Central Ontario has a reputation with outdoor enthusiasts even out in the middle of the wild country. The local chapter of the OFSC (Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs) provides over 5,500 km of snowmobile trails in this area beginning just north of the GTA (Greater Toronto Area).
Note: Muskoka trails are open (thank you everyone for your co-operation).
Remember to...
- Get a permit to ride the trail, they are mandatory. Be sure to have it on your person. Permits and navigational maps are available at OFSC member clubs or can be purchased online.
- Check the trail conditions. They do vary from region to region, day to day, mile to mile depending on many factors including weather. Be sure to check out the latest status report for your specific area. Central Ontario's snowmobiling district.
- Give your snowmobile the once over by checking the oil and fuel then fill up on both, if necessary. Check your signals, lights, electrical components and gauges. No missing bolts, track is good?
- Both operators and passengers willingly use the trails at their own risk, think safety at all times! Where is your helmut?
- You must know and obey all of the laws including, The Occupiers' Liability Act, The Motorized Snow Vehicles Act and the Trespass to Property Act. As well operators and passengers must know and adhere to the principles published as the Safe Riders Pledge by the International Snowmobile Manufacturers' Association.
- The OFSC is a volunteer based organization with limited resources. It is not feasible to maintain all trails in a uniform manner, remove all potential hazards or pre-alert to all dangers. Think smart, drive and ride safely.
- There is a zero tolerance approach with alchohol. All operators and passengers must not consume alcohol prior to or while using the trails (or anywhere for that matter).
- Share the trails, they are not just yours! Operators stay to the right, act responsibly and drive with care and control all the times.
- Speed limit on trails is 50 km/h or less when reduced by the law or the trail's condition.
- Grooming and maintenance activities are done 24/7, day or night. Always watch for equipment which may take up a large portion of the trail. Pay attention at all times.
- Emergency services and cell phone connections may not be available. Be sure to have an plan in place for when you shall return, contact or connect with those at home.
- Signage on trails is only for assistance and convenience and is not put their by law. Just because there is no sign to warm danger, no trespassing etc. just be careful, think smart and know you are not above the law.
- Know, understand and watch for signs of danger before and during an ice crossing. Always check first!! Weather conditins have an affect, always check!
- Dress appropriately for all weather conditions along with night and day gear that is visible in those conditions. Use reflective tapes on clothing and sled and have basic emergency equipment such as a rope, knive, matches, axe, snacks etc.
- Everything about the trail system is operated by volunteers so please respect that. To learn more and/or volunteer visit here.
Always Watch for...
- Obstacles hidden by the snow, trees and branches on or hanging over the trail
- Grooming equipment, oncoming sleds, other trail users such as skiers and walkers
- Wildlife
- Washed out trails
- Snow banks, drifts and moguls
- Road and railway crossings
- Streets, roads, intersections, corners and stop signs
- Bridges, open water, pressure cracks in the ice, broken ice
Get out there and Explore Ontario
...Be Safe, Have Fun and remember this is a Family Oriented sport. Be extra careful around the little ones who are unpredictable, get cold really easy and will look to your for guidance if the time arises so think smart at all times and stay off the booze!
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