After all the snow that fell in Grey and Bruce counties over the past weekend, some snowmobile trails are starting to open up.
Manager of District 9 of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs Karen Buratynski says the recent snowfall has allowed many clubs to begin their trail building operations in the area.
District 9 encompasses all of the snowmobile clubs in Bruce and Grey counties, as well as and the northern parts of Perth, Huron and Wellington.
“There are already some riding opportunities available around the Owen Sound, Markdale and Durham areas,” Buratynski says. “If the weather continues to co-operate, we are looking in the next few days to open up significantly more trails to become available to riders in Grey Bruce.”
Buratynski reminds riders the snowfall does not mean that trails can open immediately. She stresses you should never ride on closed trails.
“We realize everybody is very eager to get out, but there is still a fair bit of work to be done until we can get trails open,” Buratynski explains.
She says club volunteers have been busy since Sunday morning inspecting trails, ensuring stakes and signage previously put in place are still standing and removing downed trees and brush.
“Once this is completed the large industrial groomers have to begin to build a base and ensure that swamps and other wet areas of the trail have enough ground freeze to make them passable for riders,” Buratynski explains. “In many instances this is still not the case.”
Snowmobile season in Grey Bruce typically starts in mid-January to early February most years, Buratynski says.
“In some cases if we get an early snow in December and everything is in place, there can be some early riding opportunities,” she says. “But this is not late for our season to start. We're really right on time.”
All riders require a permit to use OFSC trails, a valid driver's licence and a registered snowmobile.
Buratynski notes the best check to check for up to date riding opportunities is the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide.