Riding an ATV in the Snow

While they may not be as nimble or capable as a snowmobile, ATVs are perfectly capable of doing plenty of work when there's snow on the ground. Unfortunately, riding an ATV in the snow can also be more hazardous than heading out on a dry trail, so Harold Implement has created this collection of tips to follow before you head out into the cold. Harold Implement is proud to serve the areas of Paragould, Jonesboro, and Pocahontas, Arkansas; and Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Proper Gear

Your choice of equipment when you ride in warm weather is important, but every hazard on the trail is instantly more dangerous when you add in freezing cold. Make sure you're dressed appropriately and carrying the right tools. You should be wearing a waterproof layer, head to toe, and several insulating layers underneath. Avoid cotton, it's useless for insulation when wet. You should have insulated boots (with several layers of socks) that still allow you to manipulate foot controls. You should have an emergency/survival kit including a firestarter and some extra food and possibly even a sleeping bag and tent for shelter if you get stuck on the trail in a worst case scenario. Always carry a shovel when riding in the snow, and a limb saw will go a long way as well.

When to Back Off

Riding in the snow requires abundant caution. If you want to get out and rip it up like a speed demon, you should be riding a snowmobile. If the frame of your ATV starts to drag in the snow, it's a good time to think about turning around, if your ground clearance cannot keep the frame above the snow, turn around and pack it in for the day. Another sign you're pushing your ATV too hard is if you're frequently smelling hot rubber, or feeling the belt slip. Always use an abundance of caution, and don't ride out into a storm if you're expecting snow to pile up, you may get stuck.

When things go wrong

If you get yourself stuck in the snow, you're going to have to do some serious work to get unstuck. This is where your limb cutter and shovel will come in handy. Even serious lugs on a tire may not grip powdery snow, so dig out your tires and find some low hanging limbs to prune off and give yourself some traction. If your winch isn't frozen solid (check this before you take off) that should be your go-to. If your winch IS frozen solid, a mechanical come along will serve as a functional, but exhausting replacement.

take out, come in and see us at Harold Implement, proudly serving the cities of Paragould, Jonesboro, and Pocahontas, Arkansas; and Poplar Bluff, Missouri.