As the Michigan snowmobiling season opens, some trails are impassable with trees and limbs lying across them, officials said.

Winter storms hit the western Upper Peninsula over the past week, affecting snowmobile trails across portions of six counties, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The storms included freezing rain followed by heavy snow and gusting winds.

The obstructed trails are in Ontonagon, Iron, Gogebic, Baraga, Houghton and Keweenaw counties.

“Anyone out on a snowmobile in the western U.P. should be extra careful and watch for downed trees, branches and other hazards,” said John Pepin, DNR deputy public information officer. “Snowmobilers could encounter these dangers even if not using trails. Ride right safely home to your family and friends.”

The

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