UNDATED (KDAL) – With nearly 17 inches of snow in the Twin Ports and more in other areas, the snowmobile riding season has come early compared to recent years.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding operators to keep safety in mind.
State trails can open as early as December 1st if certain conditions are met for grooming. There must be at least a foot of snow on the ground to allow for packing and grooming, trails need to be cleared of fallen trees, signs put in place and gates opened.
Nearly all of the 22 thousand miles of trails in the state are maintained by local snowmobile clubs and volunteers.
Check new state laws and snowmobile regulations at the website http://mndnr.gov/regulations/snowmobile
Safety tips include staying on designated trails, measuring ice depth before riding on lakes and rivers (5 to 7 inches are recommended), watch your speed, wear a helmet and don’t drink and drive.
Alcohol is a factor in over 60 percent of fatal snowmobile accidents in Minnesota.
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