Conditions have been great for snowmobiling this winter with lots of snow and ideal weather over the last few weeks.

The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association is inviting all riders in the province to take a friend snowmobiling this week.

"Take a Friend Snowmobiling Week is all about getting people into the recreation of snowmobiling," said executive director Leah Switzer. "If you're a non-snowmobiler, and you've never been out, it is just a wonderful experience to have...Give them that experience of getting outdoors in the winter and enjoying one of your favourite pass times."

The event is designed to be simple with just a few recommended guidelines.

Points to cover should include:

a. Proper operation of the brake and throttle
b. Shifting weight and slowing down in curves
c. Staying on the right-hand side of the trail
d. Dismount the snowmobile on the right-hand side of the sled
e. Make sure the vehicle is in good mechanical order
f. Make sure your friend is appropriately dressed
g. NEVER ride impaired with alcohol or drugs

Switzer adds it's important for first-time snowmobilers to take it slow, know where you're going, and to always notify someone on where you plan to travel and don't ride alone.

She notes snowmobiling is a wonderful way to get out and see the province.

"The winter enables you in some areas of the province to access areas that you are unable to get to in the summer time. As well, it has great health benefits. There are great physical, as well as mental health benefits to getting out there in the sunshine and doing some riding."

There are 53 snowmobile clubs in the province that maintain the trails with another nine that are social clubs that help to promote the winter recreational hobby. The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association has about 785 members.

Switzer reminds riders that snowmobiles that are travelling on trails or public land need to be registered with SGI, noting there are approximately 20,000 registered machines every year. Also, anyone born after January 1, 1989 is required to obtain a Snowmobile Safety Certificate through a classroom or online course.

For more information or to access an interactive trail map and grooming conditions, go to sasksnow.com