Because of wet, soft trail conditions, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is temporarily closing trails in the Pine Island, Smokey Bear, Koochiching and Kabetogama state forests to off-highway vehicle (OHV) travel.
The early spring break-up and unseasonable weather have resulted in frost coming out of the ground earlier than normal. The closure will remain in effect until sometime in May depending on weather conditions.
The department urges forest users to check on trail conditions and temporary road and trail closures before planning trips. The DNR will also post signs at entry points and at parking lots in state forests.
Most state forest roads will remain open to OHVs under 1,500 pounds, but users should check the DNR website for information. Road and trail condition information is updated every Thursday by 2 p.m. and is available online at www. findthetrails.com or www.mndnr.gov by clicking on “Current Conditions” or by calling the DNR Information Center at (651)296-6157 or toll-free at 888-MINN DNR (646-6367).
“The DNR will check roads and trails often and will re-open them just as soon as possible,” said Brian Leitinger, the DNR’s area forester in Littlefork.
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