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City of Duluth

City of Duluth addresses rare unauthorized motor vehicle access incidents at Piedmont ski trails

“While these incidents at Piedmont remain rare, we are taking appropriate steps to address the situation without overburdening resources. The snow barriers will provide a temporary, effective solution for the current season.” -- Matt Andrews, City of Duluth’s Trails Coordinator

,   and  Howie
1 min read

SECTIONS: St. Louis County . City of Duluth . Sports . Lake Superior College . DECC

City of Duluth press release

The City of Duluth, which maintains five ski trail systems and a skijoring loop at Lester Golf Course, is implementing a temporary snow barrier at the Piedmont ski trails to prevent unauthorized motor vehicle access. This measure comes in response to rare but concerning trespassing incidents that have occurred recently.

To avoid disrupting ongoing trail grooming operations, parks maintenance crews are using surrounding snow to construct a natural barrier that will help restrict motor vehicles from accessing ski trails. While the option of placing a more permanent barrier, such as concrete or boulders, was considered, it was deemed unfeasible due to the need for additional equipment mobilization each time the trails are groomed. The snow barrier offers a practical, low-maintenance solution while ensuring that the groomed trails remain in optimal condition for skiers and other recreational users.

Duluth is fortunate to have several cross-country ski trails, and the City strives to provide quality trail conditions whenever possible. In addition to the Piedmont trails, the City of Duluth maintains ski trails at Magney Snively, Chester Park, Hartley Park, and Lester Park; in addition, Spirit Mountain maintains the Grand Avenue Nordic Center and Upper Spirit cross-country skiing trails.

“We are committed to providing safe and enjoyable outdoor spaces for all of our residents and visitors,” said Matt Andrews, City of Duluth’s Trails Coordinator. “While these incidents at Piedmont remain rare, we are taking appropriate steps to address the situation without overburdening resources. The snow barriers will provide a temporary, effective solution for the current season.”

The City of Duluth remains dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and recreational value of its ski trails and other outdoor spaces. Motor vehicles are not allowed on City of Duluth trails or on non-roadway surfaces in City of Duluth parks, per section 35-6 of the Duluth Legislative Code: https://library.municode.com/mn/duluth/codes/legislative_code?nodeId=Chapter%2035%20-%20Parks%20and%20Recreation.

 If you observe anyone using an unauthorized motor vehicle on City of Duluth trails or in City of Duluth parks, please report the behavior to Duluth Police by dialing 911.

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