SnowmobileTrailsBLOG.com Minnesota North Shore Snowmobiling and Trail Reports

Hungry Jack Lodge - LIVE music, happy hour and dinner specials Jan 15th, 2011

2011-01-10T14:31:00.000-06:00

Hungry Jack Lodge - LIVE music, happy hour and dinner specials Jan 15th, 2011.

Dinner specials
12oz New York Strip Steak Dinner $24.95
Walleye $19.95
Reservations appreciated!

Happy Hour 9-10pm
1/2 OFF rail drinks and appetizers.

Live! at Hungry Jack Lodge the band ' D'MERRIT ' 8PM to Midnight

372 Hungry Jack Rd.
Gunflint Trail
218-388-2265

See the entertainment flyer pdf for complete details
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Did a wolf attack a woman in Pincushion Recreation Area above Grand Marais, Minnesota?

2010-09-30T14:06:00.005-05:00

Did a wolf attack a woman in Pincushion Recreation Area above Grand Marais, Minnesota?

[ Image is of wolf not from Minnesota ]

Following text is pasted directly from the Cook County government Web site;

"On Wednesday, August 25^th, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office investigated a report of a 19 year old Grand Marais woman being attacked by a stray dog near the Pincushion Trail system. The attack occurred around 7:30pm on Tuesday night, August 24^th. The woman was alone walking along the trail that leads to the old dump. She heard a noise behind her, and when she turned to look she observed a dog approaching her. Unprovoked, the dog charged and attacked her, biting and clawing at her face. The woman defended herself by covering her head and face and playing dead. The dog eventually left.

The woman received scratches mainly to her face and shoulder, and a couple of puncture wounds. She was treated and released.

The woman described the dog as a mostly black, skinny German Shepherd mix, with matted hair and possibly mangy. The woman was certain it was a domesticated dog.

There have been no other reports of similar stray dogs and or attacks. The Cook County Sheriff’s Office has searched for the dog and continues to investigate the matter. The Minnesota Humane Society and United States Forest Service have also been contacted. The Pincushion Trails have been posted warning hikers of the potentially stray dangerous dog.

If you see this dog, do not approach and immediately contact the Cook County Sheriff’s Office at 218-387-3030. " --end

Direct link to press Release from the Cook County Sheriff Office:
http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/component/content/article/64-press-releases/1059-press-release-dog-attack

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Editor note - Questions and comments;
Who owns a mangy german sheperd?
Isn't a mangy wolf a desperate animal that may have a higher tendency to go after domestic animals, pets and possibily humans?

Wolves with mange look a lot like a german sheperd.
There seems to be a epidemic of wolves in and around Cook County with signs of mange.
This past winter while fishing Gunflint Lake there were numerous complaints about mangy wolves hanging out around homes and businesses. And there were wolves killed by some agency that sent a person to trap and or kill wolves.
My blog post refers to mangy wolves we witnessed this winter.
http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2010/02/snowmobiling-fishing-and-wolf-watching.html
Mangy wolves are booted out of the pack and are faced with starvation, freezing to death, severe sun burning due to no hair left.

A couple years ago while under my truck changing my oil in my driveway, a mangy wolf walked right up to me and circled the vehicle. Smelling a foul odor as it passed me again, I realized it wasn't one of my golden retrievers, that were in the house. It circled my truck again and again until I got up and jumped into the truck box. The wolf stopped circling and stared at me.
It was trying to figure out how to attack me. I could see it in it's eyes. It was hurting and hungry.
It was difiicult to not want to help it, no animal deserves to die a slow death caused by mange. But, I probably would have been charge with some felony if I put it out of its misery... I moved slowly over to the garden hose and sprayed it until it left. It came back for about a week, usually showing up when my dogs were outside.

Bear hunters have experienced much higher incidents of wolves raiding their bear bait stations this year. Even standing off with bears protecting the bait pile.

The wolf population in Minnesota was targeted to be 1500 wolves. Actual numbers today may exceed 3000 wolves.

Minnesota DNR wants gray wolf off the endangered list
http://www.startribune.com/local/88199997.html

Link to interesting article from Northlands News Center in Duluth, Minnesota
'Wolves Attack Wisconsin Hunting Dogs'
http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/video/Wolves-Attack-Wisconsin-Hunting-Dogs-104053694.html

Despite the persistence of diseases such as canine parvovirus, as well as Lyme Disease, and mange, the wolf population in Wisconsin continues to grow.
http://www.wolf.org/wolves/learn/intermed/inter_population/wi.asp

The Wisconsin DNR actually has a web site for subscribing to Wisconsin Gray Wolf Depredation Alerts
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/mammals/wolf/

Western US lawmakers turn sights on gray wolves from Associated Press
Oct 3rd, 2010 article from Anchorage Daily News
http://www.adn.com/2010/10/03/1484363/western-lawmakers-turn-sights.html

In the past two weeks I've done a study of my own. I asked 44 known to me, but random people who are Cook County residents two questions;
1. Is there too many wolves in Cook County?
2. What they thought about the possibility that it was a wolf, not a german sheperd, that attacked a 19 year old woman in Pincushion Recreation Area? All individuals surveyed were given the press release about the attack linked above after I asked question 1.

Results were;
Question 1. Is there too many wolves in Cook County?
44 total individuals
32 individuals said; Yes.
10 individuals said; No.
2 individuals said; I don't know.
Of the total; 30 individuals of those surveyed stated they have seen wolves on or near their residential property.

Question 2. What they thought about the possibility that it was a wolf, not a german sheperd, that attacked a 19 year old woman in Pincushion Recreation Area? All individuals surveyed were given the press release about the attack linked above.
44 total individuals
19 individuals said; It is obviously a wolf, generally these people didn't believe that someone actually owns a german sheperd with mange.
16 individuals said; Yes.
7 individuals said; No.
2 individuals said; I don't know.
Of the total; 26 individuals indicated they knew nothing about this event prior to my request.
Some indicated they have hiked there since and never saw any info about the attack.
Some indicated I made this up and there has been no attack, by wolf or dog. Even though I showed them an official press release printed off of the Cook County Government Web site, with the Cook County Sheriff logo/letterhead plainly visible.
Some indicated why isn't there a reward?
Many indicated it doesn't surprise them.

There needs to be more transparency about wolf populations, survey methods, depredation of domestic livestock, pets and possible attacks on humans...
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Very Interesting - Driver texting bans don't work: found U.S. study

2010-09-29T17:22:00.000-05:00

Bans on texting and driving are unsuccessful at reducing crashes, a new U.S. study on the road-safety law has found.

Researchers at the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) examined collision-based insurance claims made in four U.S. states — California, Louisiana, Minnesota and Washington — in the months immediately before and after driver texting was banned.

They found the bans didn't have an impact on reducing crashes — and could even up the risk.

"Texting bans haven't reduced crashes at all. In a perverse twist, crashes increased in three of the four states we studied after bans were enacted," Adrian Lund, HLDI president, said in a statement. "It's an indication that texting bans might even increase the risk of texting for drivers who continue to do so despite the laws."

But ultimately, the institute suggests the reason for the counter-intuitative results is simple non-compliance: many drivers, especially younger ones, shrug off these bans.

In recent years, a number of U.S. states and Canadian provinces have enacted legislation and launched public-awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the use of hand-held devices while driving. A 2009 study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found collision risk was 23 times greater for drivers who text-message, surpassing any other driving distraction by far.

The study released Tuesday found that among drivers younger than 25 — the group most likely to text — 45 per cent reported they still texted in states that bar such activity. This fell just shy of the 48 per cent of drivers who reported text-messaging in ban-free states.

And in all four states, crashes increased among that younger cohort after the ban was put in place, jumping by as much as 12 per cent (in California). "The point of texting bans is to reduce crashes, and by this essential measure, the laws are ineffective," Lund said.

According the the study, many respondents who knew it was illegal to text said they didn't think police were strongly enforcing the law.

Christopher Schneider, a UBC sociology professor, says our society is likely just in a transitional phase before such legislation is transformed into being understood as a "public evil" — similar to campaigns waged against drunk driving in the 1970s and 80s.

"A lot of the promotion of texting while driving is being given to us as a widspread social problem, which I think it is. . . . People could get hurt," he said. "I suspect in another 20 years, the youth who are ignoring some of this legislation will be teaching their kids, who will grow up learning about the evil that is texting while driving."

Schneider also said laws may get stricter as public pressure builds. In Alaska, he noted, a fatality caused by phone-based distracted driving carries a maximum penalty of 20 years — much more than a fine and lost demerit points.

Thirty-one U.S. states have implemented texting bans for drivers. In Canada, nearly every province has similiar laws in place against using hand-held phones while driving. Alberta and New Brunswick have both said they are in the process of studying potential bans.

from the Winnipeg Free Press.
http://www.leaderpost.com/technology/Driver+texting+bans+work+study/3593087/story.html
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Snowmobiling, icefishing and wolf watching the Gunflint Trail area

2010-02-24T14:18:00.037-06:00

The past few weekends I've spent up the Gunflint Trail snowmobiling, icefishing and wolf watching with my friend Cory Christianson, a longtime fishing guide with Sea Gull Creek Fishing Camp. Lake trout, brookies, splake, and rainbows are abundant in many lakes such as; Gunflint, Loon, Birch, Mayhew, and Moss.

[ all images are clickable to a larger image ]

Minutes later...

We drilled through 30-36 inches of really good hard ice, pushing the limit of our ice auger.

We caught some nice rainbow trout on Birch lake.

It was calm and sunny all day and we didn't even set-up our shelter.

I took a solo trip into South Lake from Gunflint Lake, where snowmobiles have to stay on the Canadian side because the U.S. / Minnesota side is in the BWCA.

A railroad ran on the trail between Little Gunflint and Little North lake, it still exists from the logging days. See rails about 48 inches wide sticking out of snow.

Stream next to portage trail between Little Gunflint Lake and Little North Lake.

What's left of a deer the wolves chased out on the lake surface and devoured. Usually the only remains are bone fragments, hide, blood and what the deer had in its stomach. We got to this one before the ravens and other birds picked it clean. On Gunflint Lake we counted 4 kill sites that were less than 5 days old.

Lone wolf trotting over to above kill site during the day? Usually when you see a 'lone' wolf out in the open, on a lake in the middle of the day, something is wrong. This animal had a bad case of mange, an ectoparasite that causes wolves to loose hair and weight. This animal was probably kicked out of the pack and is on its own. It only had about 25 percent of its hair left, and has been relegated to leftover scraps and to fend for itself.

Well traveled trail by wolves on Canadian side of Gunflint Lake

Recently the People responsible for regulating wolves destroyed at least one wolf with mange, that was hanging out around people and resorts on Gunflint Lake. If you want to see wolves or signs of wolves head up to Gunflint Lake, they are very abundant. As far as I'm concerned wolf populations are out of control and we are being deceived about their numbers. The number of moose are declining rapidly and if you read between the lines of the MNDNR Moose study, wolves are taking large percentages of pregnant cows and moose calves. See my blog post about moose at: http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2010/02/moose-population-decline-continues-in.html. Don't take me wrong, wolves have their place in the world, but when you see more wolves than deer and moose, something is wrong. On recent hikes in 4 North Shore State Parks wolf tracks were the main tracks we found on the hiking trails and on the rivers.

Popular waterskipping area at the east end of Gunflint Lake where water runs into Gunflint Lake from Little Gunflint Lake.

As the sun dropped below the treeline our great weekend being outside icefishing and snowmobiling was quickly coming to an end. The sense of going back to the grind tomorrow made me envy the wolves and their freedom; lay on a lake in the sun at day and eat deer or moose at night. Nice!

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Interesting links about wolves;

A retired Fairbanks wolf biologist played a key role in confirming what has been declared North America's first documented fatal wolf attack on a human in the wild. http://www.wolfsongnews.org/news/Alaska_current_events_2448.html

Alaska teacher killed and eaten by wolves from Anchorage Daily News

http://www.adn.com/2010/03/17/1187285/state-ends-hunt-for-wolves-involved.html

The death of Kenton Carnegie by CBC News Online

http://www.cbc.ca/sask/features/wolves/2.html

Did a wolf attack a girl in Pincushion Recreation Area above Grand Marais, Minnesota?

Press Release from the Cook County Sheriff Office
http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/component/content/article/64-press-releases/1059-press-release-dog-attack

International Wolf Center - Ely, Minnesota

http://www.wolf.org/

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North Shore Snowmobile trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/ for lodging and trail info.

Snowmobile rentals on Gunflint Lake; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/snowmobilerental.htm

North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report Feb 20, 2010

2010-02-23T17:20:00.001-06:00

February 20th, 2010 Our group of 3 left Silver Bay and headed to Devil Track Lake for Lunch via the North Shore State Trail. The trail was freshly groomed and made for a quick ride. After a great lunch at the 'Landing' at Devil Track Resort we heading to Hungry Jack Lodge to see the new building. We took the Gunflint Trail up to Hungry Jack. The 'G' trail was not groomed and we wondered why we went that way. However we made it and the lodge is beautiful! We returned to Silver Bay via the North Shore State Trail late in the afternoon, the trail was still great! 230 miles for the day.

Report by Scott S., Hastings, Minnesota. See trailhead option H for planning this route.

Send your report to us!

North Shore Snowmobile Trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

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North Shore Weekend Snowmobile Events for February 27 and 28th, 2010

2010-02-23T14:57:00.001-06:00

Fishcakes @ Carbine's - Saturday, February 27 Fishcakes on McFarland Lake. Organized ride leaves Devil Track General Store at 9 a.m. See trailhead option C for location/directions/parking. This event takes place on McFarland Lake at the end of the Arrowhead Trail / Cook County Road 16.

>>Always have a trail map with you while you ride snowmobile trails.

Annual Trout Derby Picnic and fishing contest - Sunday Feb 28th. Anglers check-in by 9 a.m. Door prizes to be given away. Gunflint Lake boat access. Bring along your Vintage Snowmobile for display. See trailhead option G for location/directions/parking. This event takes place on Gunflint Lake surface infront of public landing and Gunflint Lodge. This event is 45 miles from downtown Grand Marais, Minnnesota up the Gunflint Trail / Cook County Road 12. Fish must be checked in by 1 p.m. Event lasts until about 3pm.

More events click here
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Arctic Cat Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Fire Hazard

2010-02-23T14:34:00.000-06:00

Washington, D.C.--(ENEWSPF)--February 23, 2010. The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units: About 1,300

Manufacturer: Arctic Cat Inc. of Thief River Falls, Minn.
Hazard: Fuel can leak from the fuel pump at the fuel tank mounting screws, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Arctic Cat has received two reports of fuel leakage at the fuel pump mounting screws. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves all Model Year 2010 Arctic Cat 500 Sno Pro models. The model name and number are displayed on the side of the seat and on the engine cowling.

Sold at: Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from October 2009 to February 2010 for between $7,800 and $8,200.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately and contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners have been directly notified about this recall by mail.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.arctic-cat.com/.

Source: cpsc.gov
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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report Feb 12, 2010

2010-02-12T15:44:00.000-06:00

On February 11th, 2010 - Headed from Lutsen down the North Shore State Trail to the start of the Pequaywan Hoyt Lakes Trail, about 100 miles, trail was freshly groomed. Headed north to Hoyt lakes with a gas stop at The Pequaywan Inn. The trail again was freshly groomed. From Hoyt Lakes we made our way to Babbitt via The Taconite Trail Spur which is a blast to ride. 30' wide and smooth as glass. Stopped in Babbitt for gas and took off down the Stoney Spur Trail which was in excellent condition. At the end of the Stoney Spur you catch the Tomahawk Trail which was really rough for about 8 miles, but we met the groomer heading towards Ely. After that it was good going.

Stopped at The Knotted Pine for gas and took the long way down the Yukon Trail which only had one track over it since the groomer. Caught the North Shore State Trail and headed up to Finland for gas, again, and headed home to Lutsen. All total, this is a 370 mile loop. We did it in one day, but would make for an excellent overnight trip. All the trails we rode were in EXCELLENT condition and those involved should be commended. Come on up to the Shore and experience THE BEST riding in the State. Oh, by the way, spent some $$$ with the local business people so that they will be around in the future. We need them. Happy Trails! Report by Mark B., Northfield, Minnesota. See trailhead options K or M for planning this route. Send your report to us!

North Shore Snowmobile Trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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Technology and fog end up bad mix for snowmobiler in Arctic Alaska

2010-02-12T15:35:00.000-06:00

The modern GPS tracking device can be accurate to within feet, but it isn't always so. This time, it was off by just enough to lead Hultman Kiokun and his son off a cliff above the Mekoryuk River. Read More at Alaska Dispatches - http://alaskadispatch.com/dispatches/rural-alaska/3954-dying-to-bathe
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North Shore Snowmobile Trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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Snowmobile Drag Races Feb 13th Gunflint Trail Grand Marais

2010-02-11T11:29:00.004-06:00

Snowmobile Drag Races - Saturday, February 13 @ Windigo Lodge on Poplar Lake - Gunflint Trail. Sign up at 11 a.m.

Racing starts at noon. Windigo Lodge is approx. 31 miles up the Gunflint Trail from downtown Grand Marais, in the Mid-Trail area, on the left side as you drive up. Large moose statue in front of lodge. In the 40 MPH zone. There are also many trailheads from which you can launch and ride to Poplar Lake. There is usually a plowed parking area on lake surface infront of lodge. See all trailheads http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#trailheads
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http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

HELP! Lost Quarter Horse. May be using snowmobile trails to get around.

2010-02-10T11:36:00.003-06:00

Published Feb 10th, 2010
Updated Feb 13th, 2010 09:20am

Help needed from area snowmobilers!
Lost Quarter Horse. May be using snowmobile trails to get around.

Description: 10 year old gelding, Brown with white mark on forehead - back two feet have whte socks. Wearing a halter. Named El Nino.

Horse left property northeast of Island Lake (22 miles north of Duluth) Sunday afternoon Feb. 7th. Tracked to last known location Alden Lake area, west side of Cloquet River. Headed in an easterly direction. Horse was born/raised in northwest Wisconsin - near Port Wing - likely wanting to return there.

Horse was tracked on the snowmobile trail off North Alden Lake Road heading east toward Alden Lake. He stuck to the trail until it turned north about 1/2 mile west of Alden Lake turned east by southeast.

Track is significanlty larger than deer track. Have not yet confirmed crossing the Cloquet River. No reported sightings. Officials in St. Louis Co, Lake Co and DNR have been notified.
Hoping Snowmobilers can network this info around as widely as possible.

If you sight El Nino Please call Scott immediately 218-393-2779 with any information.
Thanks!
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Updated Saturday 2-13.

We had a helicopter with a thermal image camera in the air last night. No CONFIRMED sightings yet but there were 2 hits. Most likely appeared south of Island Lake, just west of Cty Rd 273/Old Vermillion Trail, very close to the Island Lake Spur snowmobile trail. Likely heading south and looking for other horses and food.
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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 9th, 2010

2010-02-10T09:34:00.002-06:00

North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 9th, 2010 from http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

Tuesday Feb 9th... Rode from Lutsen to Silver Rapids Lodge in Ely. The North Shore State Trail hasn't been groomed since the fresh snow, but was a lot of fun to ride. The Tomahawk Trail was good to Isabella, but turned rough until we got to the Jay Matillia shelter. From there to Ely it was fair, with the corners getting rough. From Silver Rapids Lodge we rode the lake trail down to Babbit which was alot of fun, easy miles. The Stoney Spur Trail from Babbit back to the Tomahawk Trail and to the Knotted Pine for gas. Rode the Yukon Trail down to Two Harbors, and took the North Shore State Trail back to Lutsen for the day. This is a great loop to ride, @ 305 miles All in all, trails are in good shape, but after they get groomed, they well be EXCELLENT.

See trailhead option K or M for planning this route.

Send your North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report to us!
http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 8th, 2010

2010-02-10T09:24:00.004-06:00

North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 8th, 2010 from http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

Monday Feb 8th... Rode from Lutsen up to Rydens Border Store plowing through 6-12 " of fresh powder. The Grand Portage trails were a blast with some of the best views you can find in Minnesota. Stoped at Lakewind General Store at Devil Track Lake for maps and info, the people there are great. On the way back we rode up the Gunflint to Hungry Jack Lodge. New place is sweet, but the spur trail leaves a little bit to be desired. The off trail riding is as good as you can ask for. Report by Mark B., Northfield, Minnesota.
See trailhead option K or M for planning this route.

Send your North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report to us!
http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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Cook County Snowmobile Club 2010 Events Schedule

2010-02-09T12:05:00.000-06:00

Trail Center Ride - Sunday, January 3 Ride to Trail Center for lunch. Start from Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m.

Gunflint Lodge Bistro Ride - Saturday, January 9 leave Devil Track General Store at 9 a.m.

Afternoon ride to Hungry Jack Lodge - Saturday, January 16 Leave 'The Landing' @ Devil Track Resort at 3 p.m.

Ride to Cascade Lodge - Sunday, January 17 Leave Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m.

Fortune Bay Resort Vermillion - Thursday to Sunday January 21-24 Fortune Bay Resort in Vermillion, Minnesota. Standard room $67, Suite $93. Block of rooms are reserved under Cook County Ridge Riders. Make reservations by December 27th. 1-800-555-1714

Drag Race at Devil Track Lake - Saturday, January 30. Sign up at 11 a.m. Racing starts at noon. Antique Snowmobile Display – bring your Vintage Sled. Parking near Devil Track Resort and event on lake infront of Devil Track Resort.

Ride to Moguls in Lutsen for lunch - Sunday January 31. Leave Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m.

Fun Run Casino Night - Proceeds to the Club! Saturday, February 6 Poker Run. Start from Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m. for first card, then to Trail Center, Windigo, and Hungry Jack. Have lunch where you choose and get last card at The Landing by 5 p.m. with Casino night at The Landing with card games, food and drink specials, prizes and entertainment. Money raised goes to the Club! See trailhead option C for location/directions and parking.

Drag Races - Saturday, February 13 @ Windigo Lodge on Poplar Lake. Sign up at 11 a.m., racing starts at noon.Windigo Lodge is approx. 31 miles up the Gunflint Trail, in the Mid-Trail area, on the left side as you drive up. Large moose staue in front of lodge. In the 40 MPH zone. There are also many trailheads from which you can launch and ride to Poplar Lake.

Valentine's Day Ride - Sunday, February 14th. Riders will decide destination... Meet at Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m. See trailhead option C for location/directions.

Poker Run - Sunday, February 21 Start from Devil Track General Store at 10 a.m. for the first card, then to Trail Center, Windigo and Hungry Jack. Get last card by 2 p.m. Entry fee and prize for highest and lowest hand. See trailhead option C for location/directions/parking.

Fishcakes @ Carbine's - Saturday, February 27 Fishcakes on McFarland Lake. Organized ride leaves Devil Track General Store at 9 a.m. See trailhead option C for location/directions/parking.

Annual Trout Derby Picnic and fishing contest - Sunday Feb 28th. Door prizes to be given away. Gunflint Lake boat access. Bring along your Vintage Snowmobile for display. See trailhead option G for location/directions/parking.

Overnight ride to Grand Portage Lodge and Casino - March 6-7th Sat - Sunday. Organized ride leaves from Devil Track General Store at 9 a.m. See trailhead option C for location/directions/parking.

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Moose population decline continues in northeastern Minnesota - News release from MNDNR

2010-02-08T15:27:00.002-06:00

Two moose enjoy a warm spring day along the Gunflint Trail. Moose on right gave birth to calf moments later in water.

Moose population decline continues in northeastern Minnesota

(Released February 8, 2010)

According to results of an aerial survey released by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the moose population in northeastern Minnesota continues to decline.

Survey results revealed lower moose numbers and the proportion of cows accompanied by calves continued a 13-year decline and dropping to a record low of 28 calves per 100 cows.

“These indices along with results from research using radio-collared moose all indicate that the population has been declining in recent years,” said Dr. Mark Lenarz, DNR forest wildlife group leader.

Moose populations are estimated using an aerial survey of the northeast Minnesota moose range. Based on the survey, wildlife researchers estimate that there were 5,500 moose in northeastern Minnesota. The estimate, while not statistically different from last year’s 7,600, reinforces the inference that the moose population is declining. In addition to the decline in the calf to cow ratio, the bull to cow also continued to decline with an estimated 83 bulls per 100 cows. Aerial surveys have been conducted each year since 1960 in the northeast and are based on flying transects in 40 randomly selected plots spread across the Arrowhead.

A study of radio-collared moose in northeastern Minnesota between 2002 and 2008 determined that non-hunting mortality was substantially higher than in moose populations outside of Minnesota. Lenarz indicated that, “combined with the reduced number of calves, the high mortality results in a population with a downward trend.”

The causes of moose mortality are not well understood. Of 150 adult moose radio-collared since 2002 in Minnesota, 103 have subsequently died, most from unknown causes thought to be diseases or parasites. Nine moose died as a result of highway vehicle accidents. Two were killed by trains. Only six deaths were clearly the result of wolf predation.

Analyses by Lenarz and other scientists have indicated a significant relationship between warmer temperatures and non-hunting mortality. “Moose are superbly adapted to the cold but intolerant of heat,” said Lenarz, “and scientists believe that summer temperatures will likely determine the southern limit of this species.”

As recently as the 1980s as many as 4,000 moose inhabited northwestern Minnesota, an area of agricultural land interspersed with woodlots. The population declined dramatically during the 1990s and currently numbers fewer than 100 animals. In contrast, the northeastern population occurs in wetland-rich forested habitat which presumably provides thermal cover in a warming environment.

In August, a Moose Advisory Committee convened by the DNR released their findings which will be used in the development of a legislatively-mandated research and management plan. They indicated that while climate change is a long-term threat to the moose in Minnesota, moose will likely persist in the state for the foreseeable future. The plan should be ready later this spring and will be open to the public for comment.

The Fond du Lac band of Lake Superior Chippewa and 1854 Treaty Authority contributed funding and provided personnel for the annual survey.

A copy of the aerial survey report is available online at:
http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/outdoor_activities/hunting/moose/moose_survey_2010.pdf
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IQALUIT, Nunavut - Hunters on snowmobiles a way of life in G-7 venue

2010-02-05T16:54:00.001-06:00

from Business Week

And authorities are telling them not to worry much if, say, a gun-toting man goes by on a snowmobile. Government finance chiefs of the seven big industrial ...
read more at Business Week
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9DLKIK01.htm

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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 5th, 2010

2010-02-05T09:25:00.000-06:00

North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report February 5th, 2010 from http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

February 4th, 2010 We rode the north shore state trail on Wed Feb 4th from south of Two Harbors to Finland. Then rode to Isabella and then down to the Brimson trail and south back to our cabin. 190 miles and the trail were great!!! All of them were smooth and lots of snow. The DNR lists the trails as good but they are very good to excellent. Report by Jon W., Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. See trailhead option I for planning this route. Send your report to us!

North Shore Snowmobile Trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report January 27th, 2010

2010-01-27T16:05:00.000-06:00

After the storm summary for January 27th, 2010; This is our tenth season online! January thaw is over! Temps are back to normal. Wet snow and some rain fell during the weekend along Lake Superior. Though it seemed horrible; rain running down the streets in January, we got a good dumping of fresh snow. Areas between Lake Superior and the first height of land were warmer than inland areas and affected the most by rain. Use trailheads inland where storm totals have been 7-14".

The areas of higher terrain along Lake Superior where the North Shore State Trail runs received the most snow. We also received reports of over 10" of snow in the Mid-Gunflint Trail and well over a foot in the Mineral Center area. Duluth, Two Harbors, Finland, Devil Track Lake received 8-12" of wet snow. Image below from Jan 25th, 2010 on North Shore State Trail in Lutsen 11". Reports have been good... Check out our trailhead and lodging suggestions for the good trails to hit and where to stay!

Minnesota North Shore Snowmobile Trails http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

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North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report Jan 25th, 2010

2010-01-27T13:32:00.000-06:00

January 25th, 2010 Headed out @noon to verify snow depths up along Grade/Forest Road 153. Headed out on Tofte trail from home and found very little snow along lakeshore up to Carlton Peak. Snow accumulations were getting better, around 6-8" by the North Shore State Trail. Then headed north on Wringer Lake road and found only one track and great riding, once to the "Grade" there was about 11-13" of heavy wet snow and great riding. Over to Trestle Inn and snow was plentiful! Played around on various logging roads in area then back on State Trail which had more traffic and back up to Grade and broke trail down Wringer Lake road, which was a hard ride due to all the brush heavy with snow and ice in trail, after spending a lot of time clearing trail to pass through, made it back to State Trail and headed for home.

All in all a great day to be out in new snow and little traffic. Groomer will be out on Thursday if not earlier for trail packing for Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon which starts this Sunday, so keep your sled to the right and watch your speed if riding during the race!! Happy sleddin'. Report by Blake N., Tofte, Minnesota. See trailhead option O for planning this route. Send your report to us!

Minnesota North Shore Snowmobile Trails http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
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Annual Fish Cake Party - Snowmobiling Event by Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club

2010-01-05T11:33:00.001-06:00

Annual Fish Cake Party - Snowmobiling Event by Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club Feb 27th, 2010

>>>Fish Cakes @ Carbine's on McFarland Lake, meet @ Devil Track General Store @ 9am CST.

Devil Track General Store directions from downtown Grand Marais; go to http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optionc

On Sunday Feb 28th, 2010 is another great event put on the the Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club is the Annual Trout Derby and Icefishing Contest. See blog post; http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2009/02/annual-trout-derby-and-icefishing.html

- Snowmobiling Event from Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club;
www.snowmobiletrails.com/ridge_riders
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Annual Trout Derby and Icefishing Contest Gunflint Lake - Gunflint Trail Grand Marais, Minnesota

2010-01-05T11:27:00.001-06:00

Annual Trout Derby and Icefishing Contest Gunflint Lake - Gunflint Trail Grand Marais, Minnesota Feb 28th, 2010. 9AM CST.

Door prizes, fishing contest, food and fun. Anglers arrive and find a fishing spot by 9am.
Event is on Gunflint Lake infront of public access and Gunflint Lodge.

Event is 45 miles up the Gunflint Trail / County Road 12 by vehicle from downtown Grand Marais, Minnesota. Gunflint Trail / County Road 12 starts off of HWY 61 on the east end of downtown Grand Marais, Minnesota. Turn onto South Gunflint Lake Road / County Road 50 and go 1/2 mile to left turn into public access.

This is a full day outside bring warm clothes and boots.

Go to report of the 2009 Trout Derby published March 02, 2009; http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2009/03/weekend-report-drag-races-on-poplar.html

You could also snowmobile to Gunflint Lake from Downtown Grand Marais or Devil Track Lake area.
For directions from downtown Grand Marais see; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optionc
or from Devil Track Lake area see; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optionj

For complete 2010 events schedule go to; http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2010/01/cook-county-snowmobile-club-2010-events.html

- Snowmobiling Event from Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club; www.snowmobiletrails.com/ridge_riders
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Silver Bay, MN now holds the World's Record for the World's Longest ATV Parade!

2009-06-14T09:19:00.005-05:00

Silver Bay, MN now holds the World's Record for the World's Longest Parade!

The former record of 1, 138 held by the Harlan Kentucky Ridgeriders was SHATTERED!

On June 13th , 2009 1,632 ATVers rode in the World's Longest ATV Parade in Silver Bay, Minnesota.

See more details; http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2009/03/be-part-of-worlds-largest-atv-parade.html

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Cook County ATV Club Kick-Off Party and Trail Ride

2009-05-27T09:46:00.003-05:00

Cook County ATV Kick-Off Party Saturday, May 30 to celebrate!!!!!!

The Cook County ATV Club will celebrate the start of the riding season with a Membership Party at Grand Portage Trail Center on Mineral Center Road / County Road 17. Trail riding, treasure dig & Monster Truck piñata for kids, burgers & brats by Sons of American Legion, horse shoes & lots of fun door prizes! Take an ATV quiz & you could win a digital camera!

ATV/Poker Run over from South Brule River Trailhead parking lot 15 miles up the Gunflint Trail / County Road 12 from downtown Grand Marais (meet at 10:30 a.m.) or trailer to 1521 Mineral Center Road / County Road 17 to join the fun. Saturday, May 30 – 12:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

More directions to South Brule River Trailhead; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optiona

More directions to the Grand Portage Trail Center / Mineral Center; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optionad

Cook County ATV Club;http://atv.rideupnorth.com/news.php
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ATV users beware - New law makes reckless destruction of wetlands gross misdemeanor

2009-05-26T22:05:00.005-05:00

All-terrain-vehicle riders who destroy wetlands in Minnesota face tougher criminal penalties, a year-long ban on riding and, if caught a second time, seizure and forfeiture of their vehicles under a measure signed into law Friday by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.

Jim Konrad, the state Department of Natural Resources enforcement director, said conservation officers probably will seize only a few ATVs each year but hopes the enhanced penalties will deter the worst offenders.

The law, which takes effect Aug. 1, 2009 makes reckless destruction of wetlands a gross misdemeanor, which carries penalties of up to a year in jail and a maximum fine of $3,000. That offense now is a misdemeanor.

Anyone convicted of wetland violations or illegal riding in rivers, lakes, state parks or state natural areas will be barred from operating an ATV for a year under the new law.
Conservation officers who catch a reckless ATV rider in a wetland a second time will have authority to seize the vehicle immediately and begin forfeiture in court.

"A few hundred dollars out of your pocket isn't a big deal, but if you have got a $6,000 or $,7000 ATV, it is very much like a drunk driver losing their car," Konrad said. "And we know for sure they will be out of business at least until they get another ATV."

Last September, the Star Tribune reported in a three-part series, "Renegade Riders," that those caught trashing the environment usually face small fines, seldom pay restitution and never lose driving privileges.

Some riders interviewed for the series said they didn't think that riding in wetlands and rivers was wrong.

In the report, the newspaper found widespread ATV damage to public lands despite laws passed earlier in the decade to crack down on the problem. Though most riders who damage land get away, DNR enforcement records showed that each year 52 riders, on average, have been caught in waters or wetlands. When mapping trails in state forests, top DNR officials ignored agency experts who recommended closing trails that dead-end at wetlands.

The measure signed Friday had the backing of the All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Minnesota, which lobbies on behalf of riders, and environmental groups led by Audubon Minnesota.
The sponsor of the measure, Sen. Satveer Chaudhary, DFL-Fridley, chairman of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, said it was the first time in his memory that rider groups, environmentalists and the DNR supported the same proposal.

"It seemed to me we needed to start making the message loud and clear to the worst of the worst riders, particularly those who are giving the sport a bad name, that their behavior would not be tolerated," he said.

Chaudhary said the seizure law is meant for people like the two-time wetland offender in the newspaper series who insisted that destructive riding "isn't hurting anything."

The DNR has estimated that it will seize one to three ATVs a year. One reason for the small number is that conservation officers seldom catch wetland riders in the act. Usually, officers discover the muddy damage only after it has happened, and the offenders are long gone. Catching someone twice will be rare, Konrad said.

Even so, Chaudhary said, "it will take only a few for the word to get out real quick."
The ATV penalties are part of a larger bill (HF1237) dealing with matters related to the DNR, parks and other areas.
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Cook County Commissioners Pass ATV Ordinance - Finally!

2009-05-26T21:57:00.007-05:00

From the Cook County ATV Club May 26th, 2009

After listening to an overwhelming number of their constituents, the Cook County board of commissioners passed the ATV Road Ordinance, four to one, with only Commissioner Jim Johnson voting no.

The ordinance opens the shoulder & inner bank of all gravel county roads. Paved roads still allow riding in the ditch. There was a lot of discussion on riding on the county roads in the city (8th Ave, County Road 7, Wisconsin, Broadway, 5th Street and a few others) and the Sawbill Trail. Bruce Martinson fought hard to get the ordinance changed to allow riding on the shoulder of the Sawbill, as the Tofte township had requested. To do that would have required rewriting the ordinance, which would have meant ANOTHER public hearing, so Bruce agreed to pursue that in the future.

The commissioners did require that anyone riding on a county road has a left-hand rear view mirror. Get yours now - it's not only the new law, it's a good idea for safer riding. THANK YOU to everyone who showed up! THANK YOU to the folks that got up and talked - you all did an amazing job! If you see your commissioner, tell him or her THANKS! (Or in Jim Johnson's case, thanks for nothing!)

Bob Fenwick and Jan Hall especially spoke out strongly in favor of LOCAL RIGHTS, mentioning that this used to be a county that was friendly and welcoming to all. Bob reminded everyone that before the BWCAW we had access to all our forest lands. He said little by little the federal government is telling us where we can travel and how we can enjoy our forests. He supported the ordinance to draw a line, to stop that.

YEAH, COMMISSIONERS!!!!!

Now, come to the Cook County ATV Kick-Off Party Saturday, May 30 to celebrate!!!!!! Happy Trails!

The Cook County ATV Club will celebrate the start of the riding season with a Membership Party at Grand Portage Trail Center on Mineral Center Road / County Road 17. Trail riding, treasure dig & Monster Truck piñata for kids, burgers & brats by Sons of American Legion, horse shoes & lots of fun door prizes! Take an ATV quiz & you could win a digital camera!

ATV/Poker Run over from South Brule River Trailhead parking lot 15 miles up the Gunflint Trail / County Road 12 from downtown Grand Marais (meet at 10:30 a.m.) or trailer to 1521 Mineral Center Road / County Road 17 to join the fun. Saturday, May 30 – 12:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

More directions to South Brule River Trailhead; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optiona

More directions to the Grand Portage Trail Center / Mineral Center; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#optionad

Cook County ATV Club;
http://atv.rideupnorth.com/news.php
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