Riding conditions are at their best this winter, thanks to ample snowfall across Michigan and solid coverage on thousands of miles of state designated snowmobile and off-road vehicle trails.
With the long Presidents Day weekend, (Feb. 14-16), expected to bring heavy traffic to popular trail systems, riders are encouraged to make safety part of their plans and remember the importance of riding smart as a group.
Officials urge riders to keep a safe distance between machines and avoid crowding the rider ahead. Groups should ride at a pace comfortable for the least experienced member and check in regularly to ensure everyone remains together. Transport a passenger only if the machine is designed and manufactured to carry one.
If a stop is necessary, use designated trail stop areas and move completely off the trail before removing a helmet. Riders should never stop side-by-side, in the middle of the trail, at the crest of a hill, on a curve or at an intersection.
Trail users are reminded to share the trail. Some designated snowmobile routes are also open to ORVs and nonmotorized users. Nonmotorized users and grooming equipment have the right-of-way. When approaching from opposite directions, riders should pull over and yield safely.
For trail maps, updated conditions and additional safety tips, visit Michigan.gov/Snowmobiling.
