Why Buying a BC Snowmobile Club Membership Still Matters—and Why It’s More Important Than Ever

We get it—purchasing or renewing a snowmobile club membership might not seem like a priority, especially when day-use tickets offer flexibility and appear to be more affordable at first glance. But here's the reality: the sustainability of snowmobiling in British Columbia relies on memberships, not just day fees. Let’s break it down.

“I ride in different areas each season, so it’s cheaper to buy day passes.”

We love that you want to explore multiple areas. Snowmobiling is all about freedom and adventure, and we’re excited that you’re making the most of what BC has to offer. However, not every club collects day-use fees, and those that do are limited in how they can use that money. Day Use Trail Fees are set on a cost-recovery basis by the government, which means clubs can only charge what they need to cover a list of approved day-to-day operating expenses. This leaves no room for infrastructure upgrades or new projects.

So, why are memberships critical? If your club needs a new groomer, cabin upgrades, or bigger parking lots, those funds must come from membership sales, corporate partners, or grants. Furthermore, $40 from every adult membership sold at a BC Snowmobile Federation Club supports the larger scale provincial initiatives like land access programs, advocating for recreation policies, funding safety and stewardship programs, as well as back of house support from the Federation for clubs around BC. The demand for this work is growing, yet the funding pool is shrinking as more riders opt for day passes. Without membership support, the long-term future of snowmobiling in BC is at risk.

The solution: Even if you ride in multiple areas, consider purchasing at least one club membership this season. If you’re committed to day tickets, contribute to the RideOnBC Land Access Fund. Every dollar helps protect the future of snowmobiling across the province.

“Snowmobile club memberships are getting too expensive.”

Let’s face it: everything is getting more expensive—gas, groceries, housing, you name it. Running a snowmobile club is no exception. Clubs face rising costs for groomer parts, fuel, equipment transportation, and contractor services. But here’s a reality check: your membership often pays for itself.

With discounts available to members—like up to 30% off snowmobile insurance—your membership could effectively be free. Additionally, many snowmobile clubs in BC offer incentives for volunteering, such as discounts on next season's membership. So not only do you support your local riding community, but you also get value in return.

“I’m waiting to see what snow conditions are like.”

We understand that waiting to see snow conditions before committing to a membership seems reasonable. But here's the reality: clubs need your membership dollars now. They didn’t wait to complete summer service on the groomer, fill the bulk fuel tank, or stock the woodshed. They didn’t delay paying the club’s insurance. Why wait to support them? By investing in a membership now, you ensure that clubs can hit the ground running this season and cover annual expenses that accumulate regardless of the snow conditions.

"I don’t ride enough to make it worth it."

It’s easy to think that if you only ride once or twice a season, a membership isn’t worth it. But the truth is: you and what you stand for are worth it. Strong membership numbers send a powerful message about who uses the backcountry and how it should be managed. Snowmobile clubs ensure that local trails are ready when you are, and they advocate for the coexistence of winter motorized recreation with other land uses. With over 44,000 registered snowmobiles in BC, your membership helps demonstrate the collective strength of our community, giving us the credibility to influence key decisions about the future of the lands where we choose to live, work, and play. 

"I don’t like what the club is doing."

Becoming a member of a snowmobile club is more than just a membership; it’s a commitment to supporting the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain and protect our riding areas. While it's natural to have differing opinions about individuals or actions within the club, a strong and diverse membership brings immense power to our community. This diversity ensures that a wide range of viewpoints and values are considered in the decision-making processes that shape our sport. As a member, you have the opportunity to stay informed and voice your opinions during meetings and elections, ensuring your perspective is heard. Your participation helps foster an inclusive environment where every voice matters, ultimately strengthening our community and ensuring a bright future for snowmobiling in BC.

"I’m just paying for something that should be free."

It’s important to understand that snowmobile clubs don’t collect trail fees for access to Crown land. Instead, they are legally authorized to collect fees to offset the costs of providing public recreation services under government partnership agreements—similar to campgrounds. These services ensure riders enjoy safe, high-quality backcountry experiences, making the sport accessible to a diverse audience, including families and individuals with accessibility challenges.

The establishment of these managed recreation areas strengthens rural BC communities, creates jobs, and promotes responsible land stewardship. By joining a club, you’re not only protecting riding areas but also enhancing the public perception of snowmobiling, fostering environmental stewardship, and supporting Indigenous reconciliation efforts.

"I only ride off-trail / backcountry."

It's crucial to recognize how closely your off-trail adventures are tied to the work of snowmobile clubs. These clubs are the backbone of snowmobiling in BC, working tirelessly to keep backcountry areas accessible through advocacy. They ensure we're part of key discussions on land use and policy that directly impact your riding. Your membership keeps these channels open and gives backcountry riders a voice. Without it, the areas you love could face restrictions or even closures.

the bottom line on Why Memberships Matter

Snowmobiling in BC is a privilege, not a guarantee. Without the collective power of memberships, The Federation and our 59 member clubs around the province can’t do the vital work needed to maintain and protect the areas you love.

We understand that memberships can feel like just another cost. But they’re the backbone of everything we do to preserve and protect snowmobiling in BC.

So this season, let’s make sure we all do our part—because the cost of losing what we have is far greater than the price of a membership.