Utah State Parks Statewide Snow Grooming Ends April 1

Photo Courtesy Skyline Sno-Riders, Brian Howarth

Salt Lake -- With the onset of spring conditions across much of the state, Utah State Parks and Recreation announces an end to its 2010 snowmobile trail grooming season effective April 1.

Utah State Parks operates 11 snowmobile trail groomers on nine snowmobile trail complexes in the state. These complexes stretch from Logan Canyon to Cedar Mountain.

“We’ve had a tremendous snowmobile season,” said Fred Hayes, off-highway vehicle program coordinator with Utah State Parks. “Since we began grooming in November, our groomers have maintained more than 25,000 miles of trail for public use.” He added that spring conditions are now limiting groomer access on many complexes, and with current budgetary constraints, it’s time to wrap up the season.

Hayes says there is still some great riding in some of Utah’s high country, but encourages snowmobilers to exercise caution.

“Avalanche dangers remain and snowmobilers should avoid areas where avalanche activity has been noted,” said Hayes. “We also encourage all backcountry users to get an avalanche advisory before heading out, and to always wear an avalanche beacon and take along a shovel and probe.”

For additional information, please call (801) 538-7220 or 1-800-OHV-RIDE.

Utah State Parks and Recreation administers the state off-highway vehicle program, providing education, access, maintenance, and enforcement.