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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. A reminder from the folks at the Maine Department of Transportation: It is illegal and incredibly dangerous to cross or ride on controlled access highways, specifically Interstate highways I-95 and I-295. Recently there have been a number of problems on I-295 in the West Gardiner area. Please obey the law and stay off these highways. (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.) AROOSTOOK COUNTY Oxbow-Masardis:2/7: Oxbow-Masardis SC web site reports: "Now that colder temperatures have returned, the trail base is back in good shape. There is a logging operation 8 miles south of Oxbow. The Carey Lake road has been plowed in two different sections. Roads have been marked with caution signs. Log trucks have the right of way. Proceed with caution in this area. Club trail 71A and 71D are both in good shape. A new Club Loop trail has been established in the Oxbow area. The trail map has been updated to show the new trail." More info at web site linked above. Oakfield:2/5: "ITS 83 from Linneus to Island Falls, Conn. 114 from ITS 83 to ITS 85 and Rte 61 from ITS 83 to 81 are groomed and fairly good condition, some areas in need of snow from the past rain and warm spell. Rte 62 A from Conn. 114 (North of Knowles Corner) to ITS 86 groomed and in good condition. There are Logging Operations on ITS 83 in the South Oakfield Rd. area, on 61 near Drews Lake and north of Smyrna Center Rd. Roads are plowed for short distances in these areas so PLEASE USE CAUTION AND DRIVE SLOW LOGGING VEHICLES MAY BE PRESENT." - Dick Gray, Smoki Haulers Snowmobile Club Benedicta:2/5: "Hey Gang, Getting my trail report ready for the upcoming weekend, and with no snow in sight and heavy traffic expected we are running out of the "white gold" as I write. All trails - except for Municipal Trail #70 have been groomed and very ridable at this time. Conditions are as follows: (1) ITS#83 - Sherman/Whetstone Falls - Being groomed as I write, conditions will be good/excellent with some icy conditions. (2) ITS#81- Sherman/Benedicta/Mattawamkeag Cuttoff -- not one sled track on this trail since the last grooming -- fields are a little sparce but on the roads you can "get er done"!!! Have 2.5 miles of plowed road approx. 5 miles South of Benedicta store. Follow all signs closely! (3) Municipal Trail #70 - Benedicta/Whetstone Falls - this trail has not been groomed since the rains for lack of no snow in a couple of areas. I would suggest that riders not use this trail until we get 4-6" of new snow as there is 2-3 miles of bare ground (Winter road) W. of route #11. Trailmasters will update as soon as conditions improve. Ride safe and to the right please!!!! P.S - Talk to locals before going onto the ice!! P.SS - Dave Keys needs to do a "snowdance"!!!!" - Jim Splan, Reporter at Large, Benedicta Snowgang Mars Hill/Blaine Area:2/4:"ITS 83 from Monticello to Presque Isle is groomed and in good shape all things considered. There are few places where the trail is mostly ice and your speed should be reduced. ITS 81 North from ITS 83 in Mars Hill to Easton is groomed and in good shape. The fields have minimal snow cover so you may see some dirt. ITS 81 South in Blaine is still CLOSED to thru traffic and looks like it will be this way the remainder of the season. A logging operation in TD R2 is ongoing and the plowed roads in that area are OFF LIMITS to sledders. We recommend that you use the the #9 Lake Trail in Monticello as a reroute that will take you to ITS 81 beyond the logging operation as a means to go south west towards Ashland. If you are coming from the North it will add approximately 20 miles to your ride and if you are coming from the South it will add approximately 8 miles. The #9 Lake Trail from ITS 83 to where it intersects with ITS 81 is groomed and in good shape. ITS 81 from this intersection south is groomed and is in good shape over to where we meet w/ Walker Siding. There is a water hole near West Branch Presque Isle stream where CAUTION should be used. The trail from ITS 83 in Bridgewater that goes to the New Brunswick border is not groomed due to lack of snow in the fields on this trail. The Mountain Trail to Big Rock is groomed and in fair condition. The fields are rough in a few spots and down to one lane because there is no snow to work with - USE CAUTION when in the single lane areas. RTE 83A north in Mars Hill is groomed and in good shape. Presque Isle has been down to meet us now. Rte 70A is still CLOSED to thru traffic due to logging in TD R2." - Steve Robinson Central Aroostook SC Aroostook:2/3: Caribou Parks and Rec, www.caribourec.org reports: "ITS 81 Trail improvements both north and south with the cold weather and a bit of snow. Northern Penobscot County is in the game with great grooming efforts and good snow cover. May run into ice and even some water despite cold but nothing beyond that. Rockabema and Shin Pond have groomed and note that logging is still active at the north end of the Snowshoe Rd on ITS 81/85 section. Moving north you are good to Mars Hill. Coming north from there you will hit some skimpy cover in a few fields but north of Caswell the cover increases and the border is good all the way north. Remember to use the Number Nine Lake trail as the section of 81 from that intersection to Mars Hill is closed due to logging. ITS 83 Clear sailing here with everyone out grooming this week. Much improved conditions in the southern most sections. Still watch for ice in some of the low lying areas as well as traffic, especially Saturday. You will run into a couple of small reroutes primarily from water problems so please watch for signage and follow it. ITS 85 This corridor, the blood line to the western reaches of The Crown, is in good shape. Everyone was out this week and reports are that surfacing is good throughout. Still watch for active logging in a few places south of Ox Bow and north of Portage. Ox Bow has reopened Rt. 71A the loop off 85 between Ox Bow and Ashland. Watch for wildlife. Twin Lakes and Sly Brook both have all the connector trails open and groomed. ITS 88 is back in good shape with the help of cold weather. A few ice spots on the western sections in lo lying areas but great riding. ITS 90 has been rerouted back to the southern route between Rt. 105 and Portage. Thanks to Seven Islands for the great cooperation. Watch for signage. Beyond that the trail is groomed through to Ft. Fairfield where you will find some skimpy field cover in sections but still good riding. Also there is a new logging operation opening just west of 105. ITS 92 groomed with great reports from riders. There has been a little loop trail opened from St. Francis to give some rider options. Remember that customs is open limited hours so check ahead before you venture out as there are no services for about 42 miles once you leave Allagash. 92B remains closed due to logging but 92A is open and groomed. ITS 105 is in good shape from Van Buren to Squa Pan all groomers are up and running there. Some of the off trails will be a bit loggy so slowing down will help. Rt 94 off 105 is open and groomed as well as Rt. 89 which runs from 94 to Caribou and ITS 83. Pleasant Ridge Runners have their trails open including 100 which connects to Rt 89 as well as 81A between Limestone and Hamlin. ITS 120 the five mile stretch between the Red River Camp road and Pushneer has been groomed. Remember there is logging around so use caution." View full report at web site linked above. Fort Kent: 2/1: "Hey Folks, Trail conditions could not be better. We are grooming every night in both directions from the groomer garage (ITS 85 West, East and South) with both machines for the entire month of February. Can't go North because of the Border. With the rain fall we had the 3rd week of January I thought it was over, but to everyone's surprise we fared very well. I had only one report from my groomer operators of water that surfaced in the trail and with temperatures well below zero at night and in the low teens during the day, we are good to go! All the problem areas or at least the areas where we all thought were going to open up and run like spring time conditions never did. We got about 6 inches of fresh new snow shortly after the rain and it worked out perfect to fill any areas of concerns. My groomers are working very hard to maintain a trail that is like a table top. Our "power line trail" ITS 85 East is to say a least a major concern of mine for maintaining smooth. With 19 to 24 degree slopes they are not short runs and are keeping the grooming machines running. Just as reminder to ride right and ride sober. Please stay on marked trails and respect the landowners concerns for whom give us this great opportunity to ride their lands." - Mike Daigle (President) Fort Kent Valley Sno Riders Macwahoc:2/1: "Trail #110 from ITS#81 to Macwahoc is open but has not been groomed since the heavy rains, Should be groomed 2-1-2010 or 2-2-2010. Use caution as most of the early season water holes are back. High water in the streams have made 2 bridges impossible to cross. Follow the groomer trail out to the main road and cross on the state road until the water subsides. North from Macwahoc is groomed and in excellent shape from the bridge north. Trail #110 accross to Wytopitlock is groomed and in excellent shape Trail #1 North is groomed and in excellent shape, 2 waterholes have been filled in watch for them just incase they open back up. On the Haynesville end of this trail there is 4.5 miles of plowed road. The landowner has given us the OK to share the road until they move out. There is no dirt showing at this time but STAY RIGHT, STAY SLOW. Trail #2 to Kingman and Lee is open but not groomed. Use caution as water is present. Should be groomed before the weekend. Trail #3 West in is groomed and in excellent condition all the way to ITS #83. Trail #3A is also groomed and in excellent condition. Molunkus Valley said they were going to open their end 1-30-2010. ( Unsure if this was completed at this time) Ride right, ride safe and we'll see you on the trails." - Jody Moulton, Eastern Maine Snow Riders Madawaska,Frenchville, St. Agatha, Grand Isle, Van Buren Riding:1/29: The recent warm-up has faded back to snowy, crispy-cold temperatures with the base having re-solidified under 6" blanket of fresh snow. The trails fortunately received very little traffic this week and held up amazingly well. Riding is good to excellent with caution due to a few frozen over smoosh spots and debris from the storm earlier in the week. The Chain O' Lakes are solid again with caution at inlets and outlets and are ready for the onslaught of fishing persons for this week-end's ANNUAL ICE FISHING DERBY head-quartered at the Long Lake Sporting Club. The Salmon, Trout, Cusk and Muskie's are on the run at Long Lake, Cross Lake, Square Lake, Eagle Lake, St. Froid Lake, Glazier Lake and Beau Lake. Old Man Winter is back to normal in the St. John Valley and we are expecting a great fun-filled week-end. Join us!" -- Mike Cyr, Madawaska Snowmobile Club, SnowmobileNorthernMaine.com GREATER KATAHDIN REGION Katahdin-Millinocket Area:2/8: "Great Riding in the Katahdin Region. I had a chance to get out and take advantage of our trail system first hand this weekend and continue to have good news to report. While the system remains in need of snow right next to town it is supporting riding right from the center of town and the quality of the riding moves from passable in the center of town to great in a very short distance. For the best trails the fastest, start at the Timber Cruisers and head out the new trail to South Twin Lake and the new Suspension Bridge or head for ITS 85/86 east and up the Stacyville road. The only rough trail leaving town is the 7 mile stretch of ITS 85/86 west known as the pole line. From the Millinocket Lake, Twin Pine Camps area the trails jump to very good to excellent with typical mid winter conditions on the State Road through Abol and on to Whitehouse as well as into the Park and East on the Logan Pond Trail. Coverage is very good with the trail surface loose powder over a hard base. This trail is flat as a pancake and offers great cruising. The Grant Brook road varies from great to a bit icy in the center but is also flat and offers plenty of snow for cooling and lubrication. Once you get past the part of this road that was plowed in the early season, you're right back in great mid winter riding with plenty of snow. The big story to the west is the coverage from Whitehouse and into the Jo Mary country. There is little or know sign of the past rain in this area and snow pack ranges from 15 inches to well over 2 feet. Conditions are packed powder on a firm base and the riding is outstanding by any measure. This area supports hundreds of miles of outstanding riding and has been receiving an inch or two of snow each day for the past couple of days. To the East, conditions on the Stacyville Road (ITS 85/86 east) above the Logan Pond Trail are also perfect midwinter conditions and this continues up into at least the Patten, Shin Pond area. The Stratton Trail, connecting the Twin Pine Snowmobile Club system with the Snow Rovers system is also well covered but gets a little icy as you approach ITS 83. Remember if you trailer just out of Millinocket you will miss a couple of miles of rough riding and be treated to what is likely some of the very best riding in the North East. Grooming this week will continue as needed and run nightly during next weeks vacation week." -Matt Polstein, Twin Pine Snowmobile Club - New England Outdoor Center (Follow NEOC link to view more details and reports on individual trails) Bowlin-Matagamon-Shin Pond:2/8: "Good Morning from Shin Pond! Very cold here this morning. Our trails are AWESOME! That comment is coming from numerous sledders that have stopped in every day this week. I have been told I was too cautious about my trail report. - that is the conservative in me:) ITS 85 North to Bowlin Camps and onto Matagamon Camps and Shin Pond is in great shape (few icy corners). 71D to Grand Lake Seboeis is excellent. Connector trail 114 to Shin Pond is great. Ride Club trail 64 (off ITS 81) this is a great trail with very little use. Scenic trail 64 around "our Sugarloaf Mtn" is a nice ride. The Lookout Mtn trail is being groomed through Bowlin Camps, the new owners have purchased a mogul master drag and this drag is doing a great job with keeping up with the traffic to the lookout. So take the time and sled to the Lookout mtn this year. Check out the following businesses on our trail system - Bowlin Camps - Camp Wapiti - Matagamon Camps - Mt. Chase Lodge - Shin Pond Village and Wilderness Variety Store. They all have food and lodging and several have fuel. I want to take and say THANK YOU to Alan, Craig, Johnny, Joe, Les, and Blaine for all their grooming time! It is because of what you guys do so well that we can have the great riding we have! Also THANK YOU to all the landowners they are #1 in my book, without them we wouldn't have any trails to groom! Thanks!!! P.S. An extra TY to Craig, Johnny and Les for all the work you have put into getting our 3rd groomer ready for the trails. As always feel free to call or email me anytime at 528-2900 or shinpondvillage@fairpoint.net. I will give you the best trail information I have! " - Terry, Shin Pond Village. Check out our live webcam at shinpond.com Patten:2/2: IMPORTANT UPDATE 2/3: "I have just been told that the logging operation on the north end of the snowshoe road (ITS 81/85) has NOT been completed and the trail will still be shared with logging trucks. Please SLOW DOWN and stay extremely right." "Grooming is continuing on the Rockabema trail system with 99% of the wetholes and muddy sections eliminated. ITS 81 from Sherman Station north to Patten is excellent riding with a few icy spots. 81 north to Shin Pond was groomed last night and is excellent riding. ITS 81/85 north from Shin Pond (PT18) to the Camp Violett road is in good shape and will be done again Thursday night. ITS 85 from the 85/83 junction (PT14) just west of Sherman Station up to the Big Sebois bridge was groomed Sunday night and is great riding. Connector trail 112 west from Patten is a nice ride with little traffic and great views. A new section 2 miles west of the 81/112 junction is pretty good with a bit of frozen mud still showing but no problems getting through. Connector trail 112 east towards Island Falls was groomed Sunday night and is in real good shape. Club trail 62 from 112 in Hersey Township up through the Pleasant and Rockabema lakes region to ITS 81/85 north of Shin Pond was also groomed Sunday night. Club trail 64 (Pub trail) is groomed and still has a few wet spots as does scenic trail 81A (Kimball Hill). *Note; Due to these two trails not being broken out as early as the other trails, there are still wetholes that haven't frozen as well as we'd like. Please go slow and watch for these spots. They are passable, but proceed with caution. All in all, I'm amazed at the great condition the trails are in after the rain and warm weather we had. With the current cold weather, we can expect them to stay that way. RIDE ON!!!" - Steve Crouse, Trailmaster, Rockabema Snow Rangers GREATER MOOSEHEAD REGION Greenville:2/7: Greenville ITS Grooming reports "Groomed last night (Saturday) - Kokadjo 85 - 86 was groomed. - North of Worsters Bridge there are waterholes, but it's passable. - Hard Wood Valley Rd. is now down to dirt. - On The Forks trail the straight-aways are flat and good. - Warman Camp Rd. has bare spots and is rocky. - Intown by the Red Cross and Masonic Temple is hard packed ice. - The railroad bed from Greenville to Shirley is hard packed. - Shirley to Blanchard is hard packed w/ some water and bare spots, it's also a little rocky. - 1-10 Connector, B52 and Blueridge have a flat, hard packed base. However the base is becoming thin and there is dirt starting to show in some spots." - View further info at web site linked above Greenville Jct:2/4: Wilsons on Moosehead Lake reports " ITS 88 from Wilsons at the East Outlet around the back side of Squaw Mountain to the intersection with the Greenville and Forks Trail Systems (ITS 86) is currently pass at own risk. With the rain and warm temperatures last week, the trail took a lot of abuse. We did a trail inspection yesterday and we simply need more snow! We have had several dustings this week to help with lubrication, but right now, we have thin cover, rocks and stumps in places, water holes and icy spots. There are some areas that are nice and flat, but the groomer will not go out until we receive additional snow. Snowmobilers are on the trails and getting through, just please use extreme caution. The GOOD NEWS is, it appears we are on a line at the Kennebec River, where there is considerably more snow just north of us. You can leave from the camps and head North to Rockwood, Jackman, Pittston Farm, etc. trail systems. These clubs are grooming and reports from folks riding these trails are surprisingly good. "Way better than expected!" Area clubs have been working hard signing and preparing the trails, yet it is still early season conditions. Use caution, watch your speed, and stay on the marked trails! Please stay off unmarked bodies of water. The lake is completely covered in ice, but there are always some unsafe areas around inlets and outlets. Be safe! " -Scott & Alison Snell, and family Historic Pittston Farm:2/4: Historic Pittston Farm reports "Our trail conditions are good with some icy spots, so drive accordingly. Trails are snow-covered and very rideable. The Seboomook trail (Moosehead Trail) is in good condition. Our Jackman Trail is in good condition too. We want to thank everyone for coming! The snowmobile and recreation clubs bordering us are grooming as well, so youÕll have some great riding to enjoy here in the North Woods! Your patronage is very much appreciated! The changes to the Jackman trail were ones made as a result of logging operations in the Soldiertown Twp. The new trail has some great views and varied terrain, we think you'll enjoy the ride here. The Seboomook Road trail is groomed to the dam, heading toward Northeast Carry for 13 miles. Please remember none of the bodies of water around us are safe to snowmobile on. Stay on the marked trail for safe and fun riding! We'll update our trail report at least once a week and sometimes twice a week, depending on changing conditions. We are serving our Noontime buffet on Saturdays, with our evening buffet each evening from 5-7 We are open 7-7, seven days a week. Have a safe snowmobiling year and come see us whenever you can!! Our road is very drivable all year as well." - Jennyo Rockwood:2/1: "Snow depths have compressed drastically after a late January Thaw. Total snow pack is 12-15 inches in the woods. TRAIL REPORT:Hardy sledders were out over the past weekend facing sub-zero wind chills. Reports were surprisingly good as every one noted that the trails were way better than expected. Groomer operators have been reaching in their bag of tricks and pulling snow from anywhere they can. Route 66 did seem for fair better than ITS 88, so please plan your trip accordingly. More good news is that snow depths are shallow enough that you can get a bit adventurous and do some exploring without too much worry of getting buried in deep powder. ICE REPORT:Melting and refreezing helps make ice! We are in pretty good shape now. Moosehead Lake is now completely covered with glare ice, 12-15 inches reported in most all locations. The ice is even smooth enough for skating in many spots. Some tracks have turned into frozen ruts in the high traffic areas. The trail has been marked from Mt. Kineo to Rockwood in the following direction. West to Rockwood's Public Landing at Kineo Docks, Green trail to Moosehead Motel near the mouth of the Moose River and along Rt 66 to The Birches Resort. Please stay on the marked trails. Ice conditions vary greatly depending on the body of water and location. With all the recent rain, outlets and inlets have strong currents that lessen the ice amounts. Again, please stay on the marked trails." - Amy Lane, Gray Ghost Camps, Blue Ridge Riders SC. Rockwood:1/29:The Birches Resort web site reports "Late Notice... ITS 88 Closed between RT 15 and the Demo bridge over Moose River until notice, due to ice backup on Misery Stream. Use RT 66 to access Rockwood from the north and west and also from the south over The Blue Ridge. Trail will be reopened as soon as possible ITS 88 - Grooming: Groomed 1/29/10. Groomers will be on the trails by 8AM on Friday to East Outlet and Jackman Trail System. We received 1" of new powder - Trail is in good condition. Rt 66 - Grooming: Groomed 1/28/10. - Trail is in good condition. Overall there is some good riding in the area! Use caution on corners and watch for water on the trails. We have lodging availability along with the restaurant, lounge and gas at The Birches Resort." View complete report at web site linked above. Greenville:1/28: Moosehead Riders SC web site reports"ALL TRAILS ICED WITH THIN OR BARE SPOTS! WATER HAZARDS Thinning base, hardpacked, some spots have small open water, A few bare spots. PLEASE use caution in these areas. Use throttle control !! WE NEED MORE SNOW! 110 CONNECTOR TO BROWNVILLE IS CLOSED! 110 conn. to Blue Ridge /Katahdin View and Hedgehog gate is now a LOOP Trail..Look for signs The New Wilson pond trail has been opened and packed, ..watch for new signs! Scammon Ridge Trail to Sandpiper Trail is OPEN packed and signed NOTE This is a difficult trail experienced riders ONLY! Russ Dodge trail to Washington St. Downtown: Packed watch for water holes! Lily Bay Mt trail opened and packed, access this trail via ITS 85 north to Worsters bridge trail, follow signs! Mt pond, Horseshoe pond trails opened and packed" ROUTE 201 CORRIDOR The Forks:2/8: "Haven't seen any significant snow since the rain and subsequent freeze up at the end of January. All 100 miles of The Forks Trail System are passable, but there are some tough sections. You can get through everywhere... just have to "bob and weave" to stay on snow and get around obstacles, on some parts. There is good riding on ITS 86 from Moxie Lake heading east toward Greenville, on the Bald Mountain Trail, and on the Pleasant Pond Trail. Still plenty of snow on those sections and the riding is enjoyable. These sections are generally hard and flat. All other sections of our trail system have significant ice. ITS 86 from Berrys Store in West Forks, heading east toward Greenville is poor until you get past Moxie Lake. You can get through, but there's ice and a few washouts to work around. From Moxie Lake toward Greenville is good riding. Bald Mountain Trail connecting ITS 86 and ITS 87 has good riding. There is an active logging operation on this section, for 1 mile. ne snowbank has been winged down, so sleds can stay on snow. ITS 87 heading south toward Bingham has several poor spots. There is an active logging operation for 2 miles along the Divide Road. One snowbank has been pulled down for a majority of this stretch, so sleds can stay on snow most of the way. There are still a couple short stretches where you're grinding on dirt. The rest of the Divide Road to Northern Outdoors is decent with plenty of snow. Heading further south on ITS 87 to Pleasant Pond is fair. Continuing south on toward Bingham is poor and icy in several places, but passable. Pleasant Pond Trail connecting ITS 87 with the Bald Mountain Trail has good snow and good riding. The 2 mile wooded section around Pleasant Pond is rough, but passable. Kennebec River Trail from Northern Outdoors to Berrys Store in West Forks, is ok in some places and poor in others. It is passable all the way through. The last 1 mile before getting into town is the worst part. In summary, all trails in The Forks system are passable. Parts (described above) have good to very good riding with a very hard, flat surface. Other parts are in poor shape. Ride with caution at all times. Open water bars, rocks, shelf ice and hard packed ice can be anywhere. In addition to the sections described above, there is also good riding from Berrys Store in West Forks heading north on ITS 87 and ITS 89. Still decent snow cover there, and the FAR club is grooming." - Jim Yearwood, Northern Outdoors SC, Northern Outdoors West Forks:2/5: "ITS 87-From town to ITS 87 is groomed and riding is good. The power line of this trail and wooded sections have some rocks still poking though a very short distance watch your speed in these areas and pick your line carefully. ITS 86 - From town to ITS 89 junction is groomed riding is good there are still some obstacles and the closer to town the more obstacles there are still very passable. ITS 86/89 - From the junction south groomed and good riding. ITS 89 - From the ITS86 junction north is groomed riding is great. Enchanted loop trail is open and groomed riding is good there are also some obstacles. COBURN MT TRAIL is groomed to the halfway point and is the best it has EVER been once we get some more snow we will groom the upper section. COBURN MT CONNECTOR TRAIL - from ITS 87 to ITS 89 was groomed last night, wooded sections have some obstacles road sections are good EAST SIDE IN TOWN CLUB TRAIL is groomed and signed this is a narrow wooded trail watch your speed riding is good. We are hopeing to groom the east side Alpine trail and the Johnson Mt Connector trail Friday night I will update trail report in the morning is all goes as planned All other club trails are not groomed at this time use extreme caution and watch for obstacles. The weekly trail report will let everyone know what club trails have been groomed. Overall riding is still good. What we have left is very hard flat trails it has been very cold and windy the past few night, everyone watch your speeds trails are icy." - Jamie Vasquez, President, Forks Area Recreation Club Jackman:2/4: "Grooming schedule is Thursday thru Monday ITS 89 North: There is still plenty of snow and the reports are the trails are in still good condition. ITS 89 South: Still snow covered, in decent condition. There are a couple areas that are really wind blown, and there is about a 3 mile section that is on logging road, we tried to make a trail to go around but, it will take a good snowfall to help the new section. Border Riders Club Trail North: In good condition. ITS 88 East to Rockwood: Reports are that there is still plenty of snow and in good condition ITS - In Town Jackman Trails: Snow is marginal in some areas, but good for the most part" - Missy Newman, Border Riders Sportsman Club Anson:2/1: "THE CARRABASSET RIVER CROSSING ON ITS84 IN NORTH ANSON IS CLOSED DUE TO LAST WEEK'S RAIN TAKING THE ICE OUT. There is no other way to cross the river at this time. If we get enought cold weather to refreeze the river we will reopen the river crossing. Normally we we use the Embden trail to East New Portland and back onto ITS 84 on New Portland hill. At this time these two trails have open water holes and are not passable." - David Wadsworth, Anson-Morth Anson Snowmobile Club Jackman-Moose River:2/1: Jackman Moose River Region Chamber of Commerce web site reports"We have received some snow in the region...reports are that the border riders north loop this morning had over 6 inches of powder. All in all, trails are still in good to great shape. Think snow! Border Riders Club 40 Mile Loop The word from riders is "Excellent". Stop in at the clubhouse for lunch. ITS 89 North to Border Great riding this weekend Armstrong Canada Club Trails No new reports as for 1-26-10. They had been in great condition ITS 88 East to Rockwood & beyond Reports are coming in that the trails to Pittston Farm are in great shape. ITS 89 South to the Forks & beyond For the most part, trails south are in good condition. New trails marked so watch for signage. Long Pond Loop is rough. In-Town Trails Marginal in some areas to fair condition. The Bog after the airport has been newly excavated. There is about 200 yards of marginal snow. USE CAUTION. Lake trail is open which will bring you behind the clubhouse. Watch for water spots. Going south...a new trail has been groomed (thanks) through Johns so watch for signage" Solon: 1/31: Solon Snow Hawks web site reports: "Unfortunately we have not received any new snow this weekend. We now have the calender feature on our website working again and it has been updated with some club rides and meetings. Now check out our staff section, it has been updated with some pictures! Lots of smiling faces. The weather forecast doesn't look too good, but we are all still hoping for SNOW!! " View full reports at web page linked above Jackman:1/29: Bishop's Motel web site reports "THE TRAILS ARE STILL OPEN AND IN GOOD SHAPE OVERALL. WE DID RECEIVE ABOUT 1 INCH OF RAIN HOWEVER NO MAJOR ISSUES THAT WE ARE AWARE OF. YES YOU CAN STILL RIDE FROM THE MOTEL YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TRAILER OUT. WE SUGGEST USING THE "LAKE" TRAIL TO GET OUT OF TOWN SINCE IT IS IN BETTER SHAPE. OVERVIEW: ALL TRAILS ARE OPEN BORDER RIDERS CLUB TRAIL (40 mile loop): Very good PITTSTON FARM/NORTHEAST CARRY AREA: GROOMED - NEW TRAIL IS IN GOOD SHAPE! THERE WERE MORE SIGNS ADDED TO THE NEW JACKMAN TRAIL TO BETTER ASSIST FOLLOWING THE NEW TRAIL. ITS 89 NORTH: GOOD CONDITION. ALL SIGNS ARE OUT. IN TOWN TRAIL: HAS BEEN GROOMED.FAIR SHAPE NEW TRAIL THROUGH JOHN'S TRAILER PARK TO THE ATTEAN ROAD HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED NOW THANKS TO THE EFFORTS OF SOME LOCAL PEOPLE. ITS 88: ROCKWOOD TRAIL CONDITIONS: GROOMED AND IN GOOD CONDITION. ALL SIGNS ARE OUT BUT SOME OF THE TRAIL IS NEW SO WATCH THE SIGNS. PITTSTON FARM TRAILS ARE GROOMED AND IN GOOD CONDITION. ITS 89 SOUTH: EUSTIS : GOOD CONDITION COMMENTS: In town trails are showing wear and tear however the cold weather is helping and as soon as you get out of town a few mile they are still in good shape. " all other club trails are not groomed at this time use extreme caution and watch for obstacles.ÊThe weekly trail reportÊwill let everyone know what club trails have been groomed Overall riding isÊstill good what we have left is very hard flat trails it has been very cold and windy the past few nights, everyone watch your speeds trails are icy Madison:1/27: Abnaki Sno-Riders web site reports "Warm weather and too much rain has made a mess of the trails. Some base is left in areas, others are open with running water. If you try to ride, use extreme caution." Bingham:: Gateway Recreation and Lodging Solon:: Breezy Acres Camps, Solon Snow Hawks SC Skowhegan:: Skowhegan Snow Hawks web site Bingham:: North Country Rivers web site S. PISCATAQUIS-PENOBSCOT-SOMERSET Guilford:2/4: "Good news sledders! Four Wind's grooming operation survived the January thaw and all trails except the powerline to Harlow are being groomed! I rode almost every mile of our trail system this past weekend, and I must say, we fared much better than I thought we would. The railroad bed is in great shape on both ends with no water holes at all! The connection from the railroad bed at Prides to where the trail meets the bed again near the clubhouse is bare to say the least. 2 fairly large waterholes were present, but should be froze over by now. The trail from Dover's rail bed to East Sangerville was in fairly good shape besides the fields being a little bare and no water holes to speak of. The trail to Harlow pond is passable, but that's as much as I'll say. Water holes were fairly frequent up the powerline, but most if not all should be re-froze thanks to that bit of sub-zero weather we had. Both the pond and river are still safe where they have been marked. Get out their and enjoy the trails while they last, any warm up and/or rain could shut us down for the season at this point." - Jacob Vainio, Four Winds Snowmobile Club Plymouth:1/24:"The groomer left at midnight Friday night/Saturday morning with temps well below zero, all went well until we ended up in the ditch on the Packard road trying to smooth out the shoulder. But as luck would have it Smitty the ÒNight OwlÓ was close by and came to the rescue. We got the drag unhooked and away from the Cat, and with a little help from... (I really hate to admit this) SmittyÕs Dodge truck, we backed right back into the road, hooked back up and went to work. All went well the rest of the night until we got to the Twitchell Farm Trail; pallets were put into the brook and covered with snow, then as luck would have it we broke through a water hole up in the woods. Rather than put the Cat back through the mud and do more damage to the trail I detoured out ITS 83 to West Etna (Thanks SVSC for the use of your trail, I groomed that too!). Back onto the trail we circled back to finish burying the pallets and make a finish pass on that trail. We got onto the Charlie Holt Trail to find the culvert we recently put in had washed out already; we made a call for more pallets and later filled that hole in. GOOD NEWS TO REPORT: We met with the landowner of the pit along Rt.7 that has been closed and negotiated a deal to get it reopened. A couple of attempts by Ronnie, Emily, and Dave to move the concrete barrier were unsuccessful but we hired an excavator that dug it out and moved it away from the trail. The trail is OPEN and groomed to both sides of the barrier, the next trip out we will groom straight through but for now be careful and look out for the ruts caused by the excavator. As I write this we are gearing up for heavy rain over the next day or two, I am sure that will cause more problems to the numerous wet holes that are still open. I hate to sound like a broken record but there is always brushing to be done, the limbs and alders grow more every year and faster than we can cut them. Anyone can throw a saw or clippers on and go clear them, just drop us a note where you have worked. The rule of thumb is "if you can reach up and touch it, it will hit the windshield of the groomer". Get out and enjoy the trails, ride safe, and respect the land owners, stay on the marked trails. Check out our web site at: www.endlessseasonriders.com and tell us what you think. You can also follow us on Facebook and on Twitter" - Ron Green Jr., Endless Season Riders Abbot:: The Big Pine Riders web site GREATER BANGOR-GREATER LINCOLN Bucksport/Orland:1/31:"The recent rain took its tolls on our trails. Grooming has ceased until we get more snow. Do your snow dance! If you ride into our area, be sure your gas tank is filled in either Brewer or Orrington as we have no access to gas stations on our trail system this year. Remember, water/ice crossing are not an official part of our trail system! Please be safe! Chin up everyone. More snow will fall. An Important message from our President: Until further notice part of Trail 4 also known as the "in town trail" will be closed this season. A Landowner requested that we not access their land. This forces us to close Trail 4 from the pipeline headed towards town to the power line by the Middle School. This will not be an official Family Snowmobile Club trail, any access to this trail is at your own risk, and will not be groomed or maintained. The Power line and Pipeline are still open for snowmobile traffic. The Club will be working a reroute for next season to still use part of this trail. To access in town cross Silver Lake then take the power line. Sorry for the inconvenience." - Laurie LaViolette, Family SC Orrington:1/31: "The recent rain and warmer temperatures have taken a toll on our trails. Grooming has been halted until we get more substantial snowfall. Be patient. The snow will come again. It is especially important to stay on marked trails, especially at Rocky Knoll Golf Course! They have had trouble with turf damage in their fairways due to frost penetration where snowmobiles run. The marked trail is in a location that minimizes damage to the course. Please respect our landowners." - Laurie LaViolette, Orrington Trail Riders. Hermon:1/31: "WARNING! ITS trail #82 that leaves the (PSC) Hermon clubhouse area and leads over towards Hampden trail system and to Dysart's. This trail has a working Federal Open Mining Operation. PLEASE stay out of this area!! If you are not on a marked trail you are TRESPASSING. The berms of material were put in place to keep you out of that area... not for your sleds to jump and spin out on. PLEASE! How many ways can we ask people to STAY ON MARKED TRAILS!! There is also a lot of water in the mining area we have been contacted to keep people out of that area. They are afraid someone is going to get hurt or break through the thin ice it is dangerous in that area stay out of there."-Byron, Trailmaster, Penobscot SC Springfield:1/25: Quad County SC web site reports "Beware of hazards. Also trail 8 is closed from Tucker Ridge Road in Webster to Rt.169 Thompson Corner in Prentiss for the 2009-2010 season. Trail 3 closed until further notification Trail 8 Kingman to ITS 105- Closed at Tucker Ridge Rd Webster to Rte 169 in Prentiss for 2009-2010 Season (Groomed from Trail 9 to Kingman connection and out to Tucker Ridge Rd) Trail 9 - Packed powder, 2 foot base Groomed ITS 105 Connector N of Rte 6- Groomed ITS 105 Connector S to ITS 84- Groomed ITS110 Groomed Trail 5- Groomed ITS 105 Connector to Grand Lake- Groomed Trail 7 to Lee- Groomed Lincoln::Lincoln Snowhounds SC web site - Clubhouse (207)794-6109 MID COAST-DOWNEAST Nicatous Lake Area:2/7: "Our trails have been groomed on 2/4/10, the trails are in excellent condition. Take a ride to Nicatous lodge for some food and gas. We'd be glad to see you!" - Ron and Linda Sheldon, 207-356-7506, Nicatous Lodge and Camps, Nicatous Lodge SC Monroe:2/6: "I am very surprised at how little people are riding. We rode from the Dixmont club house to Greenville and back on Saturday the 6th and trails were outstanding considering the amount of snow. Hats off to all the volunteers who make it possible." - Nate Hobbs, Monroe Snowmobile Club. Beddington:2/5: "Trails are still good to ride. We received a little snow which helped. Could use more snow to smooth the trails better. The trails are still good north of Route 9 to Nicatous, Grand Lake, Milford. The upper end of the CC road (30,000) has been plowed for apx. 1 1/2 miles and is bare ground. Thank you Ryan and Chris (State groomers) for providing an area to the side for snowmbilers. They were able to help with 90% of it. If you want to bypass this section, there will be signs to take an ATV trail instead for apx. 4 - 5 miles. You pick it up just past Chalmers Camp. Half of it is good riding, the other half is ATV trail through the woods. Our club trail which is mostly south of Route 9 will not be good because it opens to the blueberry fields which is bare. The state groomed during the week and will be out again Friday and Saturday. There is plenty of parking at the Airline Snackbar. Stop in for great food and homemade pies. They have gas. convenience store, and lodging. Have fun and ride safe." - Airline Riders SC, Airline Snack Bar 207-638-2301 Rockland, Thomaston, Warren: 1/29: "I'm sorry to say this after last week-ends riding, but the trails are closed here until we get more snow and things freeze back up. It looks like it may happen in the order that we need it to happen, freeze first and then get the snow, the dusting last night was only a tease. IÊhope that everyone can stay off the trails after the rain and please wait for it to freeze back up, the trails will be much better if there isn't frozen messy water holes. I would like to emphasize please stay on the marked trail, the landowners let us all use their land and if were out there making a mess with our sleds riding off trail we all may lose our right to ride on their land. If you're on a groomed trail please do not go off it. Thank you to all the volunteers that make this sport happen and safe." - Trail Master Terry Benner, Bog Brigade SC Cherryfield:1/29:Narraguagus SC web site reports "We received 2 to 3 inches of snow last night which has helped the trail some and snow has been drifting in some locations. The Downeast Sunrise Trail is rideable from ITS 81 west to Franklin. From the Tunk Lake Rd easterly for approx 3 miles there are sections that have exposed gravel, in most cases though you can get off to the side enough to stay in some snow. It is drifting in some locations. Rails are exposed at Schoodic bog (Mile Post 16) for 2700 feet however there is room to pass alongside the rails. There are a few bare spots near Tunk Stream in Steuben where the snow has blown off the trail. For the most part the base on the sunrise trail. It is probably rideable to Machias but has not been groomed, because of a hard base and not enough snow to groom. Cannot tell you the condition of ITS 81 North except that from the DEST to the clubhouse which is 2 1/2 miles everything is fine. Remember Ride Right and Ride Responsibly" View more info at web site linked above. Alexander:1/27: Breakneck Mountain Sno-riders report "We just got a call from the Hilltop Restaurant owner that the restaurant has reopened, be sure and try their food on your way by!!! We groomed the trails for the weekend, but with the rain on Monday they are groomed no more. We are going out this weekend to take a look at the trails and see what needs to be done. We will keep you updated. Beddington area: 1/18: Larry Lafland, Trail Coordinator with the MSA Trails Committee wants riders to be aware that there has been a problem this year with sign theft along ITS 81 in the Beddington area. Jackson:: Jackson Wheel-n-Ski Club NORTHWESTERN MOUNTAINS Eustis/Stratton:1/29: Arnold Trail SC web site reports "Light dusting of snow last and high winds didn't really help anything on the trails. The rain earlier in the week has caused for some pretty poor conditions. Expect low snow conditions out there and use caution on all trails. Rangeley - Open and groomed this week. Forks - Open and groomed earlier in the week. Need snow on this trail. Canada - Open and groomed this week be advised beginging of trail does NOT use Airport Road. Please follow signs and stay off plowed ROADS !!! Carabbasset - Open and groomed this week. Lets hope we get some snow soon !!!" Kingfield :1/29:"After Heavy Rains on Monday 1-25-10, The Kingfield Trails have been inspected and caution signs are evident in certain areas. Our trails were groomed on Sunday 1-24-10 before the rains came. The trails are flat and firm. We received a Dusting of Snow on Thursday. Riding is good, but ride with CAUTION. Sledders coming from Lexington and Millay Hill in New Portland will need to follow the "Detour" signs. To cross the Carrabassett River, you will cross the DownTown Bridge. Food and Gas are available at this location. Connector ITS 115 from Phillips, New Portland, to Carrabassett is good. There is thin cover and "minor" washouts in places. Riding is still happenning around Kingfield, We suggest people trailer to Kingfield and RIDE NORTH. We don't know how the trails held up to our south, call local clubs for details. Enjoy the Trails!" - John, Tom, Sterling and Doug Marble, Kingfield Sno Wanderers, www.kingfield.govoffice.com (follow 'Trail Report' link) RANGELEY/GREATER RUMFORD AREA/WESTERN MAINE Newry:2/6:"The trails are open in Newry but please watch for water problems and thin spots. ITS82 has been groomed then again you need to use caution!! Ride safe" - L Powers, Windy Valleys Snowmobile Club: Fryeburg:2/5:Interstate Snogoers report "We do not have much to report from Western Maine. "Know before you go" We are not grooming. Cold weather has frozen the water so trails are ice covered not snow covered. Bright sunshine has melted snow on the plowed fields. You will find mostly some hard-packed snow, ice and or/mud. Please be careful out there." Rangeley:2/5:Rangeley Lakes SC reports: "Trails Are Open We have generally 2" of new snow which will really help the riding. Trail conditions as you approach In-Town locations in Rangeley and Oquossoc are fair due to thin cover and bare, icy areas. Conditions are GOOD as you head out a mile or so. Just take it easy as there may be icy spots under the new snow. People are riding the lakes but expect icy conditions as the wind is blowing off the new snow. Ask locally before you risk your life SNOW and WEATHER REPORT: We have picked up about 2-4 inches of snow this week. We expect a good riding weekend with seasonably cold and breezy weather with sun at times. ***New maps are available at local business and the Chamber of Commerce 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. There are a number of logging operations on our trails this year. Look for 'Logging Ahead' signs and please be sure the operators see you and signal you to pass. Important Reroute/Detour: Be especially careful when passing through the logging operation on the Oquossoc Railbed Trail. There is now a reroute for traffic heading to and from Bosebuck and NH and an other reroute for traffic to and from Rangeley and points east. Signs are posted. We have posted a number of 'Shared Use' signs on plowed roads. Please watch for trucks and logging equipment on these trails and go slow." View further information at club web site linked above. Casco:2/3: "Colder air has arrived at least during the night and things have froze up so we just need to do a snow dance!!" - Jason Greenleaf,TOTHG, Crooked River SC Roxbury/Byron:2/2: "The trails are thin but ride-able, we groomed 117 to Rangeley today and will groom most other trails as well. Be careful of some small washouts and thin spots. The holes are filling in each time we groom. 117 from Mexico to Byron has a section of plowed road and is kind of scratchy but passable. Will groom 117 north again at the end of the week. WE need more snow soon but we will make due with what we have for now. Park and ride in Byron at Coos Canyon, at Roxbury Pond on the left just before Ellis Pond Variety, Dennis Daniels, owner of Ellis Pond Variety plows this park and ride for the club, it is the ATV club park and ride. Also just north of Roxbury Village on the right." - Dick Bonney, Slippery Sliders SC Hebron: 1/30: " "The trails were groomed just before the rain which help save the base but it is hard packed. We had only 1/2 inch of snow Thursday night to add to the granular base. ITS89 is not effected by open waters since it only crosses rivers and streams via bridges and is in fair condition. The cold temperatures will help freeze up the brooks and streams that were open on side side trails so there may be icy spots anywhere. New up-to-date 2010 trail maps are now available for $2 each. These colorful, easy-to-read maps cover the towns of Hebron, Minot, Mechanic Falls, West Auburn and part of Buckfield and Turner with trail, road and waterway names and markers for gas, food and shelter as well. You will find these maps at various business that support our sport in the map's region. OR please stop by The Storekeepers in Hebron on ITS-89 to buy your copy or call 207-966-2733 FMI. All proceeds to benefit the Bouncing Bogies SC. Think Snow!" - B Francis, The Bouncing Bogies SC - Hebron Rumford:1/29: Rumford Polar Bears web site reports "Winter is back! We've got cold temperatures and we even saw a little bit of snow - granted, it was only 1 1/2 inches, but we'll take any amount Nature gives us so we can get back on the trails again!" Bridgton:1/29: Bridgton Easy Riders web site reports "Trails groomed on Jan 23rd. With all the rain, we are back to where we started - bare ground and water holes. We will probably not be grooming until more snow arrives." Naples::Muddy River Sno-Seekers web site Farmington/Industry:: Mexico: CENTRAL MAINE (Greater LA, Augusta, Waterville etc) Belgrade:2/8: Belgrade Draggin Masters web site reports "Trails are all open and in good shape." Augusta:2/8: North Augusta Trailblazers web site reports "As like everyone else our trails are rock solid with the freezing temps. Water holes are freezing over. We need white gold. Should you venture out do so with extreme caution. Spring hazards everywhere. By next major snowfall both of our blazers should be up and running once again. Our newest one needed a new engine and the other one got some new rubbers. Do the snow dance everyone!." View full report at web site linked above. Gardiner: 1/27: "The heavy rain and high temperatures have ruined the trails. They are closed until the next snowstorm." - Brian Winchester, President, Gardiner Ridge Riders Farmingdale:1/26:"Total of 16" of snow received between 1/17/10 and 1/19/10. All of our trails were groomed wide and smooth on 1/23/10, but are now seriously lacking snow cover after the heavy rain we received on 1/25/10. Keep hoping for more cold temperatures and snow so we can all continue riding this season! " - Scott Smith, Barnstormers SC Wayne: 1/24: "OK. Here's the deal. The 30 Mile River Snowmobile Club of Wayne has been dealing with a few issues lately. We could not groom the trails as soon as we would have liked to until we had insurance on our sleds, and finding insurance was not easy. We also have been going though a tough time finding a location to place our newly purchased club garage, which is now located at the Ladd Recreation Center. Now we are all set and the trails have been groomed, and am hoping this rain won't ruin what we have accomplished over the past few days. I did receive quite a few phone calls and complaints about our local trail conditions. All I have to to say is; "we are a small club and there are only 3 of us qualified to run our sleds with the drag. We only have about 10 members who show up to meetings, and these 10 members work their butts off to clear and maintain the trails. So, if you feel as though the trails need work, maybe you should join the club and support it". Enough of that though. It seems as though most small clubs have the same troubles we have. We will be grooming on a regular basis, so the trails should be good. I would like to ask each snowmobiler on our trails to keep on the trails and not stray off the marked trail, maintain a reasonable speed, and pick up any hazards in the way on the trails so they won't get buried and cause damage to either the groomer or someone elses sled. Thanks" - Buddy Seymour SOUTH-SOUTH WESTERN MAINE Sanford-Springvale:2/6:Southern Maine Sno-Goers web site reports "Trails are closed due to no snow. NO grooming being done." - More info at web site linked above. Baldwin:1/31: Baldwin Belt Burners SC web site reports: "Where is everyone? ITS89 was groomed last night and it is surprisingly, excellent! I have not been on any of the secondary trails, but I would assume they are the same. Keep an eye out for a possible stump or rock. Dave and Tammy Cook will have the Snack Shack open next weekend so stop by and see what thier weekend special will be. They always bring something good! We are also looking for volunteers to run the shack. Let me know if you have any interest. One more thing, be sure to watch for groomers, as we may be out at any time. Ride Safe, and see you on the trail." - Jeremy Waterboro:1/27:"One word describes our trail system after the Monday rain event... toast. No snow, no grooming, no riding. THINK SNOW!!" - TammyJo Girard, Ossipee Mountaineers SC Cumberland/North Yarmouth:1/25: Moonlite Sno-Skimmers web site reports "Trail Report: Trails are now junk! We received an e-mail complaint regarding the trail going from Rt 9 through to the RR tracks and eventually over to Winn Road. If the landowners property is not respected, your actions will cause the closing of this trail, which will further disconnect the Falmouth side of town. That trail goes to Harris Road via the powerline as well. Please understand your implications. STAY ON THE MARKED TRAIL!" COMPLIMENTS FOR THE TRAILS: 1/31/09: "My wife and I spent the weekend riding in the Twin Pine, Jo-Mary, Kokadjo area. The trails were very good, given the recent weather we have experienced, and made for some great riding. Thanks for all of the hard work." Mike and Jill Walden |