is 
clear in all directions, then cross at a 
right angle.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY
Dress in layers with a windproof 
outer layer, warm gloves, boots and a 
properly fitted, safety-certified helmet. 
Use a visor or other appropriate eye 
protection.
THINK AHEAD
Carry basic tools, spare parts, a 
flashlight, first-aid supplies and 
emergency items such as high-energy 
food, fire-starting equipment and a 
compass.
TAKE IT EASY
Ride within your abilities and your 
machine’s capabilities. Always travel at 
a speed that allows you to stop within 
your line of sight. Slow down around 
people, other machines, animals, trees 
and obstacles.
TAKE A FRIEND
Avoid riding alone. Snowmobiling 
with others is both safer and more 
enjoyable.
FILE A PLAN
Tell family or friends where you are 
going, your planned route and when 
you expect to return. Let them know 
when you arrive safely.
TAKE CARE OF THE TRAIL
Respect the outdoors. Wait for 
adequate snow cover, avoid damaging 
vegetation and do not disturb wildlife 
or other trail users.
TAKE THE HONORABLE TRAIL
Stay on designated trails and only 
ride where you have permission. 
Trespassing and off-trail riding can 
result in trail closures and loss of 
landowner access.
BEWARE OF DARKNESS
Slow down in darkness, low light and 
overcast conditions. Never ride faster 
than your headlights allow you to 
safely see and stop. Maintain a visual 
point of reference when riding across 
large open areas at night.

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