ST. PAUL — With a foot or more of snow still blanketing most of northern Minnesota, the snowmobiling season may extend into April for the first time in many years.

The Department of Natural Resources said state trails will remain open on public land while weather and snow conditions permit. But grant-in-aid snowmobile trails will close for the season on April 1, when permits with private landowners expire.

The DNR said late-season snowmobilers need to be aware of changing conditions, including bare spots, flowing water and exposed rocks.

Some gates may be closed on grant-in-aid trails.

Even if snow conditions are good, the DNR reminds snowmobilers not to ride on trails that traverse private land. After April 1, riding these trails without the landowner’s permission would be trespassing.