Snowmobiles on skyline ridge Why?

I recently encountered snowmobile tracks in the terrain leading up to skyline lake and beyond. That area has traditionally been a favorite for back country skiers and snowshoes  for at least 30-40 years. It is an easy 30-60 minute tour to Skyline lake. Why does one need a snowmobile to access that terrain?  Too lazy to walk?  The snowmobiler(s) stayed on the road some of the time, but unfortunately they motored straight up and down the hillsides the rest of the time. The results were deep trenches across much of the south facing slopes above the parking lot.  This is bad back country etiquette and very inconsiderate and selfish behavior.  A few rotten apples are giving the snowmobile community a bad reputation.

i agree.
b

If it is not illegal, is there really an issue?

I recently encountered snowmobile tracks in the terrain leading up to skyline lake and beyond. That area has traditionally been a favorite for back country skiers and snowshoes  for at least 30-40 years. It is an easy 30-60 minute tour to Skyline lake. Why does one need a snowmobile to access that terrain?  Too lazy to walk?  The snowmobiler(s) stayed on the road some of the time, but unfortunately they motored straight up and down the hillsides the rest of the time. The results were deep trenches across much of the south facing slopes above the parking lot.  This is bad back country etiquette and very inconsiderate and selfish behavior.  A few rotten apples are giving the snowmobile community a bad reputation.

Are you new to getting out in the mountains in the winter? You sound like you are surprised. This is par for the course almost everywhere all of the time.

This is par for the course almost everywhere all of the time.

That's the problem to me. Snowmobiles are allowed to be almost everywhere all of the time.

I seen them on the road up on Monday. nice, respectful, guys. they stopped and asked if it was ok if they passed my dog and I. we went up top and chatted with them for a bit. they where doing sled bumps since they had no touring gear. they admitted it was a lot of effort, and touring gear would be easier and more appropriate. so lazy? no... they where more worked getting up there then we where. guess they where just out having a good time like everyone else.

can you be a little more specific where you seen their tracks? I seen no evidence of them leaving the road all week. so it either happened Friday afternoon, or Saturday. are sure they weren't just leaving the road on the way down? maybe they thought they where being considerate of tourers coming up?

while it's not illegal, stevens holds the permit for the lot, and the area above it. they don't allow offloading sleds in the lot or through employee housing. I have seen various sledders, riders, and filmers up there dozens of times. so, they must be getting permission.

note... this is all hearsay.