From early trail availability to peak network kilometres, volunteers and partners powered a remarkable winter

[Barrie, ON - April 9, 2026] - As the 2025-2026 snowmobile season begins to wind down across much of Ontario, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) is reflecting on a winter made possible by extraordinary volunteer dedication, community partnerships, support from the Government of Ontario, and the shared commitment of snowmobilers across the province.

Said simply, this was one of the most memorable riding seasons in recent years. On December 6, the first trails were made available for snowmobilers, climbing to more than 10,000 kilometres by early January. After a brief mild spell, winter quickly rebounded and Clubs sprang into action, making more than 15,000 kilometres of OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails available, growing to over 20,000 kilometres by January 22 and surpassing 25,000 kilometres by January 27. Momentum continued throughout February and well into March, as the trail network peaked at more than 28,000 kilometres of available trails-a testament to both favourable conditions and the tireless work of thousands of volunteers who maintain Ontario’s world-class snowmobile trail system.

Even as Mother Nature begins to shift toward spring in many areas of the province, several northern districts remain optimistic that trail riding will continue for at least a few weeks. Snowmobilers are encouraged to check the Interactive Trail Guide (ITG) for the latest conditions and plan their trips while winter still holds on.

A Season Powered by Volunteers

Behind every kilometre of trail is an army of volunteers working in communities across Ontario - preparing trails, negotiating land use with landowners, operating grooming equipment through the night, maintaining signage, supporting safety programs and welcoming riders to their regions.

“From early planning to late-night grooming shifts, thousands of volunteers across Ontario worked together to make this season possible,” said Ryan Eickmeier, OFSC CEO. “Their dedication, combined with the support of our partners, communities and permit buyers, helped deliver an exceptional winter experience for riders.”

OFSC President Murray Baker, a longtime volunteer, emphasized the collective effort behind the season’s success.

“Our trail system doesn’t happen by accident,” said Baker. “It takes thousands of volunteers working together across the province - often behind the scenes and in all kinds of conditions - to make riding possible. This season is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when partners, communities, volunteers and riders all work together.”

More Than Trails: Economic Impact Across Ontario

Ontario’s snowmobile trail network is far more than a recreational asset - it is also a significant driver of winter tourism and rural economic activity.

Through the OFSC’s More Than Trails economic impact fact sheets, communities and partners can see how snowmobiling supports local businesses, tourism operators and municipalities across the province.

A strong winter season also brings increased operating costs. More snow and ideal weather patterns mean more grooming hours, higher fuel consumption, equipment wear and operator time required to keep trails safe and rideable.

That’s why continued investment and support from communities and partners remain so important. While the OFSC and its volunteers continue working to find efficiencies and new ways of operating, maintaining Ontario’s world-class trail system requires ongoing collaboration from those who benefit from winter tourism.

Help Shape the Future of Snowmobiling

As the season concludes, the OFSC is inviting all snowmobilers to share their feedback by completing the 2026 OFSC Snowmobiler Survey.

The survey provides valuable insights into rider experiences, priorities and opportunities to improve the trail system in the future. Input from snowmobilers helps guide planning, investment and volunteer efforts across the trail network.

Snowmobilers can complete the survey here:

2026 Snowmobiler Survey

Looking Ahead

The OFSC extends its sincere appreciation to the volunteers, landowners, communities, partners and snowmobilers whose support made this season possible. Together, they help ensure Ontario continues to offer one of the largest and most diverse interconnected snowmobile trail systems in the world.

As winter transitions toward spring, volunteers across the province will soon begin the equally monumental task of “rolling up the white carpet” - removing signage, closing trails and preparing thousands of kilometres of infrastructure for the off-season.

Another massive job, carried out largely behind the scenes - and another reminder that Ontario’s snowmobile trails exist because volunteers make them happen.

For questions or to schedule a media interview, please contact: [email protected]