Motorized Sno-Park 2024-25 Temporary Closures

Why are some motorized Sno-parks being closed this winter season?

Fourteen Sno-Parks are being temporarily closed for the 2024-25 winter season, due primarily to a roughly 25% reduction in funds available from snowmobile registrations to support the motorized part of the program. The number of registered snowmobiles has decreased by 52% over the past two decades, from a high of 38,331 in 2002 to 18,434 in 2024.

Which motorized Sno-parks are closing?

The following motorized Sno-Parks are slated for temporary closure: Echo Valley, Skate Creek, Bethel Ridge/Soup Creek, Crow Creek, Cloverland, Elk Heights, Fish Creek, French Cabin, Nile, Taneum, Reecer Creek, Crawfish, Nine Bark, and Clear Lake.

How is the snowmobile program funded?

The snowmobile program is self-funded from snowmobile registration fees and a percentage of the gas tax. The program currently receives $94.20 per registered snowmobile.

Funding per snowmobile registration:
$50 Snowmobile Registration Fee
$45.20 Gas Tax (135 gallons (average yearly fuel usage per snowmobile) x 34.9 cents per gallon of gas x the annual number of registered snowmobiles.)

Funds are used to pay for services at motorized Sno-parks such as snow removal, sanitation, education, enforcement, and trail grooming.

How were Sno-parks chosen for closure?

The Winter Recreation Program worked with the Snowmobile Advisory Committee, local snowmobile clubs, and managers of lands on which the Sno-parks are located to finalize the list of Sno-park closures. The principal goal was continuing operation of the most used Sno-parks and preserving access to the broader network of groomed snowmobile trails. Discussions addressed the feasibility, practical limitations, and implications of closures, including the following considerations:

• Other nearby Sno-parks accessing the same trail system
• Recommendations from land managers, local grooming councils, and clubs
• Popularity and use levels determined by user server data
• Previous closure or contractor availability
• Elevation and typical snowfall

What is the percentage of motorized Sno-parks that will be temporarily closed for the season?

Closure of 14 of 89 motorized Sno-parks represents 16% of Sno-parks serving snowmobiling trails across the state.

Will these temporary closures become permanent?

The closures are for the 2024-25 winter season, pending future funding availability. The program is continuing to work with the Snowmobile Advisory Committee and stakeholders to look at the long-term future of the snowmobile program.

Does this decision impact non-motorized Winter Recreation?

Sno-parks slated for closure are designated and funded for motorized use. Designated non-motorized Sno-parks supporting activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not impacted by this decision.