Akron Falls, Emery, Chestnut Ridge, Sprague Brook Parks, Forestry Lots Home to Approved Erie County Federation of Snowmobile Club Trails

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Winter sports head into high gear this year with snowmobiling at select Erie County parks that are home to sections of the approved Erie County Federation of Snowmobile Club Trails, offering a beautiful ride through parts of the Erie County parks system during the winter months. Segments of the snowmobile trails, which are maintained by the Federation, can be traveled in Akron Falls, Emery, Chestnut Ridge, and Sprague Brook Parks as well as in several lots at the Erie County Forest. There must be at least six inches of snow and the ground must be frozen to ride any trails in Erie County.

“Snowmobiling is another great way to enjoy our Erie County parks system and I encourage snowmobilers to come out and enjoy our trails,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Please remember that snowmobiles must be registered and that all safety procedures must be adhered to for everyone’s benefit. Snowmobiling provides a unique way to travel around our Parks, enjoy the natural beauty that is there, and make the most of what winter has to offer here in Erie County.”

Parks Commissioner Troy Schinzel added, “Thanks to ‘Mother Nature’ snowmobiling across Western New York, including within several of our Erie County Parks and Forestry areas, is now permitted.  We ask all participants to please follow all park rules, be respectful of other potential park users, and of course…enjoy the ride!”

The snowmobile trails in Erie County parks open and close at the same time as the EC Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, with most of them already open and ready for riders. Snowmobiles should only be operated on approved trails both to diminish damage to private property and to encourage safe practices. Unauthorized riding on railroad tracks or access roads is illegal and is considered to be trespassing. Safety courses for snowmobilers are required, and students completing the course will receive a safety certificate indicating their status. All New York State laws must be obeyed when riding trails.

Snowmobilers interested in finding the nearest trails, determining conditions, taking a safety course, or learning more should visit the Federation website at   http://www.wnysnowtrails.com/ .