You can.. I've seen them done that way... I just didn't like the idea of going even lower with the added on exhaust pipe.. And besides, it gave it a totally different sound by running it out the back end.. The stock mufflers compromise some horsepower by keeping the big 500 quiet.. I was willing to give up some noise to gain some power.. Its not too loud to use at the deer lease.. But, it is significantly louder than the stock set-up..
The ones I've seen that are attached to the factory outlets seem to do OK.. If you have the rear tube bumpers, what I would suggest is running the exhaust pipe to the INSIDE of the bumpers..(between the bumper and body.. It will protect it from your riding buddies when you have to stop suddenly..) The bumper will also give you an excellent place to clamp it to..
One other thing.. We GAS WELDED all the work on my machine.. I was leary about the effects of MIG welding on my digital odometer and the ignition system..
If you can't find somebody to gas weld it.. I would fit everything up the way you want it, mark everything with soap stone.. Then take it down and have it welded OFF the machine.. Then re-install it..
Oh.. another thing.. the factory exhaust springs on my muffler seemed kinda weak.. so I replaced them with heavy duty ones from the local True-Value Hardware store...

 

Thanks mudmachine great idea about freeing up the horsepower. Ive got one more question. How much would it cost me (about) to get the pipe bent and ready to go at a muffler shop? I know you got hooked up by you friend but Im curious to know how much it would cost. Thanks alot!

 

If they charged you over $20 for the pipe, bending it, and the installation.. They are getting over on ya..
Most muffler shops are "good old boys" themselves... and gettting the word out about "HIS" muffler shop doing good work for a decent price... That kind of advertisement goes a LONG way...
I've sent a BUNCH of business his way... He called me a couple days ago and was saying that two guys carrying about 10 machines came in for snorkels..
One thing about the snorkels... Make sure you keep the pipe running as close to the machine as possible... Mine comes out of the machine, makes a 45 degree bend.. go a little ways.. makes another 45 to get it headed vertical... then a 90 degree turn above the rack to go back.. Its two bends instead of one to get it vertical.. but it keeps the pipe closer to the machine and out of harms way..
Another thing to remember.. since you will have a snorkel and no doubt go into deeper water... Think about extending your rear differential vent tube to keep water out.... Or you will need to change the rear end oil frequently.. It too is a simple mod. Just find the right size plastic vacuum connector from the local auto parts store.. and buy several feet of that same size vacuum hose... attach it to the existing one using the connector. and run it up thru the frame and into your headlight pod.. (thats where mine is anyway..) Just some place up higher than the deepest water you want to play in..

Good Luck!!