Trails Update February 2024
23 February 2024 – Klondike Snowmobile Association
Hot and cold, yes and no is the best way we can describe this winter’s snow conditions in the Yukon.
Our groomers are out on the trails working for you, however we’ve had limited success at smoothing the trails in the Whitehorse area due to the hard icy snow conditions this winter caused by extended periods of warm daytime temperatures and a lack of fresh snow since.
Most areas are rideable, however expect some moguls on high traffic areas and be ready for increased stopping distances on hard icy snow. Also, keep a sharp eye on your engine temperatures, as many snowmobiles are prone to overheating when operating in these snow conditions on warm days. Installing some scratchers or other such devices are a good idea if your sled is getting warm, they’re available locally or online for well under $200.
Some mountain riding areas are reporting good snow this year, however they’re also reporting some considerable avalanche danger and also we’ve seen frequent road closures this season. If you’re heading up to the summits please be avalanche aware and avalanche prepared with no exceptions. Fresh avalanche reports and forecasts are available at https://avalanche.ca/map.
Lake ice is being reported as fairly good around the Yukon this year, however river ice not so much. A few events around the Yukon have already been postponed or substantially modified due to unsafe river ice in many locations. At this time snowmobiling on lakes is generally okay, however we recommend avoiding any rivers.
The Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club has asked us to inform trail users in the Whitehorse area that their annual ski race will take place on 02 March 2024, and although the routes are mainly on ski trails participants will be using the lower part of the Mt. McIntyre multi-use trail and a short section of the Copper Haul Road from Mt. McIntyre trail intersection heading north. For everyone’s safety snowmobilers are kindly being asked while the ski race is taking place to travel with extra caution in this area, not to ride on any set ski tracks, and please consider alternate routes.
Speaking of events, are you interested in coming along for a Klondike Snowmobile Association group ride? We had a ton of fun last week at our annual Take A Friend Snowmobiling group ride, we have a new trip up the Livingston Trail planned for March 9th, details are posted on our events page at ksa.yk.ca/coming-events, and we’re open for suggestions for other rides as well!
Time to get our and ride while you can…