New York State Snowmobile Owners Get This Trail Update
The snow has arrived in New York State and some areas are dealing with more than three feet of snow! When will the New York State snowmobile trails open?
For those who love the snow, this was a great Thanksgiving weekend. For others, the question has already been asked, "how many days until spring"?
READ MORE: What Is The Future Of Gas Powered Sleds In New York State?
We spoke with numerous snowmobile club organizers and member and although we have lots of snow east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, the snowmobile trails in New York State won't officially open until after the deer season which is not until after the start of the new year.
One source we spoke to warned that most of the trails are on private property and riding them before the start of the season, or an official opening, means you are trespassing.
Beyond the legalities of trespassing on private land, those who do so also put the trails at risk of being shut off. Clubs go above and beyond to maintain the trails and, most importantly, they maintain the relationships of the landowners and club members.
KIDS ON SLEDS
As far as kids being on the trail on a sled in 2025, there are specific laws for them as well. The Erie County Federation of Snowmobile Clubs posted that: "Youth ages 14 through 17 years old may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, without adult or other supervision if they have completed a snowmobile safety training course recognized by the State of New York. If youth ages 14 through 17 years have not completed the training course, they may operate a snowmobile if accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age".
Massive Snowmobile Fire In New York State
Gallery Credit: Clay Moden