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As snowmobiles have grown more popular during the 1980's and
1990's, you might think of the snowmobile as a recent
invention. However, someone thought of putting
a motor on a
sled back in the 1920's. In both the United States and
Canada, people tried to find a fast and inexpensive way to
travel on snow. Some of the early inventors put a steam
engine on skis and runners.
Others put skis on automobile
frames. Others winterized motorcycles and still others tried
propellers. While there were some early successes, these
methods were
usually too bulky, too expensive, or too
limited in their use.
During the 1930's, the designs improved dramatically. In
fact, today's snowmobiles use the basic ideas that were
developed in these 1930's machines. Since snowmobiles were
used for carrying troops in World War II, people continued
to do research to make an even
better machine. By 1960, a
small, inexpensive machine was available for personal use.
Word got around that snowmobiling could be a sport as well
as a way of traveling. People wanted to try one of these
snow machines, and soon they wanted one of their own.
By 1970, more than 60 companies had produced well over one
million machines. Today, four companies build almost all the
snowmobiles manufactured in North America. As snowmobiling
grew in popularity, other industries began making additional
equipment.
Snowmobiling has opened up the winter to many people. From
youngsters to senior citizens - who used to stay inside.
Survey's show over 80 percent of snowmobilers consider it a
family sport. In fact, there are more than ten million
active snowmobilers in the United States and Canada. Other
sports enthusiasts also benefit from snowmobilers. There are
more than 150,000 groomed public snowmobile trails in North
America. Hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders often use
them in the warm weather months as well.
Many snowmobilers have organized programs to
improve their
sport. In 1973 an organization was formed called the (ISC).
Its purpose is to provide a basis for communication between
snowmobile groups across North America. They represent
snowmobilers and snowmobile clubs from 30 states and 11
provinces belong to the ISC. These clubs participate in many
recreational and community service programs. They develop
and maintain over 150,000 miles of public trails. Clubs
sponsor snowmobile safaris, and conduct maintenance clinics.
They help with organized search
and rescue units, as well as
assist conservation officers in emergency wildlife feeding
activities.
Snowmobile clubs help make snowmobiling a more enjoyable and
safer sport for everyone. They're a proud and dedicated
group who would like to share their sport with you. If you
are not a member, visit the snowmobile clubs page or state
associations to inquire about joining.
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