Public asked to report illegal wheeled vehicles on snowmobile trails

Deep ruts on the Mirror Lake snowmobile track created by large vehicles illegally driving on the road. Photo: Utah Snowmobile Association

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — The Utah Snowmobile Association is asking for the public’s help after reports of illegal wheeled vehicles driving on groomed snowmobile trails in the Mirror Lake, Soapstone, and Mill Hollow areas on Monday, Jan. 12.

According to the association, vehicles including Jeeps, pickup trucks, and UTVs were observed traveling on designated snowmobile routes, causing damage to trails intended for winter recreation.

The association is seeking information, including photos or video, related to the activity. One vehicle of interest has been described as a blue Toyota FJ Cruiser that was reportedly seen on Mirror Lake Highway. Photos shared by the association show trail damage believed to have been caused by that vehicle.

Driving a wheeled vehicle weighing more than 800 pounds on any snowmobile trail in Utah is illegal and may result in fines as well as restitution for trail damage and repairs.

Anyone who witnesses this activity is encouraged to:

• Safely take photos or video if possible, including license plate numbers
• Report the activity directly to the Utah Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement
• Submit information to the Utah Snowmobile Association, which will forward it to law enforcement

The Utah Snowmobile Association is also encouraging the public to share the information with off-road and recreation groups to help prevent future damage and protect winter trails.