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Reports

Trail Report – : Phelps, Wisconsin – February 24, 2023

Reporter:Phelps Snowmobile Club

Trail Conditions: Fair

Snow Cover: 15″-20″

Date of Report: February 24, 2023

Area Report:

Good morning,

We were blessed with 9″+ snowfall on Thursday.  It is a light and fluffy and great for colling.  It is not so great for packing in icy trails.  The Phelps grooming operations will start up again tonight.  We are waitng for you sledders to pack some of this snow down.  Please use cation on the corners and hills as they are very icy under the new snow.  1″-2″ of snow are on the way for tonight and anoter storm systemm heading towards us come Monday.  Temps should be great for riding this weekend.  We have a report of an ice heave on the North Twin Lake Trail between downtown and the town landing near the Great Escape and the Phelps Conveinence Center.  Please use caution there and everywhere.

“Ride Right”

News and Reports:

Phelps Cash Raffle until March 9th.

CA$H Raffle – The Phelps Snowmobile Club is holding a CA$H Raffle that will run throughout the snowmobile
season. The winners will be drawn at our last monthly dinner Meeting on March 9, 2023 at the Sand Lake Pub.
Ticket cost is $50. Only 250 tickets will be sold, and you do not need to be present to win. First prize is $3000,
second prize is $1500, third prize is $750, fourth prize is $500, and fifth prize is $250. Currently tickets are for
sale at the Sand Lake Pub, The Habit, Brule River Tap, Dublin’s, The Great Escape, and Hillside. Tickets are also
available by contacting a Board Member.

Snowmobile Information:

https://www.snowmobile-ed.com/wisconsin/studyGuide/50105102/ 

https://snowmobilerspledge.com

Trail Report – : Iron County, Michigan – February 23, 2023

Reporter:Colleen

Trail Conditions: Unknown

Snow Cover: 12-18 inches

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Well the storm seems to be over… we think received between 12 – 15 inches… but so hard to truly know with all the wind and drifting that came with the storm.  I think it’s safe to say at least 12 inches and maybe a little bit more.  So this is what we have all been waiting for and so “HAPPY” to see it here.  I can’t really give you an accurate trail report tonight as most of the groomers and operators will be going out early in the morning to start to smooth down the new snow… but I can tell you by tomorrow evening I believe most of the Iron County Trail System will be in Good to Very Good condition again.  The ice base is still there and under the snow.. so hold the speed down a little bit in the corners and sit back for hopefully a wonderful ride all weekend long!  This storm front covered a large area so riding should be good no matter what direction you head this weekend!

Also, a reminder that Trail 15 N to the intersection of Trail #111 is temporarily closed this season because of a bridge issue…  this is not a new closure it has been closed all season.

Again, a BIG “Thank You” goes out to the Iron County Snowmobile Club Members for grooming our trails and donating their time to keep our trails as smooth and safe as possible. Great group of people and we ALL appreciate what they do for our community and for our trails!!  

Trail Report – : Tomahawk, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:Tomahawk Chamber of Commerce

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: 6″

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

LINCOLN COUNTY:  Zone 1 mostly open. ZONE 3 reopening noon Friday 24th. Zones 2 & 4 reopening 8am Saturday 25th.

ONEIDA COUNTY: Open.

With over a foot of new snow, groomers are out packing and trail conditions are anticipated to be good. Corners and high-traffic areas may remain icy and drifting snow is likely. Please use caution.

Zone 1 Trails remaining closed are as follows: Trail 86 from Intersection #25 to the Taylor County Line. Corridor 21 from Hwy M north of Homestead Road to the Taylor County Line.

ATVs are only allowed on designated trails when temperatures are below 28F and after snowmobile trails have been open for 1 week. No UTVs.

As always, we remind riders to stay on marked trails. Off trail riding is trespassing and could result in closure or loss of trails and citations and fines for those who participate.

Trail Report – : Merrill, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:Cskoug

Trail Conditions: Open

Snow Cover: 8-10 inches

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Lincoln County’s funded snowmobile trails(County Administrated Trails) in Zone 3 will reopen as of noon on Friday February 24, 2023.  Lincoln County’s funded snowmobile trails(County Administrated Trails) in Zones 2 and 4 will reopen as of 8:00 AM Saturday February 25, 2023.   

 

Trails in Zone 1 that are already open will remain open. 

News and Reports:

Zone 1 Trails remaining closed due to a land ownership change are as follows: 

  • Trail 86 from Intersection #25 to the Taylor County Line. 
  • Corridor 21 from Hwy M north of Homestead Road to the Taylor County Line.

 

On trails where winter ATV use is permitted, trails must be open to snowmobile use for 7 days before ATV use is allowed. 

 

All trails are closed to winter ATV use when the temperature is above 28 degrees F.

 

Trails may be rough, icy or drifted in some areas.

 

Be aware of Trail Closed signs, stay on marked trails only and respect private land.

 

Local snowmobile clubs remind riders to stay off lakes and rivers unless an officially open trail has been clearly marked by a club.  If a water body is not marked, it is considered unsafe

 

For up to date Lincoln County trail conditions, log on to:  www.co.lincoln.wi.us or call our Trail Hotline at 715-539-1033.

Trail Report – : Hayward / Sawyer County, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:haywardlakes

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: 12-16 inches

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Last night’s snowstorm brought anywhere from 10-12” of fresh snow! A few groomers have been out already, but the rest will be out tonight and in the morning as the snow sets.

This new snow has helped the lakes. There are a few bare spots and drifts from the wind, but for the most part lakes have some snow coverage again. Please do still ride with caution knowing it is slick under the new fluffy snow. When temps drop tonight things will set up and as riders pack it down the conditions will get better.

Birkie Week is upon us, just a heads up about the events of the weekend. There are no trails that close due to the Birkie other than in the town of Hayward. Railroad Street will close as well as parking for sleds at Marketplace through Sunday. If you choose to ride into town, you will dead end on Highway 27 or trail 63. You can ride to town to watch if you’d like but will need to park prior to Railroad Street and walk in. Lake Hayward is not staked, nor will it be open on Saturday as the skiers cross. There are some trails in the Seeley Hills that do cross the Birkie trail, there are no closings but on Saturday you may find some delays at these crossings. The delays are short; take a minute to wave and cheer these racers on! It’s an incredible feat they are accomplishing!

Thank you for your support, ride safe and have a wonderful weekend!

Trail Report – : Sayner, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:SaynerStar Lake Barnstormers

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: Better!

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Overall snow totals for the week ended up between 12″ – 15″ in our area.  It was very dry & fluffy, so it doesn’t help improve the icy base below.  We really need a good wet snow that will stay in place!  

Even though the trail looks really nice, please be aware that you’re still riding on ice.  Corners are still going to be very slick.  Riding with caution will help keep everyone safe, and it’ll help keep as much snow on the trail as possible.

The Barnstormers are back on our regular nightly grooming routine.  We’ll do our best with the snow we’ve got.  There is supposed to be another snow event coming on Monday, so let’s hope there’s some moisture in it!  That’ll go a long way towards bringing conditions back to very good!

TRAIL CLOSURE NOTICE:  Due to ongoing logging operations, the Barnstormer’s trail #51 is CLOSED between TIN 344 and 353!  DO NOT RIDE THIS SECTION OF TRAIL!

Trail Report – : Rhinelander, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:Hodag SnoTrails

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: About 6-8″ of fresh snow

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

The snow has arrived again.   Time to fire up the sleds. With 6-8” of fresh snow, our trails will be in good shape. USE CAUTION there is a lot of ice under this new snow. Corners will be very icy. Stay on your side of the trail.  We will be out grooming, day and night, so please give them the room they need.

There is a solid ice base under the snow.  We can’t stress enough to ride defensively out there.  We need riders to pack down the entire trail bed to allow the groomers to safely manage the hills.  

Thank you

Trail Report – : Western UP, Michigan – February 23, 2023

Reporter:Western U.P. Snowmobile Report

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: 20

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Western U P Snowmobile Trail Report— 02/23/2023

We have gotten about 10″ of snow from our Tuesday snowfall and 6″  so far today.  The snow is still coming down but lightly.

Gogebic Range Trail Authority – ORV & Snowmobile Club

TRAIL CLOSURE NOTICE: TRAIL 8 between Bergland and Wakefield is closed for utility work. The utility company has swamp matting laid down on the trail with frequent heavy vehicle traffic. The closed trail is being enforced, do not attempt to sneak by or use the highway. Both are illegal. The trail will be closed for 1 week. Thankfully our efforts with Gogebic Range Trail Authority – ORV & Snowmobile Club have shaved many miles and minutes off the ride from Wakefield to Marenisco. So, enjoy the new trails and respect this situation.

6-10″ has fallen. Our crew is working hard to get the snow put in place. Trails will still be icy, ride carefully!

Trail 160 out to Bald Mountain is groomed.. Did come across some open water but can ride around those spots. There’s plenty of snow so go and enjoy your ride.

Gogebic Area Grooming

The Lake Gogebic Area has received  6-8” of new snow over the past 2-3 days and it has really helped out tremendously on our trails.  The new snow mixed with what we had and it set up nicely with cold temperatures overnight.    Trails in the Lake Gogebic Area reported to be in good to very good condition and groomer Dave has reported that the South end of the Lake and Marenisco are in excellent condition!  We are forecasted to receive about 8” over the next 36 hours and if that happens groomers will be out in force to get all the trails set but we should be in excellent condition!   The only challenge area in the pipeline area above Timberline Sports which receives the most traffic.   New snow will certainly help that corridor out!

Here’s the skinny from our groomers:

  • Trail 102:  was groomed this morning!
  • Trail 8 west – will have a groomer going down tonight and they will check to see what utility company has got accomplished and will report tomorrow on status that that trail opening.
  • Trail 8 East:   will be groomed tonight.
  • 13 North:  will be groomed tonight.
  • 1 south – grooming today and will also be grooming the ditch line.

So far this season we have received over 170” of snow – and winter is far from over!   Come on us and ride – we’ve got the best conditions around!  Thanks to all of you who visit and support our area and our businesses, and thanks to all who work hard to make the Lake Gogebic Area one of the very best snowmobile destinations in the country! 

U.P. Thunder Riders Snowmobile Club

Trails are in good to very good condition with the 4+ inches of snow we received yesterday. We are under a winter storm warning for tonight and tomorrow. We will be grooming nightly. Ride right, Ride safe

Trail Report – : Bayfield County, Wisconsin – February 23, 2023

Reporter:BayfieldCounty

Trail Conditions: Excellent

Snow Cover: 10-12

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Bayfield county received anywhere from 6-18 inches of fresh powder! Best trail conditions in the state!

News and Reports:

Barnestormers  We are currently in blizzard conditions and have received between 1-100 inches depending on who you ask. All trails were groomed before the storm and we will head out again when conditions improve. Be cautious if you’re out; trees and branches may have come down in the storm. Hope to see you in Barnes.

Drummond Sno Jacks  Trails have been all groomed this week and in good condition. Fresh snow has improved the trails after record numbers on the trails last week.

CLOSURE: Trail 4 between Peters Rd and Argo Rd is closed until further notice.

Namakagon Trail Groomers   We received around 2″ of new snow so far and are “predicted” to get 10-15 more. Our trails are in excellent condition and we will be grooming daily.

Northern Adventures  Trails in the Iron River area are getting groomed Trails are in very nice shape.

South Shore Trails Club   All South Shore trails will be groomed by Friday and in great shape.

Washburn Valhellers    Trails in the Washburn/Vahalla area are in great condition. Trail #13 south between Washburn and the Ashland corridor was getting a little thin and has not been groomed yet this week.  Fresh snow this week will bring things back to 100% everywhere around here. Trails will all be freshly groomed for the weekend should be in great to excellent condition.

All trails in the north Valhalla area are in excellent condition rating of 10+  The best they’ve been in in years. We received 6 inches of fresh snow Monday night and expecting a large snowfall Wednesday and Thursday. 

White River Ramblers  All trails will be groomed for the weekend.

Snowmobile Information:

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Sign up to receive text message or email trail condition updates on the county website under “Notify Me.” You can also find updates on Snowtracks and view the Wisconsin Snow Conditions widget at travelbayfieldcounty.com 

GENERAL INFO:

Order a snowmobile map online or pick one up at area businesses. You can also download the Avenza app (for free) and get the updated Snowmobile Map on your device before you hit the trails – locate yourself on the trail map with GPS so you can see where you are, even with no cell reception! If you’d like to see the sponsor businesses on the same type of map, try the Trail Treker app ($1.99).

Be sure to stop in, warm up and patronize the businesses on our snowmobile map. Their advertising makes it possible to print and distribute the map.

Trail Report – : Ely, Minnesota – February 23, 2023

Ely, MN Chamber of Commerce

Reporter:Ely Chamber of Commerce/Explore MN Visitor Center

Trail Conditions: Good

Snow Cover: 23 Inch

Date of Report: February 23, 2023

Area Report:

Ely Area Trail Conditions

February 23th, 2023

Trail base and conditions, in general, have improved with yesterday’s snow, and the additional snow before this weekend will provide more snow to build the base.  

Continue to monitor conditions online at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html

There is active logging happening on a number of spots throughout the Grant-in-Aid and State Trail system. In those areas, slow down and give trucks and logging equipment space. No Motorized Vehicles other than snowmobiles are allowed on State Trails or Grant-in-Aid snowmobile trails.

Please make sure those riding in the Ely-Tower area this weekend are aware of the Wolftrack Classic Sled Dog race happening this coming Sunday. The race will take place on the Taconite State Trail and the Fishing Lakes trail south of Bear Head Lake State Park.

Taconite State Trail: The Taconite is groomed and in good to very good condition. Use caution in the Ely to Purvis stretch, as it remains narrow in spots. We will continue to groom during the ongoing snowfalls this week and throughout the weekend.  The Wolftrack Classic Sled Dog Race is taking place between Ely and Tower on the Taconite and Fishing Lakes Trails this coming Sunday the 26th, so use extra caution if you are on those trails on Sunday.

Snow: 15-28 inches with a base of 1-5 inches. Groomed: Yes Condition: Good to Very Good

Arrowhead State Trail:  The Arrowhead is groomed and in good to very good condition from Tower to International Falls. We will continue to groom during the ongoing snowfalls this week and through the weekend.

Along with the DNR trail conditions website, continue to monitor these clubs’ websites (www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html & www.snowmobilevacation.org/trail-updates) for the most current Arrowhead State Trail conditions.

Arrowhead Trail Snow: 15-30 inches of snow with a base of 1-5 inches. Groomed: Yes Condition: Good to Very Good

Putnam/Fishing Lakes Trails: The entire trail is groomed and in good condition, and it will be groomed again before this weekend.

Lake Vermilion Soudan Underground Mine State Park Tails: The crosscut/cable bay trail is groomed and in fair to good condition, and it will be groomed again before this coming weekend. The Miner’s loop has quite a bit of brush hanging into the trail and is in poor to fair condition.

Babbitt Birch Lake Plantation: Babbitt golf course is groomed for skate and classic skiing and is in excellent condition. The Babbitt Birch Lake Plantation is groomed for classic skiing and in excellent condition. 

Bear Head Lake State Park: Cross country ski track set on Thursday, February 16th with fair results on the campground loops and the Beach Trail. Norberg Trail was last groomed on February 9th.

The strong winds may have caused snow to drift off of Bear Head Lake to the Beach Trail, so use caution. Norberg Trail winds its way through several large stands of white and Norway pines while showcasing our names sake, Bear Head Lake, and one of our designated trout lakes, Norberg. Norberg Loop is our most challenging groomed ski trail with several steep hills.

REMINDER: It is unlawful to walk, snowshoe, have pets, or destroy any part of the groomed ski trails in any manner.

Snowshoers are welcome to explore anywhere besides the groomed ski trails. Snowshoers have been enjoying Becky Lake and Blueberry Lake Loops.

Skiing Base: 10 inches. Conditions: Poor Groomed: Partially

Snowmobiling conditions: Very Good. Groomed Yes.  Base: 8 inches.