| Weather forecasts, snow depth reports, web cams and other info helpful to snowmobilers in Maine are available courtesy of the following web sites: |
| SNOW DEPTH MAP: NOAA/NE River Forecast Ctr |
| 24 HR SNOWFALL MAP: NOAA/NE River Forecast Ctr |
| FORECAST: National Weather Service/Caribou, Maine |
| FORECAST: National Weather Service/Portland & Gray, Maine |
| TRAVEL CONDITIONS: Maine Dept. of Transportation |
| WEB/SNOW CAMS |
| Monticello (Aroostook) |
| Beaver Cove Camps (Moosehead) |
| Gray Ghost Camps (Rockwood) |
| Pittston Farm (Moosehead) |
| Shin Pond Village (Northern Katahdin) |
| OUR LANDOWNERS: Please respect all landowners wishes while riding. Snowmobilers in Maine are the guests of Maine landowners who allow access. It is every snowmobiler's responsibility to protect that access by acting responsibly. |
| STAY OFF PLOWED ROADS: Snowmobilers who illegally snowmobile on plowed paper company roads threaten access for everyone, and endanger themselves and the employees operating vehicles on those roads. Do not ride on these plowed roads, and do not park your vehicles and trailers on these roads. |
| STAY OFF THE BLUEBERRY BARRENS AND OTHER CROPLAND: Snowmobilers who illegally ride on blueberry barrens or other cropland are creating problems for the landowners, potential damage to their crops and threatening recreational access for everyone. Stay on marked trails. |
| BORDER CROSSINGS: Increased concern and security at our borders calls for strict attention to the law. For information about crossing our border with Canada, see the Border Guide supplied by the United States Border Patrol. (.pdf format, viewed using Adobe Acrobat Reader - a free download ). |
| ATVs and other motorized vehicles: It is against the law to operate an ATV (or a dune buggy, 4 wheel drive vehicle, motorcycle or any other motor vehicle) on a snowmobile trail funded by the Club/Municipal grant program at any time of the year, unless the landowners have granted permission to do so. |
| Copyright 1996-2012 The Maine Snowmobile Association |
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There's some good to excellent groomed riding to be had, and the snow depth map (left) is looking healthier. Head out and enjoy it! This should be a very busy weekend on the trails, with a lot of pent up enthusiasm out there. Please ride with courtesy, ride safely.
Reports reflect observations of MSA members who cut, sign, groom and ride the trails of Maine. Local chambers of commerce, businesses and snowmobile clubs are a good source for additional information on trails in their area.
(Trail Reports are provided to the public courtesy of the members of the Maine Snowmobile Association. Reports are accepted from MSA family and business members. Please include your name and the name of your club when submitting the report. If you post trail conditions on your club web site and wish to have your updates posted and linked from this page, drop us an email with your request.)
Photo by Alan Swett - ITS 86, Eustis to Coburn Gore.
AROOSTOOK COUNTY
Benedicta:2/3:"Hey Gang, Got some good snow to work with conditions getting better by the hour. After speaking with Snowgang Trailmaster Ken Delano, my report is as follows:
ITS# 83 - Sherman/Whetstone Falls, Groomed with good/excellent conditions.
ITS# 81 - Sherman/Benedicta/Mattawamkeag Cuttoff, Groomed with excellent conditions.
Municipal Trail #70 - Benedicta/Whetstone Falls: THIS TRAIL IS CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE BECAUSE OF HEAVY LOGGING!! All sledders who chose to ride this trail, are riding at your own risk.Liability will be a factor if you have an accident on this trail, as it is CLOSED to all sled traffic. Signs ARE in place to make this known, that this trail is closed!!!!!!!!!!!! My advice::: STAY OFF THIS TRAIL!!!!
* All Snowgang club trails will be groomed as time allows!!
* Riders need to be aware of icey conditions in all corners as LOW SNOW conditions are in place on all trails.SLOW DOWN!!! Also, be aware that our 4 legged friends are using ALL trails to get around at this time. Remember to give them the right of way ~ THEY WERE HERE FIRST!! If u hit one of these guys IT WILL RUIN YOUR DAY- AND PUT A DENT IN YOUR WALLET!!!
Please use caution on any waterway as ice amounts vary in different areas. Contact your "locals" before going on any ice!!! So, for the weekend SLOW DOWN, enjoy our trails and have a good ride!! BE SAFE!!!" - Jim Splan, Reporter at Large, Benedicta Snowgang
Aroostook:2/1: Caribou Parks and Rec reports:"ITS 85 open and groomed from the St. John Valley to the Katahdin Region. Watch for significant logging ops along ITS 85 in Winterville near the ITS 120 intersection. Trucks and equipment can be expected along the entire section of trail in that area for most of the winter including the southern end of ITS 120 (Debouille). From Ox Bow south to Shin Pond and south to the Katahdin region they are now in full operation and trails are primo. St Francis noted the Lincoln Trail Rts 92A should be open for the weekend but check locally.
ITS 83 in full swing with all projects reporting full grooming operations from Madawaska to E. Millinocket. Plenty of snow cover throughout.
ITS 81 open and groomed from Madawaska south and west to the 85 intersection. Projects reporting no problems NUMBER NINE LAKE TRAIL CLOSED DUE TO LOGGING
ITS 105 from Van Buren south to Houlton and Linneus is open and groomed... sorry no report from further south on that one between Linneus and Danforth but plenty of cover.
ITS 90 open and groomed from ITS 81 intersection in Limestone/Ft Fairfield to Portage no problems. There will be gas at Coffins Store in Portage this winter.
ITS 92 groomed from Ft. Kent to Allagash but you can not go to Escourt due to logging however Cedric and a few others have been working hard and have the loop open to Glazier LakeÉ pick it up by the Little Black checkpoint. Remember the last gas is on ITS 92 at Chamberlains
ITS 88 open through east to west with plenty of snow cover.
ITS 86 groomed east of Houlton /ice on some of the big climbs gave the groomer a workout but this snow should help out and get that all taken care of all the way through. The west end is good
ITS 120 (Debouille Trail) has been open and groomed but watch out for logging off 85 at the 120 intersection and in on 120. It is active and will be most of the winter
Rt 89 from Caribou north is open to Rt 94 no problems. Rt 100 to Caswell connecting with 89 is open and groomed too.
Soldier Pond, Daigle, St. Agatha and Frenchville have been out and their trails are top notch
Mapleton, Chapman and the Squa Pan region has all trails open and groomed" Please view full report, including social events at www.caribourec.org
Oxbow-Masardis:1/30: Oxbow-Masardis SC reports "We finally have a decent amount of snow to work with! The trails should be in good shape by mid week."
Macwahoc:1/30: "Trail #110 from Drew/Wytopitlock south to Macwahoc is groomed to within about 3 miles of Bento's store.
Trail #1 North is groomed to the bridge in Haynesville, plowed road on the Haynesville end.
Trail #3 has been groomed to lower Macwahoc lake with Molunkus valley making the connection to Sherman Island falls area.
Trail #3A is groomed to our turn around, no sign of other clubs yet.
Trails from Macwahoc south are open but not groomed to to lack of snow." -Jody Moulton, Eastern Maine Snow Riders
Madawaska-St John Valley:1/30: "Extreme Northern Maine Trail-That 10 inch plus snowfall was just what the doctor ordered and we are now right back to EXCELLENT groomed trails and riding conditions throughout the Hamlin, Van Buren, Grand Isle, Madawaska, Frenchville, St. Agatha, Sinclair, New Canada, Eagle Lake, Wallagrass, Fort Kent, St. John, St. Francis and Allagash areas. Long Lake, Mud Lake, Cross Lake, Square Lake and Eagle Lake are smooth and solid for the most part with a few slushy areas here and there from last weeks warm-up. Keep a keen eye for fishermen, fisherwomen and cabins making good use of our unique Chain O' Lakes as well as plowed areas and pressure ridges which can crop up and act as mother nature's "slow down" signs ... Keep to the right and think safety" - Mike Cyr, Madawaska Snowmobile Club
Aroostook County Ride: 1/22: "Just a note to let you know we rode 281 miles in County. Started from Presque Isle, rode Fort Fairfield, Caribou, Portage, Ashland to Van Buren. Great riding where groomed. Don't go on ungroomed trails. 95% of trails were great." - A Osborne, Family SC
Madawaska:1/16 : "Just a note to let everyone know that contrary to rumor, there IS snow in the St. John Valley and the trails are beautiful! It might have taken a while to find its way, but it's here! I went out last Weds. and rode 100 miles and the trails were excellent. The area groomers are out on their regular schedules keeping the trails maintained. It's amazing what our local clubs have done with what we do have! Keep on dancin', more snow could never hurt, but don't hesitate... get up here and RIDE!!" Jean Ouellette, Madawaska SC
Madawaska: 1/16: "Madawaska trails are all opened and marked ready for use. Trails are in great shape. Use some caution in some fields due to some diversion ditches. Rode trails from here to Stockholm and back around to Fort Kent and all trails are in great shape. Thanks to all the valley clubs for doing an outstanding job getting the trails ready. The valley is ready to ride for anyone who wants to come on up." - Mike Michaud, Madawaska Snowmobile Club.
GREATER KATAHDIN REGION
Bowlin-Matagamon-Shin Pond SC:2/3: "-2 below this morning! Just the way we like it... ITS 85N/ITS114 North to Shin Pond groomed with great riding! ITS 85 Shin Pond to Matagamon and south to Bowlin groomed with very good riding. 71D to Grand Lake Seboeis groomed with excellent riding. The Scraggley Lake Loop is open and groomed. Club Trail 64 with excellent views of Mt.Katahdin open and groomed with excellent riding. Remember the club trails offer great riding!
The Cunningham Ridge Lookout is groomed. The Lookout Mtn through Bowlin Camps is groomed. This weekend we will see lots of sledders so use extra caution when riding!
As always feel free to email or call me anytime! 528-2900 or shinpondvillage@fairpoint.net. - Terry
Also check out the live webcam at shinpond.com
Katahdin-Millinocket Area:1/31: "Much Grooming and many changes to the trail report for the Katahdin Region. Updates on Jo Mary and SnowRovers as well as Twin Pines trail systems 6 to 10 inches of snow due in the next 24 hours. Join us for great riding.
We groomed the Down Town and Wild Kingdom Trails as well as the Pole Line today. This leaves us just the Stratton Trail for tomorrow night and our whole system will be open and groomed! Come enjoy great mid winter conditions with plenty of snow!" -Matthew Polstein, New England Outdoor Center
For details on individual trails visit NEOC.com or join the discussion at Snowmobiling in Maine in the Katahdin Region, on Facebook.
GREATER MOOSEHEAD REGION
Greenville Jct:2/3: Wilsons on Moosehead Lake reports "We have ice and lots of it! Grab your gear and come show us how it's done! The new docks are a perfect place to sit, enjoy the beautiful scenery and do some jigging. We can't wait to see all of our winter friends! The ice continues to form in the cove and we've had a successful ice fishing season already!! Last weekend reports of 9-16 inches everywhere, and it's done nothing but make more ice since then. Catching lots of great fish and beautiful weather to enjoy your time with us!
Things are set up for a great base, and we are actively grooming our section of ITS 88 from here at the camps south (or east as they call it!). Some corners are a little thin and we can always use more snow, but overall in very good condition. Riders are reporting the area trails are groomed and very enjoyable! ITS 88 will remain the same as last year connecting to ITS 86 part way between Greenville and the Forks Trail System.
The Moosehead Lake Region is full of great family activities year round! Don't miss the great events- Visit www.mooseheadlake.org for full calendar. "-Scott & Alison Snell, and family. Please view more info, full report at Wilsons web site linked above
Rockwood :2/2: The Birches Resort web site reports "Six inches of new powder fell yesterday. All trails have been groomed and riding is very good at The Birches now. There is a solid base of 20 inches or so with good powder.
All trails in the Rockwood region have been groomed. The lake trail from The Birches to Mt Kineo has been marked. Rt 66 is opened to Kokadjo now.
Moosehead and Brassua Lakes are frozen and ice fishing is opened.
The Birches lodge and cabins are opened for meals and lodging. We have gas and oil."
Greenville:2/1: Cozy Moose Lakeside Cabin Rentals reports "Maine Snowmobile Trail report - Yes, you can get there from here. Solid base, another 2-3" snow today ending with some sleet. Guests parked and have ridden surrounding snowmobile trails to Kokadjo, Millinocket, Rockwood, Pittston Farms, Birches and beyond reporting a variety of conditions with some good riding."
Greenville:1/30: Moosehead Riders SC web site reports "WOO HOO!! Grooming is now being conducted Monday,Wednesday and Fridays! We have been out on CLUB trails and conditions are good to very good.
Mountain Pond and Wilson Pond trails groomed Saturday and Monday 1/30 and are in great shape.
Scammon Ridge trail still mostly thin and dry, has been opened but not groomed.
Area trails are mostly hard packed with a few thin areas on the roads. Wooded area are thin to bare and caution needs to exercised!
Waiting for some more snow this week. REMEMBER....Ride Right....Ride Safe!!!" - Tom McCormick - President/Trail Master - MRSC
Kokadjo:1/30 :Kokadjo Roach Riders web site reports " We are now grooming on our regular schedule! One of the groomers is down but we are keeping up with our old groomer. We got 6-8"of snow over the weekend and we have been able to begin grooming all trails this week." View web site linked above for trail by trail reports.
Rockwood:1/30:"We have fresh snow! 10 inches of new snow in the past 4 days and currently over 20 inches of snow pack in the woods. Most snow being north and west of Rockwood.
Snowmobile Trail Report: This snow was enough to get all of our neighboring clubs grooming too. We have a great solid base, but please watch your speed as the corners might be icy, even under this fresh snow. Route 66 north of Rockwood toward Pittston Farm and Jackman was groomed Friday, Saturday and Sunday this week. There is a 2 miles section of plowed road on Burn Down Alley, please give trucks the right of way. Rockwood's local connector trails could use a bit more snow and will be groomed Monday night. We are watching for an upcoming storm on Wednesday....
Ice Report: The ice on Moosehead has varied depths. The lake always freezes in coves first. Here in the narrows of Rockwood it measures 8-12 inches. Ice fishing is well underway and several shacks are starting to appear near Rockwood's Public Landing at Mt. Kineo. The trail has been marked from The Birches to Mt. Kineo State Park across the ice. Please check with locals before going on any body of water and when in doubt, stay on the marked trails. The surface is glare ice with patches of snow." - Gray Ghost Camps, reporting for Blue Ridge Riders club. More info at the web site linked above
Historic Pittston Farm:1/30: "Our trails are in excellent condition, some wonderful riding, smooth and plenty of coverage, as well as beautiful scenery throughout our trail system, as well as Jackman, and Rockwood. If all holds well into next week we'll try to open some of our smaller trails. They are saying some snow end of this week, we all hope so! Be Safe and come and see for yourself. Great food, lodging, gas and friendly staff await you! Don't forget to watch our web-cam anytime. Be Safe out there, and keep your sled under control at all times! - Jennyo. More info at Historic Pittston Farm web site
Moosehead-Forks Area Ride:1/27,28: "We rode the Monson, Greenville, and Forks area 1-27,1-28. I was pleasantly surprised with the overall conditions due to the lack of snow. A general 6-8 inches of snow fell on Friday which helped. Trails were in good shape. Once more snow comes and grooming continues, trails should hopefully stand up well." - Rudy Lioce, Rangeley Lakes SC
T-2 R13: 1/28: "8" of new snow yesterday, the Groomer was out last night on the Farrar Mtn. and Black Pond Trail. Will groom the Spencer Mtn. and Blood Pond Trail today." - Paul Napolitano, President, Ragged Riders SC
North East Carry:1/26:"Well fellow snowmobilers, the trails just ain't what they should be. The rain ruined the snow we did have and from reports that we get from the sledders, grass and dirt has shown up on all trails. The only thing in our favor is the temperature did drop and the slush and water on the trails has turned into ice. So... if we get any of the snow that is being predicted, we'll have some cover and lubrication. The NEC Sno Riders have reported that some sledders are going off trail to possibly pick up any lubrication available. Although the lubrication is necessary, it can be very dangerous at this time. Culverts, rocks, logs and all manner of stuff is hidden just below a dusting of snow or ice. Accidents will occur and we do not want any injuries to our riders. Pay attention!!! Stay Alert!! Bring on the SNOW, we're all waiting." - The North East Carry Snow Riders
ROUTE 201 CORRIDOR
The Forks:2/2: "A few more inches of fresh snow fell on Wednesday. There is now plenty of snow to work with, and groomer operators are reporting great conditions everywhere. We are on our regular mid-winter grooming schedule, and cold temps will help keep things in good shape.
ITS 86 east from Berry's Store heading toward Greenville: Intown trail is now in good shape. Boise Road, Shirley Road, Brochu Road sections are all flat and fast. The short 1/2 mile Power Line section near Lake Moxie is rough. Other than that, it's great riding all the way to Greenville.
ITS 87 south heading toward Bingham: Great riding on the Divide Road. A little rough for 1 mile around Pleasant Pond, and 1 mile around Moore's Bog. Other than that, you're on unplowed roads with very good riding. Check out the groomed spur trail up to the Moxie Mountain Lookout. Great views of Sugarloaf and the Bigelow Range.
Bald Mountain Trail from ITS 87 to ITS 86: Great riding all the way through. There is a logging operation on the south end at Heald Stream, with a 1 mile section of shared, plowed road. Be careful through there.
Pleasant Pond Trail: This club trail has been groomed, except for 2 miles on the west end. Many sleds have been going through.
Breakneck Ridge Trail; This trail is closed for the 2012 season, due to logging and several miles of plowed roads. It is illegal to ride on unauthorized plowed roads. Please respect the landowners wishes on this.
Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to ITS 86/87: Is groomed with good riding. Scenic trail along the Kennebec River.
A late start, but we finally have great riding in The Forks. For day riders, there is a FREE PARK & RIDE LOT at Northern Outdoors on Route 201. Food, trail maps and gas are available right at the Lodge." - Jim Yearwood, Northern Outdoors, Northern Outdoors SC
West Forks/Coburn Area:2/2: "We received another 3-4 inches of snow yesterday and the trails are looking great. All groomers went out last night and will go out again before the weekend. Although there still are some rocks here and there, overall riding is excellent. Traffic is picking up on the trails so be cautious, stay right, and watch for other sleds.
ITS 87 is great shape on all road sections, but is still thin behind Berrys store. There is a plowed section with logging in progess south of the powerlines. The powerlines still need a little more snow but overall is good.
ITS 89 is groomed and riding is great all the way to Grand Falls.
ITS 86 is good on roads and thin out of the Forks along the river but still good riding.
Lake Parlin Connector is groomed and riding is good. The section on the west side of 201 has some thin spots but is still good riding.
Coburn Connector is groomed and in great shape, Johnson Mtn Connector Not groomed but plenty of snow
The trails are the best they've been all season...get out and RIDE!" - Coburn Summit Riders SC
Solon:2/2: Solon Snow Hawks report "Club trails were groomed today and came out really nice. There are a few thin spots so please use caution. Both groomers will be heading out tomorrow to groom the ITS and connector trails. SSH" - SSH
Jackman:2/1: Bishop's Motel reports "We keep getting more snow! Another 3-7 inches forcasted for Tuesday thru Wed.! We now have enough snow that all trails are open and actively being groomed.." View full report at link, above.
Bingham:1/31: "Just got back from a short ride up ITS 87, and for the amount of snow that we have, the trails from Bingham north are in great shape. Approximately 80% of our trails are on roads and they are flat and hard. Another 4-8 inches is currently forecasted for tonight and tomorrow for this area. This should set the trails up for a great weekend of riding.
The groomer will be on the mid winter grooming schedule this week and weekend. Please use caution near any power lines and slow down when you see any power line crews at work. The expansion of the power lines in this area affect multiple sections of our snowmobile trail system, one short area just North of Bingham on ITS 87 and multiple areas on ITS 84 East of Bingham." -Leo Hill, Valley Riders SC, Gateway Recreation and Lodging
Madison:1/31: Abnaki Sno-Riders web sitereports "Still not enough snow for grooming. Ou clubhouse will remain closed until we see rideable snow. If you go out, USE CAUTION!"
Jackman:1/28: Border Riders Sportsman Club web site reports "All trails are open and will be groomed tonight. Conditions are good to very good. The most snow is north of town. Off trail riding is good and there have been reports of up to 2-3 feet of snow in some areas.
ITS 89 North - open, flat and in very good condition.
ITS 89 South - open, good condition.
ITS 88 East - open, flat in very good condition."
Jackman-Moose River:1/28 : Jackman Moose River Region Chamber of Commerce web site reports "We got snow! Reports coming in are that the trails are excellent. Groomers have been going out and making their magic. Come on up...it is time to ride! The Border Riders Clubhouse will be open on the weekends Stop in. PLUS,if you also want to ice fish, our ponds are ready for you!" View reports of individual trails at the web site linked above
Solon:1/27:Breezy Acres Camps web site reports: "Mother Nature has finally been bringing us snow this year. We got about 5" today and a little sleet at the end. ITS and Connector trails were groomed last weekend and now we have more snow to work with. Local trails have not been done yet so please be careful riding. We will definitely be doing more snow dances in the next few weeks!"
Skowhegan:: Skowhegan Snow Hawks
S. PISCATAQUIS-PENOBSCOT-SOMERSET
Guilford: 1/29: "Well, after the 3 or 4 inches we picked up Friday, most of our trails have been groomed. Conditions very from mediocre to fair in wooded sections to good and near excellent on the RR Bed and truck roads. All our ice crossing have at least 8 inches of ice and are safe for snowmobile traffic, though the groomer hasn't been across them yet.
***SNOWMOBILERS TAKE NOTE*** Our connector trail to the Forks over Breakneck ridge has been closed for the year due to a logging operation. There is no reroute and snowmobilers are not allowed on unauthorized plowed roads. You will now have to take 86 from Greenville or a connector trail farther south to go over the Kennebec River valley.
Ride Right, Ride Safe, and always let someone know where you will be riding and when you're going to be home." -Jacob Vainio, Four Winds Snowmobile Club
Abbot:: The Big Pine Riders web site
Plymouth:: Endless Season Riders
GREATER BANGOR-GREATER LINCOLN
Lincoln: 2/3: "Most of our ITS trails have been groomed. Conditions range from FAIR to near EXCELLENT. So please use EXTREME caution when riding our trail system. Please watch for hidden dangers under the snow. Club trails will be groomed when all ITS trails have been groomed. Please expect high snowmobile traffic coming into Lincoln the weekend of February 11 and 12th due to our 12th Annual Sno-Cross Races. Come and Join us for two full days of racing and Hot food and drink. And as always please ride safe!" -Joni Smith, Lincoln Snowhounds Snowmobile Club
Enfield:2/3: Cold Stream Sno-Riders web site reports "We're seeing much better conditions for this weekend thanks to the few inches of snow that fell earlier in the week.
Trail 11 to Lincoln has been groomed. There are still some rough thin spots where the trail follows the powerlines so use caution.
Trail 10 to Howland as well as the service trail to Citgo are both open and groomed.
Trail 11 towards Passadumkeag and Trail 10 to Burlington are both open but not groomed yet due to some thin ice in the low lying bogs. We're keeping our fingers crossed that the colder temps will help us out.
The club trail along the I.P. Road parallel to Route 2 is still closed due to a bridge that is out.
The trail to Cold Stream Pond is open and in decent shape. As always, be careful riding on the pond as there are still reports of thin ice in some areas and pressure ridges are starting to form.
All of our trails are primarily hard packed with a few thin/icy spots so please take it slow around the corners and stay to the right. It is good to finally be able to get out and ride so come and enjoy our trails an we'll see you out there!"
Bangor:: Paul Bunyan SC
Springfield:: Quad County SC
Orrington:: Orrington Trail Riders
Bucksport/Orland::Family SC
MID COAST-DOWNEAST
Cherryfield:2/3:Narraguagus SC web site reports "Still no snow, club trails not rideable, Downeast Sunrise Trail is 90% covered with 1 to 2 inches of ice the other 10% is bare ground"
Nicatous Lake Area:1/20: Nicatous Lodge and Camps web site reports "As of Jan. 20th the snowmobile trails only have 3 inches of fluffy snow on them. Not enough to groom yet. We are open daily for lunch, gas and lodging. Sorry, we are not able to acccept debit or credit cards."
Beddington Area:: Airline Riders SC, Airline Lodge & Snack Bar
NORTHWESTERN MOUNTAINS
Eustis/Stratton:1/31 :Arnold Trail SC web site reports "Tuesday Morning in Eustis 3 degrees and things are looking real nice. All trails in the Arnold Trail system are opened and groomed. The club received it's brand new 2012 Tucker 2000 on 1/26/12 and has been grooming steady since. The trails are lookin good at this point with more snow in the forecast for tonight. We will be grooming day and night throughout the week and weekend so always be prepared to meet a groomer. Polar Blast weekend coming up so come on up and play. "
Kingfield:1/31: " It's snowing here today!!!!!!! Supposed to get 4 inches of snow out of this storm.
The Carrabassett River Crossing is now safe for crossing with snowmobiles.
All trails were groomed Monday this week. We will be grooming nightly now as needed to keep the trails in excellent shape. Trails are in very good condition, (early season conditions), use caution in the woods where a rock or stump may be exposed. With a little more snow the trails will be excellent.
February 5th Potluck supper at 5pm at Webster Hall. 6pm Club Meeting
February 19th at 7:00 AM Annual Breakfast at the Kingfield Elementary School ALL YOU CAN EAT!!!
Please support your local club by becoming a member.
Enjoy the winter activities and stay safe out there!!! " - Groomer Douglas Marble, Kingfield Snowanderers, Visit the Town website and follow the trail conditions link, www.kingfield.me.
RANGELEY/GREATER RUMFORD AREA/WESTERN MAINE
Roxbury/Byron:2/3: Slippery Sliders SC web site reports "For the amount of snow we have the trails in Roxbury and Byron are in very good condition. All major trails will be groomed for the weekend. Hoping for more snow to make conditions even better.
117 north of Byron was groomed on Monday and on Wednesday and will be groomed again on Friday night.
117 south of Byron was groomed Monday and again on Friday morning.
16 west of Byron to Ellis Pond Variety was groomed on Monday and Wednesday and will be groomed again at the end of the week.
Other club trails will also be groomed during the week.
The Bunker Pond road trail is plowed but logging is completed, there is some snow on the road and is passable."
Hebron:2/3: Bouncing Bogies SC reports "Groomers went yesterday and all trails are open. Riders report conditions surprisingly good. From Oxford on ITS89 no problems. RR bed from Minot no problems. ITS89 to Dixfield hard packed conditions. For $2 trail maps or current trail conditions call The Storekeepers at 207-966-2733." - B Francis, francis@megalink.net
Fryeburg:2/3: "I hate to report that we only got 4 inches of snow this week. We're still not grooming. Where is that big storm? We had to postpone the Poker Rally. We hope for some snow soon so that we may reschedule. We will keep you posted. "- Karen, Interstate Snogoers SC
Rangeley:2/2 : Rangeley Lakes SC reports : "We have picked up several inches of snow over the past five days.
Trails are Open and groomed on a regular schedule. Conditions range from fair on a couple trails to Good to Very Good on most trails. There are still thin spots, bumps and dips so use caution. You can access the trails from all In-Town parking areas and from Oquossoc. All Rangeley and Oquossoc businesses are open.
Cautions on the Rangeley Trail System:
ITS 84 at South Bog Stream has a logging operation on the trail. There is a marked temporary by-pass trail along the plowed road. Stay over and be alert and very cautious of vehicles (they have the Right-of-Way).
ITS 89 heading past Gull Pond. Logging vehicles crossing the trail.
Greeley Trail- (Connects with ITS 89) Shared use of the trail with logging operations for about one mile.
Corridor 108 Trail between ITS 84 at Junction R 7 and Junction R5, There is a logging operation on the trail about one mile from the ITS 84 Junction (R7).
Samoset Trail. We need more snow to pack it but you should be able to get through.
NOTICES: Lake riding is never safe! If you are not experienced and comfortable with riding on lakes. Don';t do it! The Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Club has no trails on any lakes, ponds, rivers or streams. We have plenty of trails to enjoy safely."
Please view club web site linked above for the Rangeley club's full report.
Rumford:2/1: Rumford Polar Bears web site reports "2/1/12 - Tom Reed and Gene Knox groomed, with the Tucker and drag for the first time, all of ITS 82, the Black Mtn. Trail to the warming hut, and the Swain Pond Trail to the plowed road. They filled the washout between Black Mtn. and Whitecap with more snow and it is now easily passable. They were also able to fill in all the bad holes on the Swain Pond Trail. Trail conditions are much improved and are pretty good, considering the general lack of snow. We can't do much more until we get more snow!
1/31/12 - Black Mountain Trail for its entire length was groomed by Gene Knox with a utility sled and drag. He reported that the trail was in good shape. He also groomed ITS 82 from the north end of Black Mountain Trail to Swain Road.
1/31/12 - Trail 17 was groomed by Louise and Bob Stickney with utility sled and drags. This trail is in fairly decent shape. There are many water bars that need to be filled in, however, when we get more snow to work with.
1/31/12 - The High School Trail, Maple Street Trail, and the Porter Avenue Trail were groomed by Louise and Bob Stickney. These three trails are in good shape."
Naples:1/21:Muddy River Sno-Seekers web site reports " The trails are being ridden but proceed with caution. There are still waterholes that haven't been able to freeze yet too. Really need more snow and with warm weather and some rain coming this week it doesn't look good." - Tony
Newry:1/21 : "ITS 82 has been groomed from Andover to the NH stateline with the tucker. Trail 13 from Newry Corner to ITS 82 has also been groomed. The MT Will trail is open but needs more snow before they can groom it. The trails are thin so please use caution when riding." -Loretta Powers, Windy Valleys SC
Greenwood, Woodstock, Milton:1/20: Greenstock Snow Sports web site reports "Snow is on it's way! It has been a long off season and a lot of trail work has been done. Thanks to everyone who has helped make it happen. Obviously, there is no grooming happening right now, but hopefully we have finally turned the corner to the start of the winter season. As soon as we have enough snow, we will be out grooming. We have seen tracks across the ponds already. Use extreme caution. The thickness of the ice varies from pond to pond and it varies even as you ride across the pond. We have been made aware that bouys that remained in the water after the summer fun have surfaced to the ice and may be a hazard if you are not careful on the ice." view full report at web site linked above"
Bridgton:: Bridgton Easy Riders web site
CENTRAL MAINE (Greater LA, Augusta, Waterville etc)
Belgrade:2/2: Belgrade Draggin Masters report "The trails from Messalonskee Lake down by info booth out through Gagne's over to Readfield Bog and up to Ingaham Pond are all dragged and actually in very good condition considering what we have to work with. I would say 90% very good and of coarse those extra rough spots are not great but better than they were."
Lewiston:1/27: Hillside Family Riders web site reports "The club is trying to get somthing going here but mother nature will not cooperate! We groomed most of the trails last Friday and they were not all the bad but the warm weather and rain sure set us back. Trails are ridable but not very good. Another 5 or 6 inch storm should put us back in business. We rode Rangeley 1-26-12 and trails were great for 180 miles. Pray for snow, winter is going away! - ITS 87 will be shut down here and there through the winter...pay attention to signs and obey them!"
Gardiner:1/26: "Other than a few rough areas, a lot of our trail system was not bad after we groomed Saturday, but rain and warm temps have ruined it and they are now closed. The Friday precipitation is not expected to bring enough snow to resume grooming. Will post a report when we are ready to groom again." -Brian Winchester, President, Gardiner Ridge Riders
Farmingdale: 1/22: "All trails are open. All are in need of snow though. Can't really groom unless we get another six inches or so. There is logging on trail 27 from Caldwell Drive to the power line near the Manchester line, Please stay on the trail, follow the signs, go slow and yield to the landowner operating the skidder.
The power line project is in full operation. It looks as if they will be running lines soon. This may be an issue as the winter goes on. Trail 32 travels along this power line from Ryder road until it meets with 29. About two miles. Please use caution while traveling this as there are new stumps and rocks that have been turned up during construction. Trail 32c is an option to bypass some of the major work. Ride safe." - Bob Dill, Barnstormers SC.
Palermo:1/19: Palermo SC web site reports "Not enough snow to ride on our own trails. Expecting a little snow tonight."
Albion:1/14: " Hello everyone, I wish I could report better news but we only received 4 inches from the storm followed by some rain. I urge everyone to stay off the trails and respect the land owners until we get another storm. This snow should help to set up a decent frozen base. All of the lakes and ponds in the area are safe to ride on, but use caution. Our next club meeting will be on February 8." - Tom Cummings, Albion Night Roadrunners
Greene:1/13: "Hey finally some snow, RIDERS TAKE NOTICE ITS 87 THROUGH GREENE , LEWISTON AND LEEDS . CMP AND CONTRACTORS ARE WORKING THE LINE, THERE WILL BE SECTION OF ITS 87 CLOSE SO SEEK ATL. WE WILL UP DATE. ITS 87 very rough at this time we just got 6 to 10 inch which will start a good base. RIDE SAFE Thanks" - Mike Fazekas, Trail Master, Greene Dragon Volunteers
Fayette: Trail 10W between ITS 115 connector and East Livermore will have logging through out this season. Because of this 2 trail re-routes had to be done, PLEASE STAY ON MARKED TRAILS. - Bill Latham, Fayette Rainbow Riders
SOUTH-SOUTH WESTERN MAINE
Sanford-Springvale:1/28:Southern Maine Sno-Goers web site reports "We have received unseasonably warm temperatures and rain. Trails are closed with little to no snow. No grooming is being done.
Gorham:1/26: "Trails closed due to rain." - Grant Caron, Gorham SnoGoers SC
Cornish: 1/24: "Over the weekend there were a few sleds out without any base. Today 1/24/12, it was sunny and 52 degrees. Everything has turned to slush. We will let you know when we start grooming the trails. Join Us!" - John Lambert, Cornish Sno-Cruisers
Waterboro:1/24: Ossipee Mountaineers SC web site reports "Trails are closed. This weather took a lot of it away if we get snow this weekend we shall see what happens :'(" - Dave Watson, Ossipee Mountaineers
Cumberland/North Yarmouth:1/15 : Moonlite Sno-Skimmers web site reports "About 4-6" of snow, still tough on the sled, rocks and stumps around so beware! We took a ride today, over to Irving from the Club House, across to Turkey Lane, Range Road, Falmouth powerline, over to J Bros Store and across Rhines Forest. The Hadlock Community Forest on the other side of Range Road, across from Rhines Forest is very confusing. Lots of cutting done there last year, blue trail signs and white trail signs are for hiking. They criss cross the snowmobile trails and in some cases overlap them. Riders beware... it needs to be marked for sleds at some point by the Falmouth Club, maybe we can help out. If anyone is in the Range Road/Rhines Forest area, there are two trees down as you cross Range Road, coming from Rhines Forest. Need a chain saw. Need some good storms and we could be set for some riding!
COMPLIMENTS FOR THE TRAILS:
Moosehead-Jackman area ride: 1/30: "Group of 3 friends trailered up to Jackman from New Vineyard. Got to Jackman around 11:00am and headed north up ITS 89 and east to ITS 88 and Route 66 to Rockwood. Plenty of snow north of Jackman! We got gas and crossed Moosehead to Kineo Mountain. Trails were ok this far, lots of sleds out. Headed to Kokadjo and had supper there. Very nice place in Kokadjo. We all had a great meal and enjoyed the scenery from the dining room. Left Kokadjo at 6PM and headed up the backside of the Moosehead. Trail grooming was going on and we rode some very nice trails to NEast Carry, Pittston Farm and back to ITS 88. About 9:45 we met the Jackman New Holland groomer, and rode excellent trails all the way back to Jackman! Got back at Midnight and we all were talking about how much fun we had and how great the trails were. First ride this year for us, and we plan to bring more people back with us and stay longer next time!!!!" - Doug Marble, and Daniel Boyd, Kingfield Sno-wanderers