Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Snowmobile sno-park location map

Snowmobile Rules & Regulations

If you own or operate a snowmobile, it must be registered with the State of Washington - even if you ride it only on your own property.

The registration fee is $34.50-$37.00. This includes a free Sno-Park permit for your vehicle.

Twelve to sixteen-year-olds must have taken a Safety Certification Class to meet State law regulations or may operate a snowmobile under the direct supervision of a qualified snowmobile operator.

Snowmobiles & Wilderness Areas

Wilderness is a special land designation within national forests and other federal lands, established by Congress through the Wilderness Act. They were designated so that an untouched are of our wild lands could be maintained in a natural state. They were also set aside as a place where people could get away from the sights and sounds of modern civilization, and elements of our cultural history could be preserved.

The law prohibits mechanized and motorized equipment, including snowmobiles, in wilderness. Local managers have no latitude in this matter, except in emergencies.

Violations may result in confiscation of equipment, fines up to $5,000, and/or six months in jail (36 CFR 261).

Respecting Wilderness boundaries helps everyone. Take responsibility now to ensure continued support of snowmobile programs and opportunities rather than potential closures and stronger enforcement. YOU can help by doing the following:

• When riding in a new area, obtain a map.
• Familiarize yourself with Wilderness boundaries and don’t cross them.
• Carry the message to clubs, groups and friends.

Snowmobiles & Mount St. Helens

The area north of Mount St. Helens (within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument) is a Restricted Area. It includes the crater, pumice plain to the north and the Spirit Lake basin. The area is closed to the public in order to provide for the recovery of the land and to avoid disturbance of scientific studies.

Violations of 36 CFR 261 may result in confiscation of equipment, fines up to $5,000.00, and/or six months in jail.