ALBANY, N.Y. (WKTV) — Out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers can ride New York’s trails for free during two special weekends in 2026.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that registration fees will be waived from Feb. 27-March 1 and March 6-8, 2026, as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Unplug and Play” initiative.
During these weekends, snowmobilers must have their machines registered in their home state or province and carry any required insurance.
Outside of these dates, out-of-state and Canadian riders must register with New York State before using the trails.
Officials said these free weekends support tourism and help local economies while showing New York’s commitment to snowmobiling.
The State uses registration fees to fund trail maintenance grants, which are distributed to about 230 snowmobile clubs that groom and maintain trails.
Riders are reminded to check trail conditions, follow safety procedures and use extreme caution on ice- or snow-covered bodies of water.