Snow may be on the ground, but snowmobile enthusiasts need to have a little bit more patience.

Pembina Valley Snowkickers (PVSK) Morden Director Rick Kneeshaw, says the timing isn't quite right to begin opening the trails.

Snow on the ground isn't the only important factor, Kneeshaw says. "We have enough water, lake, and creek crossings that we really want people to be careful there's enough ice. Certainly for us to start grooming, we need 16 inches of clear blue ice to think about even crossing any waterways."

Heading out too early can also create conflicts with other groups.

Currently, the deer hunting season is on until December 2, Kneeshaw says this could potentially create safety issues as snowmobilers may not be wearing orange as they're moving through the bush, and take away the opportunities of patient hunters by scaring away their quarry.

Once the groomers begin heading out and groom the trails, it is important to follow those trails, Kneeshaw says. Last winter there were many snowmobile collisions, with STARS air ambulance having to be dispatched.

Following a heavy snowfall, ditches will become full, and people will head out but may not notice items or debris hidden under that fresh snow covering.

Kneeshaw says the potential for injury or machine damage is incredibly high and is much safer to wait for the groomers to head out first.

There's also a Manitoba Snowmobile safety course available online. Kneeshaws says the course claims on successful completion there is a potential saving on the Autopac.

Kneeshaw notes a snow pass is required when travelling on the trails if no trail is present the person is considered trespassing.

"Wait until a groomed trail is developed, because if you just head out you are technically trespassing. Whereas if you have a snow pass and are riding on a groomed trail, we have agreements with the landowners to cross legally."

PVSK's now have three grooming units, and will be adding a 70-kilometre trail West of Crystal City. However, the trails in the Pembina Valley are as beautiful as ever says Kneeshaw.

Kneeshaw encourages all who head out to purchase a provincial snow pass, it negates the reason to have law-enforcement on the trails and creates cash flow for the many clubs, and allows the clubs to maintain the trails people enjoy.