ATV Snow Groomer: Can a 400–700cc ATV Pull One?

Yes, a 400–700cc ATV can pull a trail groomer, because even a fully weighted SNO-MASTER 48 tops out at 254 pounds, far below the 1,000-plus-pound towing ratings of most mid-size utility ATVs. The catch is traction: in soft snow an ATV needs a track kit to groom well, and we recommend sticking with a 48-inch groomer or narrower behind an ATV.

Here is how to match an ATV snow groomer to your machine, what hitch to use and what to expect on the trail.

Can a 400–700cc ATV pull a trail groomer?

Towing capacity is not the problem. As an example, Polaris lists the Sportsman 570 with a 1.25-inch receiver, 1,350 pounds of towing capacity and a 48-inch overall width. Our groomers are designed to be ultra-light so they can be pulled by small machines. The SNO-MASTER 48 weighs 102 pounds empty with wings, and the narrow-trail Path-Master weighs 71 pounds.

The challenge is that an ATV is short and heavy on four small contact patches. In fresh powder the tires sink, spin and stall, especially when pulling anything. That is why our sizing charts list a tracked ATV, not a wheeled one, as a match for the SNO-MASTER 48. Tracks spread the weight out so the ATV floats on top of the snow, and they also pack the snow ahead of the groomer.

ATV snow groomer sizing chart

Our preseason sizing guide recommends a SNO-MASTER 48 or Pro 48 for a tracked ATV. We list the 72-inch SNO-MASTER for 20-inch long-track snowmobiles or tracked ATVs and UTVs, but for ATVs we suggest the 48, which is lighter, easier to turn on tight trails and still grooms a 6-foot pass.

Hitching a groomer to an ATV

Many mid-size ATVs have a 1.25-inch receiver or a ball mount. Every groomer we sell ships with a pin hitch and an adapter for a pintle or 2-inch ball, and we offer two inexpensive hitch options:

• ATV/UTV Universal Hitch 3/4-inch ($80). This is the common choice for ATVs.
• 18-inch Pin Coupler ($200). Track kits extend past the rear of the machine, so moving the towbars back keeps them from hitting the tracks in turns.

Our guide to choosing a hitch coupler explains offsets that keep the towbars level so the SNO-RAZOR blade cuts at the right angle.

Tips for grooming with an ATV

Start with enough snow

With ultra-compact groomers we typically start grooming once there are at least 6 to 12 inches of snow. Less than that can drag dirt and rocks into the trail.

Groom often, and at the right time

Packing after every snowfall builds a firm base. We like to groom in the early evening when temperatures are around 25–30°F with below-freezing nights ahead, and we wait at least two hours before using freshly groomed snow. See our step-by-step trail building guide for more.

Keep the speed moderate

Most grooming happens at 5–12 mph, according to our snow grooming speed guide. Slower is better in deep or heavy snow.

Add weight gradually

The SM48 can hold six weight blocks (99 pounds). Start light. If the ATV struggles, remove weight before you try to go faster.

Plan for getting stuck

ATVs can get stuck in deep snow. Carry a shovel and tow rope and, if possible, groom with a second machine nearby. Our groomers use shear pins and bolts so they break away safely if you hit something hidden under the snow.

ATV vs snowmobile vs UTV for snow grooming

If you are still choosing a machine, our posts on types of snow groomers and the best snow groomer for recreational use walk through the trade-offs. The Find My Groomer tool can also narrow it down in a minute.