The official opening of the snowmobile season may start December 1st but the Minnesota DNR says trails are not usable yet. Several conditions must be met first:

• The ground needs to be frozen, and there has to be 15 inches of ice on wetlands to support the weight of trail groomers
• There needs to be 12 inches of snow on the ground
• Trails must be cleared of fallen trees
• Signs must be put in place and gated opened

The Minnesota DNR says that while snowmobilers wait for snow to arrive, now is a good time to make sure registrations are current and snowmobiles are working. It’s also a good time to review safety training and check local trail maps for changes or additions.

For more safety tips and registration information, head to the Minnesota DNR’s website.