Despite the arctic cold and at times fierce winds, some avid snowmobilers have been hitting the trails in the county. Reports from these hardy souls are that there is a good base of snow most places and the trails are in good shape.
. Grand Portage: On Dec. 29 the report indicated the average depth of snow was seven inches, but more snow has fallen since then to add to the base.
“The state trail is in great shape. The inland trails are being groomed. Patchy in some areas. After this deep freeze, the groomer is sure to safely navigate over swamps and lakes that they have been avoiding,” as stated in the comment section.
. Gunflint Trail: The average depth of snow is 7-13 inches, with a high of 21 inches. The state trail is in great shape! We have received about 3-4 inches of snow in the town of Grand Marais, and the Devil Track area about 6-7 inches. The trail from Grand Marais up to Devil Track is in good shape. People are also out riding the state trail. The inland trails are being groomed. Patchy in some areas. After this deep freeze, the groomer is sure to safely navigate over swamps and lakes that they have been avoiding. You can contact Skyport Lodge for the most up-to-date trail information, www.skyportlodge.com
. Lutsen Trails: As of Jan. 1 the average snow depth is 8-14 inches.
“Lack of significant new snow continues to try and hinder our efforts to groom the trails. Thin snow remains down by the big lake. Gas, food, and lodging are available via the trail system. Just remember that caution should be used in these areas. As I moved away from Lake Superior today on my ride, I found plenty of good snow. Lutsen Access, the state trail, and Caribou snowmobile trails, all were in good condition. Beware of the occasional ‘Sucker Bumps’ that still remain. Plenty of snow to lube the track with great cornering from the skis made for an awesome 30-mile afternoon social ride. Grooming will continue with new snow in the forecast for tomorrow. Larry, our trail reporter, says, ‘Remember: Shinny side up, Rubber side down.’ Ride safe and have fun! Grooming will continue as snow accumulates, anticipate conditions to move from fair, to good, to excellent in the near future as more snow is in the forecast.”
. North Shore State Trail/Tofte Trails: This report comes from Dec. 29. At that time the average snow depth was 6-10 inches. “The state trail is in great shape. People have been riding on the inland portion.”
With trails in good shape, when the extended freeze ends more riders will be out snowmobiling in more significant numbers. Ride safely.
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