DNR reminds Minnesota state park visitors not to hike or take pets on groomed ski trails

With fresh snow on the ground and crews busy grooming trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling at Minnesota state parks and recreation areas, the Department of Natural Resources has a few reminders for visitors about winter trail rules.

Once ski trails have been groomed, with or without a set of tracks,
remember:
* No pets are allowed on the groomed ski trails. Hikers, snowshoers, and pets are welcome on any park trails except those groomed for cross-country skiing.
* Hiking and snowshoeing is allowed anywhere in Minnesota state parks, except on the groomed ski trails and trails posted “closed”for the winter. (Groomed trails quickly deteriorate when people and animals leave their footprints on the trails, detracting from the skiing experience.)
* All skiers age 16 and older must carry a current, signed Minnesota Ski Pass with them when skiing in Minnesota state parks.

Skis passes can be purchased three ways:
* Daily ski passes ($5) are sold at park offices where staff are available.
* Self-registration for one-season ($15) and three-season ($40) ski passes is available at all Minnesota state parks except Carley, George H. Crosby-Manitou, Monson Lake, and Schoolcraft.
* Ski passes can be purchased using Minnesota’s electronic license system (ELS), available at nearly 1,800 locations around the state.
* To find an ELS location near you, visit http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/agents.html or call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.

Many Minnesota state parks rent snowshoes ($6/day), and some rent cross-country skis ($10/day). For a list of parks with rental equipment, as well as a list of parks with trails plowed and packed just for hikers, check out the Winter Activities Guide at www.mnstateparks.info.

The DNR thanks park visitors for following these few rules to ensure a great outdoor experience for all users.