Minnesota Snowmobiling-February 2023

Minnesota Snowmobiling is the official publication of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association (MnUSA). The publication is a benefit of membership in MnUSA ($25 annual membership).

MnUSA Executive Board

President Scott Wakefield

Vice President Timothy Heinen

Secretary Janet Widness

Treasurer Gordon Heitke

Director at Large Greg Sorenson

Past Presidents

Greg Sorenson, Rod Seibel, Mark Kavanaugh, Gayle Quistgard, Mark Steinmueller, Keith Twombly, Terry Hutchinson, Curt Berg, Harold Brace, Bob Linn, Diane Wallenta, Jeff Mausolf, Bob King, Larry Shepherd, Bill Kullberg, LeRoy Strehlo, Tom Decker, Mary Violett, Allen Eglinton, Al Lalim, Harold Tomkins

Minnesota Snowmobiling (ISSN 1085-1054) is published seven times a year for $14 – September, October, November, December, January, February and March by MidWest Outdoors Limited, 111 Shore Drive, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. Periodicals postage paid through Brooklyn Park, MN, and additional entries.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, 7040 Lakeland Ave N., Suite 212, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

PUBLISHER Dan Ferris

ART DIRECTOR / COPY EDITOR Dena Gervasi

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Chuck Gekas

ADVERTISING SALES Jim Gekas, Mark Hunkeler, Larry Ladowski, Roger Cormier, Greg Jones

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Scott Wakefield, Tim Heinen, Emily Heinen, Christian Franzen, Kyle Roggenkamp, Todd Myers, Janet Widness, Steve Widness, Tom Jann, Faith Lange, Terry Hutchinson

CONTRIBUTIONS: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a SASE. Minnesota Snowmobiling is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part.

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Copyright © 2023 by Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.

UPCOMING EVENTS

From the MnUSA President

Aspire

Scott Wakefield

When I think of all the challenges we’ve had this year as snowmobilers and clubs, I think about how to aspire to improve on what we can do to make our sport better. Aspire: a verb, to have in mind as a purpose or a goal with the chance of doing good deeds. We sure can aspire to not have any snowmobile related fatalities or accidents in a bountiful snow year. We need to aspire to do that, because as you know, it is often not the case.

We can also aspire to have all our trails 100% ready for riders on December 1 every year and after the first adequate snowfall to ride and groom. We need to aspire to do that, as we know with the great storm of “mashed potatoes,“ as I like

to call it, that hit Minnesota had devastating effects on our club’s trails, finances and resolve. But we shall endure and survive and work through this. It’s what we do.

First off, our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones so early, way too early in life. We are a safety-minded organization and will continue to educate riders to obey speed limits, drive on groomed trails, refrain from any use of alcohol and drugs while driving and aspire to be a safe and responsible snowmobiler.

We need to thank the volunteer club members who worked tirelessly to get the trails open as best can be in some cases, and now have pretty much completed the task and are close to having 100% open trails. Mother Nature wasn’t any help, as the ground is not frozen in lots of places, including small creeks, steams, swamps and rivers. I can attest to that since I have buried my four-wheel-drive tractor twice—once in the feed lot and once in my front yard. I needed a tow from a tow truck at darn near midnight. Nobody was happy about that, including the tow truck operator, and he was getting paid.

We can aspire to have adequate snowfall throughout every corner of the state. From what I’ve heard and pictures I’ve received and seen, I think we can say we have that. So, positives are going on too.

We would love to have you participate in our State Snowmobile Convention called Rendezvous, the second weekend in February (see more information in this issue).

We are a snowmobiling organization, it’s time to ride! Do it safely, do it often and patronize those who support us. Educate those who need to be educated. Promote our sport as a safe and fun event—one the whole family can enjoy. We are in our element. Seize the moment to aspire!

INTERNATIONAL FALLS/RAINY LAKE

From the MnUSA Vice President

It’s February Already?

Tim Heinen

Christmas and New Year’s have come and gone. We are 2 ½ months into our riding season. The northern half of the state has seen much snow and are scrambling to get the trails ready. This season the southern part of our great state has seen sufficient snowfall and I am hearing great riding conditions for all. So maybe this season Michigan won’t see all our dollars spent there; hopefully the money stays here. Once again, storms across this great country of ours have made a mess everywhere. (I truly don’t feel that sorry for New Yorkers—we have it worse with the cold. They cry, “Woe always us. Look how bad we have it.”) Good thing we live in Minnesota, as snow usually doesn’t cause much damage if any.

News Story: There was a news story about a local snowmobile club in Buffalo, N.Y., that helped get hospital staff to work using their groomers. I know if the call came in, I wouldn’t hesitate to help. In fact, my club did get the call to help our local police officers. They responded to a call that a snowmobile was on fire about a mile off the road on our trail system. They thought that they could just take the groomed trail with the squad cars. One made it through but the other did not, and they both couldn’t make it out. Even a fire truck tried to drive off the road in the ditch to our trail, but they got stuck immediately. They did make it out of the ditch. Our club had to drag the squads back to the road. The sled ended up burning down to a molten mess. All that remained was the engine, part of cradle and control arms. Now, before you judge the brand of sled that you hear about in the recalls, it was hard to identify, but after scraping on the engine to identify it, it wasn’t the brand you would think. There are other brands that burn. End of story.

With the sufficient snow that we have had all over the state, hopefully you are able to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Clubs have been busy with trail maintenance and grooming. Around here I have been out and enjoying the conditions we have. I am also happy and amazed that people who are riding, pretty much stay on the trails. Thank you for doing that. There are still a few—mind you it is getting less—who still need some education about trail etiquette.

The Veteran’s Ride came and went. It was an awesome and very successful event. Over 150 vets and family members got a chance to snowmobile, thanks to the efforts of MnUSA and MSEAF. Shout out to all the manufacturers and individuals who helped in providing sleds, giving the vets a chance to experience the joys and pleasures that we enjoy. Thank you!

The Winter Rendezvous is this month and we always have a great turnout. It is one of the biggest events that MnUSA and the local regions host. At this event we invite members of our state senate and House. This is a chance to show them what snowmobiling is all about, and a time to ask for their support. We take them out on a trail ride to see the scenery that you don’t see from a car, have lunch on the trail and continue riding. The event also showcases the awards that your Awards Committee selected from your nominations for Snowmobile Family of the Year, Club of the Year, etc.

January and February are the two months when a lot of the local clubs have big events. I did ride my sled to some of these events and I have to say, what a nice turnout of families, friends, and variety of sleds. Great job to all who host these events. These events also help gain membership for clubs. Another way to bring in membership is with meet and greets. With a meet and greet, you can direct riders to free food. Who would pass that up? Then promote your club. We have had great success with that. To see what events are happening, they are listed on MnUSA website under events. If you want to list your event or meet and greet, you as a club must sign into your account page and list the event.

I am going to jump off the trail here and mention that despite all the maintenance, and how meticulous I am with my sleds, I still end up with small problems. While riding to one of the events that I visited, I noticed that my electronic speedometer would jump from 5 mph to 20 mph while I was stopped. So, with the sled running, I was racking up miles just sitting there. After some diagnostics, I determined that the speed sensor was defective. I called around for a replacement and found one at Cannon Power Sports. I drove down there and was surprised by the store. It is under new management and has completely changed how they do business. I was able to get my sled back up and out on the trails that same day. Thanks!

I am hoping to get to more meetings with different clubs as the season progresses to see what is happening in your neck of the woods. In the meantime, enjoy the ride, keep it safe, and follow the rules (Yes, there are rules), so you can ride tomorrow.

MnUSA Directors

Executive Board

President

Scott Wakefield -XM 12620 Co Rd 30 Waconia 55387 612-483-5638 oliver1650@icloud.com

Vice President

Timothy Heinen 20602 Keystone Ave Lakeville 55044 952-250-6642 timothy@heinenzoo.com

Secretary

Janet Widness - XM 43390 220th St Clitherall 56524 218-731-6126 jwstulk@prtel.com

Treasurer Gordon Heitke - XM 2270 300th Ave Mora 55051 763-234-6712 gheitke@gmail.com

Director-At-Large

Greg Sorenson 66033 Big Pine Rd Finlayson 55735 218-393-0413 minnsnoman@aol.com

Committee Chairs

Booth:

Dean Thompson · 763-441-8555

By-Laws: Rick Johnson-XM · 612-935-7249

Communications: Scott Wakefield-XM · 612-483-5638

Charity/Awards: Janet Widness-XM· 218-769-4243

Elections/Nominations: Greg Sorenson · 218-393-0413

Finance/Audit: Gordon Heitke-XM · 763-234-6712

Fund Raising: Mark Steinmueller-XM · 320-679-3653

Land Access: OPEN

Legislative/DNR/Trails: Terry Hutchinson-XM · 612-581-6627

Membership: Jerry Hanson-XM · 763-536-0472

Merchandise: Ted Breeggemann· 612-919-7811

Safety: OPEN

Site Selection: Mark LaBaw-XM· 952-221-2564

Website/Social Media: Mark Kavanaugh-XM· 218-330-7380

Directors

Region 1

Dale Dahlen, 2321 Pebble Beach Rd NW East Grand Forks, 56721, 218-791-6679 dodahlen@hotmail.com

Mike Boucher, 27528 230th St SW, Crookston 56716 218-280-3385 mjb86@yahoo.com

Gail Friborg, 37857 Fairground Rd Bagley, 56621, 218-694-2840 pfgf@gvtel.com

Jeff Lovold, 603 2nd Ave SE, Roseau 56751 218-280-1941

Aaron Swanson, 10218 Beverly Dr NW, Bemidji, 56601; 218-689-6686 aaronleeswanson@gmail.com

Region 2

Jack White, 11914 Main St, PO Box 514 Northome, 56661, 218-897-5764 jwhite@paulbunyan.net

Cindy Hansmann, 16871 Highway 2 Warba, 55793, 218-301-9496 cindy.hansmann@frontier.com

Troy Johnson, 5140 County Rd 4 Cromwell, 55726, 218-390-0046 tntjohnson547@hotmail.com

Jerry Kujala-XM, 4951 Spirit Lake Rd Mt. Iron, 55768, 218-735-8446 jdkujala@gmail.com

De Lyle Pankratz, 7756 Ely Lake Dr Eveleth, 55734, 218-744-1375 dwpankratz@yahoo.com

Steve Thomopolous, 3152 County Rd 2 S International Falls, 56649, 218-283-4025 greekman1122@yahoo.com

Randy Vannet, 28938 Arbo Rd Grand Rapids 55744, 218-244-6797 randy.vannet@gmail.com

Region 3

Tom Jann, 21668 Peterson Creek Dr Deerwood, 56444, 218-839-1230 lakejann@gmail.com

Allen Beumer, 10234 410th Ave Hillman, 56338, 320-355-2257 abeumer1845@gmail.com

Scott Haley, 14394 105th Ave Milaca, 56353, 612-670-6027 cody30@frontiernet.net

Jason Hendrickx-XM, 18539 93rd St SE Becker, 55308, 320-292-5926 jasonhendrickx@gmail.com

John Olmscheid, PO Box 160 Elrosa, 56325, 320-250-3271 johnolmscheid@frontier.com

Region 4

Sheri Gades-XM, 103 5th St N Danvers, 56231, 320-760-3526 gades@fedteldirect.net

Rodney Boesch, PO Box 337, Amboy 56010 507-340-2820 rod.boesch@boeschcrt.com

Jeff Kack-XM, PO Box 55 Appleton, 56208, 320-289-1069 jkack@mchsi.com

Dick Kuttner, 522 Shady Ridge Rd NW Hutchinson, 55350, 320-587-6536 richardk@hutchtel.net

Region 5

Mike Clevenger-XM, 7302 NW 97th Ave Morristown, 55052, 507-838-5713 cmclevenger3@gmail.com

Coy Borgstrom, 20 E Veterans Memorial Hwy, Kasson, 55944, 507-251-1199 coy3911@gmail.com

Bill Gehn, Red Wing, 651-388-7541 william_gehn@hotmail.com

Paul Maruska, 26276 Drexel Ave, New Prague, 56071, 952-212-2293 ptmaruska81@gmail.com

Region 6

Bill Prinsen, 5011 121 St N, White Bear Lake 55110, 651-260-8508 skidoo06-@hotmail.com

Jeremy Goebel 11210 7th St S, Cottage Grove 55016 651-308-0398 goebeljeremy1985@gmail.com

Ken Zak, 20629 Kenrick Ave, Lakeville, 55044, 952-469-2246 kjnbaa@frontier.net

Region 7

Randy Laberge-XM, 5424 Lax Lake Rd Silver Bay, 55614, 218-353-7697 dandrlaberge@hotmail.com

Ryan Boe, 5146 Jean Duluth Rd Duluth 55803, 218-349-5578 ryanboe@hotmail.com

Dan Hamilton, Duluth, 651-398-2461 danielhamilton@aol.com

Rick Johnson-XM, 4353 Briarwood Ln, Hopkins, 55343, 952-935-7249 rick@teampro.net

Phillip Lockett, 218-348-9161 lockettphillip@yahoo.com

Scott Seely, Two Harbors 218-830-1028, srseely@gmail.com

Gary Vezina, Duluth 218-722-2852

Bill Ylatupa-XM, 43 Garden Dr Silver Bay, 55614, 218-220-8189 ylatupa2@gmail.com

Region 8

Ted Breeggemann, 6201 250th St W Belle Plaine, 56011, 612-919-7811 breeggemann79@gmail.com

Randy Baudler, 9259 FoxlineDr N Corcoran, 55340, 763-420-5526 rbslawn@gmail.com

Mark LaBaw-XM, 1471 Independence Ave Chaska, 55318, 952-221-2564 mlabawstillafishn@yahoo.com

Dick Theis, 20575 Co Rd 10 Hamel, 55340, 763-494-3838 dickt.barbc@gmail.com

Region 9

Charles Chadbourne, 30974 170th St Detroit Lakes, 56501, 218-847-6517 peewee@arvig.net

Donald Hansen, PO Box 94 Cyrus, 56323, 320-795-2741

Steve “Woody”Widness-XM, 43390 220th St Clitherall, 56524, 218-769-4243 jwstulk@prtel.com

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MnUSA Office: 7040 Lakeland Ave N, Ste 212, Brooklyn Park 55428 ph.763-577-0185 fax 763-577-0186

What’s New for 2023?

Christian Franzen

Happy New Year! Like the New Year the New Legislative Biennium brings with it excitement, promise and sometimes a twinge of dread. As the House and Senate begin the process of moving legislation, there are always some indicators of what is to come. A good example of this is the first bills introduced or committee and leadership appointments. These first few signs show what legislators hope to accomplish this biennium. The new DFL majority has introduced bills addressing the legalization of recreational use of marijuana, protecting abortion rights, childcare funding and federal tax conformity. Significant, Minnesota currently enjoys a 17.6 billion dollar budget surplus and the appetite for spending is evident in both political parties. As you know, the DFL now controls both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Almost a third of legislators are new and the freshmen are already flexing their muscle. I was recently told the between retirements and electoral defeat, about 600 years of experience has left the legislature in the past few months.

If all that information or change feels overwhelming, please let me know that I am not the only one. But like most changes time heals and the picture becomes clearer. The more information the legislature gives us the more we can grasp how to make the “our bills” law. Even opposition can tell us a story about how we achieve success. With that said here is the overview of our main priorities this coming 2023 session:

SF 33 (Jasinski) — This includes language which was in last year’s omnibus bills regarding sled transfer of ownership, registration decals and road crossings. This is seen as a technical because language was heard and included but did not cross the finish line due to larger issues which plagued 2021.

Trespass bill (Part 2) — This bill will act as the sibling to the civil trespass bill (HF2819/SF3063) which was one of the few bills passed last year and took effect this past August. This year’s trespass bill will essentially do the same only applied to the criminal offense. The passage of this legislation will create consistency in the trespassing penalties: From the current $100 to $250 for the first offense, from $200 to $500 for the second, and from $500 to $1,000 for the third offense.

Sales tax exemption — Trail development and maintenance tax exemption is another session priority. As in the past this bill, with a small fiscal note, will be moved in both bodies.

Like every session, the support, opposition, language, or path to passage can change drastically. And as the session begins, I would catch an earful from Doug if I didn’t remind everyone that most of the jargon above is really “insider baseball” that does not compare to the power of individual snowmobilers and clubs from across the state communicating with their legislators. So let’s take a deep breath and get to work. Take a breath, look outside, and smile about what kind of snowmobiling is in store this season and get ready for a wild political ride!

Where Would You Rather be in 2023, than RENDEZVOUS!

by Scott Wakefield

With an abundance of snow, and a well-established trail system, great parks and abundant trail stops, Hinckley, Minnesota is about halfway between Duluth and the Twin Cities, making it an excellent destination for a snowmobile day trip or for a weekend.

And what a weekend we have planned for you! Our destination for the weekend is Grand Casino Hinckley. If you have never been to Grand Casino, you’re in for a treat with the amenities they offer. At Grand Harmony Spa, just steps from the front desk, you can warm up those snowmobile riding muscles, or work them up in the fitness center, or jump into the indoor swimming pool with raised whirlpool area. They also offer complimentary high-speed wireless internet so you can keep up with the latest during your stay, five delicious restaurants within the casino, and shopping at Grand Gifts. There’s 24-hour security with K-9 “Jet” patrolling the property, and a secure snowmobile parking corral, so you can sleep with complete confidence that someone is watching your sled. And of course, if you so desire, a chance with lady luck—with a 300-seat bingo hall, 2,400 slots, and a large pull-tab booth area with games from 50 cents to $5.

Hotel check-in begins at 4pm and check-out is 11am. A fee is charged if you depart later than 11am.

Riding opportunities abound! With close proximity to the St. Croix and Banning state parks and Willard Munger State Trail, you will have endless options and directions to go from our home base of Grand Casino. Thursday night will start off with a reception with a cash bar, and time to get settled in

and acclimated to your surroundings. Friday begins with the VIP ride (separate fee) with an opportunity to ride with your local elected officials, other elected officials, DNR staff, and other guests. We will congregate at a designated location in the park for lunch. You can decide if you want to head back to the casino or continue to ride that afternoon. Friday evening enjoy a reception and dinner, and I’m sure there will be some activities planned within the group; stay tuned for details.

On Saturday, we will start with a welcome meeting and discussion regarding the planned guided trail rides for the day. There will be a variety of trail rides available depending on experience level—those who want to go 25 miles and those who want to go 125 miles, and so on. We look forward to full day of riding; hopefully we will get back in time for a social hour, followed by the banquet on Saturday night. A delicious meal will be prepared by Grand Casino. The evening also includes program and awards, and will finish with a “live” auction, which should be a fun time. Rumor has it, a few prized MnUSA cookbooks, once extinct, have now been found!

Sunday we will awaken to a new day and our schedule we will have a General Membership meeting take a break and finish our exciting weekend with the Board of Directors meeting. And then unfortunately we will have to load up and head home, but one can always recall the great memories, we all had by letting, “our story begin at Grand Casino Hinckley.”

Front-end Bite—it’s about...

BALANCE!

by Kyle Roggenkamp

Wheelies are fun – really fun. But as a rule, if a sled is too good at doing wheelies, that’s a strong indicator that the sled is capable of much better trail performance with the right setup. When a sled has too little ski pressure and too much transfer under acceleration, the sled wheelies well, but lacks the necessary front-end bite for carving tight corners. Achieving great bite isn’t about bolting on the longest carbide possible. It’s about balancing front and rear traction, setting ski pressure, and dialing in ski toe-out. So set aside an evening in the garage and take three simple steps to ensure your sled offers you the best front-end bite it’s capable of all season long.

Maintenance: the Prerequisite

It is amazing what a few thousand miles of rough trail riding can do to the front end of a sled. Before adjusting anything on the sled, inspect the front end. Fine-tuning a clapped-out suspension is a waste of time, so be sure to lift the front end off the ground and rock the front spindle fore and aft, and side to side to identify and replace any worn parts.

Toe-Out Adjustment

Setting proper ski toe-out is the best way to eliminate the most annoying snowmobile handling characteristic—darting! Without enough toe-out, skis will chase every track on the trail. I prefer to set my sleds at an 1/8” of toe out per ski, but each manufacture provides a recommendation, so be sure to look to that recommendation for your machine.

Massive wheelies, as fun as they are, serve as a good indicator of a bad trail sled setup.

Replacing worn front-end bushings like these is necessary before spending any time making adjustments.

Using any straight edge placed against your track, use a tape measure to set the toe-out of your skis.

Ski Pressure

Ski pressure is critical to getting a sled to bite in a corner. Too little and the sled will push through the corner. Too much and the rider will be exhausted before the ride is over. Dialing in ski pressure can be achieved several different ways, but it all starts with the front track shock. Think of the front of the skid as a fulcrum that the snowmobile balances upon. Increasing the spring preload of the front shock will reduce the overall ski pressure, and vice versa. Front limiter straps should also be adjusted at the same time. These straps control weight transfer: under acceleration, the limiters control how much weight is removed from the skis. Experiment with these two variables—they will help dial in the amount of ski pressure a snowmobile has in steady state conditions as well as under acceleration.

So, while wheelies are fun, I’d argue that carving corners on trails is even more fun. Especially with a sled that bites hard in corners, is balanced, and gives you the confidence to ride all day long without fatigue. By spending some time tuning these simple items on your snowmobile, you can bring your trail riding to another level this season!

Adjusting the front limiter strap and the spring preload on the front track shock will affect ski pressure. The front limiter strap also controls how much weight is transferred under acceleration.

Collecting Pop Tabs for a Great Cause

Since 2020, the River Valley Trailblazers club has challenged all MnUSA snowmobile clubs to participate in the “Great Tab Off”—collecting tabs to give to the Ronald McDonald House Charity. Saving your tabs helps to support families with a medical crisis staying at the Ronald McDonald Houses in the Upper Midwest.

You can drop tabs off at the MnUSA Rendezvous or mail/drop them off at: 1053 Dakota St. S., Shakopee, or email Sandy for a possible pickup.

So far, 300-plus pounds of tabs have been collected. Keep saving them!

For more info on how to join the cause, contact RVTB Club: Sandy Doherty at 952-445-9130, threegamesandy@aol.com, or Steve Blake at 952-594-1848, sblake905@hotmail.com.

Hank Lindsey Memorial $500 Scholarship

The Hank Lindsey Memorial scholarship is available for students who are enrolled (or who are enrolling for the first time) in a course of small engine repairs, DNR, or GPS at a vocational school.

The family must live in Region One. The deadline to apply is April 1. The student must submit an informal letter of application to: Dale Dahlen, 2321 Pebble Beach Rd. NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721.

Each application is evaluated as it is received. Several students can receive funds, provided they qualify. Funds have been donated by individuals and by snowmobile clubs.

Several schools offer this instruction: Northwest Technical Collage at Detroit Lakes, Central Lakes College at Brainerd, Hennepin Technical College at Eden Prairie, and South Central Technical College at Faribault. Private vocational schools are okay, if licensed by the state.

Federal Recreational Trail Program Grant Application Deadline February 24

FRTP grants are available for motorized and non-motorized trail projects; maintenance/restoration of existing recreational trails; development/ rehabilitation of recreational trail linkages, including trail side and trail head facilities; environmental awareness and safety education programs relating to the use of recreational trails; and redesign/ relocation of trails to benefit/minimize the impact to the natural environment.

A 25% cash or in-kind match for eligible elements of the project proposal is required. Costs must be incurred and paid for before reimbursement. The minimum grant request is $2,500, and the maximum trail grant award is $200,000. Maximum request per equipment grant is $75,000. Equipment grant requests also require a 25% secured match. Trail Improvement Grants can be used as a match for RTP grants. https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/recreation/trails_federal. html Questions contact Dan Golner, Grants Specialist Coordinator, 651-259-5599 Daniel.Golner@state.mn.us

LET’S RIDE IN MNUSA Region 9

and if you want to say, “I rode to the North Dakota border,” keep heading west. It’s a chance to try your sled legs…it’s like the Indy 500 of trails! Take a picture!

Also at Melby you can head north on the Douglas Area Trail Association’s 368 miles of freshly groomed trails. Trail Coordinator Jeff Linn says that riding through the heavily wooded area at Lake Carlos State Park is extra special and one you don’t want to miss. Bare Knob and Spruce Hill trail loops are some of the best scenic rides in the area.

Heading north on Bare Knob trail you can connect to the Prairie Sno Drifters who groom about 34 miles. A variety of wildlife can be seen on the trail…be prepared to stop!

by MnUSA Region Director Steve “Woody” Widness

Did you know that MnUSA Region 9 is larger than the combined states of Connecticut and Delaware, plus Washington, D.C.? Yes, it is! And there are over 1,950 miles of groomed trails that include two state parks and the Central Lakes Trail for all ages to enjoy a memorable ride.

Central Lakes Trail is 55 miles that includes three counties plus 10 communities. Grooming the Fergus Falls to Osakis trail are OCTA and DATA. There are no stud restrictions on this portion of trail system until it meets the Lake Wobegon in Osakis.

Region 9 is proud to say there are friendly dining establishments, fuel stops, lodging accommodations, and dealers/repair shops along the trail. The trails vary from agriculture fields, majestic woods, pine trees, swamps and lakes. Maintaining these trails are volunteers and 13 clubs who work hard to give you a safer ride and groomed trail.

West Central Trail Blazers’ wide open 251 miles of prairie trails are flat out fun to ride! Region Director Don Hanson recommends to start your ride at Cyrus, head east to Starbuck, then north to Kensington,with a historical stop at the famous Kensington Runestone (Scandinavian runic artifact stone writing, dated 1362). Guess who was here before Columbus? The Vikings! Get on your sled and ride back to Cyrus for about a 70-mile loop.

Let’s head north to Low Plains Drifters’ trail system of 159 miles where the terrain varies. President Erv Sax suggests starting at Melby, taking the Corridor Trail #36 to Elbow Lake,

Henning SnoCruisers’ 68 miles of trails cover areas south, north and east of Henning with connection to other clubs. Jim Haber notes the Henning to Bertha trail is one of the most scenic. The trail through Inman State WMA only allows snowmobiles (no other motorized vehicles). What a ride with wildlife and swamps on both sides.

Otter Country Trail Association (OCTA) trail system runs from Vining to Foxhome, Ashby to Cormorant. Besides volunteers, Dalton Snow Thrashers and Lake Runners Trail Association members help maintain the 361-mile trail. Two must-see places to ride to are Inspiration Peak (the second highest point in the state at 1,727 feet above sea level and 466 feet above the surrounding area) which is right on the trail. Make sure to ride to the top, take a photo and see the 360-degree view. The second is 17.9 miles of trails through Maplewood State Park that has woods, hills and wildlife, making for a fun ride. OCTA has many smaller loops for families to enjoy a one-day ride with food and drink stops.

Venture north on Henning Sno Cruisers’ trail to connect with the Otter Trail Riders’ (OTR) 151-mile trail system. One of Janet’s and my favorites is the Ottertail to New York Mills (home of Lund Boats) trail that takes you through a gravel pit where you might think you are on a rugged scenic North Shore trail. Make a stop at the warming shed to warm up by the bonfire. Continue the ride to Perham then Dent to Richville, and back to Ottertail to have an awesome 84-mile trip.

Southwest of ULTRA is the Midnite Riders’ 97-mile trail system. Grooming their trails is fun with winding around 12 different lakes with lots of places for riders to stop. It’s great for families to enjoy a ride with several smaller loops.

Clay County Trailblazers connects to ULTRA and Midnite Riders trails. Greg Strommen suggests for a great ride start at Hawley then east to Corridor #68, north to Hitterdal and Ulen, west to Felton, south to Glyndon and leave #68 on the trail back to Hawley—a 75-mile trip.

Want to try an overnight backpack ride? Stay at one of Grand Stay Hotel & Suites in Perham or Parkers Prairie that are right on the trail and great places to relax. Also, another stay on the trail is at the Lakes Inn at Dunville. For more details check out their websites.

Remember to keep a close eye out for little surprises along the trail—a decorated pine tree, snowman, specialty signs, old vintage church,

ULTRA (United Lakes & Trail Riders Association) maintains 166 miles that meet up with OTR and OCTA plus Midnite Riders. ULTRA boasts that this trail is the most traveled and scen ic. In Detroit Lakes take #300 trail to Little Bemidji, cut over to #400 trail and go south to Height of Land Lake to connect back to #300 for your return ride to Detroit Lakes. For lodging and dining options, Detroit Lakes accommodates something for everyone. Check out the Detroit Lakes Tourism Bureau website for more information.

abandoned farmhouses, plus other little gems. Make sure to take photos and post them on our Facebook page.

Any of the Region 9 clubs will be happy to help with your next snowmobile destination ride. Remember to pick up snowmobile maps for all the trails, and please support the advertisers and sponsors. Majority of the trails are on private lands, so we ask that you stay on the trail and respect the land, so we don’t lose them.

“Everything is Fine in Region 9!” See you on the trails!

REFINED & PRIMED. LET’S RIDE.

2023 RENEGADE ® X-RS ®

The new 2023 Renegade X-RS is ready to ride whenever you want. With the all-new REV® Gen5 platform and features like unmatched LED lighting and a 10.25" touchscreen that brings enhanced connectivity, prepare for trips you’ll never want to end. Lucky for you, they don’t have to.

AIRTEC SPORTS RICE LAKE 203 MAIN ST., RICE LAKE, WI airtecsportsricelake.com

AIRTEC SPORTS ROBERTS 801 WAGNER DR., ROBERTS, WI airtecsportsroberts.com

BEMIDJI SPORTS CENTRE

1826 ANNE ST. NW, BEMIDJI, MN bemidjisportscenter.com

BROTHERS MOTORSPORTS

7915 HWY 210, BAXTER, MN brothermotorsports.com

CENTRE POWERSPORTS & MARINE 43164 COUNTY RD. 112, SAUK CENTRE, MN centersports.com

DULUTH LAWN & SPORT 4715, GRAND AVE., DULUTH, MN duluthlawnandsports.com

HILMERSON SPORTS CENTER 14731 IRIS RD., LITTLE FALLS, MN hilmersonsportscenter.com

JAYCOX POWERSPORTS

1861 OXFORD ST., WORTHINGTON, MN jaycoxpowersports.com

LOSSING’S POWER SPORTS 30 NORTH DR., BABBITT, MN lossings.com

MIES OUTLAND 720 HWY 55, WATKINS, MN miesoutlandwatkins.com

MIES OUTLAND OF ST. CLOUD 3653 32ND ST. SE, ST. CLOUD, MN miesoutlandcloud.com

MILLER SELLNER POWERSPORTS 22024 STATE HWY 4 S., SLEEPY EYE, MN millersellnerpowersports.com

MINNEAPOLIS MOTOR SPORTS 801 LOUISIANA AVE. S., MINNEAPOLIS, MN motorsportsmn.com

MOON MOTORSPORTS 3613 CHELSEA RD. W, MONTICELLO, MN moonmotorsports.com

MOTORSPORTS OF WILLMAR 4970 HWY 71 NE, WILLMAR, MN motorsportsofwilmar.com

NEXTGEN POWERSPORTS CLEAR LAKE 235 US HWY 63, CLEAR LAKE, WI nextgen-powersportscl.com

NEXTGEN POWERSPORTS WEBB LAKE 30336 COUNTRY RD. H, WEBB LAKE, WI nextgen-powersportswl.com

NEXTGEN POWERTSPORTS CHIPPEWA FALLS 9443 HWY 124, CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI nextgen-powersportscf.com

OLLIE’S SERVICE 111 DONNA AVE., ALEXANDRIA, MN olliesservice.com

OLSON POWER AND EQUIPMENT 38560 14TH AVE., NORTH BRANCH, MN olsonpower.com

POWER LODGE ONAMIA 33972 US HWY 169, ONAMIA, MN powerlodgeonamia.com

POWER LODGE RAMSEY 6781 HWY 10 NW, RAMSEY, MN powerlodgeramsey.com

RAY’S SPORT & CYCLE 20890 US HWY 169, GRAND RAPIDS, MN rayssportsandcycle.com

ST. BONI MOTORSPORTS 4120 STEINER ST., ST. BONIFACIUS, MN motorsportsmn.com

TOUSLEY MOTORSPORTS 1400 EAST COUNTY RD. E, WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN tousleymotorsports.com

TRUEMAN WELTERS 1600 HWY 55 E, BUFFALO, MN trueman-welterstractor.com

Snowmobiling Memories Part 3 of a three-part series

by Emily Heinen

The snowmobile community continued to be a part of my life as I got older. Snowmobiling is a winter activity, but the club worked year-round. Every July our city hosted their annual summer festival, and our snowmobile club would gather to have a potluck and watch the vintage car show creep by. Some of the guys would spend a week working to decorate the trail groomer for the parade, and my family would join the club in marching alongside the groomer down main street, watching the kids point and smile as we waded through the hot summer sun.

As someone who grew up riding all winter long, I knew how vital the club was to keep the trails safe and open. Without the cooperation of the club, the landowners, and the city, there would be none of the snowmobiling that had brought

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me so many wonderful memories and experiences. So even as I entered high school and got busier with school and other activities, I still participated in the club events that my parents went to. Landowner celebrations, club dinners and bowling— the community was always welcoming, always greeting new members with open arms.

After I went off to college five years ago, I stayed updated on club activities by my parents. Even though I didn’t snowmobile anymore, it still meant a lot to watch my family continue the tradition. My dad and brother still go up north once or twice every winter with other guys from the snowmobile club. My cousin sends us photos of his kids learning to ride for the first time. Kids I babysat ten years ago are now old enough to drive their own sleds. My brother took his fiancé up to Michigan, staying in the same cabins we used to, starting his own family traditions.

Now I’m in graduate school, and even though my life has taken a pause from snowmobiling, I’m thankful for all the people and places it has brought me—and I look forward to the day I can take my own kids out to enjoy the trails.

Calendar of Events LAKE VERMILION

Feb. 4 – River Valley Dutchmen Snowmobile Hill Climb, Golden Gate Campground, Sleepy Eye, MN, www.facebook.com/RVDSC or www.rvdsc.org

Feb. 4 – St. Stephen River Runners 5th Annual Vintage Show, Ride & Raffle, St. Stephen, www.facebook.com/StStephenRiverRunners

Feb. 4 – Merrifield Marathons Open House, Paul Bunyan Trail, Merrifield, MN

Feb. 8-11 – Blackwoods Blizzard Tour for ALS, www.neversurrenderinc.org

Feb. 9-12 – MnUSA Winter Rendezvous, Grand Casino Hinckley www.mnsnowmobiler.org

Feb. 11-12 – Cor PowerSports XC Pro National Series

Goodridge/Grygla 500, Goodridge, MN, www.corpowersports.com

Feb. 18 – New Prague Snowdrifters Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride, St. Patrick’s Tavern, New Prague, MN, www.facebook.com/npsnowdrifters

Feb. 18 – Hastings Snomos Vintage and Antique Snowmobile Show & Ride, Frandrup Farm, Hastings, MN Jay 612-590-9738 / Mark 651-437-5712 / Mike 651-605-5683 / Randy 651-437-7233

Feb. 18 – Finland Snowmobile & ATV Club Vintage Snowmobile Ride Clair Nelson Center, Finland, MN, www.finlandsnowmobileandatvclub.com, email finlandsnowmobileandatvclub@gmail.com.

Mar. 4-5– Cor PowerSports XC Pro National Series Snodeo 100, Naytahwaush, MN, www.corpowersports.com

Mar. 18-19 – Cor PowerSports XC Pro National Series Battle at Whitecap Mtn, Upson, WI, corpowersports.com

Great Trails. Perfect

Race Series

spotters, parking staff, and ticket gate. The gate was then split between the local organization and the snowmobile club as a fundraiser to help with their efforts for the snowmobile trail needs in the Otter Tail area.

The racing was phenomenal all weekend and our pro riders put on a great show to end the weekend in our Pro Factory race. Over the 100-mile race there were multiple lead changes, and at the checkered flag there was less than 5 seconds separating the top 3.

Yes, the pros put on a great show, but the heart of our race series is families. We have many racers who have multiple family members that race, parents spinning wrenches for their kids, or family members there supporting their loved ones. Our foundation since the first day we rebranded our personal racing to be called Cor PowerSports in 2010 has been “Faith, Family, Fun.” Fast forwarded to today and we have come from a family race team to a family run race series. This is our third season operating as the pro national cross country snowmobile race series.

by Todd Myers

As we enter our twelfth season of Cor PowerSports Race Series, there are a lot of things to be excited about—new venues, new sponsors, new racers, and a new command center trailer.

Over the past year we have been working on putting together the equipment and personnel to help improve the show at our events, provide more live media content from our events for the fans, and bring more exposure for our series sponsors.

It is currently Monday after our season opener in Ottertail, MN which is a new venue for the series, and with the recent snowfall, the community rallied volunteers to come out and plow pit parking and the 9.9-mile course. We had numerous business owners stop and ask if we need anything and that if anything came up to call and they would open their store if it was needed.

The Ottertail Tourism and Events center group were the organization that brought in the series, but the Otter Trail Riders snowmobile volunteered to work the event as course

Photo: Otter Tail Lakes Country

Photos: Emily Pearl Photography

Reflecting back on this past weekend, the show was probably one of the best we have done. Social media posts and videos reached over 82,000 people and post engagements with over 31,000 people. On the track we had record numbers in some classes. For example, our Pro Women’s class had 7 ladies tearing up the course, and that was the largest turnout in almost two decades for cross country racing.

Off the track many of our racers are club members, and without club members none of us would have trails to go out and ride.

Cor PowerSports is extremely happy to partner with MnUSA to bring more exposure for the snowmobile clubs. Many of these clubs, like the Otter Trail Riders, are involved with helping at our events.

This season’s schedule includes: the Nisswa 100 (Jan 14/15) which the Gull Lake Drifters help out; Heartland 200 (Jan 28/29) which Forest Riders & Nevis Trailblazers assist; Goodridge / Grygla I500 (Feb 11/12) which the Goodridge Trailblazers & Fourtown-Grygla clubs do a ton of work for; and Snodeo 200 (Mar 4/5) with the Naytahwaush Nightriders. We close out our race season with a ski hill late March.

January MnUSA Raffle Calendar Winners

$2500

$25

Photo: Otter Tail Lakes Country

Collecting 1980s Classic Class

by Scott Wakefield

Isn’t it surprising how robust the old snowmobile hobby has become in Minnesota? Many of us grew up either riding or wishing for a snowmobile. Those memories are seared into our cortex and translate into a continued interest in finding, fixing, riding and displaying this old iron.

Thankfully, there are plenty of examples out there. We’ve all heard the stories of “barn finds.” Pretty addictive stuff—and the end result is that you can attend a show or ride with pride. Better yet, involve the kids or grandkids and get them away from their small screens and out into Minnesota’s cold, crisp winter environment.

In truth, this hobby is evolving. At shows you find divisions into Antique, Vintage and Classic age classes. The Classic class runs from model year 1986 through year 2000. This is where the growth spurt is now happening.

New hobbyists are in their forties, and they are focusing on the 1980s and 1990s machines. Think Arctic Cat Jag or El Tigre. Think Polaris Centurion and Indy. What about Ski-doo Formula or Citation? Or Yamaha Phazer, SRV or Exciter?

The hobby is experiencing a time progression into newer collectibles. To embrace and welcome this new audience, next January’s Midwest Ride-In show in Elk River will feature “Back to the ‘80s” snowmobiles. So, why not join in the fun? See you there!

Kenyon Snowdrifters

With adequate snow blanketing the entire state of Minnesota, Victor Wolf, President of the Kenyon Snowdrifters snowmobile club in Goodhue County, sent a photo of the snow conditions in his area.

The Kenyon Snowdrifters snowmobile club started in 1971 with 20 to 25 local snowmobile enthusiasts, and incorporated in 1986, after creating a trail system in the mid-‘80s. Membership comes from Kenyon and Wanamingo and the surrounding areas. The club maintains close to 60 miles of trails from Kenyon, to Wanamingo, to Dennison and back to Kenyon. Additional trails head towards West Concord and connect with the Dodge Center, Zumbrota, and Cannon Falls snowmobile clubs.

The Kenyon Snowdrifters meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm at the Kenyon VFW on Main Street in Kenyon. Its members are proud of the trails they maintain, and want to let you know, it’s “snowmobiling at its best.”

SW Ridgerunners

SW Ridgerunners Snowmobile Club needed a better way to groom and pack the trail base on their 168 miles of trails in Lyon County. Groomer operators tried grooming with just a roller, but noticed it was not laying down a good trail, as it was leaving groomer tracks exposed in the snow. In addition, during the beginning of the snowmobile season, along with heavy snows, the groomer drags were difficult to use.

Built out of necessity, Doug Anderson, the Trail Coordinator for SW Ridgerunners, came up with the idea of a box blade and roller combination with transport wheels. The 8-footwide Marshall Rollr Blade is manufactured at Marshall Machine Shop, Inc., in Marshall, MN and is for sale, according to Doug, owner of Marshall Machine Shop, Inc.

These units are built heavy, to pack the snow base and roll through deep snow. The front box blade can carry snow along to fill in spots and hydraulically lifts to dump the snow, when needed. The large 36” diameter roller lays the trail down and makes the unit pull easier, and the six “pizza cutters” on the drum prevent sliding on side hills. The transport wheels are only used when not on the trail.

The Ridgerunners are grooming with two Tucker Snow Cats, two Marshall Rollr Blades, and two drags. Doug says, “With the Marshall Rollr Blade, we are able to start grooming with less snow and use less fuel while running faster ground speeds.”

The Marshall Rollr Blade is a new design to aid in the snowmobile trail grooming industry. For more information call 507-532-3613. To see the Marshall Rollr Blade in action: https://youtu.be/ hSK5ezssPeY

The trails are great in the Faribault area.

Sno-Serpents by Tom

Jann

The Sno-Serpents Snowmobile Club hosted a Snowmobile Safety Hands-On Training Class December 10 in Deerwood, MN.

There were 39 students in attendance ages 11-15. To participate, students obtain and study the safety information on the interactive online course at their own pace in the comfort of their own home under the guidance of a parent or guardian. Once they complete the online course, they register for the Snowmobile Safety Class. The one-day class includes classroom review of priority safety information and a performance driving course.

The class was led by approximately seven trained volunteer instructors and club members, and a local conservation officer from the MNDNR. Once the students successfully completed the class and reach age 12, they obtain their Snowmobile Safety Certificate, which is required by law for residents born after December 31, 1976.

Get out and enjoy Minnesota’s vast trail network! There are over 22,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, with over 21,000 miles maintained by local snowmobile clubs.

Otter Trail Riders

by Janet Widness

The Otter Trail Riders Snowmobile Club maintains over 150 miles of trails in Otter Tail County Minnesota. We provide snowmobile safety training and are always looking for new members to join. Follow the club on our Facebook page.

Tri-County Trailblazers

by Faith Lange, Secretary

The Tri-County Trailblazers Snowtacular Celebration with take place on Saturday, February 18, at Five Wynds Event Centre in Spring Valley, MN.

There will be food and beverages for purchase starting at noon. Events include: timed snow-cross, snowmobile barrel races and vintage snowmobile show and ride.

Door prizes given out at 5 p.m., and music performed by Trouble Shooter from 7-11 p.m.

Come drink, dance, eat and celebrate winter!

For information email: tri-countytrailblazers@ hotmail.com

Recently we had the opportunity to volunteer to help Cor PowerSports put on the Ottertail 100 Snowmobile Race on Otter Tail Lake. The Otter Trail Riders helped with parking and gate admission, as well as providing spotters throughout the 9.9mile racetrack and direct traffic.

Here you see some of our dedicated club members posing in front of the club banner the day of the race and various photos of the two days of racing. Thanks to Otter Trail Club members for the great job of helping to put on this great racing event.

The Otter Trail Riders Snowmobile Club members volunteered to sell admission, directed vehicle parking, and provided spotters along the 9.9-mile track

The Ottertail 100 on Otter Tail Lake—the first time it was held in the area.

2023 Veterans Appreciation Ride

by Terry Hutchinson, MSEAF President

MSEAF and MnUSA held their 15th annual ride on January 14, 2023 in Bemidji, Minnesota. This was one of our largest rides ever with 149 veterans and guests participating in the ride with 35 guides and sweeps from the local area snowmobile clubs providing us ten guided groups of riders enjoying the perfectly groomed trails. Our rides varied in length from 70 to 125 miles with many stopping at the Headwaters of the Mississippi River. Everyone returned safe and sound with a few minor breakdowns and smiles everywhere. Thanks to all of our guides for providing the great enjoyable rides.

This event was held at South Shore Convention Center and their staff hosted a wonderful event and provided anything and everything we needed at a moment’s notice. They have hosted other MNUSA events and will welcome us back in the future for any events we wish to have at their facility.

Our Friday night reception was well attended and everyone enjoyed the pizza buffet and the hospitality that was provided along with meeting others and exchanging stories.

Registration, signing up for ride groups, and signing up for one of the 27 snowmobiles provided if they didn’t have their own also was completed Friday evening. A huge thank you needs to be given to Jeff & Janine Lovold, Polaris, Arctic Cat, and the 10 veterans and volunteers who provided their extra sleds for others to enjoy.

Our lunch stop was at the Becida Bar where Pam and her staff provided a great taco bar lunch and hospitality. Everyone

enjoyed the space and the time to take a break after their morning ride. Having approximately 185 snowmobiles show up for lunch is a task that they handled very well and sent us on our way for our afternoon rides.

The Saturday night banquet was again a huge success with great food and an open microphone being passed around for any veteran to share their years of service and stories with the group. Their time and locations of their service and some of the things they experienced were shared and many brought laughter to the room. We also discussed the importance of seeking help when it’s needed and how to get it. We have had veterans tell us after attending one of our past events that they choose to seek help instead of taking their life. Our event will continue to be about our support of our veterans and thanking them for their service.

Our event would not have been possible without the more than 130 donors who funded and supported the ride as this event is 100% funded by donations. Without Gary Gorden and Rod Seibel leading the way and the volunteers from the North Country Snowmobile Club, Clearwater Trail Blazers, and the Warren Sno-Cat Riders this event would not have been possible.

Minnesota Snowmobile Education and Advancement Fund & Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association

EVENT SPONSORS

Arctic Cat

Polaris Industries

Hampton Inn

North Country Snowmobile Club

Clearwater Trail Blazers

Warren Sno-Cat Riders

VETERAN PLATINUM SPONSORS

(Sponsor of 8 or more Veterans)

North Country Snowmobile Club

American Legion Post 2, Shakopee

Foxtailers Snowmobile Club

Flags and Honor of Minnesota

VFW Post 1791

VFW Post 4046 Shakopee

VETERAN GOLD SPONSORS

(Sponsor of 4 or more Veterans)

VFW Post 1803

Sno-Ghosts Snowmobile Club

Charles Theis

International Voyageurs Snowmobile Club

American Legion Post 333

Fraternal Order of Eagles, Shakopee Aerie No 4120

Marshall County Driftskippers

Northern Pine Riders

Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club

Shakopee Lions

Whitewater Trail Blazers

Washington County Star Trail Assn.

Jerry Weiland

Waterford Warriors Snowmobile Club

VETERAN SILVER SPONSORS

(Sponsor of 2-3 Veterans)

Appleton Ridge Runners

Copeland Buhl and Company

MnUSA Region 5

American Legion 0142 Kraft-Ostrom

Bob & Judy King

Country Climbers Snowmobile Club

Faribo Sno-Go Club, Inc.

Forest Lake VFW Post 4210

Four Seasons Recreational Assn

Lonsdale Sno-Wizards

Low Plains Drifter Snowmobile Club

MnUSA Region 6

Nevis Trailblazers

New Prague Snowdrifters

Northwest Trails Development Assn

Terrance Peterson

ULTRA Snowmobile Club

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4452

West Central Trailblazers

Carver County Snowrunners

Country Snow Cruisers Inc

Dalton Snowthrashers

Douglas Area Trail Assn

Harry Brown’s Family Automotive

Larry & Judy Shepherd

Lincoln Lakes Area Snowmobile Club

MnUSA Region 1

MnUSA Region 8 Inc.

Prior Lake Snowmobile Assn

Red River Snowmobile Club

Rice Creek Trails

River Valley Trail Blazers

Savanna Drifters Inc.

Savage Sno-Pacers

Sno-Trackers, Inc.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Paul F. Donart Post 2853

Wells Creek Riders

Christian Franzen

VETERAN BRONZE SPONSORS

(Sponsor of 1 Veteran)

VFW Post 1791 Auxiliary

North Branch Sno-Drifters

Eden Prairie Snowdrifters Inc.

Driftbusters

Earl Klersy

Jordaness Lions

LeSueur County Snowmobile Trails Assn

Michael & Elisabeth Williams

Otter Trail Riders Snowmobile Club

Silver Sledders Trail Authority

Sno Barons Snowmobile Club

Trail Breakers Inc

Warren Sno-Cat Club

Big Lake Sno Cruisers

Blizzard Snowmobile Club, Inc.

Brainerd Snodeos Inc.

Bretbecca Inc dba Pullman Club

Cliff & Coulee Climbers

David G Lee

Dick & Lynne Schleicher

Doug Franzen

Douglas Swanson

Drift Toppers Snowmobile Club

Elrosa Baseball Club, Inc.

Gerbracht Logging Inc

Good Time Riders

Greenway Snowmobile Club

Hindenburg Riders Inc

Inver Grove Heights Snowmobile Club

LaCannes Marine Inc

Dakota Trails

MnUSA Region 4

Moonshiners Snowmobile Club

O’Briens Public House

Palmer Powder Hounds Snowmobile Club

Pequaywan Area Trail Blazers

Red Wing Riverview Riders, Inc.

Rodney Gerbracht/Fireside Grill

Sakatah Trail Sno-Cruisers

Scott Wakefield

Snowbirds of Amboy

South Tonka Sno-Mobilers

Terry & Debbie Hutchinson

TRF Sno-Drifters

Twin River Riders Snowmobile Club

Westonka Snoblazers

CONTRIBUTORS

Jerry Kujala

Mike & Cheryl Clevenger

Gene Ovsak

James & Gloria Brandt

Jerry Illies/Listroms Disposal

Lake of the Woods Drifters

Paul & Suzanne Munsterteiger

James & Belinda Folz

Nathan Krick

Greg & Nancy Gellert

Justin Krick

Richard & Judy Johnson

Jerry & Nancy Hanson

Chopper City

Randy Laberge

Karen Zigler

10 volunteers that provided personal sleds

Youth News by Janet Widness

For years, youth involvement has been front and center for MnUSA. Additionally, we connect with youth through racing. Racing is a great way to introduce youth to snowmobiling because it satisfies that competitive sports need that so many youths have. During the winter months, snowmobile racing gives youths an alternative to other sports like basketball, wrestling and hockey. Although it can be expensive and isn’t part of a school activity, it bonds families together, keeps parents involved in their children’s lives, and teaches certain skills that children wouldn’t necessarily learn through traditional school-sponsored sports programs.

Many youth racers grow into adult racing or get involved in manufacturers’ race programs or become mechanics and ambassadors for snowmobiling later in life, and advocate for

snowmobiling as an important part of an adult’s life lessons and skills.

Did I mention competitiveness? Oh yes, these youth can ride, and are very competitive. Or is it the adults living vicariously through their children? Well, whatever it is, it’s a whole lotta fun. Some of the youth involved in the attached photos include: siblings Kynsie, age 10 (#12) and Bryden Diesen, age 11 (# 224) of Wannaska, MN; Taylor Cloose, age 13 (#110) of Pinewood, and Rielly Clark, age 12 (#68) of Warren, MN.

Congratulations to all the youth involved in snowmobile racing throughout the State of Minnesota and keep on racing for the checkered flag!

√ Print Central

Blaine, MN

763-780-3333

Sno Barons

Snowmobile Club

Blaine, MN

Caliber, Inc.

Burnsville, MN

952-540-4709

Cannon Power Sports

Cannon Falls, MN

507-263-4532

Northway Sports

East Bethel, MN

763-413-8988

Prinoth LLC

Fridley, MN

612-251-4094

Danner Sales

Inver Grove Hts, MN

651-451-0121

√ Leo’s South Lakeville, MN

952-435-5371

√ Lighthouse

Motorsport & Marine Rosemount, MN

Lettertech

Saint Paul, MN

651-292-0738

Stillwater Snowmobile Club

Stillwater, MN

Washington County Star Trail

Stillwater, MN

651-430-3175

Lindeman Insurance Agency Inc.

Woodbury, MN

651-739-9684

Duluth Lawn & Sport

Duluth, MN

218-628-3718

Fish Lake Storage

Duluth, MN

218-721-4243

Johnson Supply Co. Duluth, MN

218-722-1717

√ Marshall Hardware

Duluth, MN

218-525-3638

Pequaywan Area

Trailblazers

Duluth, MN

218-591-3574

Pequaywan Inn Duluth, MN

218-848-2201

Scott & Lisa Pichette

Duluth, MN

218-590-2967

Shamrock Landing Duluth, MN

218-753-4455

Sheet Metal Solutions Duluth, MN

218-391-6582

Crooked Lake Resort

Finland, MN

218-220-0211

Finland Snowmobile Club

Finland, MN

218-353-7337

Friends of Finland

Finland, MN

218-353-0300

Trestle Inn

Finland, MN

218-830-0523

Cook County

Snowmobile Club

Grand Marais, MN

218-387-9392

√ Hungry Jack LodgeGunflint Trail

Grand Marais, MN

218-388-2265

Clip Joint Tavern

Alborn, MN

218-345-6266

Hugo’s Bar

Brimson, MN

218-848-2220

Country Corner Bar

Brookston, MN

218-391-5661

Billy’s

Duluth, MN

218-525-3465

Boom Town Brewery & Woodfire Grill

Duluth, MN

218-722-0977

Bruce & Melissa Illsley

Duluth, MN

218-251-6443

Duluth Drift-Toppers

Snowmobile Club

Duluth, MN

LaBerge Logging & Contracting

Silver Bay, MN

218-226-3586

Silver Sledders Trail Authority

Silver Bay, MN

218-220-8189

Silver Trail Riders

Silver Bay, MN

218-226-4608

√ AmericInn by Wyndham Tofte

Tofte, MN

218-663-7899

American Legion Post 109

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-4141

√ AmericInn by Wyndam

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-3000

Auto Value

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-2191

Blackwoods, Inc

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-3846

Castle Haven

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-4303

Cooperative Light & Power

Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2666

√ Country Inn of Two Harbors

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-5557

Danny’s Auto Two Harbors, MN

218-834-4524

Harbor Insurance

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-2114

Haugan Construction Two Harbors, MN

218-834-2876

√ RJ Sport & Cycle

Hermantown, MN

218-729-5150

Lutsen Trailbreakers

Lutsen, MN

218-663-7305

Duke’s Towing

Proctor, MN

218-950-2508

Hoss Construction Saginaw, MN

218-591-3829

Saginaw Grand Lake

Station

Saginaw, MN 218-345-6266

Bri-Esa’s Convenience Store

Silver Bay, MN

218-226-4694

J&H Auto Repair & Towing

Silver Bay, MN

218-226-4447

Voyageur Snowmobile Club Two Harbors, MN

218-830-8089

Charlie’s on Prior

Prior Lake, MN

952-226-5253

Doherty’s Tavern

Prior Lake, MN 952-292-5886

Prior Lake

Snowmobile Assoc.

Prior Lake, MN 952-484-3534

Savage Sno-Pacers

Boats Inc

Detroit Lakes, MN

Dairy Queen of Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-8154

Detroit Lakes Express Inc

Detroit Lakes, MN

218-847-8049

Belle Plaine Equipment Sales

Belle Plaine, MN

612-490-2387

Minnesota Snowmobile Education & Advancement Fund

Brooklyn Park, MN

763-577-0185

MSPN Inc. Eden Prairie, MN 952-473-7870

Franzen Law & Policy Group Edina, MN

Joe Silitz Golden Valley, MN 612-245-8040

Kassbohrer ATVPisten Bully Jordan, MN

952-345-3330

Erickson-Larsen Inc. Maple Grove, MN

763-535-0055

Ox Yoke Inn Maple Plain, MN

763-479-2522

√ Tri-K Sports Maple Plain, MN

763-479-3719

Carver County Snowrunners Mayer, MN 952-466-2673

√ CorTrust Bank Mayer, MN 952-657-2500

Judy’s Cafe Two Harbors, MN

218-834-4802

Lake County Chamber of Commerce

Two Harbors, MN 800-777-7384

Sonju Two Harbors

Sports Center

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-2181

Superior Hiking Trail Assn

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-2700

TH Auto Inc.

Two Harbors, MN

218-834-3089

Two Harbors Federal Credit Union

Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2266

Savage, MN 612-567-6691

Hennen’s Auto Service

Shakopee, MN 952-445-2478

Obrien Development & Holding Company

Shakopee, MN 612-741-3945

River Valley Trailblazers

Shakopee, MN 952-403-7850

√ St Boni Motor Sports St Boni, MN 952-446-1554

Detroit Lakes Tourism Bureau

Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-9202

Okeson Offtrail Sales

Detroit Lakes, MN

218-847-9304

ULTRA Snowmobile Club

Detroit Lakes, MN

Donnelly Co-Op.

Donnelly, MN 320-246-3555

Sand Castle Lake Homes

Dorset, MN 320-232-8297

AgCountry Farm Credit

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-5311

Farmers Agency

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-6880

Farmers Cooperative Oil Association

√ A-1 Automotive Service

Moorhead, MN

218-233-6161

West Central Trailblazers

Morris, MN

320-589-3445

Tender Hearts Home Care

New York Mills, MN

218-385-3466

Warner Garage Door

New York Mills, MN

218-385-2853

54K LLC

Norcross, MN 320-815-9720

Lakes Inn at Dunvilla

Pelican Rapids, MN

218-863-8000

√ Osage Schoolhouse

Vacation Rental Osage, MN

612-618-5846

Ottertail Aggregatge

Ottertail, MN

218-367-2581

Volt Edge Electric

Ottertail, MN 218-371-6830

√ Grandstay Hotel & Suites

Parkers Prairie, MN 218-338-3380

Carlson Ag Aviation Wendell, MN 320-284-2415

Snow Thrashers of Dalton Wendell, MN 218-458-2265

OTHER MEMBERS

V&V Insurance Agency, Inc.

Cresco, IA 563-547-2161

MWO Media Burr Ridge, IL 630-887-1941

Border Guide Service Antelope, MT 218-324-2430

Simonson Station Stores, Inc. Grand Forks, ND 701-772-3971

Texas Crossing Bar & Grill

Wahpeton, ND 701-642-1991

Custom Manufacturing Clinton, WI 608-676-2282

Mag 7 Transport Ellsworth, WI 507-514-0385

Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Assoc. Hayward, WI 715-945-2511

Ollie’s Service

Alexandria, MN 320-763-4455

Winning Edge Graphics

Alexandria, MN 320-763-7953

Audubon Liquor Store/ A.L.S. Audubon, MN 701-367-1291

Absolute Insurance

Audubon, MN

Pit 611

Audubon, MN 218-439-6121

Barrett Farm Supply

APA Medical Equipment Inc

Minneapolis, MN

612-722-9000

√ Minneapolis Motor Sports Minneapolis, MN

763-634-0244

Westonka Snoblazers Mound, MN

612-309-5882

Moorhouse Motorsports New Germany, MN

507-491-6217

The Doublewide New Market, MN

952-461-3682

Alta Technologies Inc.

Plymouth, MN

763-475-5375

Snow Goer/EPG Brand Acceleration

Plymouth, MN

763-383-4400

Barrett, MN 320-391-1435

DHS Grain Ltd

Barrett, MN 320-815-1043

Spud’s Small Engine Service & Repair

Barrett, MN 320-528-2299

Richwood Offsale

Callaway, MN

218-847-6380

Bleachers Sports Bar & Grill

Detroit Lakes, MN

218-310-4105

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-4491

Grant County Herald

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-5326

Grant County Lumber

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-5321

Haley Oil Company Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-4466

LG Seeds – Dana Bloom

Elbow Lake, MN

Midwest Machinery

Elbow Lake, MN

218-685-4438

Frontier Marine & Powersports

Fergus Falls, MN

218-998-4386

Otter Country Trail Assn.

Fergus Falls, MN

218-739-3708

AJ’s Gas & Grocery

Herman, MN 320-677-2300

Brian Woodle Trucking Kensington, MN 320-815-3992

√ Grandstay Hotel & Suites Perham MN

218-346-2033

New Horizons Realty

Perham, MN 218-640-0068

Otter Tail Riders Perham, MN 218-385-3991

Perham & Tri-County Stockyards

Perham, MN

United Community Bank Perham, MN 218-346-5700

Ruther Excavating Inc. Richville, MN 218-298-1477

Mark & Nadine Heit Rochert, MN 701-540-2680

Big Elbow Lake Lodge & Campground Waubun, MN 218-261-0949

Kente Concrete LLC Waubun, MN 218-204-1670

Lulich Implement Mason, WI 715-746-2477

Track Inc. Monico, WI 952-888-7372

Stud Boy Trackson Ravenna, WI 231-853-2323

Cor PowerSports LLC Somerset, WI 651-387-5880

Arrowhead Groomers/ Hamblen Equipment St. Germain, WI 715-479-4200

The Next Trail Summit Lake, WI 715-432-6074

WestView Rental Lodge & Bunkhouse Dubois, WY 715-529-0898

Visit Laramie Laramie, WY 800-445-5303

Dalton Industries Brookside, Nova Scotia 902-897-3333

5 SEASONS SPORTS CENTER INC. 601 HAT TRICK AVE EVELETH, MN FIVESEASONSSPORTSCENTER.COM

A & C YAMAHA 412 BUSINESS 23 S PAYNESVILLE, MN ACFARMSERVICE.COM

BEE LINE SPORTS CENTER, INC. 8805 RIDGEWOOD CT SAINT JOSEPH, MN BEELINEYAMAHA.COM

BELLE PLAINE MOTORSPORTS 908 E MAIN ST BELLE PLAINE, MN BPMOTORSPORTS.COM

BEMIDJI SPORTS CENTRE 1826 ANNE ST NW BEMIDJI, MN BEMIDJISPORTSCENTRE.COM

BROTHERS MOTORSPORTS 7915 STATE HIGHWAY 210 BAXTER, MN BROTHERSMOTORSPORTS.COM

CENTURY POWER SPORTS 5920 MEMORIAL AVE N STILLWATER, MN CENTURYPOWER.COM

DAVIS MOTORSPORTS OF DELANO 471 BABCOCK BLVD E DELANO, MN DAVISMOTORSPORTSDELANO.COM

DRANTTEL SALES & SERVICE INC. 41311 OLD MINNESOTA AVE SAINT PETER, MN DRANTTELSALESANDSERVICE.COM

ECOFUN MOTORSPORTS 531 LAKE ST S FOREST LAKE, MN ECOFUNMOTORSPORTS.COM

LARSONS’ CYCLE, INC. 205 GARFIELD ST S CAMBRIDGE, MN LARSONSCYCLE.COM

QUALITY HOME & SPORTS CENTER 1910 COUNTY ROAD 61 SANDSTONE, MN QUALITYHOMESPORTSCENTER.COM

R J SPORT & CYCLE 4918 MILLER TRUNK HWY HERMANTOWN, MN RJSPORTANDCYCLE.COM

RAYS SPORT & CYCLE 20890 US HIGHWAY 169 GRAND RAPIDS, MN RAYSSPORTANDCYCLE.COM

RAYS SPORT & MARINE 941 MARKET ST PERHAM, MN RAYSMARINE.COM

ST. BONI MOTOR SPORTS 4120 STEINER ST SAINT BONIFACIUS, MN MOTORSPORTSMN.COM

SETTE SPORTS CENTER INC. 2299 AUSTIN RD OWATONNA, MN SETTESPORTSCENTER.COM

STEVE’S SPORTS & AUTO INC. 531 EAST HWY 61 GRAND MARAIS, MN STEVES-SPORTS-AND-AUTO.COM

TOUSLEY MOTORSPORTS, INC. 1400 EAST COUNTY ROAD E WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN TOUSLEYMOTORSPORTS.COM

U MOTORS INC. 18457 US HIGHWAY 59 DETROIT LAKES, MN UMOTORSINC.COM