Now that there’s a considerable amount of snow on the ground, Dallas County Conservation has officially opened the Raccoon River Valley Trail to a few special activities.

First is snowmobiling, which is allowed on the trail when there is at least four-inches of snow cover. Conservation reminds snowmobilists that the vehicles must remain on the hard surface within the county-owned right-of-way, they must not have studs on their tracks, and are not to enter private property off the trail. The vehicles are also not allowed within the city limits of Dallas Center and Perry, but they are permitted in all other cities. Trail permits are required to use the RRVT for any activity, and they can be purchased in the yellow tubes found at each trail head or at the Forest Park Museum for $2 per day or $10 per year.

The snow has also presented the first opportunity of the season for Conservation’s popular cross-country skiing activity. The conditions appear ideal for skiing on Monday, so the Voas Nature Area will be open for people to rent some skis and take to the trails. Skis, boots, and poles will be available to rent for $3 between 2-8 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. People can also bring their own equipment and hit the trails on their own. To be placed on the contact list for cross-country skiing opportunities, contact Forest Park at 515-465-3577.