This picture was taken today.

Obviously we just had snow. However, even on a day when there are good packed down trails (which are necessary for quads and ATVs) to get out on, if there is wind then there are drifts. Many times people go out on ATVs with no problem only to find that the snow has drifted across the paths and they have a really hard time getting back in.

As mlSmith said, when there is a crack like last week that is 12" wide of open water, the snowmobiles went right across without even thinking about it.. Those with quads had to find another way around or across... Not devestating when there is no snow, but if there had been snow and no access roads already packed down by the snowmobiles then the ATVs would have had issues.

Last year I was on a 6x6 Ranger Side by Side with chains on 2 of the rear tires and the front tires. We managed, but we struggled a lot and those on sleds had to wait for us.

In my mind, there is no question that there are days that quads will be just fine, but there will be plenty (like right now and this weekend) where you will literally be sunk and stuck. ATVs won't be going anywhere this weekend unless they stay on the beaten paths.

The other thing is that the snowmobiles are much safer in regards to not going through the ice.

I have both and use both. But if I had to chose to just have 1 or the other then it would be a sled, hands down.

-Matt
(Photo is from 2/2/2015) the guy had to be pulled out of the snow with an airboat