Families can participate in poker runs, and some snowmobile manufacturers like Polaris and Ski-Doo take people for guided rides. There are also children's activities and events for those not riding, including turkey bowling, where participants take frozen turkeys and hit bowling pins. On the final night there is a parade scheduled for 4pm, followed by a fireworks display in Rangeley's town cove. The snowmobiling season in Maine generally begins in late December and lasts until late March, though parts of far northern and western Maine can run longer, depending on snow conditions. The best time to go to be assured good snow cover is from late January through early March.
Weekends can get quite crowded on some trails, so if possible, head out on a weekday.
There are registration fees for snowmobiles in Maine. Maine and New Hampshire have a reciprocity deal that allows residents of either state who are registered to ride in the other state without further charge. Trails are fastidiously groomed partially with the help of state funds raised through these registration fees as well as gas taxes. Volunteers at the many local snowmobile associations also help maintain the trails. Anyone planning to head out on the trails without a guide should remember a few vital rules.