ESCANABA — In Delta and Menominee Counties, all snowmobile trails are open and groomed thanks to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Normenco and U.P. Sno-Phlyers snowmobile clubs.

Snowmobile owners have been waiting to ride the trails since the first snowflake landed on the ground. Unfortunately, the first snowfall came from a storm strong enough to knock down trees and power lines, and it has taken a lot of hard work to clear the trails of debris.

“Much of the trails were impassable after the Dec. 1 snowstorm. The snowmobile clubs had their hands full, clearing downed trees and brush … Most of the trails would not be open to date without their hard work,” said DNR Forest Resources Division Fire Supervisor Jay Osterberg. “The local DNR staff also helped clear a couple sections of trail with chainsaws and a bulldozer. Overall it was hard work, but there was good communication between the DNR and the local snowmobile clubs to get all the trails cleared and open in time for riders to enjoy.”

It took 10 days for the clubs to clear 135 miles of trails, from Gladstone to Rapid River, Escanaba to Foster City, Helps to Arnold, Schaffer to Hermansville, and Powers to Labranch. The snowmobile clubs operated groomers that pull a drag that is designed to fill in low spots and smooth the trail.

According to Osterberg, some wet areas have not frozen yet due to the heavy blanket of snow. The current warmer weather will not help freeze the areas, so he advises snowmobilers to use caution until areas tighten up again.

Regardless of conditions, snowmobilers should make sure the current registration and trail permit are on the snowmobile before riding on the trails. They should also plan each trip with a buddy and tell someone where they’re going, and for how long.

“Always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return,” Osterberg said. “Bring a cell phone along. Check weather conditions before you go, and never ride alone.”

Snowmobile preparation is a must. Clean the sled, observe the machine in a well-lit area and look for any loose items. Verify all bolts are tight and look for worn or missing lugs, worn belts, and areas of stress or cracking. Lubricate areas of the snowmobile as mentioned in the owner’s manual.

“Keep your machine in top mechanical condition,” said Osterberg.

Check all fluids and examine the skis to make sure they are straight. If the skis are steel, examine them for holes. If they are plastic, look for gouges or cuts. Make sure the electrical system is working well.

“Keep headlights and taillights clear of ice and snow at all times,” Osterberg said.

Anything can happen on the trails so be prepared with fire-starting materials, a lighter, dry clothes, work gloves, water, granola bars and any items needed during an emergency.

Riding apparel is just as important as preparing the snowmobile and planning a trip.

“Wear proper cold weather gear, including a helmet, gloves and eye protection,” said Osterberg.

Carry gear in case the conditions change and for unanticipated challenges encountered during the trip. Report any hazards found on a trail, or crossing the trail, to the local DNR office. Local clubs will remove hazards with the proper equipment.

“If an area in the trail looks unsafe, turn around and choose an alternate route. Report it to your local DNR office,” said Osterberg.

Last year the season started slower according to Osterberg. Clubs started grooming trails approximately the second week of January.

“Trail conditions were very good until the end of the season … It looks like the conditions will be favorable this winter as well,” said Osterberg.

Osterberg would like to remind everyone to ride on the right side of the trail at a safe speed.

“Ride sober and ride safe so you make it home to your family and friends,” Osterberg said.

For more information, including interactive trail maps, go to the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/dnr.