The Lassen Land and Trails Trust, stewards of the Bizz Johnson Trail, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, issued a stern warning to off-road motorists this week following a series of incidents where wheeled vehicles severely damaged groomed snow trails.
According to trail officials, there have now been five separate incidents of motor vehicles driving on the groomed trails along Goumaz Road, off State Route 44. The most recent incident was described as clearly intentional.
“The operator had to drive by ‘No Wheeled Motor Vehicle’ signs and breach the snow berm, so it was intentional,” the Trust noted in a statement regarding the violation.
Officials are reminding the public that all wheeled vehicles are strictly prohibited on the Lassen National Forest groomed snowmobile trail system from December 26th until the end of the grooming season in March.
Why the Restriction Matters
The restriction is not just about following the rules; it is a matter of safety for winter sports enthusiasts. When a truck or car drives on groomed snow, the tires create deep ruts that harden in the cold. These ruts damage the groomed surface and create treacherous, unsafe conditions for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers utilizing the trail system.
The Trust also highlighted that the snow park program is funded by the State Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Division and the Forest Service specifically for legal winter sports activities.
“Wheeled vehicles isn’t one of them on the Lassen,” the statement concluded. “So stay off. Your attention to this matter is appreciated.”
Residents are encouraged to respect the signage and snow berms to ensure the trails remain safe and accessible for the snowmobilers and skiers for whom they are maintained.
