Snowmobile trails close in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

And that’s a wrap. Snowmobile trails in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest will close starting Friday, March 31, according in the USDA Forest Service.

“While we have enjoyed a generous snowpack this month, conditions are deteriorating quickly,” USDA Forest Service Recreation Program Manager Karen Katz said in a press release. “Trails will close Friday to keep riders safe and protect the quality of resources.”

Riders and other users should check local regulations for non-federal trails they plan to use as many counties in northern Wisconsin are also closing trails on March 31.

As a reminder to visitors and residents, motorized trails are closed to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), mountain bikes, and horses or other pack or saddle animals from March 15 to April 30. Forest Service officials says the Spring seasonal closure reduces rutting and erosion, which are more likely when the ground is saturated.

Protecting the recreation trails now minimizes the need for summer closures to repair damaged segments. Officials say while ATV/UTV routes and other trails are designated by towns under state law, and are not included in this closure, users should check local regulations for non-federal trails they plan to use.

For more information about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest please visit the website at www.fs.usda.gov/CNNF.