The forecast across the area is calling for snow, which is what is needed as Minnesota snowmobile trails are set to open on Tuesday, December 1, but they they need more snow before riding can begin.

Snowmobilers are eagerly awaiting the first significant snowfall as most of the state’s snowmobile trails are not yet ready for riding, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Minnesota’s snowmobile trails officially open Dec. 1 each year; and 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.

The warm fall weather lingered longer than normal so ice formation is getting a late start this year. Crews are out removing brush from trails where they can, and that pace will pick up once cold weather helps freeze the low-lying areas,” said Grand Rapids area supervisor Bob Moore. “The lack of early snow can be beneficial to building good ice conditions.”

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.

While snowmobilers wait for the arrival of more snow, now is a good time to verify their combined registration and trail sticker is current, ensure their snowmobiles are in good operating order, review safety training, and check local trail maps for any route changes or new trails.

Use the link below to get snowmobile trail information, state trail maps, regulations, safety training, and more.

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