Unseasonable Warmup Has Affected Trail Conditions Throughout Michigan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources warns that during this current stretch of warmer weather, riders using trails in many locations throughout the state may encounter poor conditions in low-lying areas and some areas exposed to the sun. Any trails with marginal snow and wet areas could become impassible. The forecast for the next few days indicates continued warmup with low temperatures not reaching much below freezing, as well as minimal snowfall.

The majority of trails in the Upper Peninsula are open and in good shape, but riders are urged to operate with caution and be aware of changing conditions. The majority of trails in the northern Lower Peninsula are in fair to poor condition but remain open. Trails in southern Michigan are closed. In all areas of the state, riders should operate with caution and check local trail conditions before heading out.

In the Upper Peninsula, for example, only one trail segment of Trail 8 between Paradise (Chippewa County) and the mouth of the Tahquamenon River currently is being closed. The Bear Creek Swamp segment of Trail 2 near Blaney Park (Schoolcraft County) continues to be closed. Neither of these trails is able to be rerouted.

Riders can check the websites of local snowmobile grant sponsors or the Michigan Snowmobile Association for trail updates. The DNR will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as changes are reported.

More information, including links to partner organizations, trail maps and trail reports, is available on the DNR website www.michigan.gov/dnrtrails.