Dave Goodman
Dear editor:
Where are the snowmobile trails?
That’s a question we should not have to ask this year. After a big surge in support for the amalgamated Mine Centre, Fort Frances, Emo, Rainy River, and Nestor Falls snowmobile clubs, trail permit sales almost doubled last year.
This left the club ready to tackle the task of opening and operating more than 600 km of trails this season.
The Borderland Snowmobile Club’s operating budget for 2009 was $26,000, which was spent on local trails and in local businesses. In 2009, the club re-routed some trails, did extensive brushing on 20 km of trails, and upgraded signage throughout the area.
We also hosted a “Ride for Rehab” fundraising group of 50 riders from Manitoba, who stayed in a local hotel and spent money on meals, as well.
Our main focus for this year is to increase the volunteers base that is needed to run the club. We invite all interested snowmobilers to our annual general meeting being held Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. upstairs in the meeting room at John Gavel Welding (just west of Emo).
Last year, this area had some of best trail conditions in years—thanks to the volunteers, groomer operators, and good snow.
L201 from Rainy River to Nestor Falls was a little-used hidden jewel in our area. It makes a good one-day circle route (Rainy River to Nestor Falls on L201 and then back through L601 to Emo).
Another fun day ride is from Fort Frances through Mine Centre to Marr’s Perch Lake Camp near Atikokan for a hamburger (great food, and cabins if you want to stay overnight).
Later in the year, spend a three-day weekend and travel the circle route from Fort Frances, Mine Centre, Atikokan, Ignace, Sioux Lookout, Dryden, Nestor Falls, Rainy River, or Emo.
About 600 miles of great trails, spectacular scenery, and the best of Northwestern Ontario.
Remember to get your trail permits before Dec. 1 and save $50. If you have a 1995 or older sled, get the new classic permit for half the regular permit price and save even more.
For more information on your local snowmobile club, visit Borderlandsnowmobileclub.com for a complete list of the club executive and trail permit outlets.
(Signed),
Dave Goodman
on behalf of the
Borderland
Snowmobile Club
