Sound restrictions for snowmobiles

Could start with the same decibel limits used for motorcycles on FS lands

Do you think it would make a positive difference in your backcountry experience? 

Yes. When I've skied near snowmobiles in the past, the primary impact has been audible. One of the most precious resources in a winter storm/environment is the quiet.

In addition, I've often wondered if, all else being equal, a quiet/silent snowmobile might be more fun anyway. Pushbutton ticket to the quiet white room...

...you can't smell 'em, even from 10 ft away...

..if resort maintenance could switch to 4-stroke, then stinky inbound fumes might disappear in concert with decibel reductions...

Good point about the state of technology.  I was considering Tobys' sled, but I want a four stroke.  Four strokes may not have as much power (?), but they are quiet and you can't smell 'em, even from 10 ft away. 

DavidG, if you are considering a four stroke (which I have owned), consider an E-tec motor, which is a fuel injected 2-stroke. This motor is exclusive of Ski-doo. I have one presently, and it is right on par with 4-stroke noise levels and fuel efficiency. On the down side, it does use oil, but nothing compared to a carbed 2-stroke.
4-strokes main disadvantage is the weight of the machine.

In addition, I've often wondered if, all else being equal, a quiet/silent snowmobile might be more fun anyway. Pushbutton ticket to the quiet white room...

I can't say this was blissfully quiet, but it had plenty of WHITE vROOM!!!!

I can't say this was blissfully quiet, but it had plenty of WHITE vROOM!!!!

Beautiful. Nothing like the ice cap with a few feet of fresh....