onX Offroad Gets Snowmobile-Focused Updates: Access SNOTEL Data, Updated Snow Mode
With onX Offroad app’s timely 2022 update, snowmobile lovers have new options for staying safe while exploring the backcountry.
Snowstorms dumped on the Western U.S. this week, signaling the arrival of the winter sports season. For those who love exploring the winter wonderland on a snowmobile, onX has updated the Snow Mode on its Offroad app with a few extra features.
The onX app already provided users with 147,000 miles of snowmobile trails in 32 states, along with snow-safety layers and tools for the backcountry. Users get access to route descriptions, photographs, and other tools — even without cell service.
Additions to the onX app will help riders reduce planning time, increase safety, and improve coordination of group rides, the company said.
onX Offroad App: Snow Mode Features
For those unfamiliar, the Snow Mode already offered several critical tools for snowmobilers.
OnX App users can easily pull up avalanche forecasts from the American Avalanche Association. These forecasts also help riders understand the risks of avalanche-prone terrain and how to deal with it safely. In addition to topographic maps, the Slope Angle feature provides color-coded layers that help users identify and avoid avalanche terrain.
With the new update, however, riders can also view the cardinal direction of a slope in the Slope Aspect mode. That helps plan for sun exposure, wind loading, and “other potential avalanche ingredients,” the company said.
There’s also the addition of SNOTEL Data. The US has 730 SNOpack TELemetry sites across the country. These weather stations in remote mountain areas provide more accurate info on snow depth and temperature than local weather reports. Users of the onX Snow Mode will now see these reports on their map, illustrated by black-and-white snowflake icons.
Finally, there’s the ability to import Markups from apps used in the past into onX Offroad. That includes apps from trail groups, the company said, though this function is only available to onX Offroad members. Users can also share Markups with friends offline using Airdrop.
onX Offroad App: Universal Features & Pricing
No matter what winter activity you pursue this season, the basic features of onX’s app can help improve safety and preparation.
The app includes info from thousands of weather stations, including temperature, sunrise/sunset times, and 7-day forecasts. Its Tracker, Waypoints, and Offline Maps help riders keep track of where they’ve already explored — and the places they’d like to revisit. App maps also include “points of interest,” like parking lots and warming areas.
If and when conditions suddenly take a turn for the worse (hint: whiteout), the offline map function will help users find their way home.
It’s possible to try the app for free for 7 days. After that, users will need to pay $30 a year for the Premium level, or $100 for the Elite level, which includes the boundaries of private property.
Learn more about the Snowmobile functions here, and check out additional info on pricing here.
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