Not signed in (Sign In)
Want to take part in these discussions? If you have an account, sign in now.
If you don't have an account, you can register here.

Regional Message Boards: Western U.P. Message Board

Bottom of Page

151 to 200 of 208

  1. <
  2. 1
  3. 2
  4. 3
  5. 4
  6. 5
  7. >
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 28th 2009
     
    Northguide,
    Was checking out the new message board and have a couple of questions.

    1. Will that board replace this one shortly? (ie the link off the Westernup.info will route to that one and this one will go away?
    2. Do I need to create a new login as I was unable to figure out how to login on that site?

    Thanks for having the postings appear in most current order first.

    Thanks, Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 28th 2009
     
    12-28-09 9:50 pm

    Quick trail report.

    Just got in town early this morning, 2 am, got the kids and us to sleep, got back up, got our errands and supplies taken care of and managed to take a little spin down to Marenisco around 6pm. Trail was just groomed so it was beautiful. There is just 1 wet spot by the sub-station that they are grooming around onto the road and then back down, otherwise all is well. Tomorrow should be a normal day and will report on the trails when we get back in. Not sure which run we will do, Lake of the Clouds, Ontonagan, Rockland, Houghton, etc ... Will sleep on it and decide in the morning.

    BTW: The lady at the gas station said no new Trail maps for this season have been delivered yet. Not sure if anyone has any but I'm sure their won't be any major changes that will trip anyone up.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorcammac
    • CommentTimeDec 29th 2009
     
    FYI - Western U.P. Trail maps are in at the the Convention and Visitor Bureau and are being distributed as of today.

    If you are going by the US Forest Service office on US 2 east of the Hospital they have them available from 8-4 Mon-Fri (except this week, Friday is a Holiday !)

    Ride Safe !!!
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 30th 2009
     
    12/30/09 09:30 am

    We didn't run any trails yesterday instead we played around in the woods by the house with the kids.

    Cammac, thanks for the Trail Map info, we'll stop in at the one by Sunday Lake when we go by today. Even though we've been running these trails for 13 seasons I always like to have the most current map and business info/phone numbers.

    Ride safe too!!

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorNorth Guide
    • CommentTimeDec 30th 2009 edited
     
    Pantera

    Plan was to move to the other board... as it solved some of the problems people complained about here. However, no one seems to use it, so go figure that one out...

    Probably will just post to both boards for a while....

    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 12/30

    Happy New Year. Snow in the forecast and typical temps thru the weekend should keep things in good shape. Sticking with overall conditions as Fair to Good - this depends where you’re riding…you will find some trails better than good, some worse.
    In case you missed it, we’ll repeat our "INFO UPDATE" regarding Gas in Marenisco: While the Marenisco Gas Station on Trail 2 is closed, there is Gas available at Bam Bam’s Bar & Grill.
    All the groomers are out working to keep the trails in as good shape as possible-
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: 11S is now open - you’ll find it a little brushy is some areas but they’re continuing to work on it. Trails 2-8 and 160 are all snow covered and freshly groomed…11N is still not groomed-the swampy area hasn’t frozen up so they are now packing snow in that area to get it groomable which they will do ASAP.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-the groomers are out on all trails…so everything is freshly groomed. Heads Up: You may encounter Logging Trucks at the junction of 102 AND 8 W-pull over if you do.

    From Watersmeet groomers reporting all trails are being groomed daily and Good conditions.

    It’s time for our usual caution about ice: There is no such thing as "safe ice" due to underwater currents. If you plan to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.
    And one more safety note… groomers can and will be out any time of the day or night, especially this week…so PLEASE pull over when you see them.
    We want you to have a great time…and to stay safe.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info

    We have a new Western U.P. Message Board at:

    http://www.thetrailblog.com/?p=660
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 30th 2009
     
    Northguide,
    Well if it solved problems, then lets use it.

    So, just so I understand things, do I need to create a new account with 1 of the following in order to 'log in' to the new site? Disqus, f connect, twitter, yahoo

    I don't twitter, never been on that site, I've looked at stuff on the yahoo site, never heard of Disqus or f connect, so just want to know what I should do to create a log in.

    Thanks, Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 30th 2009
     
    12/30/09 9:40 pm

    Trail Report:
    We rode from Wakefield to Bergland to Rockland, to Mass City, to Greenland, to Ontonagon, to White Pine, back to Berland, then back to Wakefield. Nice 150+ mile run with the kids.

    With the early season snow amounts things were pretty good, pretty good indeed. But the traffic is still fairly light so that always help keep the trails in shape. Leaving Wakefield was nice, not all tore up like we know it gets and was good till you have to run on the plowed road section. There's snow on it, but thin. Nice when you get past that and smooth sailing to Bergland. Bergland to Rockland was also nice with the usual thin spots on the corners and cresting each little hill or rise. But definately a nice ride. Rockland to Mass City was just as nice with the usual chop heading up the hill after crossing the river, after that again it was nice all the way around to Mass City to Grandma Myrte's. One of our usual food stops. From there to Ontonagon was more of the same, nice and pretty smooth, some wet areas that are freezing up nicely and a good ride as well. Ontonagon to White Pine was also nice, plenty of snow and not as tore up as 13 to Rockland, which is typical. Also typical is the chop from the 'T' of 12 & 1 going north into White Pine. But again, one of our usual food stops is Antonios where we enjoyed another fine pizza, no left-overs. Back thru the chop heading south on 1 and shortly after the T things get better as the trail is wider. A very nice run back into Bergland with some 'late day' little chop the last five miles or so through the narrower section on the west side of the tar road that heads north from Bergland to White Pine. I was also pleasantly surprised at how well the trail held up between Bergland and Wakefield late in the day, as we came thru around 7pm - 8pm CST. It was really not bad at all even though that is the main highway so to speak. Then as we got to Sunday Lake the groomer was heading east so we got to make 1st tracks in the fresh groomed trail around the lake.

    Nice day, nice ride, the kids had a good time and so did the parents.

    Groomer operators: Thank you and have a Happy New Year!!!

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorNorth Guide
    • CommentTimeDec 30th 2009 edited
     
    Pantera,

    You can also comment as a guest. (You don't have to log in using any of those methods above.) Just enter a name (Pantera) and an email in the fields below the comment form.) If you don't want to use your email, just use pantera@northguide.com

    I posted your ride report on the trail report blog.

    http://www.trailreport.net/blog/?p=676

    Thanks for all of your comments. Hope to get more folks commenting and posting ride reports this year.
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeDec 31st 2009
     
    12/31/09 9:15pm

    Northguide,
    Thanks, I will try that out. Maybe after the holidays people will get on here and start posting instead of it just being the two of us. :-)

    Only have a small update for today as I was busy buying another sled.

    Anyway, we bumped into one of the Conservation Officers up town who is also a member and groomer operator for the G.R.T.A. and we asked him if he knew when 11N might be groomed. He said that he himself was going to be running up it today to see if he could get thru without sinking it. Well, later today while out running the 'used but new to us' sled we thought we would see what it looked like and found him coming back down it with just the groomer with front blade and not the drag. We went up it about 3 miles north behind Indianhead Valley thru part of the wet area and then turned around. We don't know how far he went nor if he will be coming back with the drag later tonight but they are working on it. Also, the 'wet' area is still a little wet, as his tracks broke thru into some water in several places. Nothing you couldn't drive thru by going down the center but not totally froze up yet.

    We may check it out again tomorrow and will let everyone (at least Northguide & I who are reading this board) know what we find.

    Happy New Years everyone!!

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 1st 2010 edited
     
    01/01/10 9:00pm

    Trail Report:

    Took a little run from Wakefield to Bergland to Marenisco and back to Wakefield. Only around 100 miles today.

    Went across Sunday Lake and its still a little slushy in areas, lots of snow weight. Trail 8 was nice heading to Bergland and when you cross M28 it was even smoother (different grooming clubs and schedules). We took 13 down the east side of Lake Gogebic and it too was nice. The snow is thin in places but plenty smooth and would run it again tomorrow without a second thought. Had Lunch at the Root Cellar and the food was good as always. Continued down 13 to 100 across the south end to #1 into Marenisco. Again all was fairly smooth but would benefit from some more snow. Trail #2 out of Marenisco was a little rough down the center, which is the only place the guys run when doing 100 mph but plenty smooth on either side. When we got to the intersection of 11S the trail got even smoother, the center of the trail was not blown out so there must have been a bit of traffic on 11S thru to Marenisco or vise versa. The rest of the run up 2 back to 8 east of Wakefield was again nice.

    Another good ride with a few things I must point out.
    1. People must slow down around corners or there will be collisions. We had several close calls today as there were people out of control around the corners sliding at us where we had to brake hard and get off the edge of the trail without running ourselves into the trees. This is not acceptable. I'm not promoting speed limits, I'm advocating more responsible driving. I like to drive fast when the kids are not aboard but not to the point of endangering others out enjoying the wonderful trail system up here. When we spoke to the Conservation Officer the other day he said that was one of their biggest complaints. And after running these trails for 13 seasons now I have only seen it get worse & worse. But I'm probably shouting down a well since none of those people take the time to read anything on this board, but I feel the need to say it anyway.

    2. Stop signs. They mean the same thing as on the highway in your car. STOP. or at least close to one, not 'on the gas' with the ski's in the air. And as I shake my fist in the air at the idiot the person behind that rider puts both hands in the air like 'whats your problem?'. Well, stop means stop. There could be a car coming out of that driveway or a logging truck, either way you will lose that battle. If its a 4-way sled intersection the innocent driver will probably suffer the most damage, that seems to be the way it goes.

    Okay. there, I've said my piece. Probably only Northguide and I will even know I said it.

    Trail 11N Update:
    I took a quick run after supper tonight to check it out and they have gone up it with the groomer & drag and may still be up there as I type. I went up only 4 miles from Indianhead Valley, about 1 mile farther than last night. He was running the east side pulling in as much snow as possible and I suspect will come back down pulling in snow from the West side. It is smooth except for where he would run out of snow thru some of the holes, dips, etc. The wet area is still wet. We went thru it, it's not like you will get stuck but your skis will go in some water. I tried walking along the east side to see if it was solid and found out it was not. I ended up running with my boots sinking up to about 8" in water. So, back thru the center was definately the better route. Its only a little spot about 4 feet in length, so again, it's no big deal. Hopefully with the colder temps it will firm up nicely.

    Till tomorrow.

    Pantera
  11.  
    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 01/02

    Our Lake Superior Snowmaker kicked in with a bunch of localized snow.. Because of the size of our county, amounts vary from from 4-6" to 15 to 20". That’s a "guesstimate"-we’ll get official snowfall Monday.
    All the groomers in all areas are out.
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: 11 N was groomed yesterday for the first time-haven’t talked to the groomer yet, but know it has been groomed. 11S is open & groomed - still a little brushy is some areas but being worked on. Trails 2-8 and 160 are all freshly snow covered and being groomed today.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-the groomers are out on all trails… everything is freshly groomed and in good shape. IMPORTANT: There are Logging Trucks in the vicinity of the junction of 102 AND 8-W. You MAY NOT ride plowed roads-you MUST observe the snowmobile trail signs. (Have heard they may be issuing tickets.) Stay on the trails and if you see a logging truck, pull over immediately.
    Watersmeet groomers reporting all trails being groomed daily and Good conditions.

    It’s time for our usual caution about ice: There is no such thing as "safe ice" due to underwater currents. If you plan to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.
    And one more safety note… groomers can and will be out any time of the day or night, especially this week…so PLEASE pull over when you see them.
    We want you to have a great time…and most importantly, to stay safe.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info

    FYI: Season snowfall to date from the Gogebic County Road Commission as of 12/30/09: 70". Will get an update on Monday.
  12.  
    I wanted to say thanks to Pantera and North Guide for the updates... our group is planning a trip north week.
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 2nd 2010
     
    01/02/10 6:30 pm

    Trail Update:

    Due to the colder temps we only did a small run today with the kids. Went from Wakefield to Silver City to White Pine to Bergland then back to Wakefield, about 100 miles.

    Indianhead trail link was groomed and smooth out to 11N and as indicated last night they were grooming it and came back down it also last night. It is in pretty nice shape considering only a single pass with the groomer w/drag. We cruised right up it with only a few areas that were still wet. In that first wet area about 3 mi north of Indianhead Valley it has firmed up pretty good with only the one spot you tip toe into a little water. After you cross 519 there was only 1 other wet spot that most people just drove thru but we went along the edge of the trail and avoided the H2O. Since it was only groomed once there is a bit of a ridge in the center in a few places but that should disappear once they hit it again. A nice ride and would do it again. At South Boundary, it was smooth sailing as always. Sit down, turn on the Ipod and set the cruise control all the way to Lake Superior. A very stiff wind at the lake, very cold. And just as South Boundary (trail 11) was consistantly smooth, #1 to the Ski Resort and east thru Silver City was consistantly junk. Nothing but sharp moguls that excercised every inch of the suspension. Not that I didn't expect that but for once I would like to be surprised and have a smooth trail up there. Even most of the way to White Pine was rough, not as bad as at Silver City but not that fun to ride on. Took our usual stop at Antonios for a pizza lunch and didn't leave any scraps for the dog. Continued south on 1 to Bergland which was in much better shape, could cruise at whatever speed we wanted. From Bergland back to Wakefield on #8 we again were able to cruise right along, nice and smooth and plenty wide, very nice. More people were heading across Sunday Lake which is loaded with snow and we did too but only to the Citgo to top-off the tanks for the next run whereever that may take us. Still saw some slush as we drove along the trail on the West side heading back out of town.

    Hope everyone had a good New Years and enjoyed the Trails like we did. Can't wait till we get out there again in a few weeks.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 2nd 2010
     
    Northguide,
    I tried to post my ride report on the new board but was unable to find were to 'Add' and was only able to find yesterdays that you posted for me and posted the new one as a 'Reply' which didn't do what I wanted.

    Can you explain were I go to post a 'new' report?

    Thanks, Pantera
  15.  
    Pantera,

    Just post here and I'll post it around... I just posted your last report... each board system has its own quirks which seem to trip people up....

    I've also posted on the trail report page at http://www.trailreport.net/blog

    Although few people post, a lot of people do read the boards and the report page. So a lot of people are reading your reports....

    Thanks again... I'll try to figure out why you might be having problems with the other board....

    North Guide
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 4th 2010
     
    pantera,
    back from four days of bliss in the western UP, two days paired with bro-in-law, a day with another bro-in-law with two adult nephews, and the fourth day added my sis. 210 miles first day wakefield to marinesco, and on to watersmeet. Up 3 to bruce crossing and back to lake and into bergland for gas and lunch, thendown the east side of the lake and back up the west side then 8 back to bessemer. Every bit of trails was good to excellent, even in the thin areas. Day two 188 miles out east on 8 which was now groomed and heavenly... then on thru on 8 to mass city. up to Ontanogan (sp) and then 12 to white pine for gas and lunch at the bowling ally.. big line for the gas there.. only had regular but that was OK...
    12 between 101 and 1 had the usual killer mogels at the bridges, so the lunch break was welcome.
    up one and bypassed the run to the lake to make it home via boundry and 11 north.. THE DAY BELFORE THE GROOMED IT!!!.. was a killer.. should have waited a day!
    day three, now with the nephews.. wakefield to marinesco, up the west side of the lake, breakfast at bergland then down the east side and the spur to 2 and watersmeet. Stopped at bond fall on way to bruce crossing then up three to rockland... no working gas pump at the bar in rockland but a 1/4 tank was enuff to get us the 30 back on 8 to bergland.. boys were pretty tired so straigh home on eight.
    227miles!!
    Day four was sunday.. what a treat!! let sis take the lead at a slower pace on the 96 pantera bessmer to bergland on 8 then to 102 and the boundry... up to lake of the clouds all fresh groomed as was the whole trail to silver city!! did not even need gas at pine city but ate and watched vikes there for a bit.. gas in bergland.. and home on eight.. it was sunday.. I think we saw one group of three and a few singles and 90% of what we drove was freshly groomed.. awesome!!!

    .. the best trails ever and I think I went on every mile of the system except 101 between 12 and 8!!

    there was an accident where heads north off of 8 east of bruce crossing... kid on a stretcher being loaded into ambulance... sign says congestion.. and when people blow thru and then look and signs they forget of those in front of them..

    Observations.... lots of women on trails.. couples and groups.. assuming it was the holiday week.. and most on their own sleds.. very cool.. a few younger kids solo on big machines.. that was a little less cool but they were with elders... glad to see the women out there.. though it would be nice of groups to stop at stop signs and let those running 40 instead of 30 to move past....

    everyone consider not slamming on breaks for every corner and bridge and stop.. you just dig holes.. I know better than to lecture the meatheads who like to spin tracks at every start and kick the nice trail snow into the woods...

    ..I think the snow dust from the steady lake effect contributes to corner encounters.. but all the more reason to slowdown.. no one wants to repair sleds.. or knock heads...

    yes.. I go fast.. but in control... if you are blowing corners.. you are going too fast...

    enuff of that.. kudos to the groomers... will try 11 n again with the boyz in 8 days... and the new trail you all cut between bessemer and wakefield.. again... THANKS!!
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 4th 2010
     
    lastly.. IMHO

    I think if you let your engine brake you to a near stop and the mosey slowly thru the stop signs you preserve your brakes, your clutch, your track and the trails will be less mogeled.. maybe.. have fun!!

    surgin
  18.  
    Gas Soon!!!

    Marenisco Township Board approved the purchase of the Mini-Mart on Monday the 4th and executed a lease with the new owners on Wednesday the 6th. New owner is now doing some maintenance to the buidling (new coat of paint, etc...) and hopes to have everything up and running within the next two weeks, he was hoping to have everything done by the 1st but as usual nothing works out as planned!

    Hopefully we'll have gas soon. Remember, you still can get gas at Bam Bam's until the store opens.
  19.  
    WESTERN U.P. TRAIL REPORT - 01/13/2010

    Our Big Snow Country official Season Snowfall to date is now 113.7". We’re talking "Winter Wonderland"…
    Overall, you’re going to find some mighty good riding just about anywhere here in the far western end of the U.P. All groomers are out. For the most part we’re sticking with good to very good conditions. There are just a few exceptions where the riding will be fair.
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: Grooming is ongoing. 11 N is now groomed-Still expect to run into some wetness on the west side going north, but it’s marked with signs.
    NOTE: Watch for Logging Trucks ON 11S-there is a quarter-mile narrow stretch and the Trucks have the Right of Way. Signs are posted in that area…the Trail is freshly groomed. Trails 2-8 and 160 are all snow covered and groomed.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-everything is freshly groomed and in good shape. IMPORTANT: There are Logging Trucks in the vicinity of the junction of 102 AND 8-W. You MAY NOT ride plowed roads-you MUST observe the snowmobile trail signs. (Have heard they may be issuing tickets.) Stay on the trails and if you see a logging truck, pull over immediately.
    Watersmeet groomers reporting all trails being groomed daily and conditions are good to very good.
    IN ALL AREAS:
    After a number of close calls, you need to be aware groomers can be out any time of the day or night, so PLEASE pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.
    We want you to have lots of fun and a great time…therefore, your safety is our #1 priority.

    THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

    MAP ERROR
    There are errors regarding the location of Paulding, MI, which is a new advertiser on this year’s Trail Map. The red dot (#85)was mistakenly placed 1/2" south of where it should be and there also should be a GAS icon at Paulding. Snowmobile access to Paulding is via plowed County Rd-shoulders only.

    ABOUT THE ICE:
    It’s time for our usual caution. There is no such thing as "safe ice" due to underwater currents. If you choose to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for specific information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info
    • CommentAuthormilltowner
    • CommentTimeJan 15th 2010
     
    Spoke to the new owner fo the Marenisco Milltown Grocery & Gas this morning. He called his distributer to fill up his gas tanks so he can open this weekend. Distributor was out of gas, he will be getting a tankerload tonight and will be down to Marenisco tomorrow (Saturday) morning to get the station up and running. WE SHOULD HAVE GAS TOMORROW MORNING!!! The new owner will be selling gas while he gets the rest of the store up and running, so for the first few days there will probably be nothing except gas sales and by early next week he should be getting his distributers in for other products.
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 16th 2010
     
    1/16/10 9:00 am
    surgin,
    Great to hear you had a good time as well. Too bad you ran 11N before they groomed it, I was watching it and waited. You sure got in some good miles. We too noticed that there were a lot of the gals out riding too, which is nice to see. this may be a male dominated sport but if the gals join in the guys ususally can do more riding, which is a bonus. Saw a few younger kids too with the parents, again, nice because we need the parents to show the kids how to drive responsibly and not get into the sport at 18-30 yrs old and drive like idiots. We had several close calls on corners, I think I mentioned that in an earlier post. I too like to drive fast when the kids are not on-board but ALWAYS in-control on corners. Hope the person in the accident is ok and that several people learn from the experience.

    Just got back in town last night so we are getting things in order to head out today. Not sure of route but the way it sounds the trails are in great shape all over the area so no matter where we go it should be great.

    I'll post the run later tonight.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 16th 2010
     
    1/16/10 6:45 pm

    Trail Report:
    The warm weather today definately didn't help the trail system. Things got a big ugly in places, read on..

    We started out at IndianHead ski resort and down to 11N which was recently groomed, assuming by the ski resort. 11N didn't appear to have been groomed last night, was a bit choppy, but no water. The chop was pretty much gone once on the east side of 519, much nicer. Good snow but was wet and sticky. South Boundary, aka 11, was nice as usual. We decided not to torture ourselves by going thru Silver City which is never any good and with the warm weather I expected it to be dirt not snirt so we took 102 down to Bergland. 102 was very nice, corners blown out by the amature racers but good overall snow cover and pretty smooth.

    Not too much traffic either which is always nice but a few that couldn't hold their line around the corners and coming at us. I shook my fist as usual, for what its worth. Pretty thin coming into Bergland so we took the spur by Maple Ridge and down to the lake and ran that to town to eat at Antonios. Good lunch as usual.

    Back to the lake and headed south, nice and smooth but watch out for the wet slushy spots and the ice heaves. Grabbed #1 to head over to Marenisco which was not in good shape, not much snow, dodged the snirt & dirt all the way, nothing resembled white snow. Not what I would run again until it snows some more.

    GAS IS PUMPING AT MARENISCO!!!

    We didn't need gas as we planned for it not being open yet but we filled up all 3 sleds to show our support and talked to the new people leasing it to tell them how much we appreciate them getting it back open.

    #2 back to Wakefield was pretty good, good snow cover but has had plenty of traffic but nothing that would make you avoid it. I would run back up & down it without hessitation. thru the woods on the other side of the road was good snow cover too but all the curves were pushed out and could use a grooming. #8 back into Wakefield was pretty good too, plenty of snow but choppy from heavy traffic.

    Maybe we'll run to Houghton tomorrow.... Not excited about how it might be coming into Mass City, expecting snirt and dirt, maybe someone can comment on how that is holding up under these warmer temps.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 16th 2010
     
    In case you didn't read my lengthy trail report:

    They are pumping gas at Marenisco!!

    Nothing in the store yet, that will take them a while yet.

    No Credit Card machine at this time so have your cash ready.

    Please stop there & show your support so we don't lose it again.

    Pantera
  24.  
    Pantera.... thanks again for the trail reports... I posted them out on the report page and on the other message board....
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    Pantera,
    wow.. what a difference a day makes!!
    5 of us came up tues night....

    wednesday bessemer to antonios in bergland for b-fast on 8.. good grooming to wakefield, not bad rest of way
    up 13 to mass city.. all good .. then our FIRST run ever to houghton-handcock .. all good straight back down excpet thru greenland... blew a belt on a curve.. please at least ease on the throttle guys... back down 13.. still holding up.. then to the hoop three sleds there at sunset on wednesday.. no table wait!! ... back to bessemer on 8.. the ice road west of the RR crossing really holding up well this year.. Pretty quiet at taconelli's too.. 225 miles...

    thursday.. a little warmer.. breakfast before mounting up at kozy corner.. then up 11 N.. after mogul madness last time I will say that 11 N was the best I have ever ridden it.. met the groomer.. nice and wide.. and good snow cover even at the corner by the lake.. Boundry road was fast and few out that day.. all good til the chain tensioner on the pantera melted 8 miles from the porkies.. towed it to the lake.. 5 guys on four sled to lake in clouds.. very deep moguls til we got past the ski hill and more moguls on last climb to top.. good thing I was not the one sitting on the gas can!!!
    then the yamaha ventura caught fire by the muffler a mile from the foothills rest. in silver city.... so two guys iwth two sleds stayed there. the rest gassed up at at white pine.. and boogies home to get the trailer.. 1 from the park to the junction with 12 was pretty rough, but then good rest of way to bergland and 8 hoome to bessemer still holding up..
    only 140 miles.. and that was the sled that did the towing...

    Friday.. forecast was for upper 30's.. but it was overcast.. that helped.. bessemer on to to junction with 1.. down to marinesco .. trails good.. RR bed groomed.. oh.. I got a rental F5.. not a z1.. but liked the woods.. b-fast at the hungry bear... gas station was not open.. another day too early I guess... Straight east on 2.. halfway from marinesco to watersmeet the trail went from good to fair... and east of watersmeet a bit worse.. not slush.. but not groomed recently.. feared the woods on 3 to bond falls.. but that was really good.. a few more riders.. roads were loosing their cover.. but very little dirt.. even the rr bed on 8 to bruce crossing and ewen we smooth and fast and no dirt or rocks.. wanted to go up 3.. but had to get rental sled back.. so fast track 8 to lake G.. down 13 to the root cellar.. good cover.. min ice in corners had to take lake back to the Hoop.. min slush.. lil bro had to get a hoop sweatshirt.. then I hightailed it solo back to bessemer.... stopped to help some guys with an open map 3 miles west of the hoop.. they thought they were in WI... *lol*... got back to northland rentals with 15 minutes to spare.. 164 miles.. I got 100 miles on my last fill trying to bring back the rental just as empty as they gave it to me..

    Sat AM no one wanted to get up for a last run..(I think they call it bottle flu) lots of others sleds heard at sunrise.. and from what pantera has described it sounds like the warmer weather decimated the trails quickly.. that is too bad.. we had three days of the best riding I have ever had despite the mechnicals... all the business's were a pleasure to deal with.. and when we were changing belts most people did seem to slow down to make sure we had no injuries...

    Groomers.. good to see you out there.. but I don't ever want to meet you that that completely blind hill drop on 11 North!!

    Notes... too bad they can't make a trail from white pine straight west to the boundry road in the park.. it would keep us all out of silver city.. and if silver city wants to keep us they can put a trail on the lake side of the road to the park.. off the tar and all those driveways.. and get some gas back up there...

    saw no women on trails until friday... most groups were guys with fast machines..

    pantera.. don't you think someone computer whiz would make a grid that we could grade trails every day.. section by section.. it would be good for those coming up.. and also tell the groomers which trails need attention.. heck it could even be a spreadsheet that one could cut and paste and fill in.. any ideas?

    Northland rentals says are are going to try to sell more of their sleds instead of wholesaling them out.. if the pantera cost too much to fix it might be time for retirement.. I did not see any of the two up you were looking for there.. or elsewhere.. good luck!!!
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    oh.. one other note.. Friday AM we came across sunday lake a little fast our first day out.. and saw the sheriff in his truck coming to intercept us at that first insection east of wakefield .. lucky for us he was just checking stickers.. don't think we were doing much more that 70.. but have been warned in past.. and no fresh slush any day on sunday lake...

    hope you have a good ride today... we are thinking an over nighter might be the way to try those trails up there..
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    sothing like this?


    groomed? dirt? Icy grade it!
    route 1 pres isle to marinesco ? ? ? ?
    route 1 marnesco to HOOP yes n n B
    route 1 Hoop to bergland yes n n B
    route 1 bergland to 12 yes n n B
    route 1 12 to silver city poorly n n C
    route 1 silver city to lake in park no n n D
    route 1 park entrance to lake in clouds no n n D

    route 2
    ironwood to wakefield
    wakefield to marinesco
    marinesco to watersmeet

    gotta be simple to set up for some IT guy...
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    well my columns did not hold up..
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    Surgin,
    Sorry to hear about your mechanical issues, thats never any fun to deal with when out of town. Sounds like you guys got some real good riding in though. During the week, best time to ride.

    I also agree with you about a short trail to cut across from White Pine to South boundary. Going thru Silver City sucks, the tar, the driveway crossings, no gas, etc.

    I like your idea about a simple grading system, let me try to type it up like you did for my trail report for today.

    Thanks for the heads-up regarding the sticker check. Been stopped & checked for that up here before, no big deal of course since we always buy them, not trying to be a cheapskate, but I suppose there a quite a few people that are.

    I did buy another machine, a 2008 T660 that spent the initial part of its life out in Yellowstone. Ran it about 300 miles so far and so far so good. Need to check the clutch since I think its calibrated for out their at altitude, getting about 3 mpg less that our other 2001 660's. But still looking for the 2007 T660 LE's so keep your eyes open yet.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 17th 2010
     
    01/17/10 09:00 pm

    Trail Report:

    I guess I'll start out by saying that since there hasn't been an 'official' update since the 15th that usually isn't a good sign. And YES I know the weather has been on the warm side and has been melting the base away.

    Here was the route:
    Wakefield to Bergland on #8 then to Rockland on #13, then #3 to Mass City, had lunch at Grandma Myrt's again, then #12 to Ontonogon to #101 back to #13 to run back into Bergland and #8 back in to Wakefield.

    Now before the groomer operators get mad at me for what I post, I am going to tell it like it is, I do appreciate what you guys do, believe me but for a 3 day holiday weekend, everyone in our group was dissapointed at the condition of most of the trails we ran today. We expected the snirt and dirt near towns and road crossings but some areas had not been groomed in days and made for a very painful day of riding. Even the guys riding solo at the bars had nothing good to say about the trails we were on as well so it's not just me.

    Heres the low-down:
    #8 was decent to Bergland except the section where you run down the 'plowed' road otherwise it was ok, just ok.
    #8/#1 along the north side of Merriweather/Bergland was nothing but chop, very annoying and very slow going.
    #13 out of Bergland was decent, looked like it was groomed last night, but maybe only 1 side, a bit rough in places and the corners were mogul city.
    #13 on the east side of Norwich Rd where the Superior Snowmobile club grooms was as bad as bad gets. Even the hot doggers couldn't keep up the pace. Very painful and slow getting to Rockland.
    #3 around to Grandma's in Mass City was more of the same, absolutey beyond ridable. The thoughts of 'Minimum maintence Road-Travel at your own Risk' was running thru my mind the entire short distance/long travel time run. It felt like it took an hour to get from Henry's to Grandma's, and I'm probably not off by much. We were going to go to Twin Lakes to eat but we couldn't take any more punishment and decided to stop and Grandma's to recover and then head back thru Ontonogon.
    #12 for the first 5 miles or so along the road were great, and not just after coming off of the torturous #13 & #3. Thru the woods on the west side was ok, not too bad, a bit rough where the trail dictated our speed and not the other way around. West of Ontonogon was more of the same, not too bad, and we still felt good about our decision to NOT go back on #3 & #13.
    #101, we talked to a few guys at that intersection & they said #12 was a mess from White Pine and #1 was just as bad from Bergland. Hence our decision to take 101 back to #13, the good West end.
    #13 met the groomer 1/2 mile from the 101 intersection so it was smooth sailing, well almost, back to Bergland. The moguls were so deep that even with 1 pass there moguls did not get filled in especially on many of the corners. Again, we were very glad he was out there but wished he had been there sooner before the trail was obliterated.
    #8/#1 was not groomed yet along Bergland so it was another painful trip back thru there.
    #8 from Bergland to Wakefield, ditto from earlier in the day with a few more sleds hammering it out.

    My attempt at Surgins grading system:
    #8 Wakefield to Bergland: C+ (C is average, right?), could have used grooming. Snirt & dirt in corners and the west end where it runs on the road.
    #13 to Norwich Road: B+ , snirt in some corners and open sunny spots, moguls in corners, could use grooming (and was as indicated above)
    #13 East of Norwich Road: F, Hasn't been groomed in days, moguls that swallowed even the hardiest of riders. Long over-due for grooming.
    #3 from Rockland to Mass City, Same as #13 East of Norwich, Travel at your own Risk.
    #12 Mass City/Greenland to Ontonogon, A-/B+, see earliar notes for details.
    #12 Onotonogan to #101, B+, most of it was good, a little rougher in the tighter woods which is to be expected.
    #101, A, very nice, very smooth, wished there were more than only 4 miles of it.
    #13 back to Bergland, A-, was being groomed as indicated above but will need another pass at it to remove the moguls.

    Again, I call them like I see them and I've been riding here since 1996 putting on a couple thousand miles every season, so I know a good trail from a bad trail.

    I've complimented the groomer operators in the past and we've even stopped to 'tip' them some cash so I hope you don't take this report the wrong way. It's intent was to tell it like it is so others can pick and choose their routes with some decent trail-side information.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 18th 2010
     
    pantera..
    sounds like a good day... I guess we expect 13 to go bad on weekends with all those heading to Hancock..
    agreed.. the trail condition reports I make are NOT to be critical of the groomers... if not for them MI would never see me.. just hoping that they might use the info we and perhaps others might post when they are deciding where to groom..

    I have often wanted to tip them.. haven't for fear scolding.. but given you example I will if they are stopped and we are in a safe area.. thanks.. if they don't get snow up there I probable won't be back for a couple weeks.. unless my pantera gets a new life and needs to be picked up and ridden home...

    good sledding all....

    surgin
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 18th 2010
     
    pantera....

    this the one you are looking for??

    http://www.countrycat.net/pages/newvehicles/viewmodel/5/53/1172/2007/arctic-cat-t660-turbo-trail-le.aspx?s=1

    bought my z1 from these guys..
  33.  
    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 01/18

    Big Snow Country official Season Snowfall to date: 113.7".

    We are in need of more snow…know it will come…but the sooner the better…mild temps and traffic took a toll on the trails but all groomers are out in all areas working to get them back in good condition. Overall they held up in pretty good shape.

    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: Expect to find an occasional bare spot…groomer working to fix them. 11 N being groomed…on 11S you still want to watch for Logging Trucks around that quarter-mile narrow stretch -remember, the Trucks have the Right of Way. Signs are posted in that area…the Trail is being groomed. Trails 2-8 and 160 are all in the process of being groomed.

    From the Lake Gogebic Area-everything is being groomed and in pretty good shape tho trails will deteriorate as you get closer to the WI line.. IMPORTANT: There are Logging Trucks in the vicinity of the junction of 102 AND 8-W. You MAY NOT ride plowed roads-you MUST observe the snowmobile trail signs. (Have heard they may be issuing tickets.) Stay on the trails and if you see a logging truck, pull over immediately.

    Watersmeet groomers report all trails groomed and conditions are fair to good
    IN ALL AREAS:
    After a number of close calls, you need to be aware groomers can be out any time of the day or night, so PLEASE pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.
    We want you to have lots of fun and a great time…therefore, your safety is our #1 priority.

    THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
    MAP ERROR
    There are errors regarding the location of Paulding, MI, which is a new advertiser on this year’s Trail Map. The red dot (#85)was mistakenly placed 1/2" south of where it should be and there also should be a GAS icon at Paulding. Snowmobile access to Paulding is via plowed County Rd-shoulders only.
    ABOUT THE ICE:
    It’s time for our usual caution. There is no such thing as "safe ice" due to underwater currents. If you choose to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for specific information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeJan 19th 2010
     
    surgin,
    I couldn't pull up that page but from the description that looks like it except that that is the Trail (solo) machine not the 2-up.

    We haven't bought any machines from them but have gotten certain gear for the kids and a part or 2.

    Mother nature needs to turn on the snow machine up there. We'll be back up later in February...

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 20th 2010
     
    pantera... sorry it was not a 2 up...

    if my pantera was fixed I would head up this weekend to retrieve it.. but I will have family up there this weekend to give me onsite update.. we have weekend planned both feb and march and whenever reports of good snow entice us in between..

    I will keep my eyes open.. if you see a z1 non turbo.. let me know...

    surgin

    oh.. I will keep looking for a grid trail report format that a person could cut and paste..
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 20th 2010
     
    pantera

    here is kinda like the grid I was thinking of only much more detail...

    have you ever tried this area??

    http://www.countryvillageresort.com/html/snowmobile_conditions.html

    I think bergland or indianhead should have a website like this to promote western UP trails

    surgin
    • CommentAuthorbearnt
    • CommentTimeJan 21st 2010
     
    Any one going sledding in the up Jan 31, Feb 1, 2, 3?? Around the Lake Goebic area?
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeJan 23rd 2010
     
    not going up til the 5th.. but rain cannot be good for trails..
  39.  
    Ontonagon Trail Report - Scott’s Superior Inn - 01/26

    We are back to grooming, and surprisingly the trails held up very good, there are some water holes, but they should freeze up this week . getting around towns is still a little rough, but for the most part the trails are pretty good.

    Scott’s Superior Inn and Cabins , why not stay where the groomer lives. CHECK OUT OUR LODGING SPECIAL!!

    www.westernup.com/scotts
  40.  
    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 01/26

    It’s a Winter Wonderland of fresh snow…however, we’re going to hold off on our Big Snow Country official Season Snowfall to date until tomorrow as totals are not available yet. Just a guestimate about the new snow is anywhere from 6 to 10" at this point…however, Watersmeet had just a couple of inches.
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: After the groomers were pulled from the trails due to mild weekend temps, they are now back out both day and night. All trails being groomed including 2-8-160-11N and 11S. Conditions are good and getting better.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-Groomers are all out double grooming all trails.. and reporting trails range from fair to good to very good.
    Watersmeet groomers are back out and reporting trail conditions are fair to good.
    IN ALL AREAS:
    You need to be aware the groomers are out both day and night, so watch for them, and PLEASE pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.
    The time you spend riding in Big Snow Country is all about lots of fun and a great time…therefore, your safety is our #1 priority.

    ABOUT THE ICE:
    It’s time for our usual caution. There is no such thing as "safe ice" due to underwater currents. If you choose to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for specific information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info
  41.  
    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 01/27

    Our Big Snow Country official Season Snowfall to date is now 124.3" with 18" on the ground - Cold temps the next couple of days will be good for firming things back up.
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: After the groomers were pulled from the trails due to mild weekend temps, they are now back out both day and night. All trails being groomed including 2-8-160-11N and 11S. Conditions are good and getting better.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-Groomers are all out double grooming all trails.. and reporting trails range from fair to good to very good.
    Watersmeet groomers are back out and reporting trail conditions are fair to good.
    IN ALL AREAS:
    You need to be aware the groomers are out both day and night, so watch for them, and PLEASE pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.
    The time you spend riding in Big Snow Country is all about lots of fun and a great time…therefore, your safety is our #1 priority.

    Here is an article from today’s (1-27-10)Ironwood Daily Globe:

    Names of the three men, ages 46, 47 and 18, had not been released Tuesday afternoon.
    They were snowmobiling on Lake Gogebic at the mouth of Snow River when their sleds went through the ice. They were too far out into the river for foot rescue, onlookers said.

    Read the above and you’ll see why we say there is no such thing as "safe ice". If you choose to go out, be sure you talk to locals where you intend to ride for specific information about the ice depth and other factors…be aware you will be riding at your own risk.

    Check out web cams throughout the area to see the snow amounts for yourself. Find links on our website at westernup.info
  42.  
    Western U.P. Trail Report - Western U.P. Bureau - 01/28

    Our Big Snow Country official Season Snowfall to date is now 125.5" with 18" on the ground - Cold temps the next couple of days will be good for firming things back up.
    Gogebic Range Trail Authority: Groomers are out both day and night. All trails being groomed including 2-8-160-11N and 11S. Overall conditions Good-some very good, some fair.
    From the Lake Gogebic Area-Groomers are all out double grooming all trails.. and reporting trails range from fair to good to very good.
    Watersmeet groomers are back out and reporting trail conditions are fair to good.
    IN ALL AREAS:
    Keep in mind the groomers are out both day and night, so watch for them, and PLEASE pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.
    The time you spend riding in Big Snow Country is all about lots of fun and a great time…therefore, your safety is our #1 priority.

    SIGN VANDALISM RESULTING IN SERIOUS SITUATION
    Expect to see more patrols on the trails due to a recent rash of sign vandalism incidents…we’re hearing cameras also may be enlisted in order to apprehend those responsible. If you see any suspicious activity, please call the DNR at 800-292-7800.
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeFeb 7th 2010
     
    As Promised, made it up here Saturday Feb 5th….
    Not as much new snow as the weather was indicating, much was lost during rainy weekend… but once again the groomers have done an incredible job… Bessemer to Wakefield and then 11 south all the way into WI was smooth and pristine. WI trails were as I remember them over a decade ago. Too many driveways, too many signs to resorts, and too many people coming the other way. Had to wait for a dogsled race to pass to get from land=o=lakes back into MI on 3. Very bumpy all the way to Watersmeet, then 2 West to to 13 N was pretty smooth. (Cops were checking stickers there.) 13 N and 100 to Lake Gogebic had icy corners and a few dirt spots on the logging roads. To avoid the risky corners we hopped on the lake and took a straight route to hoop and holler for gas and refreshments. 8 and 2 back to Bessemer were holding up pretty well, some ice in the corners but not as bad as by the lake. Overall, not bad for a Saturday, and still prefer MI trails to those in WI, but with sticker on the hood will try a few more times this season.

    surgin
    • CommentAuthorK2skier37
    • CommentTimeFeb 13th 2010
     
    Hey everyone i know this is a far fetched idea, although i figured i would come here in hopes that some one may have found a camera. We had stopped at a location just north of Bessemer and my camera had fallen out of my pocket upon leaving. Unfortunately i was not aware of this until ways down the trail. It was a silver olympus stylus. If anyone has found this and or knows some one that did would you email me with info please? Fahey37@gmail.com and i do have money that i could send your way.
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeFeb 17th 2010
     
    where do you mean north of bessemer?? on trail 11 north?? north of Indianhead??
    • CommentAuthorsurgin
    • CommentTimeFeb 24th 2010
     
    trail conditions last weekend quite good even with snow soft where it was brown.. lots of people up there..

    I was the one that hit the doe on 2 between marinesco and watersmeet.. I was doing 50.. and was lucky that she did not go over my hood.. lots of plastic to replace on my Z1... but no engine or chasis damage...

    You groomers are doing a great job.. and heard you are getting more snow.. go go go..
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeFeb 25th 2010
     
    K2skier37,
    It may be a long shot but worth trying. I found a cell phone on the edge of the trail on a bridge over a rivine with about a 100' drop once. Keyboard was locked so we couldn't call anyone using recent calls to get a clue as to who's it was but with the S/N we were able to trace it back to the owner & I sent it to him in Indiana, i think. The owner was very greatful.

    Hopefully if found they check this site.

    pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeFeb 25th 2010
     
    surgin,
    sorry to hear about the deer, oooouuuch.... We were near there last week but didn't hear anything about it. We were on a run for the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, the 'Ride with the Champs' on Vintage machines, Code named 'Vintage Challenge". We ran all the way from St. Germain, WI to the Fish Tales on Lake Gogebic for lunch, 2nd year of the run and we made it both times. Ran a 1979 El Tigre 6000 Cross Country edition race sled. We too saw lots of deer, 4- legged and motorized, lots of Deere boys on the run, i towed 3 of them out of the woods.

    We are heading up this weekend, tonight actually, so it sounds like they just got some fresh snow so conditions should be awesome!!

    Later,
    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeFeb 26th 2010
     
    02/26/10 8:20am

    We got in late last night and are heading out the door this morning to go riding. Father-in-law ran his sled thru the front yard and there is plenty of fresh powder, 1 - 2 feet since our last visit.

    Will let you know trail condidtions tonight when we get back.

    Pantera
    • CommentAuthorpantera
    • CommentTimeFeb 27th 2010
     
    02/27/10 08:00am

    Trail Report:
    We ran from Wakefield to Houghton/Hancock and back for about a 250 mile run.

    The trails in the morning were decent, plenty of traffic on them from their last grooming, but not bad. Thoughout the day in into the evening we came upon several groomers so while we didn't have any problems since we weren't trying to break the sound barrier, some of the clowns out there better keep that in mind so they don't crash into them and take the groomer out for the rest of us.

    On that same note: PASSING AROUND CORNERS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE!!!! Some idiots pulled that on us and after 1 got thru we made sure for our safety and theirs that the rest had to wait until the trail straightened out and we pulled over to allow them to pass. We just about had one of our group pushed off the trail from that idiot maneuver.

    Again, I feel like I am shouting down a well because those idiots probably don't read this board or even know how to read but I will say it again to at least let the people know that do read this to watch out for these idiots.

    Pantera

151 to 200 of 208

  1. <
  2. 1
  3. 2
  4. 3
  5. 4
  6. 5
  7. >