Minnesota's network of 22,000 miles of snowmobile trails, nearly enough to take you all the way around the world, officially opened Monday.
And just in time.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has unveiled an improved website (www.mndnr.gov/snow) to provide updated snow depth and trail conditions, along with other useful information.
"We have an amazing asset out there, and people really take advantage," said DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr.
The trail network, unmatched in the United States, crisscrosses state parks, forest and trails, along with significant portions of private land from cooperating owners.
Conditions for trails around the state that are now open are poor, awaiting needed snow to set a firm base. But now is a good time to make sure registrations are in order, equipment is tuned, maps are downloaded — and safety rules are reviewed.
"It's a great way to spend a winter day, but we want you to be safe as well," Landwehr said.
There are more than 216,000 registered snowmobiles in the state, and more than 450,000 Minnesotans partake in riding, said Terry Hutchinson, president of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association. The 40,000-member group voluntarily maintains nearly all of the state's snowmobile trails.
