HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The snow was really piling up on Sunday, we got another 4 or so inches total accumulation. However, right now, as I am typing this, we are getting an incredible wind storm. Yes, it is howling pretty good out there. The temperatures have remained in the upper 20’s to low 30’s all this week, so the snow (hopefully) set up a little and will not all blow away.
The trails from Cantwell to Maclaren Valley: by far the most traveled here lately, is in good shape. There was some “skinny” snow around 60 mile.
From Paxson to the Maclaren Valley: Excellent condition, the trail is smooth and fast. Some small drifts starting at 30 mile
The rivers are just beginning to be ride able however there are still some open spots. The off road trails have not been put in because of the lack of snow and the warm temps keeping the water flowing. We will begin working on some of the trails next week, we will have to get out and work on the wind drifts. But first, the “Bully” needs some work and some parts before it is up and working at it’s full capacity.
Our report is based on the snowfall we will see what this wind today does. I am sure the trails will be drifted and non-existent in some places.
Thank you to all the ones that have signed up and already mailed your checks too the club for membership dues.
Take Care and we look forward to seeing you on the trail!!!!
Alan Echols
Vice President – Denali Highway Trail Club
From Lake Louise we have this report on that area:
No Bravehearts have crossed the lake interior. And then there's our villain Overflow hiding out here and there. 48 mph gusts and 36 degree temps today have us taking two steps back.
Cranberry Cove is safe although a snowmachine went through the ice in the north channel Friday night. Bob Rolley has been coming in/out of Susitna without a problem, but he's riding the back bay. There's a pressure ridge and thin ice on the main body of Susitna. Tolsona and Jan Lake trailheads are staked and accessed by locals. But our 8 inches of snow do not completely cover ground vegetation.
Now if you do come, there's one more caution. Caribou. That illusive herd runner--largely non-existent this fall--surprised a cabinowner Monday. He chugged up the Eureka hill to find them "all over." He hit three.
Events that will be coming up:
December 28th, 29th and 30th - GIN GIN 200 SLED DOG RACE – From Paxson to Maclaren Valley, roundabout to the SU and back to Maclaren to Paxson
January 10, 11, 12 & 13 - CANTWELL CLASSIC SLED DOG RACE – Cantwell to Maclaren Valley and back
DEC 31 – JAN 1 - MACLAREN LODGE NEW YEARS EVE PARTY – with lots of fireworks and a hugh bonfire
APR 1, 2, 3, 4 - TIAIGA SLED DOG RACE – from Lake Louise to Maclaren Valley
McLaren Lodge - Lake Louise area
Moderator: john