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New York State SnowmobileTrail Signing Handbook
State of New YorkGeorge E. Pataki, Governor
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic PreservationBernadette Castro, Commissioner
Visit on the web at: www.nysparks.com
Table of ContentsAbout Signing Snowmobile Trails ........................................................................ 2
Signs and Safe Snowmobiling ............................................................................... 2
Objectives, Purposes, and Roles ........................................................................... 3
Trail Signing Overview .......................................................................................... 3
Recommendations and General Guidelines for Snowmobile Trail Signing .............................................................................. 4
Trail Sign Placement .............................................................................................. 6Sign PositioningSign PostingWarning Sign Placement
Trail Marker Signs ................................................................................................. 8Sign SpecificationsIdentification and InformationRegulatory SignsWarning Signs
Tables and Diagrams .............................................................................................. 9Regulatory SignsWarning SignsTrail Marker Signs and Informational SignsObject MarkersExamples of Sign Use:
Signing Trail JunctionsJunction IdentificationRoad CrossingsBridgesCulvertsBlind HillsField GatesWoods OpeningsNatural and Manmade ObjectsIllegal TrailsSharp CurvesDrainage Ditches
Staking ............................. ....................................................................................... 20Stake InstallationTypical Stake
Signing Trails on State Lands ............................................................................... 21
About Signing Snowmobile TrailsThe New York State Office of Parks, Recre-
ation, and Historic Preservation (Parks) has com-piled this handbook that provides guidelines for theeffective placement of signs of snowmobile trails.The trail sign process is intended to improve snow-mobile safety and enhance snowmobile trails in asafe and cost effective manner.
Posting trail signs will help to safely regulatethe flow of snowmobile traffic, inform riders ofparticular trail characteristics, and provide informa-tion necessary for the enjoyment of the trail ridingexperience. This handbook will serve as a valuableresource to snowmobile club members, particularlythose charged with the responsibility for trailsigning, as well as those on the trails.
The guidelines are consistent with the Interna-tional Association of Snowmobile Administrators(IASA) standards regarding color, size, shape and
reflectorization. The handbook will also promotestatewide uniformity of snowmobile trail signing byproviding basic guidelines and techniques forposting standardized trail signs posted uniformlythroughout an unfamiliar trail.
The signing recommendations and guidelinesprovided by this handbook should not be con-structed as minimizing the basis operator’s responsi-bility. Operating a snowmobile in a observant,reasonable, and prudent manner is the responsibilityof all snowmobilers. Rather, these recommenda-tions and guidelines will compliment safe ridingpractices for the betterment snowmobiling.
Prior to installing signage on state land, the trailsponsor should meet with the state land manager toensure compliance with state land managementstrategist policies.
Signs and Safe SnowmobilingNew York State law directs the Office of Parks,
Recreation, and Historic Preservation to ensure theproper and safe use and operation of snowmobilers.
In order to meet this legislative directive, theoffice has developed a system of trail markers andsigns.
The purpose of using trail signs is to direct theflow of snowmobile traffic, inform snowmobilers oftrail characteristics, and provide information neces-sary to fully enjoy the trail riding experience.
Civil or criminal liability can result ifsnowmobilers operate with willful disregard forsuch signs, and cause property damage, injury, ordeath.
The guidance provided to snowmobilers by trailsigns should not be construed as reducing thesnowmobiler’s responsibility to operate theirmachines in a safe and prudent manner.
Similarly, snowmobilers should be aware thatsign theft is a problem, so they should not assumethat every object is properly identified with a sign.
Trail signs and markers are essentially safetytools. Use them with care and caution to makesnowmobiling in New York State enjoyable andmore fulfilling.
2
Objectives, Purposes, and RolesRecognizing the objectives and purposes of signing and the role of the participants will help provide the
guidance for a well signed trail.
TRAIL SIGNING OBJECTIVEIt is the goal of Parks to achieve a comprehensive and uniform system of trail signing across the state.
The objective of trail signing is to:
• enhance the safety of person, vehicles, and property,
• improve travel within and between trail systems,
• increase comfort and confidence in navigating the statewide trail system,
• standardize and promote recreational snowmobiling.
THE PURPOSE OF TRAIL SIGNSThe purpose of snowmobile trail signs is to:
• regulate the flow of traffic along the trails,
• warn riders of trail characteristics and unknown objects,
• provide information necessary to the enjoyment of the recreation.
ROLESThe responsibility of Parks is to set guidance for the signing of state funded recreational snowmobile trails
and provide a model for local trails.Responsibility for installing, maintaining, and removing trail signage rests with the local snowmobile pro-
gram administrator and/or the operating snowmobile clubs.
Trail Signing OverviewProper use of signs must be applied to all feeder, connector, main, and other moderate to heavy volume trails.
It is necessary to properly use regulatory, warning, information, and identification signs, as well as field stakes.Use of these signs will make the trail easy to follow and identify throughout agricultural fields and other openareas. Numbered junction signs, coordinated with special snowmobile maps, and positioned at all trail junctionson the funded trail system to give the user a bearing. Other signs provide designation points and necessaryservices such as repairs, lodging, food, and fuel.
The sign layout strategy is to allow touring snowmobilers who are not familiar with the area to navigateeasily and with complete confidence, as well as, enhance the safety and enjoyment of the snowmobiler.
To test your success in achieving this goal you may want to invite someone who is not familiar with the trailto join you on a trip. Their comments can be invaluable.
3
Recommendations and GeneralGuidelines for Snowmobile Trail Signing
The methods used to mount trail signs varydepending on the intended permanence of theinstallation and landowner considerations, includingtrails on state lands. The following points provideguidance in selecting an appropriate mountingmethod to suit your circumstance.
• Obtain permission from landowner beforemounting any signs.
• When the characteristic of the trail changes, itneeds to be signed appropriately.
• Compliance with signing guidelines for trailson any state lands is subject to provisions ofpermits issued by each respective state landmanager. This includes the Canal Corpora-tion, DEC, and Parks. Contact the respectiveland managers for obtaining proper signingguidelines. Trail maintenance organi-zations, including clubs, with private landowners that restrict signing need to notifyParks.
• Except for informational and guide signs, asset forth in this handbook, trail signs must bereflective.
• When installing signs and grooming trailsthere needs to be consistency so that thegroomed trail matches the signed trail. Clubmembers installing signs and club membersgrooming the trails need to be in communica-tion with each other so that the groomed trailmatches the signed trail. If a trail is groomeddifferently than it is signed, the club mustchange the signing for that part of the trail.
• Use durable materials for permanent installa-tions i.e. flexible plastic, fiberglass, steel, or
pressure treated lumber. Use adequately sizedwood or metal signposts to provide stabilityand deter vandalism.
• It must be remembered that the trail will beused for travel in both directions, Separate,and often different, signing is required for eachdirection of travel.
• Signing is often done by persons who arefamiliar with the trail and who know wherethey are and where they are going. Whenputting up signs, imagine that you have neverbeen in this area or on this trail before. Try topicture what signs would be necessary to getyou safely to your destination.
• Have your signage reviewed by someone lessfamiliar with the area to identify locations thatneed improvements. The trail inspectionprogram would provide trail maintenanceorganizations with valid feedback on signageoperations.
• Place signs as late in the fall as possible andremove promptly at the end of the season.This reduces vandalism, potential trespass, andconserves sign life by reducing exposure to theelements.
• Overuse of signs should be avoided. To avoidclutter and confusion, only authorized trailsigns should be allowed. Signs posted bybusinesses should be carefully controlled bythe trail operator.
• Extra regulatory and warning signs should becarried on grooming equipment and by patrollers to replace those which have been vandal-ized.
4
• Wherever possible, maintain existing signformats to limit the amount of obsoleteinventory.
• Maintain as much similarity as possible toroad signs.
• Maximize consistency with the trail signingstandards for all other snowmobile trails.
• Use an existing mounting object, such as afence post, only if it is within the recom-mended sign location window and thepermission of the owner has been obtained.
• If more than one sign is used at the samelocation, they should be placed vertically withthe most important sign on top. Stop signsalways convey the most important message.
• Trail signing should be done by a small groupof people familiar with trail signing guidelinesto retain as much uniformity as possible.Individuals signing the trail should alsocoordinate placement of sings with trailgroomer operators.
• Avoid overuse of signs. Only trail signsmeeting standards for shape, color, size, andreflectorization as mentioned in this handbookshould be allowed on trails. This avoidsclutter and confusion.
• Informational signs may be placed on the trailby trail side businesses, but these signs shouldconform to the standard color and shape.
• Extra signs should be made available toreplace missing or vandalized signs.
• Mounting signs on live trees is NOT recom-mended. If it is the only alternative, usealuminum nails. Ensure that all nails areremoved when the signs are removed.
• On posts, use bolts or screws instead of nailsto reduce vandalism and theft. A cordless drillwith spare battery packs is an ideal tool todrive screws providing the sign holes arepredrilled.
• When installing a signpost for one direction,also install a signpost on the opposite side ofthe trail. Use this parallel signpost for anappropriate sign or attach reflective materialon the top of the post if no sign is necessary(See Staking pg. 22).
• No trail sign should be placed more than 8 feetfrom the edge of the groomed trail.
• Maintaining visibility of signs in areas ofheavy snowfall accumulations poses additionalchallenges in terms of sign mounting techniques and materials. These signing situationswill require periodic inspections and adjust-ment of sign poles or stakes throughout thewinter to keep signs from be obscured bysnowfall.
• Place signs and posts carefully with regard toanticipated vehicle speeds, brush, line of sight,and anticipated snow depths. The desirablemounting height of signs is approximately 40inches above the snow depth. Adjustments tosign height above the snow may be necessaryto respond to changing snow depths.
• Place trail signs to the right of the trail toconform with the rider’s familiarity with theplacement of highway signs. Avoid installingsigns on the back of signposts intended for thesnowmobile operator traveling in the oppositedirection. Install a reflective material for theback of each signpost to make it visible for theoperator traveling in the opposite direction.
• Posts are preferred for the proper placement ofregulatory, caution, and stop signs. Whenallowed by the landowner, signs may beattached to trees that are appropriately locatedand within 8 feet of the groomed trail surface.
• The line of sight from the driver to the signmust be clear for the entire distance throughwhich the sign is intended to be viewed. Thisrequires routine monitoring.
5
Trail Sign PlacementThis section provides basic information on how snowmobile signs should be placed and installed.
SIGN POSITIONINGA critical part of sign mounting is understanding
how a reflective sign works. A good analogy is tothink of signs as mirrors. To maximize nighttimevisibility of the sign, it must be placed at eye leveland perpendicular to the direction of travel on the
trail. This placement also ensures that the sign isvisible over a long period, so that the rider has achance to understand the message and to reactaccordingly. This important concept is illustrated byFigures 1 and 2.
a) Signs facing the trail do not reflect headlights beams back to the rider.
b) Signs placed perpendicular to the trail reflect headlights back to rider correctly.
a) Signs placed too high do not reflect headlight beams back to the rider.
b) Signs placed at the rider’s eye level reflect back correctly, making them much easier to see.
RIGHT
WRONG
WRONG
RIGHT
FIGURE 1 - Sign Placement Side View FIGURE 2 - Placement, Overhead
Figure 3 defines an imaginary “window” for sign location. Signs should be placed perpendicular to trailwithin a 5 ft x 5 ft area that starts 3 ft from the trail’s edge and 2 ft above the trail. Signs placed outside thiswindow will not be seen as well.
Recommended Sign Location Window
Groomed Trail Width
5.0 ft
2.0 ft
5.0 ft 3.0 ft
FIGURE 3 - Recommended Sign Location Window
6
SIGN POSTING DISTANCES
What is the proper distance before an object to place a warning sign? There are several factors involved incalculating the minimum posting distance including:
• Speed of the snowmobile when the sign is initially visible to the operator• Sign legibility or recognition• Decision making time• The coefficient of friction between the track and snow• Comfortable braking distance
The intent of warning signs is to allow the snowmobile to be brought to a complete stop before the trailcondition. In some cases, a complete stop is not necessary, but we suggest the posting distance be sufficient for acomplete stop in the event it is necessary.
The factor with the greatest effect on the calculation for posting distances is the speed of the vehicle whenthe operator first sees the sign. With this reason in mind, the following sign placement distance table is based onspeed in miles per hour. It becomes the sign crew’s responsibility to estimate the common appropriate speed onthe portion of the trail where the signs are being installed.
The purpose of the table is to give a recommended minimum distance and an acceptable range rather than aspecified distance.
Warning Sign Placement
Average Anticipated Speedon the Trail
25 mph 150 to 200 feet
35 mph 250 to 300 feet
45 mph 350 to 400 feet
55 mph 500 feet
Recommended MinimumDistance from Sign to Hazard or Stop
7
Trail Marker Signs
SIGN SPECIFICATIONSThe following schedule of standard signs provides guidance as to the format, appearance, and color. It is
expected that some variance may exist between manufacturers as to icons used, fonts employed, etc. The interestof the sign is the message that the sign conveys to the rider, not its absolute conformance to these guidelines.
IDENTIFICATION AND INFORMATIONAL SIGNSIdentification signs provide riders with important details such as trail routing and
direction, junction identification for orientation, Information signs, such as location ofamenities and distances to destinations contribute greatly to the enjoyment of both the localand touring snowmobilers.
REGULATORY SIGNSAs the name implies, regulatory signs regulate the movement o snowmobiles along the trail
system in a safe and orderly fashion. Failing to comply with the intent of a regulatory sign couldhave legal consequences. Examples of these are: speed limit signs, no snowmobiling, stay on thetrail, and trail closed signs.
WARNING SIGNSWarning signs are a primary means of protection for snowmobilers on the trail. They are
designed to alert the user of conditions that may require special attention. Warning signs implyand make aware of existing trail conditions. Examples of these signs are Stop Ahead, BridgeAhead and Object Markers.
DO NOTENTER
CAUTION
8
REGULATORY SIGNS
12"X 12" Octagon - Red back-ground with white reflectivelettering.
12"X 12" Square fluorescent redbackground with black letteringand symbol - not reflective.
12"X 12" Square fluorescent redbackground with black letteringand symbol - not reflective.
8"x 12" rectangle. White back-ground, black lettering.
Typical Design Name and Use Usual Characteristics
STOP Instructs riders to bringtheir snowmobile to a completeSTOP before proceeding withcaution
NO SNOWMOBILINGIdentifies areas wheresnowmobiling is not allowed.
NO ATV’s or TRAIL BIKESIdentifies areas where ATV’s orTRAIL BIKES are not allowed.
STOP
DO NOTENTER
KEEPRIGHT
8"x 12" rectangle one way trails -White background, red circlewith black lettering.
DO NOT ENTER Instructsriders not to enter a particularroad or trail. Typically used inconjunction with one way trails.
6"X 12" Rectangle, orangebackground, with black letters andborder (non-reflective).
PLEASE STAYON TRAIL
PLEASE STAY ON TRAILMany landowners request ridersto ride in a specific area, thesesigns reflect the landownerswishes.
OTHER REGULATORYSIGNS Other regulatory signsmay be needed as necessary
KEEPRIGHTSTAY
RIGHTOR
9
Typical Design Name and Use Usual Characteristics
WARNING SIGNS
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, red octagon, blackarrow (reflective)
12" X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black lettering(reflective).
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black lettering(reflective).
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black arrow(reflective).
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black lettering(reflective).
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black lettering(reflective).
12"X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black symbol(reflective).
CAUTIONBARRICADE
AHEAD
JUNCTIONAHEAD
CAUTION
SLOW
7"X 7" Square, yellow back-ground, black diagonal stripes(reflective).
CHEVRON ALIGNMENTSIGN Identifies a sharp turn andprovides additional guidance.
6"X 8" Square, yellow back-ground, black symbol (reflective).
STOP AHEAD Informs ridersthat they are approaching a stopsign.
CAUTION Use this sign to warnof a hazard when no specificsign is available for thatpurpose.
SLOW Instructs riders totemporarily slow their vehicle.
RIGHT OR LEFT TURNInforms the rider the trail aheadmakes a significant change indirection.
BARRICADE AHEAD Informsriders they are approaching agate across the trail.
JUNCTION AHEAD Informsriders they are approaching atrail intersection.
WINDING TRAIL (Multiplecurves) Informs riders they areapproaching a series of curves
OBJECT MARKER (HazardMarker) Identifies a fixed objectat the side of the trail. (Used anytime the fixed object narrows the normalwidth of the trail such as bridge railings.The stripes slope down towards the trail.)See Figure 4 pg. 13
10
TRAIL MARKER, INFORMATIONAL AND IDENTIFICATION SIGNS
Typical Design Name and Use Usual Characteristics
CAUTION
GROOMING ATANY TIME
BRIDGE
AHEAD
CAUTION GROOMING ATANY HOUR Informs the riderthat trail grooming may bedone at any hour of the day.
12" X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black graphic andblack lettering.
BRIDGE AHEAD ORCULVERT AHEAD Informsriders that they are approach-ing a bridge or culvert whichis narrower than the trail.
12" X 12" Diamond, yellowbackground, black graphic andblack lettering.
Typical Design Name and Use Usual Characteristics
REASSURING BLAZER(Often called the trail diamond)Informs the rider they are on adesignated snowmobile trail.
CORRIDOR TRAIL SIGN Usedto identify the corridor trail bynumber.
SECONDARY TRAIL SIGNUsed to identify the secondarytrail by number.
FOOD, LODGING, GAS,PHONE Informs the rider theservices are near.
5"X 7" Extended diamond,orange background with silver-gray reflective diamonds.
6"X 6" Yellow numbers andborder with brown background.(non-reflective)
6"X 6" Yellow numbers andborder with brown background.(non-reflective)
6"X 6" White letters on brownbackground. (non-reflective)
CORRIDOR TRAILJUNCITON Indicates twocorridor trails at a junction.
5” X 7” Yellow lettering on brownbackground. County abbreviation,assigned junction number and theletter “C”.
JUNCTION IDENTIFICATIONIdentifies all other trail junctions.
5” X 7” Yellow lettering on brownbackground. County abbreviationand assigned junction number.
OR
11
Object markers are valuable signs. They show the avenue of safe passage on the trail. The yellow and blackstripes should always point down and away from the object and toward the safe lane of travel.
• Obtain permission from landowner before mounting any signs.
BRIDGEPLACEMENTWITH RAILS
BRIDGEPLACEMENT
NO RAILS
USED AS A MARKER FORTRAILSIDE HAZARDS SUCHAS STUMPS, ROCKS, ETC.
FIGURE 4 - Object Marker-Trail Objects: Bridges,Culverts, Field Gates. Wood Openings and Other Objects
EXAMPLES OF SIGN USE
The following illustrations are intended to give signing crews an example of a few of the basic situationsthey will encounter on most trails. Only a few of the signs contained in the previous pages are shown in theseillustrated examples.
These illustrations serve as simplistic guidelines for use on snowmobile trails. It is understood that unusualsituations may be encountered relating to trail conditions, topography, man made objects, or other circumstancesthat will require some modifications to typical sign placement. The most suitable placement of each sign must bedetermined at the site where all variables are visible. It would be prudent to document any cases where signplacement is outside the range indicated in this snowmobile signing handbook and prepare written justificationfor your files.
1. Trail Junctions ………………………… (Fig. 5, pg. 15)
2. Junction Identification Sign Placement... (Fig. 6, pg. 16)
3. Road Crossing ………………………… (Fig 7, pg 16)
4. Bridge …………………………………. (Fig 8, page 17)
5. Culverts ………………………………… (Figs 9-12, pages 17 &18)
6. Blind Hills ……………………………… (Fig. 13 & 14, pg. 19)
7. Field Gates …………………………….. (Fig. 15, pg. 19)
8. Woods Openings ……………………… (Fig. 16, pg. 19)
9. Natural and Manmade Objects ………… (Fig. 17-18, pg. 20)
10. Illegal Trails …………………………… (Fig. 19, pg. 20)
11. Sharp Curves…………………………… (Fig. 20, pg. 21)
12. Drainage Ditches……………………….. (Fig. 21, pg. 21)
OBJECT MARKERS
12
Snowmobile Junction Signing Guidelines
At each trail junction, one trail (at a “T” junction) should signed to stop; at 4-way trail junctions, at least one pairof opposing trails should be signed to stop.
1 .Each trail approaching the intersection musthave a Junction Ahead sign:
2 .The trail(s) that must stop must have a StopAhead sign that can be located on the same postas the Junction Ahead sign, and would beinstalled above the Junction Ahead sign.
3. The trail(s) that must stop must have a Stopsign installed as close to the stopping point aspossible but not more than 25 ft before that point.
4. Each intersection needs a guidepost locatednear the point where the approaching trailsintersect but off the groomed surface of the trail:
• The uppermost part of the guidepost needs to display an intersection identification number
• if the intersection is of two (2) corridor trails, this identification must be the sign supplied by Parks, and above the identifica- tion sign must be a reflector.
• all other intersection identifications need to begin with the 2-letter abbreviation of the county followed by a sequential number
• the guidepost should also include trail number information, directional arrows, and destinations with accurate mileages.
5. Each trail leading away from the intersectionmust have a trail number sign (supplied by Parks)that correctly identifies that trail located at apoint that is visible from the intersection and farenough down the trail to clearly establish the trailbeing identified.
JCTAHEAD
STOP
JCTAHEAD
JCT
AHEA
D
75–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2) 75–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
Information orGuide Sign
150–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
FIGURE 5
13
INTERSECTION IDENTIFICATION
PICTURE OF A TYPICAL 3-WAY INTERSECTION SHOWINGALL SPECIFICS OF THE INTERSECTION SIGNING GUIDELINES
SIGNING A ROAD CROSSING
A Guidepost made of 2 X 4’s showing corridor ID sign andreflector. A reflector should also be installed above the junctionidentification sign.
The main feature of any guidepost is to show the identificationof that intersection. There are four types of intersections, asdetermined by the trails program funding system:
1. corridor trail with corridor trail2. corridor trail with secondary trail3. secondary trail with secondary trail4. any local trail that is part of the statewide trail system.
Parks has established the following guidelines for all junctionidentification signs:
• 5 inches wide by 7 inches high, yellow text on a brown background; identifications begin with the 2-letter abbreviation followed by a sequential number.
STOP
STOP
175–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
175–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
Trail
Trail
FIGURE 7
FIGURE 6
14
SIGNING A BRIDGE
Bridge Ahead sign on each approach to the bridge at a distance from the bridge or adequate for thesnowmobiler to react to the presence of the bridge or at speeds anticipated due to the terrain surrounding thebridge.
All bridges must be signed with the Bridge Ahead sign and object markers appropriately installed on each cornerof the bridge.
SIGNING CULVERTS
A culvert is defined as a tube of someconstruction over which a trail crosses, notincluding the backfill area at each end of thetube.
A culvert should be marked with a BridgeAhead or Culvert Ahead on each approach tothe culvert and Object Markers on each sideof the culvert. (See Fig. 9)
Any culvert that narrows the groomed trailsurface needs to be marked.
Consideration should be given by trailmaintenance organizations to mark any culvertwhere grooming operations may cause thegroomed trail surface to shift closer than 24inches to the culvert edge.
BR
IDG
E
AH
EA
D
BR
IDG
E
AH
EA
D
175–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
175–500 ft. (see sec. 4.2)
FIGURE 8
FIGURE 9
GroomedTrailSurface
15
SIGNINGSHALLOWCULVERTS
All culverts that are less than12 inches from the bottom ofthe culvert pipe to the groomedtrail surface do not need to bemarked. (See Fig. 10)
2Less than
12"
Groomed Trail Surface
Culvert Pipe
SIGNING EXTENDED CULVERTS(WIDE)
Culverts that extend at a minimum of 24 inches beyondeach side of the groomed trail surface do not need to bemarked. (See Fig 11)
SIGNING FLUSH WITH TRAILEDGE CULVERTS (NARROW)
Culverts that do not provide the minimum 24 inches oneach side of the groomed trail surface, and the bottom ofthe culvert pipe is greater than 12 inches from thegroomed trail surface, must be marked. (See Fig. 12)
FIGURE 10
FIGURE 11
GroomedTrail
SurfaceCulvert Pipe
Back fill area
24" Minimum
GroomedTrail
Surface
Culvert PipeBack fill area
Less than 24"
Heightgreater
than12"
as shownin Figure
10
FIGURE 12
16
SIGNING BLIND HILLS IN FIELDS
Preferred method is to groom two separate trails to dividetraffic on each approach to the crest of the hill. Place aKeep Right or Stay Right sign at the point where the twotrails divide and a Keep Right or Stay Right sign at thecrest of the hill. (See Fig. 13)
SIGNING BLIND HILLS INWOODS
Place a Keep Right or Stay Right sign at the bottom ofeach approach to the hill and at the top of the hill for theopposite side. (See Fig. 14)
SIGNING FIELD GATES
The preferred method is that field gates must be markedwith an object marker on each side of the opening andin each direction. (See Fig. 15)
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
Divided
Trail
Hill Crest
Bottom of Hill
FIGURE 13
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
Fenceline Fenceline
FIGURE 14
FIGURE 15
FIGURE 16SIGNING WOODSOPENINGSThe preferred method is that openings intowoods from a field trail must be signed with anobject marker on each side of the opening.(See Fig. 16)
17
SIGNING NATURAL OBJECTS
Protruding natural objects (such as stumps orrocks) that are of a height or size that could obstructthe normal flow of traffic when covered with snowthat could make the object undetectable to thesnowmobile operator, and is within six feet of thegroomed trail surface should be marked with anobject marker. (See Object Markers pg. 13)
SIGNINGMANMADE OBJECTS
Any man-made object within six feet of thegroomed trail surface, and there are no naturalfeatures between the object and the groomed trailsurface, should be marked with an object marker.(See Object Markers pg. 13)
USED AS A MARKER FOR NATURAL
TRAILSIDE OBJECTS SUCH
AS STUMPS, ROCKS ETC.
FIGURE 17
USED AS A MARKER FOR MANMADE
TRAILSIDE OBJECTS SUCH
AS HYDRANTS, TELEPHONE POLES, ETC.
FIGURE 18
FIGURE 19
Illegal Trail
TrailPLEASE STAYPLEASE STAY
ON TRAILON TRAIL
PLEASE STAYPLEASE STAYON TRAILON TRAIL D
O N
OT
DO N
OT
ENTER
ENTER
SIGNING ILLEGAL TRAILSTHAT MEET THESTATEWIDE SYSTEM
Preferred method is to install Arrows and StayOn Trail signs on the existing trail in each direc-tion so that snowmobile traffic does not follow theillegal trail. Install signs on the illegal trailwarning snowmobile traffic not to use this trail.The club should then work with the landowner tosecure permission for a trail or to have the trailclosed off.
18
SHARP CURVES IN A FIELDWhen a trail crosses a field for a considerabledistance the straight run of trail may end with asharp curve in that field. Appropriate signage isneeded to alert the snowmobile operator of thischange in the trail. An important considerationin signing this condition is the potential speed asnowmobile may be traveling on the straight-away portion of the trail and the sharpness ofthe approaching curve. The preferred methodfor signing sharp curves in a field is to install apost with a Caution and Stay Right signapproaching the curve at a distance to allow thesnowmobiler opportunity to react to the upcom-ing curve and a Large Arrow (12” x 12”)installed closer to the actual curve. This needsto be done in both directions.
DRAINAGE DITCHESTrails that cross fields many timesmust also cross a drainage ditch thatseparates sections of a large farmfield. In some cases, grooming fillsthe ditch with snow, eliminating itfrom concern. But even in thosecases, a period of warm weathermay cause some of the snow-fill tocompact and even melt or thepresence of running water mayoccur, allowing the ditch to reap-pear. Snowmobilers need to beaware of the presence of a drainageditch on the trail. The preferredmethod for signing this condition isto install a Slow or Caution sign ata distance before the ditch to allowthe snowmobiler opportunity toreact to the presence of the ditchwith an Object Marker on eachside of the trail located in thevicinity of the ditch. This should bedone in both directions of the trail.
STAYSTAY
RIG
HT
RIG
HT
CA
UT
ION
STAYSTAYRIGHTRIGHT
CAUTION
Drainage Ditch
Groom
ed Trail
SLOW
SLOW
FIGURE 21
FIGURE 20
19
Staking
lumber. Actual sizes will reflect finished lumber, notrough cut lumber. It is preferred that field stakes beuniformly orange.
Reflective material should be placed at the top ofthe stake on opposing sides to improve visibility atnight. A schematic drawing can be found on page 21.
At least 3 square inches of reflective materialshould be attached on both sides of the stake at thetop of the stake. This will improve stake visibility atnight from both directions of travel. The length of thestake is selected so when driven into place, a mini-mum of 30 inches of stake remains visible above thetop of the snow. The reflective material should be asclose to the rider’s line of sight as possible. Stakelengths of 4-6 feet are typical.
STAKE INSTALLATION
Stakes are driven into the ground within the signlocation window. A commercial post driver is asimple and inexpensive tool that simplifies the job.
TYPICAL STAKE
Since they identify trail routing, stakes need tobe driven in pairs at right angles to the trail.
In forested areas, following the trail may be afairly obvious and straightforward task. However,when trails cross fields or other large cleared areas,trail routing may not be obvious. Relying on thegroomed track for trail routing information isinadequate since even a well established trail can bequickly obscured by heavy snow fall.
Both snowmobilers and groomer operators needcontinuous reference points to navigate the trailconfidently. A simple method of identifying trailrouting in open areas is to use special wooden stakesdriven into the snow or ground adjacent to the trail.
A typical stake is a 2” X 2” (minimum) piece ofinexpensive limber sharpened at one end to facilitateinstallation. Size refers to common dimensional
A minimum of three square inches of reflective materialshould be at the top of the stake.
The preferred method is to paintall field stakes uniformly orange.
2" x 2" spruce or similar. Lengthselected so stake extends 30"above average maximum snow depth. 60" overalllength is typical
60"
a) A single stake is used to augment an existing fixed object such as a fence post. When an existing fixed object is used, Object Marker signs should be used, not blazers.
b) Standard two-stake configuration leaves no doubt as to the intended trail route. A blazer can be installed under the reflector to assist snowmobilers in identifying the trail.
DISTANCE BETWEENSTAKE PAIRS
It is important in open fields that the next pairshould be easily visible at a distance immediatelyafter passing through a stake pair.
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IMPORTANT !
SIGNING TRAILS ON STATE LANDSAll trails on public lands are signed according to the regulations of the managing Agency, such as the Departmentof Environmental Conservation, the Canal Corporation, Department of Transportation, and Parks. Trail mainte-nance organizations need to abide by signing considerations as stated in the Agency permit to the trail mainte-nance organization. As Agencies develop and publish their respective trail signing regulations and guidelinesappropriate notification will be made to trail maintenance organizations.
Snowmobile Trail Sign Standards for Snowmobile Trails located onNew York State Forest Preserves, Reforestation and Wildlife
Management Areas
The location and design of snowmobile trail signs on lands administered by the New York State Department ofEnvironmental Conservation (DEC) known as the Forest Preserves, State Reforestation and Wildlife Manage-ment Areas will reflect the laws, policies and guidelines in place for the management of these areas.
On lands administered and managed by the DEC, the following criteria will be followed regarding the placementof signs on snowmobile trails or trail segments that cross these areas:
1. Placement of signs on DEC managed lands will be done under authorization of an approved Adopt aNatural Resource Agreement (AANR) or a Temporary Revocable Permit (TRP) from the RegionalDEC office.
2. Snowmobile trails will be marked with standard DEC trail markers.
3a. At intersections and access points, snowmobile corridor number and intersection number informationmay be posted. Corridor number and intersection number information will be incorporated on DECbrown and yellow trail sign boards. Sign boards will be designed to limit the number of signs needed atan intersection.
3b. If a DEC sign board containing trail intersection and corridor information is not available for a par-ticular intersection a Parks Corridor Trail Sign, and Intersection Sign may be posted until a sign boardbecomes available. Sign boards are preferred and should eventually replace Parks Corridor and Intersec-tion Trail Signs.
4. When a trail or trail segment enters any of these lands, a standard DEC “State Forest,” “ForestPreserve,” or other DEC boundary sign will be placed at the trail entrance identifying the fact that thetrail is now entering DEC managed State lands.
5. At the Regional land managers discretion a Trail Sign Plan may be required for each trail that involvestravel on DEC lands. A sign plan will include a description of the signs that are determined necessaryalong that route.
6. Restraint will be exercised in the placement of signs along these trails or trail segments. The necessityfor additional signs based on safety considerations will be established on a case-by-case basis in consulta-tion with DEC. The following are the preferred signs for public safety at appropriate locations: Stop 12x12(road crossings and heavily used trail intersections); Stop Ahead; and Caution.
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Notes
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State of New York,George E. Pataki, Governor
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation,Bernadette Castro, Commissioner
www.nysparks.comRevised 10/05
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation recognizes thevaluable input and guidance of the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA)
in the preparation and revision of this document.
