MDNR alerts snowmobilers of several UP trail closures

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is alerting snowmobilers to several trail closures.

“We want to make sure riders were aware of these trail closures, so they can plan their trips accordingly,” said Rob Katona, MDNR central Upper Peninsula trails specialist. “In years with sufficient snow for riding, this is one of the busiest times of the winter for snowmobiling. Despite these closures, numerous trails are open and ready to ride with Michigan remaining a very popular destination for snowmobiling.”

Upper Peninsula closures include:

—Marquette County, Trail 8: A section of the main east-west snowmobile connector route in the region is closed between Champion and the Baraga Plains for a bridge beam replacement project.

The bridge is scheduled to be re-opened in mid-January. Alternative routes are available to the north (Trail 5 to Trail 14) or south (Trail 5 to Trail 18). Access to Michigamme, Nestoria and Three Lakes will be available only from the west.

—Ontonagon County, Trail 1: The north end of the trail is closed because of logging activity from the intersection of Trail 100 to Trail 8 (basically west side of Lake Gogebic.)

Lodges and cottages on the southwest side of the lake will remain accessible. The trail sponsor is working on a possible reroute. Trail 13 provides a connection between Trail 1 and Trail 100. Trail 8 is open on the east side of Lake Gogebic.

—Ontonagon County, Trail 137: The trail is closed on its south end near Rockland, north of Cemetery Road, for a large culvert replacement project. This work should be completed within the next week. There is no designated reroute. Access to communities is available via Trails 12 and 13.

—Gogebic County, Trails 11N and 11S: Trail No. 11N is closed this season because of a loss of private land access permission. A reroute is being sought. Trail 11S is closed while the trail sponsor works on necessary improvements for potential re-opening this season.

—Ralph Ansami