Despite Snowfall, Minnesota Snowmobile Trails Don’t Officially Open Until December 1

With the recent snowfall, snowmobile enthusiasts are itching to get out there and ride.  The Minnesota DNR reminds riders, however, that trails are not yet ready for riding and  don't officially open until December 1.

The DNR says that several conditions must be met before trails are open and ready for travel:

• The ground must be frozen to allow for crossing wet areas.
• Adequate snow cover, about 12 inches, must be on the ground to allow for packing and grooming of the trails.
• Trails must be cleared of fallen trees, signs put in place and the gates opened. Snowmobile club volunteers and DNR staff are currently working on these tasks.

Also,after recent record-breaking warm temperatures into early November, most lakes remain ice-free despite the recent snow. The DNR recommends a minimum of 5 inches of new clear ice for snowmobiles.

When the trails open, the DNR urges riders to use caution. Early season trails may have trees or other debris across the trails, unfrozen areas, rocks or ruts, or standing crops and closed gates. Also, road ditches can have obstacles such as culverts, signposts and rocks.