Yellowstone snowmobile use up

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — More people rode snowmobiles in Yellowstone National Park this winter than in the past several years, but even the busiest day didn't approach the daily limit of 720 snowmobiles allowed in the park.

On average, 299 snowmobiles entered the park between December and March 11, when the winter season ended. Last year the average was 253.

Even the busiest day this season — Dec. 28, when 542 snowmobiles entered — fell below the daily limit that's been in place since 2004 and is the number that the National Park Service is considering for a long-term rule to reduce air pollution and noise in the park.

Overall, 24,551 snowmobiles entered the park this winter carrying 30,940 people. The West Entrance was the busiest with an average of 179 snowmobiles per day and a peak of 340, according to figures released Thursday.

Al Nash, a park spokesman, said it's difficult to pinpoint a single factor that led to the increase in snowmobile numbers.

"In my mind, the fact that we have been able to provide a consistent set of winter-use rules that people can count on for three seasons has allowed visitors and businesses to be able to plan for the winter season," Nash said.

All snowmobiles entering the park have to meet noise and pollution standards and all riders must be with a commercial guide.

Park officials are expected to release a draft plan later this month outlining a long-term proposal for snowmobiles and snowcoaches in the park. The plan is expected to be completed later this year.

Park officials don't have a complete tally of snowcoaches for this winter. Preliminary figures, which Nash said are low, show 2,429 snowcoaches entered the park with 20,206 passengers.

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Information from: Billings Gazette, www.billingsgazette.com