Snowmobile trails closed for the season

Snowmobilers are being warned to stay off of area OFSC-prescribed snowmobile trails effective immediately as the snowmobile season has come to an end.

These trails are now reported as “Unavailable” (Red) on the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide at ofsc.on.ca, because regular grooming operations have ceased, and signs and stakes are being removed, and gates and fences closed.

Snowmobilers are also advised that rapidly deteriorating snow and ice conditions due to spring thaw make snowmobiling extremely hazardous anywhere. Roads and road crossings are now generally bare, and the ice on all waterways is melted, melting or unstable.

“The only safe and sensible course of action for snowmobilers is to put away their sleds until next winter,” said Chuck Breathat, Sudbury Trail Plan president. “The risks of trying that ‘one last ride’ are simply too high now that spring thaw has commenced.”

The public is also reminded that an OFSC snowmobile trail on private land reported as “Unavailable” means that access to that trail is also prohibited for any other users or persons for all other seasons, without the specific prior permission of the landowner.

“On behalf of our clubs and volunteers, I want to thank all of the landowners who have generously allowed the use of their property for an OFSC snowmobile trail this winter,” said Breathat. “We also appreciate the support of the many snowmobilers who bought trail permits to help pay their share of the cost of trail operations for the past season.

“A very special thanks is also extended to all of the club volunteers who donated their services to assist local clubs in providing a successful season of snowmobiling.

“Although the winter is over, snowmobiling has become a year round business, so many volunteers will soon start to plan and prepare for next winter.”

Anyone interested in helping out can call the Sudbury Trail Plan Office at 705-693-7669.