With a dusting of new snow we have 10 inches on the ground. Temps for this week are going to be cold, temps will be in the single digits until Friday and below zero at night. With our cold spell it has firmed up our swamps and wet spots but we now need more new snow.

The Gogebic Range Trail Authority – Reports trail 2 from Bessemer to Ironwood is in good shape, from Bessemer to Marenisco things are shaping up. All our wet spots are firming up things are looking good. Trail 8 is groomed with a good base. Trail 11 N is unable to be groomed because of the big swamp area. Trail 160 is being panked. We have gotten word from the DNR trail 11S will be closed due to logging this winter. Remember while you will find some good conditions it is still early season riding.

The Lake Gogebic groomer’s report: Groomers have been out where it is possible to groom. The good news is the wets spots are firming up with all the cold weather. Trails are ride able but remember it is early season riding. Watch for a possible reroute on Trail 102 due to logging. Also watch for signs posted on the bridge out on Trail 8, east of Bergland, it will be rerouted over the dam at the north end of the lake. This is marked so use caution in this area.

The Watersmeet groomer’s report: The groomers will not go out until we get more snow. There is nothing more they can do until more snow comes. All trails are hard packed. Trails 2 west and 2 east are in good condition. Trail 3 north to Bond Falls is good and trail 3 south to Land O Lakes is also in good condition. Trail 13 south to Cisco Lake has been groomed;there are wet spots where 2 & 13 meet so please use caution. Remember it is still early riding season.

Please keep in mind the groomers are out both day and night, so watch for them, Please pull over or at least slow down and wait for the operator to signal you by whenever you see them.

Come Explore the Western U.P. Adventure Awaits in Michigan’s Wild West!

RATED #1 SNOWMOBILE DESTINATION BY READERS OF AMERICAN SNOWMOBILER!

Each Western U.P. snowmobiling adventure is unique and exciting, as there are over 2000 miles groomed trails, unplowed logging roads, secluded National Forest trails throughout our area. Explore a Western U.P. winter and share the experience of a Western U.P. snowmobiling vacation with your family and friends. This is what snowmobiling is all about. Because when natural beauty, brilliant exhilaration and good times come together, the sensation is Pure Michigan. Big Snow Country is a Snowmobiler’s Paradise. This heavy snowfall gives you, the rider, the very best conditions and trails.

Our new website is www.explorewesternup.com We moved to a new location 405N Lake St. Ironwood, MI 49938.

The latest Lake Effect Snow Machine delivered anywhere from a few inches in town to as much as 10 inches out in the snowbelt! It’s about time to get out there and play! Based on the National Weather Service snow depth map, we now have up to 20 inches on the ground over most of our trail system! We are currently under a Lake Effect Snow Advisory calling for more through midnight tonight. If this keeps up, we will have some awesome riding over the Christmas/New Years holiday! Woo Hoo!!

Still, consider this early season riding as we haven’t gotten all the trails packed and the loggers are still plowing sections of the trails. If you are out and about watch for ice, downed trees, limbs and especially watch for logging signs/trucks along Trails 8 West, 89, 443, 88 and 888.

Crazy 8’s Open House, December 28, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Groomer Barn with Brats, dogs, refreshments and snacks! Meet the team, check out the groomers and make new friends. You will be able to get your official ‘Crazy 8’s’ gear straight from the ‘Home of the Crazy 8’s.’ Oh, and we will be giving away prizes, too!

As always, Ride Safe and Bring them Home Alive!

Kay