The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced a $13 increase for snowmobile trail permit fees for next season, state officials said on Tuesday, May 13.
The fee will increase from $52 to $65 and will remain in place for the next five-year period. The increase is based on a Consumer Price Index adjustment (CPI) determined by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics to ensure funding keeps pace with inflation.
“The adjustment helps offset the rising costs of equipment and maintenance,” said Tim Novak, DNR state trails coordinator. Fees are adjusted every five years. The new fee is a 25.1% increase over the previous five-year cycle.
Michigan is home to fifth-largest snowmobile trail network in the nation, maintaining 6,300-plus miles of trails and contributes $1 billion in economic impact, Novak said.
The funds support operations, including trail brushing and grooming by 67 snowmobile clubs, new equipment grants for snowmobile clubs, trail signage and maintenance, trail bridge and culvert construction, trailhead amenities, such as restroom maintenance and plowing of parking lots and other snowmobile-related expenditures.
How much do snowmobile trail permits cost?
Trail permits go on sale Sept. 1 and are valid from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30 each year.
Permits can be purchased online through eLicense, online via the Michigan Snowmobile ORV Association or in person at a number of DNR license agents and dealers.
Residents must also register snowmobiles with the Michigan Secretary of State unless they are used solely on private property. The registration is good for up to three years.
When do snowmobile trails open in Michigan?
Michigan’s vast network of designated trails and authorized public lands officially open for the season on Dec. 1 through March 31.
When is Free Snowmobiling Weekend in Michigan?
Michigan also offers Free Snowmobiling Weekend in January.
Are there age requirements in Michigan to ride an snowmobile?
In Michigan, all snowmobile operators who are 12 to 16 years of age are required to take a Michigan-approved snowmobile safety course and obtain a snowmobile safety certificate.
Snowmobile safety education training and online safety courses are recommended for all snowmobile operators.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Snowmobile trail fees are going up 25%. Here’s why
Reporting by Jalen Williams, USA TODAY NETWORK / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
