Bill description: HB 510 would require over-snow travelers (mountain bikers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, etc.) to obtain a permit and pay a fee prior to traveling on a snowmobile trail.

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Does it directly or indirectly create or increase any taxes, fees, or other assessments? Conversely, does it eliminate or reduce any taxes, fees, or other assessments? 


HB 510 would implement a $31 fee for anyone wishing to travel on a groomed snowmobile trail with anything other than a snowmobile or motorized vehicle. This fee would be assessed on all individuals, such as snowshoers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and horseback riders.

This legislation’s Statement of Purpose states, the permitting fee would offset the increased wear-and-tear caused to snowmobile trails by non-snowmobilers. The proposed $31 fee for non-snowmobilers is the same amount that snowmobile drivers must pay for their permit,  even though many of these non-snowmobilers cause far less damage to the trails.

Implementing a high permitting fee could discourage travelers, tourists, and recreationalists from spending time on Idaho’s recreational winter trails.

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