Ontario's snowmobile trail network is getting a big boost from the provincial government in order to reopen a swath of trails for the season.
The Ontario government's financial support of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) is increasing by $3.9 million to $4.9 million for winter of 2025-26, a news release from Barrie-Innisfil MPP Andrea Khanjin's office said.
Additional funding will make possible the full reopening and usage of approximately 4,500 kilometres of trails in the province while the government says it will work on a long-term trail strategy with the federation.
“We heard the concerns from riders and the OFSC, and we took action,” said Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Transportation Ric Bresee in the release. “This investment will keep Ontario’s snowmobile trail system safe, reliable, and ready for the season, giving riders and communities the certainty they need to plan with confidence.”
The OFSC manages the province’s snowmobile trail permit system and coordinates trail
operations across hundreds of local volunteer clubs that maintain Ontario’s network.
“Each year, this seasonal activity boosts Ontario’s economy, and I am happy that local community residents can continue to enjoy the trails,” Khanjin said.
The province boasts over 30,000 kilometres of snowmobile trails, which attracts many out-of-province and international visitors. Khanjin's office says that reopening the trails is essential to supporting local businesses, protecting tourism revenue, and ensuring riders can safely access the system.
Since the winter of 2020–21, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation has provided $4.5 million in funding to the OFSC through an existing Transfer Payment Agreement. Ontario’s snowmobile network contributes up to $6 billion of economic activity annually.
As of Friday, the OFSC's trail map lists all of Simcoe County's nearly 50 trails as 'unavailable'.
"This funding is one more way our government is protecting Ontario by strengthening tourism,
creating jobs and supporting local economies across the province," Khanjin's office added in the release.
