Various state trails in northern Michigan have opened for snowmobile season. In Michigan there isn't a requirement for the amount of snow on the ground to go snowmobiling.
According to the National Weather Service, at the beginning of the month, parts of northern Michigan have seen six to 15 inches of snow.
"I highly suggest you join a club and volunteer and get involved," said Greg Ruppel with the Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association. "The more voices and more volunteers we have, the better off the whole stake will be."
He said trails are maintained by volunteer groomers that flatten and prepare the snow. Those looking to go snowmobiling must have a trail permit, which can be purchased either online or at a Michigan Department of Natural Resources retailer.
Snowmobilers in Michigan can stay safe by driving sober and staying in the speed limit, Ruppel said.
Speed limits on trails are usually around 55 miles per hour, Ruppel said. Certain communities and towns may have restrictions that change the speed limit to 15 miles per hour or 25 miles per hour.
"Always know your local ordinances and laws when you're snowmobiling," Ruppel said. "You're going through busy areas, congested areas and then there's also common sense."
According to the MDNR Law Enforcement division's 2024-2025 snowmobile fatality summary, 16 fatalities were reported. Seven of these victims were under the influence of alcohol.
The MDNR has an interactive snowmobile trail map that shows designated trails, shared use trails, closures and parking lots.
"Get involved, be a volunteer and get involved with a club," Ruppel said. "There's plenty of clubs out there, they all need younger people, more people involved."
Michigan Department of Natural Resources is a sponsor of WCMU. We report on them as we do with any other organization.
