Trails are Progressing

Despite the recent snowfall 4-6 inches only are on the ground at this time. Our snowmobile trails are not yet ready for proper riding. Minnesota’s snowmobile trails officially opened Dec. 1; however, several conditions must be met before trails are open and ready for travel:

• The ground must be frozen to allow for crossing of wet areas. Be aware wet areas are still not frozen!
• Adequate snow cover – about 12 inches – must be on the ground to allow for trail packing and grooming. Even with more flurries expected we still do not have adequate snow coverage.
• Landowner permits that allow trails on private land must be in place. All permits are in for our trails.
• Trails must be cleared of dead falls, signs must be in place and gates must be opened; snowmobile clubs volunteers and DNR staff are currently working on these tasks. All (known) hazards are removed. IF you see any issues – please advise us.

“Although we have had a few cold days Minnesota lakes are forming ice, the ice is not yet thick enough on most lakes to support foot travel or snowmobiles,” noted Bob Moore, Grand Rapids area supervisor. WARNING: although our area trails do not cross lakes be advised there is NOT anywhere near enough ice on our lakes to support any travel. The DNR recommends a minimum of 5 inches of new clear ice for snowmobiles.

Many snowmobile trails cross private land. Landowners give permission for snowmobile use on the trails beginning Dec. 1. That permission is only for snowmobile use. Other uses are trespasses.

State trail conditions are posted each Thursday on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov.

WE WILL NOT BE GROOMNG OUR TRAILS UNTIL WE HAVE MORE THAN 12″ inches OF COVERAGE.