Snowmobiling season is here, and with over 50 snowmobile staging areas maintained by BC clubs, these spots are buzzing hubs of adrenaline, noise, and, let’s face it, occasional chaos. It’s where the magic begins, but also where things can go sideways if we don’t play nice. Staging areas are busy, exciting places where everyone’s raring to get on the snow, but trust us—a little etiquette here goes a long way. So buckle up (or helmet on) and let’s break down how to keep it cool in the lot.

1. Tap'er Cool

We get it—you’re pumped. But staging areas are not the Daytona 500. Between families, kids, sleds, trailers, and folks with helmets squashing their peripheral vision, it’s a sensory circus out there. Slow your roll, keep your vehicle and sled speeds down, and let patience be your co-pilot. A little chill here can save a lot of headaches—or worse.

2. Don’t Be That Guy: Park Like You Care

When hunting for a parking spot, think ahead. Blocking exits or jaming up the lot because you choose to park sideways doesn’t just make you unpopular; it can ruin pretty much everyone else’s day or delay emergency access. Before you park, scope the traffic flow and follow the locals’ lead (or those handy parking attendants).

3. Ramp It Right

Ramps are awesome until they’re in the way. On busy days, tuck them under your deck or toss them on top. Left lying around, they’re just an accident waiting to happen. And while we’re on ramps…

4. Helmets On: Don’t Be a Statistic

Every year, we hear about tragic loading and unloading mishaps that could’ve been avoided. Wear your helmet! It’s not just smart—it’s the law. Also, secure your ramp with the manufacturer’s provided dog-latches or tie-downs. Nobody wants to explain to your family why they aren’t bringing you back home in one piece.

5. Overnight Stays? Think Again

Most clubs can’t allow overnight parking due to land use agreements and insurance rules. Plus, snowplows don’t appreciate playing Tetris around your rig. And FYI: leaving your truck overnight might set off a search-and-rescue mission. Check the local rules or ask the club for alternatives if you need to stay.

6. Park Tight, Play Nice

Snowmobile staging areas aren’t sprawling parking lots at a big-box store. Keep it tight. Leaving SUV-sized gaps between vehicles on busy days just creates frustration and wasted space. Be thoughtful—it’s a team sport out there.

7. Show Some Love for the Lot

Staging areas don’t pop up magically. Clubs invest time and money in securing land agreements, grading, drainage, and snow removal. Not to mention insurance, signage, and porta-potties. These are your trail dollars at work, folks. Treat the space with the respect it deserves.

photo: Sled Sicamous - Owlhead upper parking lot work bee, summer 2024

photo: Fernie Coal Creek parking lot expansion ($60k investment), summer 2022

8. Leave No Trace

Nothing screams "bad rep" like a staging area littered with wrappers and cans. Before you head out, take a quick scan for trash—yours or anyone else’s—and pack it out. A clean lot is a happy lot. Fueling up or topping off oil? Watch for spills. A little here and there adds up fast and makes a mess of the environment. A rag or drip tray can save the day.

9. don’t block the groomer!

If you see a snowcat, drag, or groomer storage access in the parking lot, be mindful not to park in front of it. Most clubs begin their grooming shifts just before you're heading out in the late afternoon (around 4-6pm). Blocking access means the club can’t groom, you risk getting towed, and no one benefits from that.

10. Keep It PG, Folks

Staging areas are family-friendly zones. Keep the tunes and language appropriate for all ears. Everyone should feel welcome, so let’s keep the vibes good and the drama low.

By following these simple courtesies, you’re helping ensure that everyone has a great start and end to their day on the trails. It’s all about respect—for the parking area, for fellow riders, and for our shared snowmobile community. Let’s work together to keep BC’s snowmobile culture strong and enjoyable for everyone. See you out there!

Learn More

Curious about what goes on behind the scenes to manage parking lots and on-mountain experiences?

Get a sneak peek into a day in the life of the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club with our '24 Hours Behind the Scenes' video. Watch now!

Respect Where You Ride: BC Snowmobile Staging Area Etiquette