I almost kept this ride “off-book” as Sgt. Voight says on Chicago P.D. In the end, I felt compelled to share with the ilsnow nation, because it was such a wonderful afternoon!
After morning fog and drizzle lifted and sun broke through, I couldn’t stay inside and let the afternoon go without spinning track. Especially not with what’s coming for next week and likely beyond.
Heading out on S84
Trucked to Northville-Placid trailhead parking lot on Route 28/30 near Lake Durant. Snowmobile was already on the ilsnow wagon after yesterday’s ride into Perkins Clearing, so why not? Not the winter to bang out rides from the compound with regularity.
This picnic table at Lake Durant Campsite is one of the best snow holding places: WOW!
After I crossed Route 28/30 at Lake Durant Campsite, S84 over to HAMI600 was snirty with continual low studderbumps, but not too bad. The worst hazard was this spot where water was eating away at the trail.
This report is brought to you by Mangino Chevrolet Buick GMC in Amsterdam, NY & Ballston Spa, NY. We know that you have high expectations, and as a car dealer we enjoy the challenge of meeting and exceeding those standards each and every time. Allow us to demonstrate our commitment to excellence! Our experienced sales staff is eager to share its knowledge and enthusiasm with you. We encourage you to browse our online inventory, schedule a test drive and investigate financing options.
C8A/Old 538 to Essex County Line
Aside from several small balding spots approaching Essex County Line, it was totally amazing spring riding! Indian Lake Snowarriors earned today’s ilsnow gold star award.
As I returned through late afternoon, it was holding on as snowmobiling happy place. But those small bald spots near Essex County line had grown.
C8A/Old 538 Essex County Line to Newcomb T
Had loose bumps and definitely a grade or two lower than what I had left behind. Dirt spots and even bare corners got bigger through the afternoon – especially from Joseph Mountain enroute to Newcomb-T (ESSE50 intersection). Overall, it was fun enough riding.
Lake Durant to S84/Old Stage trail
After I got back to Northville-Placid trailhead parking lot, I turned my skis toward Blue Mountain Lake via S84/Old Stage trail. Aside from a spot where the trail had collapsed into a small stream bed, it was an amazing goat path ride toward the setting sun.
After the wooden bridge, final 0.6 mile to Chef Darrell’s Mountain Diner was a rollercoaster ride. And rock tops were showing in the rock garden.
Dinner
I caught Chef Darrell’s before the closing bell and opted for BBQ pulled pork skillet for dinner and a slice of pecan pie with a large dallop of whipped cream for dessert. Good thing it was a short ride back to the truck, because I was full and happy.
Ride map
No tracker today. But this map shows my general route for the ride.
Bottom line
Friday afternoon stroll (including rabbit-hole excursions) totaled 67 miles. Riders I saw appeared to be enjoying the day. Bright sun and upper-40s temperature made it feel like April!
The playground is shrinking. But just because Trail 5 in Old Forge is shot, doesn’t mean there no riding to be had.
Got out to ride Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday AND Friday this week. Had a great time each day. So what if this winter sucks? Summer sucks WORSE, always and forever more!
Weekend Outlook
A shot of winter cold will staunch the bleeding for Saturday. Scratchers will probably come in handy to pick some snow loose for keeping slides and heat exchangers happy – until strong late-February sun can soften the pack a bit.
Whether you’re riding to Newcomb, Long Lake or Indian Lake from C8A/Newcomb trail, expect spring riding conditions. Sun-exposed bare sections are growing by the day. Plowed road trail sections are either bare or getting there.
Will it be worth it FOR YOU to come here and snowmobile this weekend? Can’t really answer that question, not knowing your requirements. But I will say that if you don’t ride this weekend, most of y’all will miss the boat for the rest of this winter OR be praying for a March miracle which, more often than not, doesn’t happen.
As far ahead as March 10th, GEPS ensemble is indicating Polar Vortex (PV) over Alaska’s North Slope and shortwave energy (SW) crashing into western North America. This would be VERY BAAAAAAAAD!!!!
For the ilsnow nation,
Darrin
Thanks for the rides, apparently I need to study some maps. Have you considered sending some favs to print/ sale? Hitting Darrells later today, no Vaca here is complete without that. Ride on brother.
Chuckster243
I’m fine with what I’m doing with ilsnow.com now. Trail reporting and weather forecasting is what I do best.