Snowmobile Riders To Be Allowed Near Leavitt Lake

Sonora, CA — A Tuolumne County based snowmobile club, The Sonora Pass Sno-Goers is looking forward to new access around Leavitt Lake.

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is planning to open 7,000 acres on the east side of the Sonora Pass to snowmobile riders this winter.

The US Forest Service says the land has been off limits to motor vehicles because of its pristine land and possible use as a protected wilderness area. Several environmental groups oppose the opening, saying it will endanger rare animals and possibly kill them.

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest officials ruled last summer that snowmobile use will not do any permanent damage to the Leavitt Lake area. Snowmobile enthusiasts say the opening comes just in time for the late snow season this year.