December is off to a snowy start throughout the state, providing lots of opportunities to embrace the elements and take to the trails. It’s also a good time to remember ways to ensure your outdoor exploring is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Here are a few reminders before you head to your favorite pathway.

Snowmobiling: Buy your trail permit, check conditions

Michigan’s 6,000-plus miles of DNR-designated snowmobile trails, public roads and public lands (only where riding is authorized) are open Dec. 1-March 31, and trail grooming occurs when there is enough snow on the ground. Purchase your trail permit and find maps at Michigan.gov/Snowmobiling. Be sure to check trail reports and trail closures while planning your excursion, and follow Ride Right safety precautions, including staying on the right side of the trail.

ORV riding: Know where you can go

Off-road vehicle riding is allowed on all county roads that are open in the summer, as well as all DNR-designated multiuse trails; note that ORV trails in the Upper Peninsula are marked by letters. Snowmobile-only trails, however, are closed to ORV use Dec. 1-March 31 – snowmobile trails are identified by numbers only on diamond-shaped signs.

In addition, highway rights-of-way are closed until May 1 and therefore are not open to ORVs. These are areas where the trail runs on the side of state and U.S. highways allowing a trail to connect. Always be aware of icy sections, especially on morning and evening rides, and ride in a manner that minimizes trail damage given that some trail terrain may be soft.