National Forest Service urges caution on winter trails

Now that winter has finally arrived with lots of snow for snowmobiling fun, the U.S. Forest Service reminds snowmobile enthusiasts to put safety first out on the trails, not only in the national forest but on all lands. Carelessness and hazards beneath the snow can ruin your whole day.

For this and other reasons, snowmobilers must stay on designated trails only. While Forest Service employees and snowmobile clubs have been working to clear trees and other debris from marked trails,  trail users should continue to use extra caution early in the season as some trees may be weak due to snow accumulation and downed tree hazards are likely. The U.S. Forest Service also warns the public of the dangers associated with riding, hiking and skiing on frozen lakes, ponds and rivers.

“We are concerned about user safety. Patrols which are aimed at enforcing rules and regulations, monitoring trail conditions and providing visitor information will occur throughout the Forest,” said John Sinclair, forest supervisor for the Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF), which includes the smaller Finger Lakes National Forest in New York state.

The GMNF and VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) cooperate to maintain more than 470 miles of national forest system trails that are part of the larger statewide snowmobile network. VAST is one of several snowmobile associations in the United States that has a cooperative partnership agreement with the Forest Service.

“All of these trails allow mixed uses, so people are snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing, as well as using snowmobiles. Snowmobilers should travel responsibly and yield to other users,” said Sinclair.

Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF) officials also want to remind snowmobilers to heed all gates and signs and to stay off roads and trails that are closed. The GMNF states: “Weather permitting, snowmobile use is allowed on designated trails within the GMNF for four months beginning on Friday, Dec. 16, and ending on Saturday, April 15.

Operators must maintain control of their snowmobile while riding,  keep to the right at all times, and wear helmets. All snowmobiles must be legally registered, have liability insurance, and operators must purchase a VAST Trails Maintenance Assessment decal. Officials also encourage winter trail users to pack a flashlight, cell phone, food, and extra warm clothing in case of an emergency.

The maximum speed is 35 miles per hour on state and federal land and Vermont has a tough Snowmobiling While Intoxicated Law that covers alcohol, as well as drugs.  The GMNF will continue to work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies, as well as the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) to make sure that users of the trail system are respectful, responsible, law abiding, and safe.

For more information, contact Public Affairs Officer Ethan M. Ready in Rutland at 802-747-6760 during normal business hours.