On January 7th, 2025, at 9:18AM, Gallatin County 911 Dispatch was notified of a snowmobile crash after a rider veered off the trail and collided with a tree. The rider sustained a severe leg injury in the crash rendering the rider unable to move.
Volunteers from Gallatin County Search and Rescue in West Yellowstone, Custer Gallatin National Forest Service, Montana Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Air Idaho Rescue, and Hebgen Basin Rural Fire District responded to the scene. Rescuers located the rider and quickly provided critical care after assessing the injured rider’s condition. Due to the severity of the injury, the patient was transferred to a waiting Air Idaho Rescue helicopter which provided rapid evacuation to the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.
We are proud of the swift and coordinated efforts of our SAR volunteers along with the interagency personnel. Their teamwork and expertise were critical in ensuring the injured rider received prompt medical care.
Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind snowmobilers to be mindful of their limits and maintain safe speeds. Furthermore, it is advisable to stay on marked trails and be sure to have warm clothing and extra food and water in the event of an unexpected stay in the Backcountry. And as always, recreate with a friend who can contact emergency services in the event of an accident.
