Epic snowmobiling season shifts into high gear, bringing big business to the region

Snowmobiling season has reached an all time high across the region, prompting an increase in Simcoe-Muskoka business.

Snowmobilers across the region find themselves enjoying one of the best seasons in recent memory with no shortage of snow, bringing big business to the region.

“More snow, definitely it’s more snow. It’s just been non-stop and it’s great,” said sledder Steve Nicholls while riding near Midland on Wednesday.

The industry had a big bounce-back year last year and this season has been even better. Record amounts of snow and cold have helped local snowmobile clubs groom and open trails across the region.

“I’ve been sledding up here for ten years, since I’ve had a cottage up here and it’s been as good as I have ever seen it. It’s amazing,” said snowmobiler Rob Mair while on break from his sled.

The resurgence of real winter weather has been noticed by people in the industry.

“Sales have been phenomenal. We’re pretty much sold out for this year, taking orders for next year,” said Joe Racco, sales manager of St. Onge Recreation in Barrie.

Rocco said they only have two sleds still in stock for the rest of the winter. He said the record snowfall has made a big difference getting people back into the season.

“It energizes the sport and it’s really good for everyone across the board,” said Rocco.

That includes hotels, motels and restaurants. The spill-off from the trails is being felt across towns and cities that rely on winter tourism.

“It’s wonderful, it’s definitely bringing business to the downtown, especially the downtown core,” said Julie Evans from Dino’s Fresh Food Deli in Midland. “We get the majority of our business in the summer time when it’s really amped up and busy in tourist season, so having the sleds come through is awesome for business.”

Much like the ice fishing season, it looks like the sledding season may be a long and memorable year.