Area residents and visitors are being asked to be patient and stay off local Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trails that remain closed

The reminder was made in a press release issued Jan. 19 by the Haliburton Highlands detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police and the Haliburton County Snowmobile Association.

“Riders who choose to ignore the closed trail signs or attempt to go around closed gates are placing themselves, club volunteers and the local OFSC club at risk,” reads the press release. “Riding these trails before they are opened can cause damage to private property and may result in loss of riding opportunities in the area.”

Members of the Haliburton Highlands OPP will be out this week conducting enforcement and charging riders who are using closed trails.

Please check the OFSC website to ensure trails are available and passable www.ofsc.on.ca/trail-maps/. More information is also available through the Haliburton County Snowmobile Association website at hcsa.ca.

“Riding on unavailable trails sets us back in the preparation process,” said John Enright, HCSA president. “We are concerned about on trail hazards, such as rocks and logs and you may be trespassing. A snowmobile trail requires a safety audit, which involves checking signage and potential hazards before it can open safely. Most trails here are on private property. All gates and barriers are closed for a reason. Please let your local club make arrangements to open any gate. A snowmobile trail is an un-engineered product, which changes rapidly and frequently due to terrain, weather, and club grooming cycles. Be aware, ride safely.”

– Staff