Regards,
David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

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Trails took a beating this weekend… and I know this because I have the best suspensions (not braggin’- just sayin’) known to man… so if I feel it I know others feel it even more.  But the beauty in this is… the trails were being used… I saw hundreds of riders over the past several days taking advantage of the late season snowfall and bright sunny days.  I just love that and for the most part everyone stuck to the own side of the trail so no questionable moments. I admire that in my fellow sledders.

Back to riding… Sunday was a special day, started out with 3 riders… The Bruce, aka Golden Boy from Mahtomedi, MN and my neighbor Gretchin, we then hooked up with a 5-pack from the Twin Cities area and headed east on from Eveleth… well the “Moose trail” remains in tough condition as the swamp-like terrain keeps sucking up the moisture so not much snow to groom…. groomers did what they can so hats off to them.  By the time we hit Biwabik we lost one of the 5-pack (sad day for Captain Ken) with a blown chain case.  The 5-pack having already ridden the past couple of days decided to pack it in… so with situation secured Golden Boy, Gretchin and I took to the trails, rivers, single tracks and had a most wonderful day of riding.

Trail conditions varied, sometimes greatly, with the worst being wherever the trail passed over swamp-like terrain.  The earth just sucking these areas near dry… but still passable- sounding like an optimist ehh. Yes, yes I am, and do hope for continued cold nights so our snow survives for another run this weekend.  This time of year you take it whenever you can get it.
My guess is the clubs will be hard at it today dressing up the system for another run later this week and weekend. Come join the fun and if you need some advice on where to go just let me know.

Regards
David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

Gretchin, Golden Boy knee deep

Beautiful single-track

Great conditions on the Range

Remember, enjoy and Ride-right (to the right side of the trail)

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I had two destinations for the day. First, head to the “Fish Lake” antique/vintage classic snowmobile run…. I didn’t make it… conditions were not as I liked for making “good time” so I turned north. I know I missed something special as I understand they had near 500 old, classic snowmobiles show this year- hats off to the gang that organizes that event.

So it was off to my next destination… the Bayview, for United-Way’s Winter Blast and Plunge Vest…. when I arrived at the Aurora-Biwabik trail I was smilin’… yes, it had character but very passable.  From there I hopped on the Laurentian Trail just north of Giants Ridge and it was in great groomed shape.  With the sun high in the sky I had plenty of time and I was enjoying every mile.  Then as I came over a rise I spotted this little ole’ one-track trail zig-zagging its way down a power-line… you know what came next.   This led me to a tiny undisturbed creek that led me further and further away from my destination… but I was explorin’ and just couldn’t stop.   I just know if there were an Eddy Bauer he’d be proud of me… this creek crosses another power-line so I jump on that and this leads me to some deserted little tree covered passage (by now pretty sure I’m unsure where I am) and next thing I know I’m climbing elevation in the middle of nowhere seems… this little mountain became my challenge as the trail begins to narrow… snow’s getting deeper (northern slope)… and the trail’s getting steeper… best I can figure it’s a pass to an old CC camp (work camp of sort) of the 30’s & 40’s (actually I had know idea but as I explained to a friend later he enlightened me as to where I “might” have been- but I’m going back soon before I forget).  Now the sun’s starting to drop and not being exactly sure which way I would walk if I ran out of fuel or became stuck I figured it best to try and find some familiar ground… I did and headed back to base- Eveleth… as I was to meet up with some pals at Mudders Tavern in Gilbert to see “Vitamin Brown” wick it up.  Truth be known… I can’t dance… but these guys seem to play all the right tunes… so I think I can… anyway off track here… riding was great on Saturday… and Sunday we were dumped on… 8-10” of fresh stuff… can you see the “grin”.

Yesterday I was out testing and made several laps down the trails- its awesome, I mean AWESOME riding right now boys and girls so if you have any vacation time left- USE IT. You wanted it… we’ve got it (yeaaah), so come and get it!!!! I guarantee you a good time.

Regards, and remember to “Ride Right” (to the right side of the trail- that’s your only side)

DavidK.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   BLADE Snowmobiles

Trail conditions AWESOME!!!

Vitamin Brown at Mudders in Gilbert

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Anyway, one-track trail out of Eveleth to the Eveleth/Gilbert Spur trail- which was completely un-groomed though pretty darn fun to ride. Just enough character in the trail to get the grin factor going. From there we hit the Moose Trail which was also totally un-groomed and for the most part untouched so we were trail breaking right through to Biwabik. From there we hit the Aurora-Biwabik trail on up to Giants Ridge Ski Resort for a break and bite to eat. I must say… the Iron Range probably has the best selection of Pizzas possibly… just sayin’.

On the return trip we tried a little boondockin’ but having ended up needing to traverse a long recently graded section we turned back working our way as the crow flies to the Moose trail with a slight detour through Mckinley for a little more untouched terrain on back towards Gilbert. Now, you look at this and think we didnt put on many miles- well, we didn’t, but we sure had some fun riding and laughs afterwards. Sometimes less is more.

So as for the scouting report, I am confident you can leave from most any of the Range Cities and head north/north-east. You may encounter some un-groomed or virgin sections until you travel a little further north but its sure broadens your skills, gives you some appreciation for the suspension technology out there, and truly makes you think of all the effort these clubs put in during a good snowy season to keep us all happy.

That said, I say head North!!!

Remember; Ride right… to the right side of the trail (”your” side of the trail), Thanks.

David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

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See you soon,
David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

Remember… ride right (to the right side of the trail) Thanks.

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I have been test riding locally… only when absolutely required though, and I would not and have not advised anyone to head north to try snowmobiling on the Range. Its been “white” here for some time but nothing to grin about… well, my attitude has now changed and a smile is forming as the snow inches its way towards “respectable & rideable” conditions. I’m here to tell YOU- trails are being groomed and conditions are good for most of the Arrowhead trail, and above. More geographically recognizable to our friends from out of town… riding is good just north of Cook, MN and keeps getting better as you near Orr, MN and beyond. And there’s hundreds of miles to cover. Now, that said, I still want you to stop in and if not stay on the Range… at least visit us either on your way up, or your way back down.

It should also be noted that next week the BLACKWOODS BLIZZARD Tour should be rolling through the area bringing in a couple hundred heavy hitter snowmobilers to the Northland. Raise your hands and give them a cheer if you see them as they ride for ALS. If you’re unaware this is an amazing group ride/event that raises over $600K annually to help bring a cure to Lou Gehrig’s disease. Hey, and should you be so lucky to have someone invite you to attend their wrap-up celebration at the Greysolon Ballroom downtown Duluth- do not pass it up- it’s a grand, festive, dress-up, party affair.

Ok, back to the trails… Come north… come north and ride with me, or rather I’ll ride with you if you give me enough notice.

Regards,
David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

PS. Please be careful for pressure ridges on the lakes. And as always, Ride right- to the right side (your side) of the trail.

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For some riding has ended, for others its just prelude to the end. I was out with my brother Gerard for a quick 75-80 mile jaunt Saturday leaving Eveleth towards Giants Ridge (Biwabik), back and forth on the Moose and Aurora/Biwabik Trails wherever we found bumps, with a short layover at the Ridge to witness a little little Spring Carnival action and a bite, then west across the Laurentian Trail down through Virginia and back to the Shop. Yes, it was tough getting through some parts of Virginia and earth showing here and there- as expected… but this is still far better than riding in early winter with limited snow.

After riding a couple hours on the modern technology I took up with “the Bruce” otherwise known as “Golden-boy”… a dirt bikin’ Pal from one of the tough Twin City neighborhoods (Mahtomedi, MN)- he rides KTM’s by the way, and he rides quickly I might add. Anyway, we laid down our goal and took to the back-country behind the Eveleth-Virginia regional international airport… an area very difficult to travel almost any time of the year, even by foot, though Spring sledding is thee exception (not always)… and its modern sleds be damned. Our trusty steeds were old Elans (don’t tell my daughters I was on their sled) and I have no idea what model years they were (mid 80’s - early 90’s… doesnt matter) but they worked beautifully none-the-less and in harmony whilst weaving through tamarack after tamarrack and through all the natural moguls. It was a blast! Its been a number of years and its nice to know the big ole marsh is still in tack.

Now, we have new SNOW on the way for those of you that care, if you’re reading this then you might care. Predictions vary but as little as 4” and as much as 14” so I’ve been told- I’m going with the latter cause its just to early to quit sledding- this year anyway and more is better for sledders. And, we have a couple of crews, one from lower Michigan (the Brad Hulings gang) and another from Indiana planning to darken the doors of the Range. So lets roll out the welcome mat and make sure these guys/gals learn why the Range is a great snowmobiling destination. I know we will here at TeamFAST and BLADE with a short enlightening tour of the facilities and then out for some fine dining.

Ride, ride, ride… while we can.
And, ride safe, ride right (to the right)

Regards,
David K.
BLADE Snowmobiles

PS. Ohh yeah, almost forgot… don’t forget about the water-skips on Vermilion

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In fact, a Pal and I took off around 11AM Tuesday and road till’ about 3… never had an issue with the trails, never met another rider… and never thought about tomorrow. Don’t take it for granted, once in the woods the trail are excellent even though conditions are softer than desired… the road approaches were bearing a little earth here and there but still very, very ride-able conditions… OK, maybe I’m a die-hard.. maybe not… maybe I just like the freedom I get when I’m sledding. Quite frankly there seems hardly anything free er’ (bad English- I know) these days… heck even V-twining (more bad English), cruising on your Glide… doesn’t get you this close to elements in northern Minnesota, nor this in-tune with your ride…

Heading out today to do some more test riding and should be able to report back again on up-to-date/hour/minute conditions… though I remain confident that conditions will hold.

So for you Sledders out there that didn’t get enough… cant get enough- I say “go north”, north to the Iron Range and even a bit further if you so desire… go to Orr, go to Ely, just get out and take advantage of the offerings. Conditions are not perfect but the trails have plenty of character left in them. And take everyday in as if its the last sledding day you can for the year!!!

Ride north or south of the “Divide” (few miles north of Virginia, MN) and you’ll get plenty of fun-filled miles in.

Ride safe, right right (to the right)

PS. The Bayview is hosting Radar Runs on Lake Vermilion, I was just informed they are ON!!! And like many of the establishments on the Iron Range other facilities around Lake Vermilion will be dolling out the green beads as well.

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We have SNOW, we have plenty of it, and the trails are being groomed and cared for like it was the beginning of the year. The clubs and agencies are in full swing. They’re proud of their work and proud to have done it… so let them know you support them by getting out and enjoying the fruits of their labor. RIDE… RIDE… RIDE.

Also, some of the advantages are;
1. This time of year some sledders are already packing it in so the trails are used by less sledders.
2. You can sleep in and let the morning come to you with a nice cup of Jo… instead of you rushing out to capture some daytime riding.
3. Boondockin in the Northland is far easier as the snow is now compacted. NOTE: Remember to stay on the trail system unless you are absolutely sure off-trail is permissible as much of the land is private property and we do NOT want to lose the valuable friendships we have made over the many years.
4. This time of year more people are climbing out of hibernation and the night life is ramping up as the Spring weather rejuvenates those that draw their Vitamin D from some other source than “snow”.

If weather remains as is we should have a few more good weeks though I am not going to advise anyone to wait. Take advantage of what we have , while we have it. That said, I packin’ it in for the day to do a little boondockin and then hit the trails.

Respectfully,
David K.

Ride safe, ride right (to the right side of the trail)

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Bad news first- as we entered the 4th year of PUCK Days which was largely becoming an antique, vintage, modern sled parade and show right downtown Hockey-Town… Eveleth, MN has been postponed to next year.

THIS IS AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT that follows:

PUCK Days 2011
March 12-13, 2011
Eveleth, MN

STATUS: POSTPONED to 2012

The hosting organization that promoted PUCK Days in Eveleth, MN the last three years disbanded this January. The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce, representing the Quad Cities of Eveleth, Virginia, Mountain Iron and Gilbert has recently agreed to come on-board as the new host organization. Due to the short lead time to the event date, our remaining organization members have collectively decided to postpone this years’ PUCK Days and focus on next year to ensure a successful and well participated event.

We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you. We are confident moving forward that with our new hosting organization and additional resources we can coordinate an even bigger event and make next year’s PUCK Days a grand and “can’t miss” weekend.

PUCK Days Committee,

Well I’m disappointed about that but riding continues to be spectacular up here in the Northland.   Conditions today were fresh snow and freshly groomed trails which will make for great riding all weekend.

Remember, right right (to the right) and ride safe.
Regards,
David K.

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