On January 31, 2024, at 10:41am, West Yellowstone Police Department Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a snowmobiler who was recreating with a friend when one of the snowmobilers sustained injuries as a result of a snowmobile vs tree collision. The caller indicated that his friend was in need of immediate medical treatment near Madison Arm Rd, 4 miles north of West Yellowstone, Montana.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) volunteers from the West Yellowstone detachment, West Yellowstone Police Department, Hebgen Basin Rural Fire District (HBRFD), and Gallatin County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the request for aid. The GCSSAR team members determined that due to the low snow conditions and the injured snowmobiler’s proximity to the Madison Arm trail, a tracked four-wheeler, side by side UTV, and a snowmobile response would serve the patient best. When GCSSAR members arrived on scene, it was discovered the patient had sustained a serious wrist injury. The patient was transported from the scene of the accident by a specialized tracked four-wheeler towed ambulance to a waiting HBRFD ambulance for further evaluation. The injured snowmobiler was later transported to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center for higher level care.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind winter recreationalists that due to the below average snow fall, please be aware of the dangers arising from changing snow and trail conditions. Sheriff Springer would also like to remind winter recreationalists of the importance of having the ability to reach emergency services when enjoying winter activities.