While most outdoor enthusiasts are still looking to enjoy boating, hiking and other summertime pursuits, it may already be time to start planning for a snowmobile trip to Yellowstone National Park this winter.

As of last week, people can apply for permits to snowmobile in the park without a commercial guide during the winter of 2019-20. Permit recipients will be chosen by a lottery system, with applications accepted on www.recreation.gov from Aug. 1-31.

Successful applicants will be notified in mid-September. Unclaimed or cancelled permits will be made available on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning on Oct. 1; there is no waiting list. Cancellations may occur throughout the winter season, so check the website for openings.

Authorized in 2013, the Non-commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program allows one group of up to five snowmobiles to enter Yellowstone from each of the park’s four winter entrances per day.

Trips can be for a maximum of three days in length, and permits cost $40 per day with a $6 application fee.

Permit holders are considered non-commercial guides and must be at least 18 years old on the first day of their trips. All snowmobile operators must possess a state-issued driver’s license and successfully complete the free online Yellowstone Snowmobile Education Certification program. All snowmobiles must meet the park’s New Best Available Technology standard.

Visitors can also choose to snowmobile through Yellowstone with one of the park’s licensed commercial guides.