I was off work today and hadn’t ridden in almost a week. So I hit the “Newcomb Playbook” again.
The Indian Lake village trails were pretty rough this morning. But S84 heading out toward Blue Mountain was actually half-way decent riding, except for those bony spots under the tall pines. The worst part was about a mile before the Newcomb trail.
After I met up with Lenny Baglieri of the Blue Mountain Rest, we headed up 538/Newcomb trail. The new snow was about 3-5 inches throughout and we even hit some untracked stuff. Overall, it was nice riding but there were some hazards that could take you by surprise.
Here is some of the Newcomb trail goodness:
As to be expected, there were some lumps on the south side of Joseph Mountain, but it was cushioned a bit with the fresh stuff. As we lost elevation and descended toward the Newcomb T with C8B, new snowcover diminished to around an inch or two at best.
For the heck of it, we tried making the run toward Long Lake. But as I suspected, it was rough and nasty and we gave up after a couple of miles.
Then we doubled back to C8B and make the run over to the Newcomb House for lunch. That trail was a mixed bag of treats and had some decent hazards, but was just good enough to make it into Newcomb.
After lunch, we headed straight back home. Town of Indian Lake had freshly groomed to the Essex County line, so that part of the Newcomb trail was even sweeter on the return trip. The sleds (and operators) were lovin’ it:
We parted ways, with Lenny heading back to Blue Mountain and me back to Indian Lake. S84 was a click nicer on the return trip with the fresh groom. But there are still some spots that need way more snow.
Got treated to this nice view from the bridge near Rock Lake:
Indian Lake Village trails were still bumpy when I got back. But there really isn’t much that can be done about that until we get a decent dump of snow. Judging by what I saw around town, C8/Sabael trail and C8 out to Headquarters are probably horribly rough.
I did hear that Indian Lake has groomed our side of Moose River Plains this week and I did see the Piston Bully moved around town on a flatbed truck. So I’m guessing that the Plains would be in better shape then they were last week.
Did about 70 miles today. Thank goodness for the Newcomb trail and the Town’s ability to keep S84 ride-able! Or else I’d have almost no riding this winter.
Weekend Outlook:
We’ll pick up minor snows Friday and Friday night and stay reasonably cool for Saturday. Conditions will deteriorate Sunday with warming temperatures, but rain should hold off. The earlier you get it, the better off you’ll be!
Is it great riding? Nope…
Is it better than sitting on the couch? It can be if you’re smart and pick your spots.
Get up here this weekend if you want to ride because next week is looking U*G*L*Y!
Speculator is probably in a similar boat with Perkins Clearing and the Tree Farm being the good places to ride. The narrow woods trails are tedious riding and need much more snow.
Speaking of Speculator, Riding for the Cure is on Saturday:
This is a popular event for a great cause. Speculator is sure to be very busy on Saturday.
Remember to check the ilsnow.com bulletin board for ride reports.
Ride safe this weekend!
Darrin
