WARREN — The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service announced snowmobile season is now — technically speaking — open in the Allegheny National Forest.
Trails will remain open until noon March 31. These dates are chosen for public safety, occurring after the regular firearms deer hunting season. The snowmobile trail map is available online.
Sufficient snowfall is needed for the trails to be usable. Maintained snowmobile trails will not be groomed until adequate snow accumulates. For up-to-date trail conditions, refer to the Pennsylvania Trail Conditions on the Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association’s website and social media.
All winter recreationists in the forest should be aware of the following for the 2024-25 winter season.
Temporary re-route of approximately 3.45 miles of the Allegheny Snowmobile Loop near Four Corners in Highland Township, Elk County. Re-route uses forest road (FR) 661, the Timberline ATV trail, and Corduroy Road (T-322), a township road that is open to snowmobiles. The new route will be signed, and the former trail segment will be closed.
FR 141 and FR 262 (Longhouse Scenic Drive) will be open to snowmobile use this winter. These roads were closed during the 2020/2021 season due to construction.
Connector Trail 38 (Lewis Run Snowmobile Bypass Trail) is located east of Marshburg on both private property and National Forest System lands. The 5.5-mile trail segment provides an alternative route to the main 1A trail that utilizes FR 455. It begins at Pine Acres Country Club and ends at the intersection of forest roads 188 and 455.
Connector Trail 39 (Bradford Airport Connector Trail) is located east of Marshburg on both private property and National Forest System lands. The trail segment provides access to the main 1A trail via FR 310. Trail segments begin at the Bradford Regional Airport and the intersection of State Highways 59 and 219. The trail ends at existing snowmobile trail connector 38.
In the ANF, there are approximately 365 miles of suggested snowmobile routes, and when conditions permit another 52 miles of trail used for both snowmobiles and ATV/OHMs. Multiple user groups enjoy the winter trails, and everyone is asked to exercise caution as trail users may encounter log trucks and other motor vehicles, groomers, snowshoers, dog sled teams, hikers, and cross-country skiers at any time. Trail users are reminded to:
Stay on designated trails.
Practice responsible outdoor recreation by following The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and the T.R.E.A.D. Principles of Tread Lightly.
Plan ahead and prepare for variable trail and weather conditions.
Do not drive motorized vehicles on the frozen Allegheny Reservoir.
