Riding a snowmobile on edge (tipped with one ski in the snow and one in the air) allows you to safely access and explore a wide variety of diverse terrain. No other mountain riding technique has progressed or evolved over the last 20 years in comparison to sidehilling.

Actually, 20 years ago sidehilling wasn’t even that popular. You rarely saw anyone sidehilling. Sidehilling began as an attempt to get up and across a hill, that is until gravity altered your path, resulting in a rainbow-shaped track in the snow. What came next was the often out-of-control full throttle maneuver across an open hill while holding on for dear life. Currently, sidehilling is a controlled method of riding back and forth across slopes full of obstacles and traversing up and down steep mountainsides, all while maintaining control and typically being able to stop and go at will. Many factors have contributed to the evolution of this technique. Most notably are more capable, purpose-built snowmobiles and the exposure of riders demonstrating the endless possibilities when performed properly.

Sidehilling is the most popular technique that our Mountain Skillz clients want to improve and I want to share some of the basic fundamentals.

Before hitting the mountain, it’s very important to understand the current avalanche danger for the area, carry the proper gear (beacon and backpack/airbag containing a probe and shovel with a metal blade) and know how to use each item.

Find a safe and mellow slope to start out. The first and most important step to sidehilling is establishing position. Once the sled is on edge, you are in control. This is most easily achieved in the wrong foot forward position. Counter-steer, apply a quick aggressive on/off throttle action (just enough to spin the track for a split second) and pull the handlebars toward you at the moment the track breaks free.

FOR EXAMPLE…

For example, say we want the sled on its right side. Place your left foot on the right running board, hands in proper position at each grip (do not use a mountain bar) and turn the handlebars so that the skis are pointed all the way to the left. Rock your body left to right and pull the handlebars into your chest while making a quick burp of the throttle. The sled will pop right over. Do the exact opposite to place the sled on its left side. Be sure to commit to the action because when done properly, it works 100 percent of the time.

Now you can experiment with the balance point of the sled, which is the angle that requires little to no effort to hold the leaning position. Sidehilling is a matter of technique, not strength. Now that you and your sled are in the correct position, keep your head up and look in the direction you want to go. Apply quick, aggressive on/off throttle actions to propel the track while simultaneously taking steps with your free leg to maintain a stable plat form. Pushing off of the snow with each step will help keep the sled moving forward. You will find it easier to maintain control at low speeds. Carry enough momentum that you are not just digging a hole, but not so much that you lose control. If you feel like you are losing control, stop. Regroup, catch your breath and start over.

It’s much easier to establish position if the sled is not moving. Work on both sides to prevent favoring one or the other. As you become comfortable with this position and gain confidence, start working around obstacles and onto steeper slopes. The best thing about this technique is that the same actions are applied in advanced terrain and extreme situations. Winter is coming, so have a great Fall and I’ll see you on the snow.



(Matt Entz owns Mountain Skillz, where he teaches avalanche safety and conducts workshops to improve snowmobile riding skills. For more information, visit www.mountainskillz.com.)

Article from SnoWest October 2014 Issue.