Best ATVs for Snow Removal: 8 Top Models (and Plowing Tips)

Features to look for in an ATV for snow removal

You’re looking for a machine that needs to start up on cold mornings and push heavy snow without leaving you stranded halfway through a client’s driveway. The right snow removal ATV should be reliable, handle the weather, and keep you on schedule.

A solid ATV should have a track record of durability and ideally come from a brand with strong local dealer support. Big-name brands like Honda, Polaris, and Yamaha are popular choices.

Recommended ATV size for plowing snow

When you’re picking out an ATV, don’t get caught up chasing the biggest engine you can afford. In this line of work, weight often matters more than raw horsepower. The sweet spot for an ATV with a snow plow tends to be in the 500-800cc range, and at least 650 pounds.

That weight helps the tires bite into icy pavement, and it gives the plow blade the backing it needs to push snow without skipping or sliding.

The downside of bigger machines is that they burn more fuel and cost more upfront. So, factor that into your overhead costs and route pricing.

READ MORE: How much to charge for snow removal

A smaller ATV might be able to get into tighter residential spots and have better fuel efficiency. What feels easy, pushing lightweight snow in November, will feel underpowered for moving wet, heavy snow in January.

Pro Tip: Look for “leftover” models in stores, which means the previous year’s model. Stores put big discounts on models that have sat in the showroom for a year, with the new year’s models coming in.

For example, in 2026, you might find a brand-new 2024 or 2025 model at a steep discount.

Best snow removal ATVs

The machines listed below hit the features and specs that matter most to snow removal business owners like you—dependable 4WD, strong engines, power steering, fuel injection, and rugged frames.

Here are eight of the best ATVs for snow removal.

1. Kawasaki Brute Force 750 SE EPS

The Brute Force lives up to its name. With a torque-heavy engine, selectable 4WD, and factory winch compatibility, the 750 is all about traction and power. Rugged suspension and a tough frame mean it holds up under repeated, commercial-grade use. It’s perfect for long routes with heavy snow loads.

Based on the must-haves for plowing and all the specs to look for, Brute Force is one of the best ATVs for plowing snow.

Starting price: $13,299

2. Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS SE

The Kodiak is a steady, dependable machine. With a slightly more compact chassis than its Grizzly counterpart, it balances torque-rich performance with better maneuverability in tight spaces. 

A plow-ready frame, 4WD, and operator comfort make it a smart pick if you’re looking for versatility.

Starting price: $10,299

3. Yamaha Grizzly EPS XT-R

The Grizzly has a loyal following, and for good reason. Its fuel-injected engine fires up reliably even on the coldest mornings, and the automatic transmission paired with responsive EPS makes plowing straightforward. 

If you want something tough, consistent, and easy to operate when the snow keeps coming down, the Grizzly is built for you.

Starting price: $11,399

4. Can-Am Defender XT

The Defender is the heavy-duty pickup of the ATV world, designed with commercial workloads in mind. 4WD, a torquey engine, and stout suspension make it solid on steep or uneven ground.

With winch compatibility and quick-attach plow systems, you’ve got a machine that’ll keep you efficient and comfortable through long shifts.

Starting price: $16,899

5. Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS

Polaris has long been a favorite among contractors, and the Sportsman 570 shows why. Affordable yet capable, it blends power with selectable 4WD, EPS, and straightforward plow-mounting options. 

You can also rely on strong dealer support from Polaris, which matters when you’re running a business and can’t afford downtime.

Starting price: $9,199

6. Can-Am Outlander XT 850

The Outlander 850 is a powerhouse for pushing heavy, compacted snow. It’s high ground clearance and rugged chassis give it the backbone for rough winter terrain. Plow kit compatibility makes setup straightforward. 

This is the muscle contractors want for tackling big jobs.

Starting price: $14,049

7. Suzuki KingQuad 750AXi Power Steering

Durability is the KingQuad’s calling card. Its locking front differential and heavy-duty suspension mean it can handle deep snow and icy conditions. 

And with power steering, you’ve got a machine that delivers strength and control without wearing you down after repetitive plow cycles.

Starting price: $10,929

8. Honda FourTrax Rancher 4×4 Automatic DCT EPS

Honda built its reputation on reliability, and the Rancher carries that. The automatic dual-clutch transmission takes the stress out of constant forward-reverse cycles. 4WD and electric power steering provide confident control. 

If you want low maintenance and predictable performance, the Rancher is for you.

Starting price: $8,599

Tips for snow plowing with ATVs

Running an ATV with a plow can save time and labor, but a few things will really make the difference between smooth operations and a breakdown. Here are some tips to keep in mind when putting your machine to work:

• Gear up properly: Insulated gloves, waterproof boots, and eye protection are your basics. You could even wear a helmet with a shield when the snow blows at you.
• Stay alert: Watch for cars pulling in and any blind corners on commercial properties. Even a small ATV can do damage.
• Choose the right blade size: Most mid-range ATVs work best with 48-60” plow blades. Go bigger, and you might bog the machine down. Any smaller and you’ll just waste time.
• Set up the blade correctly: Check mounting points and make sure the angle matches the job (straight for stacking, angled for windrowing).
• Plan where the snow goes: Before you start, think about where the piles will sit. On residential driveways, don’t bury the mailbox. In commercial lots, don’t block traffic lanes or loading docks.
• Plow with the storm: Don’t wait until there’s a ton of snow on the ground. Make a couple of passes during the storm so the job’s easier on your machine.
• Tackle heavy snow in layers: Wet snow should also be cleared in multiple passes. Overloading the blade will strain the ATV and leave uneven results.
• Inspect at the end of the day: Check for loose bolts, bent parts, and frayed winch lines. A quick inspection can help you catch small problems before they turn into a big one with downtime.
• Keep fluids and grease in check: Winter is hard on moving parts, so make transmission fluid, oil, and grease fittings part of your routine.
• Protect your gear: Your ATV and plow are business-critical equipment, so operate carefully and do regular maintenance. The extra effort will keep you profitable and your customers happy.

Pro Tip: When plowing with your ATV, push the snowbank far back from the edge of the driveway or lot. ATVs typically won’t be able to push back the snowbank much, and they can’t raise the plow blade high enough to do that either.