Caution advised for snowmobile trail riding in Iron, Vilas counties

By RALPH ANSAMI

ransami@yourdailyglobe.com

Extra caution is advised for snowmobilers who are taking advantage of trail openings in Iron and Vilas Counties in Wisconsin this weekend.

In Iron County, the White Thunder Riders had two groomers out on Friday.

Trails were in fair to good condition throughout the system, but there are still some trails closed, according to the Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Use caution and stay on marked trails,” advised Hurley Chamber Marketing Director Rita Franzoi. There may be water under ice on some sections and tree branches may be hanging low.

Trail 13 to the Hogsback and Trail 15S to Island Lake were in good condition.

Trail closures include:

—Trail 15, from the Cary Mine Market in Hurley south to West Branch, for about seven miles.

—Trail 8, from West Branch going west to Trail 77, for four miles.

—Trail 13B, west of Trail 17 to Trail 13, for three miles.

—Trail 13S, from Island Lake Road going southeast to 310 Road, for about 10 miles.

—Trail 3, from Saxon Harbor to the Frontier Bar on U.S. 2 in Gurney.

The Iron County trail system had about 110 miles of trails open.

Trail closures will be marked.

“The water areas have been marked with safety cones as best as can be,” Franzoi said.

In Vilas County, the state-funded trail system opened at 5 p.m. on Friday, with the exception of the Phelps trails, which will be closed until further notice.

“Trails are not in mid-season form, but in early season condition and riders may encounter rough or closed segments.

“Slow down and be aware that trail conditions can change quickly,” said Dale Mayo, administrator of Vilas County Parks and Recreation.

“Ice thickness varies greatly on area lakes. Do not cross any lake unless the trail across it is clearly marked,” Mayo said. “As always, please check with your local chambers or snowmobile clubs for current conditions,” he added.