January 9, Tanana Flats

[paulneva]

I know it was supposed to be Ester Dome, but with our low-snow we will probably find better conditions in the Flats as those trails are used a lot less, and our Tanana Flats ride last weekend was frozen out, and I generally prefer the Flats, so I am changing the ride.

We will leave the Chena Pump Park/Landing at 1000, go down the Tanana River to Clear Creek and the out into the Tanana Flats. It should be an easy ride, good for beginners and those who have never or seldom been in the Flats. Bring a lunch. We should be back by 1600 (4 pm).

Paul

[cpw2626]

Where is Chena Pump Park? Will be there as long as it isn't too cold.

[paulneva]

Chena Pump Landing/Park is on the Tanana River at the end of Chena Pump Road (where Chena Pump Road starts uphill and becomes Chena Ridge Road).

Paul

[DrMartiniX]

Just signed up for the site but haven't been to any meetings or payed membership dues yet, but I would like to go on this ride as long as its ok. I will try my hardest to make the general meeting on the 20th and make everything official there.

Thanks,
Zach

[john]

Zack,

Come along, be glad to have you and if you want Paul can bring a membership app with him.

[paulneva]

John is right. I am leading that ride and I almost always have applications with me. And if not, we can always fix the paperwork later. See you there.

Paul

[DrMartiniX]

Thanks a lot guys. I can't wait til I can get a second sled! My wife and I are trying to find more things we can do together and make new and great friends at the same time and so far from everyones response and activity this club seems like a great way for us to do that.

[irshpryd40]

What are the snow conditions like on the flats? I havent been out there this year and if they are any thing like the flood control out here in NP don't think we will make this one. I too have torn up hifaxes this year and dont feel like replacing another set.

[john]

Haven't been in the flats yet this season, but there "always" better than the flood control project.

Paul, you been out there yet ?

[Hughes2it]

I am with the Northern Lights club but would like to join you if I can to do the Flats.

Dave Hughes

[DrMartiniX]

As of this morning The Weather Channel changed their weekend forecast. Now its calling for 22-30 below Sat. Lets all pray that doesn't come true. I am assuming the ride will be cancelled if its that cold?

[paulneva]

John,

No, I have not been in the Flats this year but hope to change that tomorrow. I will let you know what I find.

Dave,

You are welcome to join us.

Zach,

Here is the latest NOAA forecast:

"FRIDAY NIGHT
MOSTLY CLEAR. LOWS 10 BELOW TO 20 BELOW.
NORTHEAST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH.

SATURDAY
PARTLY CLOUDY. HIGHS NEAR 5 BELOW."

We cancel rides at -20 at the airport one hour before ride time. With some luck we will be OK.

Paul

[DrMartiniX]

Lets keep our fingers crossed lol.

[paulneva]

I rode to Clear Creek Butte and back today. There is some grass showing and a few bare spots where thoughtless riders have used up the snow but, overall, conditions are pretty good. There are only a few inches of snow but 99.8% of the "trails" are covered and 90% of what we will ride is flat and smooth. If it is not too cold it will be a good ride on Saturday.

Paul

[john]

Sounds like a Trail Sled ride, have to switch machines off the trailer I guess.