The recent blast of wintry weather throughout Midwestern Ontario may seem like great news for many snowmobilers, but the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs is advising riders to stay off trails until they are officially opened.
The main reason is due to safety concerns, according to Karen Buratynski, OFSC District 9 Manager.
Buratynski says the recent snow has fallen on a lot of wet unfrozen ground causing water to bubble to the surface on many trails and says this creates very unsafe riding conditions.
"We need to give the (snowmobile) clubs some time, let them get out and inspect the trails, let them get the groomers through to let that water bubble up and form a good solid base before the riders start going on it," says Buratynski.
The only trail currently open to riders within District 9 is the B110 trail from Markdale to Owen Sound.
Buratynski hopes to see more trails open over the coming days and weeks ahead but says it will depend on weather conditions.
For more information on current snowmobile trails and conditions you can use the Interactive Trail Guide on the OFSC website at www.ofsc.on.ca or by calling 1-800387-7669 (SNOW).
