With plenty of snow to spare, this turned out to be the perfect time to kick off New York State’s free snowmobiling weekend.

It allows any and all out-of-state snowmobilers to drive their machines in New York without registering their sleds here.

Drivers will still need a valid license and their snowmobile must be registered and insured in their home state or province.

“There is no limit to what New Yorkers can experience across our state and now we’re revved up to welcome even more outdoor winter enthusiasts to the Empire State. I’m grateful to the snowmobile clubs and local governments who help with the upkeep of trails and make sure they are safe and well-groomed for residents and visitors alike,” Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Erik Kulleseid said.

Gov. Hochul hopes this weekend encourages tourists to explore our state parks and forests.

“With the support of local governments and snowmobile clubs, we are so glad to welcome out-of-state snowmobilers each year to New York State trails,” Gov. Hochul said. “By offering this free snowmobiling weekend at the same time each year, our hope is to spur friendships, get annual trips on calendars and boost promotion of upstate tourism. Our expansive snowmobile network gives visitors and tourists an incredible opportunity to explore our state.”

Free snowmobiling weekend runs through Sunday.

The New York State Snowmobile Association website provides information about snowmobiling and snowmobile clubs. Maps of the state snowmobile trail network are available on New York State Parks' website here.