Great Escapes Winter 2025 | Page 12

Perfectly located in the eastern shadows of snow-making Lake Superior , the Lake Gogebic area is at the heart of some of the world ’ s best snowmobiling . The area offers some of the best snow , the best trails , the best scenery and the best services , making it a long-standing favorite among in-theknow sledheads . Plus , the Gogebic area is only about a five-hour drive from the Twin Cities or Milwaukee , and not much longer from Chicago or Detroit . Annual snowfall here averages more than 200 inches , creating a riding season that starts as early as December 1 and can stretch into April . Best conditions are often found during the longer and warmer days of March . But truly from the start of the season until the end , the local trails are scenic and well-groomed , and businesses are highly hospitable .

The variety of riding means you won ’ t get bored . Straight rail trails

contrast with sweeping logging-roads and tight , twisty trails that worm through the hardwood forests and cedar swamps . Trails lead over hills , through valleys and across streams , providing access to waterfalls and majestic vistas . And they ’ ll eventually lead you to outstanding businesses that are delighted to serve snowmobilers . Staying in the Gogebic area is very strategic because it is the hub for almost 2,000 miles of trails in the western U . P . and northeastern Wisconsin . Head in any direction for a day trip , an over-nighter or a multiday tour . Or enjoy a few miles with the kids on local trail loops , like riding the perimeter of Lake Gogebic , or partake in a blast down the 18-mile-long lake itself .

One can ’ t-miss local day trip is the ride to Bond Falls , just off Trail 3 between Bruce Crossing and Watersmeet . Six viewing locations along a 600-foot boardwalk allow a good look at this whitewater treat . There are more than 50 other beautiful waterfalls that dot the western U . P ., many accessible from trails .

A wide variety of quality lodging is available , ranging from resorts and motels to rental homes and cabins . The best resource is lakegogebicarea . com to check availability and find ideal lodging . Snowmobiler dining favorites abound , with several selected as top pit stops by Snow Goer readers . Sled sales , service and rentals are also available . Required Michigan trail permits are available from many local sources .

Lake Gogebic grooming operators keep area trails in tip-top shape , grooming 24 / 7 when weather and snow conditions allow , and providing accurate , up-tothe-minute trail reports at Facebook . com / Gogebicareagrooming . Please consider becoming a Gogebic Area Grooming sponsor , because the more you help , the better your riding conditions will be . Also , get the phone app at groomertracker . com – it also supports the club .

So , why drive further when the Lake Gogebic area has everything you need ? For the latest trail reports , call 888 / 464-3242 or visit LakeGogebicArea . com for more information .

With multiple pristine snowmobiling areas totaling more than 500 miles of trails plus superb backcountry riding in powder snow up to 12 feet deep , there are plenty of reasons for riders to discover Carbon County this winter .

Located high atop the Continental Divide , between the Snowy and Sierra Madre mountain ranges in south-central Wyoming , Carbon County has everything necessary for an awe-inspiring snowmobile vacation .

Easily accessible from Interstate 80 , Carbon County welcomes snow-season visitors with a wide variety of guest ranches , resorts , inns and lodges , including award-winning establishments .

You can upgrade your accommodation by staying at the Saratoga Hot Spring Resort , with spa packages and admittance to its teepee-covered pools . An excellent array of dining options , such as Italian fare at Bella ’ s Bistro or The Malt with gourmet quick-serve burgers , are available to keep you going for many hours of fun in the snow .

The Snowy Range has more than 300 miles of trails that lead to backcountry areas open to snowmobile boondocking . Start out from Saratoga , Riverside , Encampment or Elk Mountain to begin your adventure .

Southwest Carbon County offers the Sierra Madres , with another 110 miles of trails and deep-powder backcountry riding , surrounded by majestic mountain scenery . Enter from Encampment on the eastern side or begin your ride at Baggs from the west .

For the more daring , the Shirley Mountains to the north of Hanna and Medicine Bow have nearly 100 miles of ungroomed trails and more exciting and challenging slope riding .

Local outfitters provide sleds , gear and even guides to maximize your adventure . You can also bring your own sled and gear . A modestly priced state permit is required to ride .

Riding elevations vary between 6,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level , so bring plenty of water and make sure your sled is tuned for best performance at these altitudes . Air temperatures can vary greatly during the day , so versatile riding gear for changing weather conditions is recommended .

After an exhilarating ride , call ahead to set up an appointment to visit one of the county ’ s many museums that showcase ranching , railroading , western and military history throughout the region . Then soothe your tired body with a relaxing dip in Hobo Hot Springs at Saratoga , open 24 / 7 and free to the public .

Discover Carbon County this winter , and enjoy the outstanding snowmobiling as well as pre- and post-snowmobiling excitement . Call 800 / 228-3547 or visit wyomingcarboncounty . com for a searchable directory of lodging and activities for more details and assistance .