Dakota Drifters

About Dakota Drifters

Dakota Drifters is a volunteer snowmobile club based in Brookings, South Dakota. The club marks and grooms more than 100 miles of trail in eastern South Dakota, linking Brookings with Arlington, Bruce, Volga, Toronto, White, Aurora and Elkton, and its trails connect with neighboring club systems for even more riding. It is a member club of the South Dakota Snowmobile Association.

More Than 100 Miles of Trail

Every winter, Dakota Drifters volunteers sign and groom a trail network of more than 100 miles across Brookings County and the surrounding area. The system has grown over time, most recently extending to Elkton near the Minnesota line.

Because the trails tie into systems maintained by neighboring clubs, riders are not limited to one loop. A day that starts in Brookings can reach towns across the region on smooth, marked trail. A trail map is posted on the club website.

As with every snowmobile trail in the northern plains, the season depends on snow. Trails open when conditions allow grooming, so check with the club or the South Dakota Snowmobile Association before heading out.

Membership Covers Two Organizations

Joining Dakota Drifters also makes you a member of the South Dakota Snowmobile Association. One affordable family membership covers both, and dues can be paid online through the club website.

That state membership brings real benefits. The association promotes and protects snowmobile trails across South Dakota, keeps members informed about legislation that affects riding access, including in national forests, and provides state and local trail maps. Members also receive the Sno-Plainsman, the association’s newspaper, several times a year.

Local businesses can support the club through a business associate membership.

Club Life

Dakota Drifters stays busy through the year. Winter brings club rides, poker runs and a charity ride. The 2026 charity ride benefited the Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program.

The club also offers snowmobile safety courses taught by certified instructors, which is one of the best things a club can do for new and young riders.

Outside of riding season, members get together for a summer grillout, a summer UTV poker ride, a Christmas party and a spring banquet. The club is also a regular in the Hobo Day Parade, the big homecoming celebration at South Dakota State University in Brookings.

Meetings

The club holds full club meetings in the evening through the fall and winter, along with board of directors meetings. Dates and locations are posted on the club website and Facebook page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Dakota Drifters based?

In Brookings, South Dakota.

How many miles of trail does the club maintain?

More than 100 miles, marked and groomed by club volunteers.

What towns do the trails connect?

Arlington, Brookings, Bruce, Volga, Toronto, White, Aurora and Elkton, with connections to neighboring club trail systems.

Does joining the club include state membership?

Yes. Dakota Drifters membership includes membership in the South Dakota Snowmobile Association.

Does the club offer safety training?

Yes. The club offers snowmobile safety courses taught by certified instructors.

What events does the club hold?

Club rides, poker runs, a winter charity ride, a summer grillout, a summer UTV poker ride, a Christmas party, a spring banquet and the Hobo Day Parade.

How do I join?

Through the membership form on the club website, with online payment available.

More information on Dakota Drifters; Click here https://www.dakotadrifters.org/

For more snowmobile venues click here: https://www.plainspowersports.com/category/snowmobile/