Minnesota Snowmobiling – October 2025

MnUSA 2025 Fall Workshop October 24-26, 2025

Minneapolis Marriott West 9960 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55426 888-887-1685 www.marriott.com/mspsp Your Hosts: MnUSA Region 8 Clubs

Contacts: Dick Theis 763-350-9351, Terry Hutchinson, 612-581-6627 Nancy Hanson 612-802-9570 We aspire to bring you information that will be helpful and entertaining to you individually and to your club.

Hotel Reservations: Group Room Rate $119+tax (Blocked under “MnUSA Fall Workshop 2025”) Last day to book—Thursday, October 9, 2025. For group rate, please use online reservations — https:// www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1751913366985&key=GRP&app=resvlink Preliminary Schedule of Weekend Events: Friday:

Registration begins at 3 pm Vendors, Reception, Socializing, Snowmobile Safety Instructor Training Saturday: Registration begins at 7 am 9 am MnUSA Annual Meeting Vendors, Seminars, Dinner, Entertainment, Door Prizes (All included in registration fee) Sunday: 9 am MnUSA Board of Directors Meeting Check the MnUSA Region 8 Facebook page for updates www.facebook.com/MnUSA Region 8

LIST OF POTENTIAL SEMINARS

Trail Administrators Roundtable Trail Stops, Fundraising & Other Club Activities First Aid/Stop the Bleed Trip Planning Climate Change RiderX Youth Club Directors Forum Working With Volunteers Club/Trail Insurance & Incident Reporting Enhance Your Social Media Presence Keeping Your Club Current with State & IRS Regulations

Note: Event registration is separate from lodging.

2025 FALL WORKSHOP EVENT REGISTRATION FORM Name(s): __________________________________________________________________________ Your Club/Business Name: ___________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________ State:_______ Zip:_______________ Phone:___________________ Email (to confirm registration)_________________________________________________________ Early Bird Event Registration Prices Shown (Add $20 to each registration after 10/7/25) Adult(s) #________ @ $110.00 $____________ Kids 12-17 #________ @ $50.00 $____________ Kids under 12 #________ @ FREE TOTAL $____________ Registrations are transferable but not refundable.

Mail event registration form and payment to: MnUSA Region 8, Inc, 4600 Winnetka Ave N., New Hope, MN 55428

THANK YOU.

October 2025 Contents Minnesota Snowmobiling is the official publication of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association (MnUSA).

The publication is a benefit of membership in MnUSA ($35 annual membership).

MnUSA Executive Board President Mike Clevenger Vice President Scotty Harder Secretary Janet Widness Treasurer Gordon Heitke Director at Large Scott Wakefield Past Presidents Scott Wakefield, 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 in September, October, November, December, January, February, and March by Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND and at additional mailing offices.

u FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS 4 5 6 7 10 11 13 15 18 21 22 26 28

From the Editor From the President Directors From the Vice President Legislative News MnUSA News Fall Workshop Preview What’s Cookin’?

Hay Days Recap Racing News Vintage News Club News MnUSA Business Partners

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303.

PUBLISHER Dan Ferris EDITOR Scott Wakefield 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 Mike Clevenger, Scotty Harder, Christian Franzen, Scott Wakefield, Woody Widness, Bill Gehn

Our view from our new Hay Days booth site.

Cover Photo: Adam Ross

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.

ADVERTISING MWO Media Phone: 847-707-8511 chuck@mwomedia.com www.mnsnowmobiler.org Send all advertising materials to: MWO Media, 111 Shore Drive, Burr Ridge, IL 60527 Copyright © 2025 by Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without consent of the publisher.

COMING IN NOVEMBER...

• Fall Workshop Recap • New Executive Board • Kasson Show Redux • Elk River Swap Coverage

For more info on upcoming MnUSA & club events: www.MnUSA.org

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From the Editor Scott Wakefield

Mea Culpa

snowmobiling amid the spotlight and national attention, etc.

“Off and running” was what I stated last issue, and I should’ve emphasized, off. Off I was! My apologies to those XM members who were not counted last month. Math is hard! Really, Scott? I’ve got the math figured out now and I apologize to those members who were missed.

The booth events have been very positive even though we’ve had two tough winters. Having calendars to sell and distribute to the clubs for sale, has been very beneficial to our foot traffic, and the new tent doesn’t hurt either! Next up is the Elk River Swap, Aitkin County Fairgrounds event.

If you’re in the area and want to help out, let me know.

There are big doings in the industry, including the Cat is back! Many new models are available with decent discounts. Now’s a good time to buy; better in 60 If you’ve tried the rest... days. More technology and IT’S TIME TO TRY THE BEST! more rider comfort is on the way, if you want it.

Ultimate

Over 10 Different Features & Add-ons!

Ultimate Jr. w/tool box

» Ultimate Drag: 8’-12 1/2’ (W) x 20’ (L) » Ultimate Junior Drag: 6’ (W) x 12’ (L) Galesville, WI • 608-539-4600 greg@ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com

Crazy story out of Wisconsin… A guy named Stanley J. Pophal, aka Wausau Stan, was allegedly running a ponzi scheme, and using race-winning sleds as his modus operandi, weird?

Again, another bad mark for

ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com

So, I made my way across the concrete plaza in front of the Metrodome when two of his bodyguards came towards me. One stuck his overly large finger in my chest and said, “What do you think you’re doing?” And I responded, “I’m going to shake Muhammad Ali’s hand.” The two very large men looked at each other, laughed and said, “You and whose army?”

With that, I lunged towards Ali with all my might. The bigger guy got me by the arm and twisted it back behind my back, while the other bodyguard grabbed my neck.

Once Muhammad saw what was going on, he yelled, “Leave him alone, what the hell are you doing?” And with that, Muhammad reached out shook my hand, apologized, and off he went. Of course, heading back to my accountant buddy, he asked, “Do you think I could shake Muhammad’s hand? I said, “I don’t think so!”

What a massive man—6’3” looked like 6”8” in his big black camel jacket, and not being in boxing shape, he looked about 280 to 300 pounds.

I bring Muhamad Ali up for a reason. He wrote the famous “service to others quote” outside the Atlanta Hilton on Feb. 27, 1978. Here’s the full quote: “Service to others is the rent you pay for the room here on earth.”

TAKE CONTROL

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Ken Burns did a story on Muhammad Ali, that I latched onto the other day, which brought back memories of me meeting the big guy at the 1992 Super Bowl at the Metrodome. His limos (yes, two—one for him and one for his entourage) pulled up in front of the Metrodome as my accountant buddy and I were heading to the game. I told my buddy, that’s Muhamad Ali! I’m going to shake his hand. He didn’t want to participate, but I thought to myself, when’s the next time I’m going to get a chance to meet Muhammad Ali?

Let’s think about that for a moment and read it again— “service to others is the rent you pay for the room here on earth.” How true that is to MnUSA and our members.

Especially true when you have two horrible winters backto-back. We are providing a service to all those out there who ride our trails—all 21,000 miles of them. Without you, snowmobiling would cease to exist in Minnesota. And for that I thank you!

Minnesota Snowmobiling

From the MnUSA President

The Excitement is Building!

Mike Clevenger

Happy fall fellow snowmobilers!

This is the season to prepare for our favorite time of the year…winter!

Time to finish up those final yard projects and get the snow shovel, skid loader, snowblower or whatever you use to move snow ready for the upcoming season. Oh yeah, time to get those sleds ready also. Check them over and clean them up, make sure your registration is current and properly displayed also. Do not forget the truck and trailers you will be using as well. We all are looking forward to a great snow season this year; no promises, but there is always hope!

MnUSA is also getting ready for the upcoming season. We are waiting eagerly for your membership renewals and club rosters. Remember to send your club rosters to the new address: 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd Ste L, Ramsey, MN 55303. Better yet, try out the new membership management program. It is easy to learn and lets clubs manage their own. Membership platform training will also be one of the Fall Workshop seminars, so invite your club members responsible for the membership to come on Saturday, October 25, 2025, to the Minneapolis Marriott West in St. Louis Park for an informative training session from 3-5 p.m. that day.

Randy Vannet, Website Chairman and Region 2 Director will be giving the presentation. This will be a valuable session for anyone who wants to take advantage of our new mnusa.org website for membership, events, finding a club, business partners, legislative updates etc. So much information is now available at your fingertips!

If there are any needs that MnUSA can assist with, please reach out to one of your Region Directors or myself. I will do my best to assist you if possible. There will be a corridor order form sent out to Directors and current club contacts for next year’s order. Keep your eyes open for these forms. Orders will need to be back in by January 10, 2026. Please only order signs that are needed.

As clubs start to meet, the excitement starts to build.

Have you already started dreaming of snow and the opportunity to ride? After two brown-out years we all have that itch to explore our beautiful state and trail system that we have all worked so hard to protect.

Although you have probably heard it a thousand times, you are what makes the snowmobiling in this state a vibrant recreational winter sport and your commitment to this does not go unnoticed by so many. Please give yourself a pat on the back and know that everything you do is appreciated!

Your MnUSA Executive Board will be hosting the MnUSA Winter Rendezvous February 12-15, 2026 at South Shores Hotel in Bemidji. Registration is available online, and information will be published in the Newsledder. Contact the MnUSA office or your region’s MnUSA Director for a registration form. This will also be presented in the magazine. We are looking forward to seeing you all at this event!

October 2025

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MnUSA Directors Executive Board

Directors

President

Region 1 Dale Dahlen, 2321 Pebble Beach Rd NW East Grand Forks, 56721, 218-791-6679 dodahlen@ hotmail.com

Mike Clevenger-XM 7302 NW 97th Ave Morristown, 55052 507-838-5713 cmclevenger3@gmail.com Vice President Scotty Harder-XM 13126 Jenkins Dr. Becker, MN 55308 612-860-0606 sharder67@msn.com

Treasurer Gordon Heitke - XM 2270 300th Ave Mora 55051 763-234-6712 gheitke@gmail.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 218280-1941 Aaron Swanson, 10218 Beverly Dr NW, Bemidji, 56601; 218-689-6686 aaronleeswanson@gmail.com

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

Region 2 Troy Johnson, 218-390-0046 tntjohnson547@hotmail.com

By-Laws: Rick Johnson-XM · 612-839-0956

Charity/Awards: Janet Widness-XM · 218-731-6126

Mike Banovetz, 218-235-9969 mbanovetz2009@yahoo.com

Elections/Nominations: Scott Wakefield-XM • 612-483-5638 Fund Raising: Scotty Harder-XM · 612-860-0606 Land Access: OPEN Legislative/DNR/Trails: Terry Hutchinson-XM · 612-581-6627 Membership/Booth: OPEN Merchandise: Dick Theis · 763-494-3838 Safety: Mike Banovetz Site Selection: Mark LaBaw-XM · 952-221-2564 Website: Randy Vannet

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

Region 3 Tom Jann, 21668 Peterson Creek Dr Deerwood, 56444, 218-839-1230 lakejann@gmail.com

Jerry Larson, 9855 Hall Ave NE Monticello, 55362 , 763-772-7462 majesticproservice@gmail.com Pete Wagener, 8555 Jason Ave NE Monticello, 55362, 612-501-8992 ptwent@hotmail.com Region 4 Sheri Gades-XM, 103 5th St N Danvers, 56231, 320-760-3526 gades@fedteldirect.net

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Region 6 Bill Prinsen, 5011 121 St N, White Bear Lake 55110, 651-260-8508 billprinsen@hotmail.com

Ken Eckel, 612-910-5363

John Olmscheid, PO Box 160 Elrosa, 56325, 320-250-3271 johnolmscheid43@gmail.com

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

Bruce Wemette, 18379 Marie Dr, Houston, MN 55943, Bwemette@gmail.com, 507-450-8802

Nicole Pankratz, 218-780-3853 pankratz.nicole@yahoo.com

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

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

Brad Thacher, 55 1st Ave SW, Harmony, 55939, 586-899-0810, Brad.Biker@ATT.net

Jerry Kujala-XM, 218-750-2234 jdkujala@gmail.com Cindy Hansmann, 218-301-9496 cindy.hansmann@frontier.com

Region 5 Paul Maruska, 26276 Drexel Ave, New Prague, 56071, 952-212-2293 ptmaruska81@gmail.com

Mike Brandt, 2600 6th Ave NW, Austin, 55912, 507-460-2002 brandtmj@live.com

Randy Vannet, 218-244-6797 randy.vannet@gmail.com

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

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

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

Committee Chairs

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

Ed Koenigs, 19460 Bauer Circle, Hastings, MN 55033, 651-437-3531 edkoenigs@hotmail.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, 612-839-0956 rick@teampro.net

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Phillip Lockett, 218-348-9161 lockettphillip@yahoo.com Scott Seeley, Two Harbors 218-830-1028, srseeley1@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 Dick Theis, 20575 Co Rd 10 Hamel, 55340, 763-494-3838 dickt.barbc@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 Tim Pommier, 1683 Sage Lane, Shakopeee, MN 55379, 612-801-3250 tpommier@comcast.net Region 9 Steve “Woody”Widness-XM, 43390 220th St Clitherall, 56524, 218-731-1286 jwstulk@prtel.com Jeff Alberts, 17321 Otto Zeck Rd, Detroit Lakes 56501, 218-847-1241, mtnmtrs@arvig.net Greg Strommen, 1112 62nd Ave N, Moorhead, 56560, 701-212-7002, gstromm165@gmail.com

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MnUSA Office: 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303 ph.763-577-0185 fax 763-577-0186

From the MnUSA Vice President forget that the MnUSA Fall Workshop is right It’s That Time of Year Don’t around the corner, October 24 - 26, hosted by Region 8, to Scotty Harder

Well, everyone, as I am writing this article, October is just around the corner. And so far, we’ve had the Outlaw Grass Drags in Princeton where Scott Wakefield headed up a crew of volunteers, as well as Hay Days in North Branch.

I hear the new location for the MnUSA booth at Hay Days was a big hit, as they had a steady stream of people all weekend long. A great bunch of volunteers made it a great success, and we sold MnUSA raffle calendars all weekend at both events.

Speaking of raffle calendars, approximately 35 clubs picked up their calendars to sell while attending both events, so that helped big time, as we won’t be paying shipping on those calendars. But if your club has not received calendars to sell yet, reach out to me ASAP so we can get them to you. Money raised from the sale of raffle calendars is donated back to MnUSA clubs, and is a great way to make some money for you club or trail association.

A reminder that ALL sold and unsold raffle stubs must be returned to the MnUSA office no later than December 15, 2025, no exceptions.

My apologies to Bjorn Johnson who submitted the cool photo of Santa riding a Diablo Rouge Bolens Snowmobile that was selected by vote to be in the raffle calendar. When I Bjorn Johnson this past Christmas. was proofing the calendar pages, I missed that the printer had zoomed in the photo, so the photo credit dropped off the bottom.

Helping get the word out as well, in Mike Clevenger’s article last month there was a typo that stated we cannot accept donations, and the reality is we CAN accept donations now as MnUSA is a 501c3 charitable organization.

be held at the Minneapolis Marriott West, 9960 Wayzata Blvd., Minneapolis. They have a lot of fun activities planned, including a membership platform training seminar to be held on Saturday from 3-5pm. Club admins should do their best to attend, as you will be able to do your own rosters online as new members join, rather than once a year or however you submitted in the past. By being able to enter new members as they join, they start getting the Minnesota Snowmobiling magazine sooner and the life insurance policy starts then too. Also, this is election month for MnUSA officers. Nominations were held at the summer event, and we vote in October.

Other news around the industry: – Many probably know by now the 2025 model year will be the last of the Yamaha snowmobiles.

– Arctic Cat has started production back up, as the Kitty Cat was the first sled model to come off the assembly line. Arctic Cat CEO Brad Darling announced that Troy Halverson once again continues with the brand. And in a conversation I had with Troy, even when production stopped at Thief River Falls, he and his team did not stop working, and that is part of what allowed Artic Cat to have a 2026 model lineup. As a loyal Cat rider, I am excited and looking forward to what the future holds.

– Ski-Doo (BRP) has announced that they will be offering free avalanche courses this year, so for those of you who travel to the mountains, this would be a great time to learn more about avalanche safety.

This is the time of year when all clubs should be checking trail signs and clearing brush. So, my challenge to every one of you is to try and sign up at least one new member to your club. If everyone were to do this our membership would grow, and there is strength in numbers. With two bad snow years we need to keep our voice loud by showing the large numbers we have. We all have friends that ride but don’t belong to a club, so let’s get them involved!

Have a safe fall and thank you for being a member of MnUSA. See you soon!

October 2025

7

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Legislative News

Time to Get Excited About This Winter

by Christian Franzen As Minnesotans continue to slowly winterize, we do the same but with zeal! Just around the corner is the snow season where we make fun happen! We do this through club meetings, youth education, trail maintenance, snowmobile events, and other community engagements. In doing these things we create an infrastructure of winter fun (and revenue) in the state of Minnesota. So, as we prepare for the coming year let’s focus as well on legislative advocacy and its long-term benefit to the sport we love.

With winter approaching there’s a lot to accomplish in a limited timeframe. The upcoming legislative session will be a short session, and both the House and Senate will have November elections. Consequently, our politicians’ universal code will be to return to their home districts as

SPECTACULAR

Sledding

soon as possible. This leaves us with less time to achieve the goals set at our fall workshop. The absolute best way that we can counter these challenges is to start early. Here are a couple ways we can prepare: • Organized visits: Club members coordinate visits to lawmakers’ offices, sharing stories, data, and inviting officials to ride along and experience the sport first-hand.

These immersive experiences often prove invaluable.

• Community forums and open houses: Clubs host events where legislators, local officials, and community members gather to discuss shared concerns, celebrate achievements, and plan for the future.

• Personalized communication: Members share personal accounts and data that illustrate snowmobiling’s impact. Letters, phone calls, and social media are all leveraged to keep legislators informed.

• Attending MNUSA legislative events: By joining forces as an advocacy group, clubs amplify their voice and increase the likelihood of legislative action.

The relationship between clubs and lawmakers is not simply transactional; it is built on shared values of recreation, community, and the sustainable use of our trails. With every trail cleared, every legislator contacted, and every new rider welcomed, club members will be ready for a great snowmobile season.

The preparation for the snowmobile season is a testament to the dedication and unity of club members, whose efforts reach far beyond their own enjoyment. By advocating for the sport and forging strong relationships with legislators, they safeguard not only the trails, but the traditions and excitement that snowmobiling brings to countless communities.

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Minnesota Snowmobiling

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FREE TRAINING!

MnUSA Membership Platform Training October 25 3PM- 5PM @Fall Workshop

INSTRUCTOR

Randy Vannet, Website Chair & Region 2 Director will be giving the presentation.

WHAT

Training on Membership Platform, how clubs can enter & update their roosters, plus tips on how to use the new mnusa.org website.

FOR WHO

For anyone who wants to know how to work the mnusa.org website and membership platform to their advantage. ESPECIALLY for those individuals responsible for their club/trail association memberships. *Reminder that each MnUSA Region should have 1 Director responsible for knowing how to work this and be able to answer region club questions.

October 2025

Minneapolis Marriott West 9960 Wayzata Blvd St Louis Park, MN 11

MnUSA News Randy Vannet, Website Chair & Region 2 Director will be giving the presentation and training on how In the September issue of Minnesota Snowmobiling clubs can enter and update their rosters. He will also Magazine, regarding President Mike Clevenger’s article, provide tips on how to use the mnusa.org website. This it was inadvertently stated that MnUSA cannot accept free training is available to anyone who wants to know tax-deductive contributions and donations due to our how to work the mnusa.org website to their advantage, new state change as a 501(c)3 organization. It should’ve especially those individuals responsible for their club/ read, can now accept tax-deductive contributions and trail association memberships. donation due to our new federal change as a 501(c)3 organization. *Reminder: Each MnUSA Region should have one Director responsible for knowing how to work this and be able to answer region club questions.

Correction:

Free Membership Platform Training On Saturday, October 25, 2025, MnUSA Membership Platform Training will be held from 3-5 pm at the Fall Workshop, held this year at Minneapolis Marriott West, 9960 Wayzata Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN.

Notice of Annual General Membership Meeting The annual General Membership meeting of the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the West Minneapolis Mariott, St. Louis Park, MN. All MnUSA members are welcome to attend this FREE event.

The General Membership will elect state association officers at its annual meeting starting at 9am CST. Officer nominations accepted at the Summer Event in July at the Detroit Lakes VFW are President - Mike Clevenger; Vice President - Scotty Harder; Treasurer Gordon Heitke; Secretary- Janet Widness. Nominations will open again at the annual meeting.

Notice for Requesting Absentee Ballot If you’re unable to attend the MnUSA Annual General Membership Meeting on Saturday, October 25, at 9am CST at the West Minneapolis Mariott, St. Louis Park, MN, and you want to vote, you can request an absentee ballot. For a ballot, contact the office: 763-577-0185 or office@mnusa.org or mail request to 14000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste L, Ramsey, MN 55303. You must be a current member in good standing to be able to receive an absentee ballot. If requesting by mail, make sure to leave yourself enough time to return to the office.

With limited office hours, make sure to plan accordingly.

Office hours are Tuesday & Wednesday 8am to 4pm; closed Thursday thru Monday.

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Minnesota Snowmobiling

MnUSA News

Preview

Education on Display MnUSA Region 8 and its member clubs in Carver, Hennepin and Scott Counties, are excited to welcome you to the MnUSA 2025 Fall Workshop at the Minneapolis Marriott West in St. Louis Park, MN, the weekend of October 24-26. Registration begins at 4 pm on Friday afternoon. Be sure to stop by and check out the vendors and sponsors.

A reception and socializing for DNR will be holding snowmobile safety instructor attendees conclude training beginning at 5 pm. Registration with the DNR is the evening; stop required to attend this class. in at Kip’s Irish Pub for some lively conversation.

Registration begins again at 8 am Saturday. The MnUSA annual meeting starts at 9 am. After a lunch break, the afternoon educational sessions will provide something of interest for everyone, including RiderX, Youth Clubs, Stop the Bleed, Trail Signing and a Trail Administrator’s Roundtable, MnUSA Membership/Web Site Management, DNR Climate Change, Legislator Forum and Club Trail Stops and Fun Activities.

The day is topped off with dinner and entertainment by our own Doug Franzen’s band—the Backseat Boogie Band. Don’t miss the fun!

October 2025

13

MnUSA News

Outlaw Grass Drags-Princeton Show

by Scott Wakefield

It felt like August while setting up for another edition of the Outlaw Grass Drags, aka Princeton. Eventually a nice cool front came through , and it was all good from that point on. Saturday was reminiscent of a typical fall day but in August, and Friday’s action was hot and heavy, with lots of activity and sleds going out the door.

I even witnessed a young 13-year-old boy, up Hillman way, buy his first sled after saving for years. After getting the deal done he brought the sled by our MnUSA booth. I wasn’t Jonny-on-the-spot and couldn’t get a photo, but to say the young man was a happy camper would be an understatement, and it will be a day he will always remember.

Lots of quality sleds were on display and judged for the vintage show, and trophies were provided to those who brought the cream of the crop.

Racing had some fast times, as the track was in impeccable shape. I think I heard 166 miles per hour in the quarter mile—that sounds like a record to me? And then the big draw—the Swap—with lots of great sleds with low hours in good shape in the $3,500-$6,500 range. Even 2- to 3-year-old sleds were available for under $10,000 with all the bells and whistles. And then there’s the guy that brings the garage and hopes to sell it and while at Princeton might as well go into the swap, buy more stuff, take back your swap space and resell it.

Hard to believe but it was happening all day.

Nice vintage sleds on display.

14

Our “new” 10x20 booth tent holding court at Princeton.

Vendors were plentiful as always, and Thomas SnoSports’s big semi was very noticeable, with good activity both days, including a sneak peek at the last run of 120 Cats from the factory with the fancy retro graphics. Looking to upgrade a suit, helmet, or bibs?

This is the place to get the deals!

Rounding out the event was the food, and lots of it! Everything was so good, especially the pork

Swappers of all kinds were in attendance.

Minnesota Snowmobiling

continued next page »

Still looking “race ready.”

WHAT'S COOKIN'?

Recipes from th e MnUSA cookbo o Flavors of Minn k, esota Snowm obilers

Pumpkin Bars 4 eggs 1 cup vegetable oil 2 cups granulated sugar 15 1/2 oz. can pumpkin 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 2 tsp cinnamon 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Frosting 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar 6 oz. cream cheese, softened 6 Tbsp butter or margarine, softened 1 Tbsp cream 1 tsp vanilla Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and lightly flour a 12x15 baking pan. In a large bowl, mix the eggs, oil, sugar and pumpkin together till well blended. In a small bowl measure and mix the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon together. Mix dry ingredients with the pumpkin mixture until combined. Pour into baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool and frost.

Mix all ingredients together until well blended. Spread on cool pumpkin bars and cut into pieces.

Sharon Bilben Leech Lake Riders – Region 1

Thank You!

The following members have paid an extra fee to protect our trails!

Join them by doing your share. Contact the MnUSA office today.

XM Members: Andrew Cavers Art Ehde Bart & Cheryl Porter Berdell Boraas Bill Douglas Bill Gibson Bill Lorence & Laurie McLead-Lorence Bill & Jean McGarry Bill & Sharyn Nepsha Bob Hellerud Bob Hennenfent Bob Skoglund Brad Eldred Brent & Jenny Oberdieck Brian Brown Brian & Janeen Lucker Brian & Penny Lund Brian Reckow Bruce Carlson Bruce & Lee Ann Hughes Carl & Mercedes Hanson Charles & Sandy Doherty Charlie & Sue Johnson Chris & Doreen Anderson Chris & Michele Keyport Chris Rokke Craig & Yvonne Peterson Craig Zweber Dale & Sonya Clementson Dane & Barb Hasbrouck Daniel A. & Janet Feeney Daniel Osterkamp Danny & Fay Yochum Dave & Patti Myers Dave & Tammy Wolf David & Dianna Martin David Van Wie David Van Wie Dean & Rita Meichsner Deb Pomroy & Ray Barnes Dennis Heimerman Doug Nigon Dustin Knutson Earl Klersy Edward Barnick Elmer & Margaret Cone Eric & Angela Bachinski Gary Butz Gary & Judy Lothenbach Gordon Brekken Gretchen Bonik J. A. Connelly Jason & Brooke Huerkamp Jay Loeffler Jeff Alberts Jeff & Louise Kack Jeff & Terri Jo Melo

Jill & Randy Brandt Mitchell Bahr Jill Erickson-Buresh Nick & Gretchen Slavicek Jill Erickson-Buresh Orv & Dee Langohr Jim Bryant Patrick Shea Jim & Laura Bush Paul Kirscht Jim Carlson Paul & Barb Maki Jim & Barb Mickow Paul Vranish Jim Skoglund Petschl Family Joe Gerrits Randy LaBerge Joe & Cindee Reis Rex & Arlene Holzemer Joel Matter Rich & Ruth Zeman John Ehlert Richard Buresh John Matejcek Richard & Judith Johnson John Wade Richard & Barbara Mayer Jon & Judy Hendry Richard & Barbara Schmidt Jon Jacobson Rick & Ruth Whitcomb Jon & Tawni Maynard Rob Abear Joseph & Katie Heidelberger Rob & Raegan Sipe Josh Boettger Rob White Kason Heinecke Robert Carney Keith & Heather Berndt Robert & Gayle Holt Keith & Jennifer Twombly Robert Nistler Kelly & Toni Brown Rod & Jennifer Skorich Ken & Pat Eckel Rolf & Ben Flaig Ken Larson Ron Peterson Ken Lewis Ron Warhol Kenny Kukacka Russell Stolen Kevin & Julie Jergenson Rusty Eichorn & Toni Brose Kevin & Lisa Leary Scott & Lisa Wakefield Kevin & Ann Schield Shay Godse & Charles Alvino Kim Werkmeister Sheri & Russell Gades Kip & Leon Wessels Steve & Carolyn Blake Kris Schiffler Steve & Terri Kast Kurt & Melanie Schultz Steve & Brittni Meier Lance & Katrina Hapka Steven & Linda Knopp Larry Grabanski Steven & Jane Spaeth Levi & Kristen LaVallee Stuart & Jennifer Simek Lowell Peterson Terry Baar Mark & Patti Eldred Terry & Debbie Hutchinson Mark & Kathy LaBaw Terry Johnson Mark & Laurie Martinson Terry & Dianne Peterson Mark & Sue Ringham Tim & Karen Bothun Mark & Karen Thompson Tim & Linda Clark Marlys Knutson Tim & Tammy LePage Merle Weidemann Todd Johnson Michael & Mary Denker Todd Novitsky Michael & Jodi Guckenberg Tony & Val Barthel Michael Klimek Trace & Lisa McCoy Michael Milner Troy Beckers Mike Berthiaume & Karen Randall-Fisher Troy Halvorson Mike & Joelle Boucher Walter & Connie Petersen Mike & Wendy Brandt Willard & Kim Hunnewell Mike & Kym Duea William Kuehn Mike & Chris Eck William Moreland Mike & Judy Nodsle William R Barthold Mike & Ilyne Rasmussen Wyat Vandal Mike & Peggy Reis Mike & Vicki Thelen

chops—considered some of the best in Minnesota—supplied by McDonald’s Meats in Clear Lake. Much better than simply adding seasoning as the pork chop is cooking like most, McDonald’s preseasons the meat so it’s marinating all the time. Yum, yum! I can’t get enough of the Elk Lake Easy Riders pork chops.

The “New” MnUSA booth was great, and we weathered the cold front, wind and storm. There was activity at the booth all weekend.

We had calendars for sale—the earliest we have ever had them.

It made a big difference having them to drive more business to the booth for memberships, business memberships, stickers sales, cookbooks, and the like!

October 2025

Our good friends the Merrifield Marathons, selling impressive raffle tickets.

15

MAKE ANY TERRAIN

YOUR PLAYGROUND

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// SKI-DOO.COM ©2025 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc.

Recap Mother Nature Go Away! by Scott Wakefield What a crazy weekend Hay Days was this year. I think the exhaust emitted from all the different types of vehicles that weren’t electric caused Mother Nature to sneeze! And “sneeze” she did—not just once, but from my count, five times! It started with a massive downpour, then sunny skies, a break, another downpour, and a break. The next “sneeze” was reminiscent of the John Fogerty/CCR classic “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” Then came the final downpour, and less scattering of the attendees as well, with a proverbial, What the heck, I’m all wet now anyway.

It’s not like we didn’t see it coming out of the northwest, we just didn’t want to believe it could happen. But that’s weather in 2025, right?

18

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Let’s talk about the weather. The warm and dry snowbelt of 2024-2025 has had an impact on manufacturers and all involved in our industry. Throw in a subpar 2023-2024 to boot, and you have some rather dismal snowmobile numbers. According to ISMA (International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association), official numbers of sleds sold in 2023-2024 were 51,987, but in 2024-2025 those numbers dropped to 41,488. My math is not that good but that’s close to 10,500 less units. Ouch! The good news, and there was plenty of good news at Hay Days, is if you’re in the market for a new noncurrent sled sitting at Hay Days or a dealership right now, you will be very happy to see some huge discounts!

In our NEW booth location, we were right in the thick of it. Just about everyone had to walk past us, and we got to really take in the sea of folks and watch all the merchandise move out the door, as they say. It was amazing to watch sled after sled leave the grounds, and the bags of jackets, bibs, helmets, gloves, you name it. It was impressive to see the sheer volume of merchandise being exchanged from many of our wonderful manufacturers and dealers of everything snowmobiling.

Good job!

Polaris unveiled their 2026 Caleb Kesterke Edition RMK which was cool because he was right there at the unveiling— what an awesome machine! They also displayed their full lineup for 2026. Polaris has really got an itch to scratch for providing features to its loyal riders. And then there’s the ultimate snowmobile—the 2026 Polaris Patriot Boost Indy VR1 with the Dynamix suspension system. With controllable four corner shocks to basically eliminate bumps of any kind, it’s time to cancel that chiropractic visit in February. continued next page »

Our new impressive booth space at Hay Days.

October 2025

19

Due to the weather, Arctic Cat smartly delayed the unveiling of the 2026 Arctic Cat ZR 600 with power steering! Brad Darling gave a very good introduction on where Cat is headed with its sled technology and focus. Followed by a newly shorn, Troy Halverson who got into the nitty gritty of what the 2026 600 ZR is all about. He spoke on suspension technology, ergonomics, and the power of the 858-powerhouse engine, now with many logged hours without any issues to speak of. The words bulletproof, rock steady, reliable to the end, come to mind as Troy continued. But the whole lineup is consistent with winners, and really the focus at Cat is consumer based. Customers asked for it, and they got it. Nimble as a Cat, turnaround time to the suggestion by its loyal fan base. The Cat is back, and the Lion is starting to roar!

Ski-Doo also had an impressive lineup of its 2026 sleds on display, including the 2026 MZX 600 RS. Ski-Doo was really focused on getting attendees to mingle and participate in its booth, with a free coffee event to kick things off. They also had a Ski-Doo Sledders Challenge all day, as well as t-shirt printing, gaming lounge, pull tabs, and spin the wheel of prizes; such a nice touch. There were design experts on hand to explain 20

the innovative design concepts, new accessories, and apparel that encompassed the huge Ski-Doo display.

Equally important is Ski-Doo’s lead as it relates to Avalanche Awareness Classes, with an announcement to follow on a schedule. Ski-Doo will also be showing off the 2026 lineup at 10 fall shows; the closest to Minnesota would be Novi, MI. Go to ski-doo.com for more information.

Besides new sled unveilings, the Antique Snowmobile of America did a cool thing. They went back into Sno Barons history and redid a replica Snoopy Sled, which was run back in the day down the grass track, circa 1974ish.

Well, how time stands still—Dave Guenther and his crew really outdid themselves this time—so cool, and with new technology and updated sled underneath; a bed frame to start? Wow guys, you gotta love that creative spirit!

The new location was spectacular. Thank you so much to the Sno Barons for providing us the opportunity to continue to grow the sport through our efforts. The sky is the limit for the future in our new location! We will see all of you again for the 59th Annual Hay Days Event, September 5 and 6, 2026.

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Racing News 2026 Races are Scheduled Cor PowerSports has announced its 2026 Racing Schedule, which includes two Michigan dates and a North Dakota stop, in addition to the Minnesota races. The season starts in January with the Ottertail 100, January 10-11. The Heartland 200 is up next in Park Rapids, January 24-25.

And rounding out January is the Turtle River Rough Riders 100 in Manvel, North Dakota on January 31.

THE ALL-NEW 858 IS HERE

February starts on Valentine’s weekend February 14-15 in Goodridge, Minnesota, at the Goodridge/Grygla I-500.

The month concludes with the Leech Lake 200 in Walker, February 28-March 1.

March continues with the Snodeo 200 in Naytawaush, Minnesota, March 7-8. Then it’s off to Michigan to round out the season. The first in Ironwood for the Mt. Zion Championships, March 21-22. The final race of the season will be held March 28 at the Porcupine Mountain 100 in beautiful Ontonagon, Michigan.

The Model Year 2026 reinvents riding, one sled at a time.

For more information go to corpowersports.com

Country Cat Sauk Centre 320-351-4481 countrycat.com

In addition to Cor PowerSports, not to be outdone, the Midwest ICE Drag Series has also announced its dates for the 2026 season. The straightline ice racing starts in Okoboji, Iowa on January 31, then heads back to Minnesota for a date on Lake Titlow in Gaylord, Minnesota February 7, and rounds out the season down at the Boathouse on Clear Lake in Waseca on February 28.

Lighthouse Motorsports Rosemount 651-322-4420 lighthousemotorsports.com MotoProz, Inc. Mazeppa 507-843-2855 motoproz.com Olson’s Outdoor Sports Mahnomen 218-935-2355 olsonsoutdoor.com

For more information on any of these Midwest ICE Drag Series events, contact Larry Spindler at 715-5566345 or Chris Duncan at 712-330-8649.

Always wear a helmet and don’t drink and ride.

October 2025

21

Vintage News by Scott Wakefield

Return of “The Pumpkin” The Midwest Vintage Snowmobile Show committee has decided to make a move to the Dehn’s Pumpkin Patch location in Dayton, MN, right off Interstate 94 in the northwest metro. After much work, many meetings, lots of paperwork, and on-site visits, the Midwest Ride-In will move to the Dehn’s Pumpkins and Event Center on French Lake in Dayton, MN for 2026.

As you may or may not be aware, the Ride-In’s feature is “Racing Through The ‘90s,” so sleds from the ‘90s.

And how ironic, but the 1992 Polaris 650— nicknamed “The Pumpkin” with its black and pumpkin orange color scheme—fit this location well. So how many “Pumpkins” are out there? Maybe we will see.

The committee wants you to know that pork chops are back, and there will be a trail ride both days! And the fashion show continues from its huge success from last year. Plus, a judged sled show featuring ‘90s sleds.

Other activities include silent and live auctions, a huge ballroom display of themed sleds, and of course the very popular swap meet with lots of space to expand. All with a location that has easy access to I-94.

Having a lake back on site with proximity to all events, the walkability (not being all spread around as in the past) is a huge plus. You can stand in one spot and pretty much see everything from on location. Having the lake is pivotal if there is marginal snowfall, as a trail ride on ice is easier to pull off than on ground.

So, mark your 2026 calendar now for the last weekend in January—Fri., Jan 30 & Sat., Jan 31. All the action will be at 17270 125th Ave N, Dayton, MN. Maybe a food vendor will make a dessert of pumpkin bars to round out the pumpkin slant?

22

Minnesota Snowmobiling

ACSA – Representing Snowmobilers Nationwide!

The American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) was established 30+ years ago to represent and to be a voice for snowmobiling at the national level. ACSA serves as a national watchdog organization that monitors and acts on snowmobile issues across the snowbelt.

State snowmobile associations, such as MnUSA, are members and hold seats on the ACSA Board and participate in the Trails Riding Region and Mountain Riding Region.

The Trails Riding Region focuses on issues that impact snowmobiling in those states that primarily have established trail systems for snowmobilers. They will be holding their annual Meet/Ride in Watersmeet, Michigan, January 28 – February 1, 2026, and all club members are welcome to attend.

ACSA organizes the Washington, DC Snowmobile Fly-In each year. This allows snowmobilers from across the U.S. to visit their congressmen and senators, along with their staff, in Washington to discuss issues back in the districts they represent. “Snowmobilers Tell the Truth” to the legislators and agency decision makers about issues such

as CRP, trail bridges, RTP and PFAs—all snowmobilerelated issues!

ACSA provides a common, collective voice in defending public land access, federal regulations, local challenges, snowmobile safety issues, and promoting snowmobiling as a family sport.

ACSA has a weekly electronic newsletter that shares information with snowmobilers about hot topics, legislative initiatives, and other snowmobile-related information.

ACSA is committed to the future preservation of our sport and relies on snowmobilers at the grassroots level.

Working together we all accomplish more!

Please consider joining the Trails Meeting this winter and check out www.snowmobilers.org and www. snowmobileinfo.org, as well as the ASCA Facebook page. *ACSA is a 501c3 organization that is managed by snowmobilers for snowmobilers!

For special rates visit WWW.BRANDINIRON.COM 201 Canyon St | West Yellowstone, MT | 800.217.4613 | info@brandiniron.com October 2025

23

2025-2026 Club News Submission Form Please use this form as a guideline when submitting your club news for publishing in Minnesota Snowmobiling. It is not necessary to use this form (emails gladly accepted) but please make sure to include all pertinent contact information. Club News should be items of interest to the snowmobile community as a whole—sharing ideas about successful events held, trail projects and improvements, ways to promote membership growth, etc.

To accommodate all clubs wishing to submit their news, we ask that you submit a Club News article no more than two times a year, keeping the length of your article to around 250 words or less with a photo, and 500 or less without a photo. We encourage you to send high-resolution photos (300 dpi or greater) of your club’s activities, including captions describing the event and/or the people shown. All submissions due by 4 p.m. of deadline date.

Club Name: ____________________________________________________________ Town/City and County: __________________________________________________ Written by/Title: ________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Email:____________________________________ Photo Caption (if photo is being submitted): _______________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Club News (Please submit on a separate page):

2025-2026 DEADLINES FOR CLUB NEWS Month Nov. 2025 Dec. 2025 Jan. 2026 Feb. 2026 Mar. 2026

Club News 9/30/25 10/29/25 11/26/25 12/27/25 2/13/26

Mail Date 10/27/25 11/24/25 12/23/25 1/26/26 3/10/26

Send Club News submissions to: Editor, Scott J. Wakefield Oliver1650@icloud.com • 12620 Co. Rd. 30, Waconia, MN 55387 Phone: 612-483-5638 (text) or email: mnusa@mwomedia.com

Calendar of Events

Oct 4 • Elk River Swap, Sherburne County Fairgrounds Oct 11 • Aitkin SnowDrifters Event, Aitkin County Fairgrounds Oct 17 • Dirt to Drifts Swap Meet, Hill City, MN, Northwoods Flea and Craft Market Oct 25 • MnUSA Fall Workshop, West Minneapolis Marriott, St. Louis Park, MN Jan 22-24 • Snowmobile Rendezvous, Pequot Lakes, MN, Vintage and Antique show Jan 30-31 • Midwest Ride-In, Dehn’s Pumpkins and Event Center, Dayton MN, “90’s Sleds” Feb 12-15 • MnUSA Rendezvous, Bemidji, MN Annual Convention, Rides, Silent, Live Auctions, Fun Feb 20-21 • Triplefest 2026, Brainerd Lake Area Apr 10-11 • Midwest Extreme Snowmobile Challenge, Giants Ridge, Biwabik, MN

24

Minnesota Snowmobiling

$20 Each

365 Winners

6,000 Calendars Over $20,000 in Prizes

MnUSA Raffle Calendar Photo Credit: Jolyn Harvey - Military Cross Roads Near Orr, MN

Permit # X-03880

October

RAFFLE CALENDAR

Wherever the trail leads, there’s an AmericInn nearby waiting to offer you friendly service, a comfortable and quiet night’s sleep, and always a place to park your sled.

W INN ERS

10/1/25

$25.00

Mark Hilden

Princeton, MN

10/2/25

$25.00

Thomas Vanderlinde

Waconia, MN

10/3/25

$25.00

Dakota Pixley

Vergas, MN

10/4/25

$50.00

Sarah Larson

Avon, MN

10/5/25

$50.00

Jon Lodin

Cologne, MN

10/6/25

$25.00

Robin Hillmyer

Cokato, MN

10/7/25

$25.00

Ron Sik

Montevideo, MN

10/8/25

$25.00

Jane Magers

Redwood Falls, MN

10/9/25

$25.00

Tim Zelinske

Dodge Center, MN

10/10/25

$25.00

Tom Lubinski

Byron, MN

10/11/25

$50.00

Jace Baird

Fargo, ND

10/12/25

$50.00

Chelsea Berto

Grand Forks, ND

10/13/25

$250.00 Mike Wagner

Staples, MN

10/14/25

$25.00

Sandy Weckwerth

Montevideo, MN

10/15/25

$25.00

Tim Levens

Wayzata, MN

10/16/25

$25.00

Becky Hogrefe

Montevideo, MN

10/17/25

$25.00

Ryan Hallesy

Eagan, MN

10/18/25

$50.00

Wade Madsen

Cottage Grove, MN

10/19/25

$50.00

Tammy Richard

Kasson, MN

10/20/25

$25.00

Eric Bachinski

Elko New Market, MN

10/21/25

$25.00

Heather Wheatley

Willmar, MN

10/22/25

$25.00

Dave Dornsbach

Corcoran, MN

10/23/25

$25.00

Tracy Laumann

Bigfork, MN

10/24/25

$25.00

Mateo Rossini

Prior Lake, MN

Tofte

Virginia

10/25/25

$50.00

Jake Drees

Shakopee, MN

218-663-7899

218-208-0230

10/26/25

$50.00

Alex Ullmann

Eden Prairie, MN

10/27/25

$25.00

Tim Hufnagle

Prior Lake, MN

10/28/25

$25.00

Tammy Baker

Wadena, MN

10/29/25

$25.00

Dennis Stehlin

Hibbing, MN

10/30/25

$25.00

Julie Nelson

Prior Lake, MN

10/31/25

$250.00 Amanda Schmidt

Relax and enjoy our heated indoor pool.

Fuel up every morning with a free homestyle breakfast.

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906-265-9100

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218-209-2487

218-463-1045

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Wadena, MN

October 2025

25

Club News

First gathering of the “RC Riders” Club in the Spring 2017.

We’re Taking Another Ride!

The “Remote Control Riders” Club will start another trip to MnUSA Region 9 Fall Workshop October 23-25, 2026, in Alexandria at the Holiday Inn. The club was formed in Spring 2017 to help promote the MnUSA Fall Workshop at Thumper Pond in Ottertail in October. They started with five members (three Arctic Cats, a Yamaha and a Ski-Doo) who traveled around Region 9 with hundreds of photos of them on their trip. They had lots of funny looks from passersby as they posed for the pictures including questions from a Minnesota State Highway Patrol, a city mayor and Maplewood State Park Rangers. The photos were also posted on MnUSA Region 9 Facebook that received hundreds of followers.

When they reached their destination, people said how much they enjoyed the posts and couldn’t wait for Who says you can’t ride on 2 inches of snow? more upcoming trips.

Once again, the riders were willing to promote the 2024 MnUSA Winter Rendezvous at Thumper Pond in Ottertail hosted by MnUSA Region 9. This time only three members rode (Arctic Cat, Polaris and unnamed

Waiting for the OCTA groomer to get out and groom those trails.

brand). The group was fortunate enough to find a little snow to make the trip more fun!

The sleds are battery-operated remote control at 1/6 scale about 18” long. We have tried each time to get a sled from each manufacturer but came up short. Polaris and Yamaha are hard to come by and if you find one, it’s very expensive. We’re grateful to those who let us use their sleds for the promotions. If you want to join the “RC Riders” Club let me know at jwstulk@prtel.com or call 218-731-1286.

Keep following the MnUSA Region 9 Facebook page for photos and updates! Hope to see you at the Fall Workshop 2026!

Submitted by Woody Widness, Region 9 Director

Hey guys! The sign says North Dakota! Should we take that trail?

The Cliff & Coulee Climbers Submitted by Bill Gehn, Region 5 Director The Cliff & Coulee Climbers hosted their Landowner Appreciation Dinner August 24, at the Lake City Sportsman’s Club. More than 55 attendees enjoyed a delicious chicken dinner featuring the club’s famous Millville National Motocross secret recipe grilled chicken, creamy coleslaw, cheesy potatoes, chocolate chip & M&M cookies, plus myriad beverage choices.

The club is celebrating their 50th anniversary as of August 2025.

26

Minnesota Snowmobiling

BECOME A MEMBER! JOIN TODAY

FOR ONLY $35!

Call 1-866-811-7669 or online mnusa.org

Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association

MnUSA Application for Membership

(Please check appropriate boxes.)

INDIVIDUAL / FAMILY MEMBERSHIP

$35 ONE $65 TWO YEAR YEARS

$95 THREE YEARS

$50 EXTRA MILER - 1 year ($30 Dues + $20 Donation)

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP

$75.00 a YEAR

Dues include ($14) subscription to Minnesota Snowmobiling magazine. Payments to MnUSA are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal tax purposes.

NAME (Please Print) __________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS ________________________________________________

EMAIL ___________________________________________

CITY ________________________________________ COUNTY______________________ STATE _________ ZIP_______________ Number of Family Members____________________ Number of Snowmobiles______________

MRM Number_____________________

Payment method: ___________ Check Enclosed Mail to: MnUSA, 1_ 4000 Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW, Ste. L, Ramsey, MN 55303 Bill my ________ Visa________ MasterCard Card Number____________________________________________ Expiration Date__________________________________________ Signature______________________________________________ Fill out the application and mail in or go to www.mnusa.org to pay by credit card.

SNOCAPS TRAILER ENCLOSURES

Enclose your open bed trailer! * Lightweight and easy to haul. * Made to fit any make, model, and size trailer. * Built to last! Road tested since 1993. * Five year warranty. * Ship kits available for easy installation.

320-559-0165 sales@snocaps.net Our SnoCaps were developed to protect snowmobiles from the harsh chemicals on winter roads. Since then they have been protecting snowmobiles, ATVs, Rangers, airplanes, and more.

Get in touch with us today to get your order started!

Made in the USA!

WWW.SNOCAPS.NET October 2025

2023 Half Page Ad base.indd 1

27 11/3/2023 2:20:46 PM

MnUSA Business Partners

“√” Denotes Show Your Card Member Discount New Business Partner highlighted in yellow

Visit Bemidji Bemidji, MN 218-444-6081

Clancy’s on Island Lake Park Rapids, MN 218-732-5270

Midwest Machinery Co. Aitkin, MN 218-927-2140

Hoot-N-Holler Blackduck, MN 218-659-9225

Emmaville Inn, Inc. Park Rapids, MN 218-732-8544

Mudflats Bar & Grill Aitkin, MN 218-678-3122

Points North Services Angle Inlet, MN 218-223-4201

North Country Hardware Clearbrook, MN 218-776-3615

Heartland Inn Hotel Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1471

Sled Girlz Ada, MN 701-405-3448

Lobo’s Bar & Grill Lake Itasca, MN 218-266-3611

Points North Services Angle Inlet, MN 218-223-4201

Side Track Tap Bar & Grill Leonard, MN 218-968-2304

Thelen’s Concrete Products Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1458

Paulbeck’s Country Market Aitkin, MN 218-927-6919

Brustad Land Surveying Bagley, MN 218-694-5280

Anchorage Inn Longville, MN 218-363-2236

Galen’s Fresh Food Market & Hardware Hank Bagley, MN 218-694-6212

Docksider Longville, MN 218-363-2565

Zorbaz in Park Rapids Park Rapids, MN 218-237-1969

LaVallee Inc Longville, MN 905-670-1588

LTC Water Control St Paul, MN 651-329-2732

Longville Campground Longville, MN 218-363-2610

Visit Thief River Falls Thief River Falls, MN 218-686-9785

Adrian’s Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-1985

Longville Lakes Bottle Shop Longville, MN 218-363-3249

√Country Inn - Walker Walker, MN 218-547-1400

Ballard’s Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-1849

Longville Turtle Town Café Longville, MN 218-363-3333

Border Bank Baudette, MN 218-634-3300

Motorheads of Longville Longville, MN 218-363-3499

Cyrus Resort Baudette, MN 218-634-2548

Musky House Marine Longville, MN 218-363-2044

Lake of the Wood Marine Baudette, MN 218-634-2289

One Stop Convenience Store Longville, MN 218-363-2252

REGION

1

Pinks Repair Bagley, MN 218-694-6575 Gerbracht Logging Baley, MN 218-694-2132

LOW Passenger Service Baudette, MN 218-395-0414 Northern Sports Baudette, MN 218-634-1089

Up North Power & Sports Park Rapids, MN 218-237-5670

Riverside Pub Aitkin, MN 218-927-3915

Wehrs AG Group Park Rapids, MN

Security State Insurance Aitkin, MN 218-927-3712

Fraternal Order of Eagles Warroad Aerie 4195 Warroad, MN Upper Red Lake Area Association Waskish, MN 218-556-5844

Walleye Capital Sanitation Baudette, MN 218-634-3151

Sportsman’s Oak Island Lodge Oak Island, MN 218-223-8411

Bemidji Sports Centre Bemidji, MN 218-751-4477

Sunset Lodge Resort Oak Island, MN

Tire Barn Aitkin, MN 218-927-1444 Ash Trail Lodge Ash River, MN 218-374-3131 Ash-Ka-Nam Resort Ash River, MN 218-374-3181 Frontier Resort Ash River, MN 866-950-2986 Big Falls Liquor Store Big Falls, MN 218-276-3333 Pritchards Corner Big Falls, MN 218-276-3400

Carrot’s Auto Body Waubun, MN 218-473-2417

REGION

2

Antler Lake Store & Motel Inc. Bigfork, MN 218-245-2369 First State Bank of Bigfork Bigfork, MN 218-743-3145

Frontier Sports Marcell, MN Pinehurst Resort Naytahwaush, MN 218-935-5745

The Glen Store and Grill Aitkin, MN 320-684-2229 The Landing Aitkin, MN 218-927-9998

Lakes Area Power Sports Walker, MN 218-547-1558

Olson’s Outdoor Sports Mahnomen, MN 218-935-2355

Sportsman’s Lodge Baudette, MN 218-634-1342

28

Pine Inn Aitkin, MN 320-684-2452

40 Club Restaurant & Bar Aitkin, MN 218-927-7090

Golf on the Edge Bigfork, MN 218-743-3626

Aitkin Flyers Aitkin, MN 218-927-2557

Kocian’s Family Market Bigfork, MN 218-743-3113

Farm Island Store Aitkin, MN 218-927-3791

Loon Point Resort Bigfork, MN 218-245-1470

Powell Auto Sales & Service Bigfork, MN 218-743-3795 The Shop Bigfork, MN 218-743-3666 Rons Korner Market Bovey, MN 218-247-7351 Dawghouse Bar & Grill LLC Canyon, MN 218-345-8830 Nelson Funeral Care Cloquet, MN 218-879-3225 Reliable Insurance Agency Cloquet, MN 218-514-7705 √Florio’s Grill & Tavern Cohasset, MN 218-999-7077 √Lake Vermilion Resort Association Cook, MN 218-666-5850 Vermilion Hotel Cook, MN 218-666-2272 Wilbert Café & El Toro Lounge Cotton, MN 218-482-3318 Eagle Lake Plumbing Cromwell, MN 218-644-3010 Bowstring Shores Resort Deer River, MN 218-832-3101 Outpost Bar and Grill Deer River, MN 218-246-9868 Riley’s Cannibal Jct Deer River, MN 218-832-3656 El Oasis Del Norte Duluth, MN 218-464-0824 Effie Country Service Effie, MN 218-743-3616 Neighborhood Tavern, LLC. Effie, MN 218-743-3286 Dan’s Garage Ely, MN 218-235-1625

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Ely Chamber Of Commerce Ely, MN 218-365-6123

Visit Grand Rapids Grand Rapids, MN 218-326-9607

√Grand Ely Lodge Ely, MN 218-365-6565

Wildwood Resort Grand Rapids, MN 218-328-5858

Joe’s Marine & Repair Inc Ely, MN 218-365-6264

International Falls CVB International Falls, MN 218-283-9401

Kuehl’s Logging LLC Ely, MN 218-365-5504

Island View Lodge International Falls, MN 218-286-3511

Paddle Inn Motel Ely, MN 218-365-6036

Rainy Lake One Stop International Falls, MN 218-286-5700

Rock Country Masonry Ely, MN 218-235-3471

Ranier Municipal Liquor International Falls, MN 218-286-3343

5 Seasons Sports Center Inc Eveleth, MN 218-744-5874

The Junction International Falls, MN 218-283-3339

At Your Convenience Eveleth, MN 218-744-1509 BoomTown Woodfire Grill & Brewery Eveleth, MN 218-248-8381 √Iron Range Tourism Bureau Eveleth, MN 218-969-1755 Margies Roosevelt Bar Eveleth, MN 218-744-2121 Super 8 - Eveleth Eveleth, MN 218-297-0782 Timber’s Edge Bar & Grill Eveleth, MN 218-744-2627 Mainline Station Floodwood, MN 218-476-2222 The Event Center Floodwood, MN 218-591-4333 Blackberry Junction Grand Rapids, MN 763-442-8012 √Jig Rock Ranch Grand Rapids, MN 218-244-6797 Mississippi Diamond Jewelers Grand Rapids, MN 218-326-6242

Thunderbird Lodge International Falls, MN 218-286-3151 Up North Builders, Inc. International Falls, MN 218-285-3635 Jensen Concrete Pumping & Services LLC Jacobson, MN 651-230-4663 √Arrowhead Lodge Resort & Outfitters Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2141

Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association

Edge of the Wilderness Realty Marcell, MN 218-832-4000 Lakeside Lumber & Hardware Marcell, MN 218-832-3300 North Star Lake Resort Marcell, MN 218-832-3131 Timberwolf Inn Marcell, MN 218-832-3990 √Bann’s Bar & Restaurant McGregor, MN 218-426-3450 √Big Sandy Lodge & Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-5040 Dependable Demolition McGregor, MN 218-820-0174 Fisherman’s Bay McGregor, MN 218-426-4662 Floe International Inc McGregor, MN 800-336-6337 Glen’s Sign Dezine McGregor, MN 218-426-4009 Grand Timber Bank McGregor, MN 218-768-2410

Blind Pig Tavern Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2310

Hillcrest Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-3323

Border Guide Service Kabetogama, MN 218-324-2430

Mark’s Bar McGregor, MN 218-426-8040

Kec’s Kove Resort Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2841

McGregor Ace Hardware McGregor, MN 218-419-2920

Sandy Point Lodge, Inc Kabetogama, MN 218-875-2615

McGregor Realty McGregor, MN 218-244-7242

The Rocky Ledge Kabetogama, MN 218-875-3481

Meyer’s Service McGregor, MN 218-426-0026

Cedar Point Resort Marcell, MN 218-832-3808

Minnesota National Golf Club & Resort McGregor, MN 218-426-4444

Edge of the Wilderness Lodging Association Marcell, MN 888-754-0011

Northland Parts McGregor, MN 218-768-3132

MnUSA Business Partners School House Café/ The Country House McGregor, MN 218-768-2403 Willeys Marine & Sports McGregor, MN 218-426-4350 √Melrude Whistle Stop Melrude, MN 218-969-5632 City of Mizpah Mizpah, MN

Tavern in the Bay Tower, MN 218-753-8888

Lake Country Foods Emily, MN 218-763-7700

Vermilion Club Tower, MN 218-753-6277

Log Cabin Bar Emily, MN 218-763-2591

C&B Warehouse Virginia, MN 218-741-3103

NAK Machining & Repair Emily, MN 218-838-8795

Edwards Oil Virginia, MN 218-741-9634

Redding’s Sports & Spirits Emily, MN 218-763-2191

Mizpah Community Events Mizpah, MN REGION

Fisher’s Petroleum, Inc. Northome, MN 218-897-5249

3

Northland Progressive Inc. Northome, MN

Brothers Motorsports Baxter, MN 218-829-6656

Northome Grocery Northome, MN 218-897-5261

√Cragun’s Resort Brainerd, MN 800-272-4867

Northome Municipal Liquor Northome, MN 218-897-9501

Green Lantern Bar & Grill Brainerd, MN 218-764-2323

√Oveson’s Pelican Lake Resort & Inn Orr, MN 218-757-3613 MJ’s Lodge & Resort Pengilly, MN 218-885-1093 Boondocks Bar & Grill Ray, MN 218-875-2700 Swan River Redeye Swan River, MN 218-492-4512 Hayslips Corner Talmoon, MN 218-832-3516 City of Tamarack Tamarack, MN 218-768-0975 Meld Electric Tamarack, MN 320-267-8918 √Fortune Bay Resort Casino Tower, MN 218-753-6400 Lake Vermilion House Boats Inc Tower, MN 218-753-3548

√Kavanaugh’s Resort Brainerd, MN 218-829-5226 The Barn Inn at Solid Rock Browerville, MN 218-296-1205 Canvasworks Inc SnoCaps Cokato, MN 320-559-0165 Lincoln Area Business Association Cushing, MN 800-462-0203 Hansen Sports on Bay Lake Deerwood, MN 218-678-2051 Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge Deerwood, MN 218-678-2885

Ryder Loon Lodge LLC Emily, MN 612-801-9687 The Pickled Loon Saloon Emily, MN 218-763-4402 √Wigwam Motel Emily, MN 218-763-2995 Lake Country Properties Emily, MN 218-763-3800 Castaways Bar, Restaurant & Camp Isle, MN 320-684-2380 Fishers Resort Isle, MN 320-684-2221 Zorbaz on Gull Lake Shore, MN 218-963-4790

“√” Denotes Show Your Card Member Discount New Business Partner highlighted in yellow RE/MAX Results - Alex Hartmann Remer, MN 651-334-5000 Lund Manufacturing / Sledbed Royalton, MN 320-584-4800 √AmericInn of Sauk Centre Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-2800 √Centre Powersports & Marine Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-7669 Country Cat Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-4481 Phil Polipnick Insurance Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-6171

Hoffbeck Electric and Design Nisswa, MN218-963-9568 Re/Max Results - Denise Beneke Outing, MN 612-269-3490

Marshall Machine Shop Marshall, MN 507-532-3613 New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce New Ulm, MN 507-233-4300

Union Hill Bar & Grill New Prague, MN 952-758-4239

Millers Market St. Charles, MN 507-932-3760

Hugo’s Bar Brimson, MN 218-848-2220

Tony’s Grain Systems and Buildings Winnebago, MN 507-525-5800

BJ’s Bar & Grill Theilman, MN 507-534-3590

Country Corner Bar Brookston, MN

Brewskies Bar & Grill Utica, MN 507-932-3485 D & M Body Shop Inc Waseca, MN 507-835-5480

Caledonia Lumber Caledonia, MN 507-725-3381 4

Elba Valley Express Elba, MN 507-932-5489

Grover Farm Amboy, MN 507-381-7385

Tony’s Saloon Elba, MN 507-932-4969

Holiday Inn Fairmont, MN 507-238-4771

S&A Petroleum Lanesboro, MN 507-467-2121

Visit Fairmont Fairmont, MN 507-235-8585

Lake Front Bar & Grill Le Center, MN Little Dandy Sports Bar Le Center, MN

Anderson Carpet Service Elk River, MN

Thomas Sno Sports Ogilvie, MN 320-556-3467

C & A Pro Skis Hutchinson, MN 320-587-7707

ERX Motor Park Elk River, MN 763-722-4977

Reds Storage Outing, MN 218-513-3635

Fahey Flooring Le Sueur, MN

Brewster’s Bar & Grill Lonsdale, MN 507-744-2370

Emily Ace Hardware Emily, MN 218-763-2691

Mavericks Saloon Pine City, MN 320-629-6299

County Line Ag Madelia, MN 507-380-9015

Rail 19 Bar & Grill Lonsdale, MN 507-744-5528

Frank’s Resort Emily, MN 218-763-2246

Waste Partners Pine River, MN 218-587-8727

Southern MN High Pressure Piping Madelia, MN 507-621-0177

King’s Bar & Grill Miesville, MN 651-437-1418

October 2025

Billy’s Bar & Grill Duluth, MN 218-525-4720 Blue Max Duluth, MN 218-721-4255

Wildhurst Lodge & Campgrounds Inc Finland, MN 218-353-7337 Johnson Supply Co. Hermantown, MN 218-722-1717 Weis Eye Center, PA Hermantown, MN 218-625-1917 √Knotted Pine Inn & Tavern Isabella, MN 218-323-7681 Moose Country Tile & Stone Lutsen, MN Trailside Lounge & Grill, Inc Meadowlands, MN 218-427-2773 Hoss Construction Saginaw, MN 218-393-4261

Breeze Inn Duluth, MN 218-525-2883

LaBerge Logging & Contracting Silver Bay, MN 218-226-3586

Do North Sportsmen’s Edition Duluth, MN 218-721-3568

√AmericInn By Wyndham Tofte Tofte, MN 218-663-7899

6

Hi Banks Resort Duluth, MN 888-924-3355

American Legion Post 109 Two Harbors, MN 218-834-4141

Anoka Area Chamber Anoka, MN 763-421-7130

Jauss Properties Duluth, MN 218-728-4523

Caliber, Inc. Burnsville, MN 952-985-9999

Marshall Hardware Duluth, MN 218-525-3638

√AmericInn by Wyndham - Two Harbors Two Harbors, MN 218-834-3000

Max Steininger Inc. Eagan, MN 651-454-6620

Outlaw Services LLC Duluth, MN 218-343-0689

√Northway Sports East Bethel, MN 763-413-8988

Pequaywan Inn Duluth, MN 218-848-2201

MESC I Triplefest Hugo, MN 651-392-7185

Sheet Metal Solutions Duluth, MN 218-721-4424

√Chopper City Sports Fridley, MN 763-572-2100

Crooked Lake Resort Finland, MN 218-220-0211

Hardline Exteriors LLC Lakeville, MN 651-242-4740

Friends of Finland Finland, MN 218-353-0300

√Lighthouse Motorsports & Marine Rosemount, MN 651-322-4420

Trestle Inn Finland, MN 218-830-0523

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters Whalan, MN 507-467-9000

Mauers Bros. Tavern Altura, MN 507-932-9957

REGION

7

√Spicer Sports & Marine Spicer, MN 320-796-2185

United Employees Credit Union Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616

Westside Sports Wadena, MN 218-631-1113

REGION

√Sette Sports Center Inc Owatonna, MN 507-451-6922 √Beaver Bay Sports Beaver Bay, MN 218-226-4666

5

Ross Seelhammer Plumbing Wadena, MN 218-371-1623

√Century Power Sports Stillwater, MN 651-439-2035

Preston Equipment Co. Preston, MN 507-765-3803

REGION

ATV Minnesota Stacy, MN 800-442-8826

St. Patrick’s Tavern & Restaurant New Prague, MN 952-758-2380

√Nelson Tours Spicer, MN 320-894-5839

Winters Recreation Sauk Centre, MN 320-351-7533

The Trailer Center Long Prairie, MN 320-732-6161 Friendly Inn of Lincoln Motley, MN 218-575-3295

Action Sports Inc Marshall, MN 507-532-9649

Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association

REGION

Castle Haven, Inc Two Harbors, MN 218-834-4303 Cooperative Light & Power Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2226 Harbor Insurance Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2114 KAZ Contracting Service Two Harbors, MN 218-576-7759 Lovin’ Lake County Two Harbors, MN 218-595-2800 Sonju Two Harbors Sports Center Two Harbors, MN 218-414-7639 Superior Hiking Trail Assn Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2700 29

MnUSA Business Partners

“√” Denotes Show Your Card Member Discount New Business Partner highlighted in yellow

Friederichs Auctions Minneapolis, MN 763-591-1642

Brothers Market Alexandria, MN 320-762-8121

T.S. Recreational, Inc Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-3033

Lakeside Seed Company Herman, MN 320-677-8008

√Lakes Inn at Dunvilla Pelican Rapids, MN 218-863-8000

MWO Media Burr Ridge, IL 630-887-7722

Wrico Stamping Company of MN Minneapolis, MN 763-559-2288

Ollie’s Service Alexandria, MN 320-763-4455

Venom Products, LLC Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-3283

DHS Grain Ltd. Hoffman, MN 320-986-2467

Cajun Tie Downs Inc Crowley, LA 866-794-9932

Winning Edge Graphics Alexandria, MN 320-763-7953

Donnelly Co-Op Donnelly, MN 320-246-3555

Alsager Meats LLLP Audubon, MN 218-439-6909

AgCountry Farm Credit Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-5311

Runestone Telecom Association Hoffman, MN 320-986-2013

√Grandstay Hotel & Suites - Perham Perham, MN 218-346-2033

Pit 611 Audubon, MN 218-439-6121

Farmers Agency Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-6880

Tender Hearts Home Care New York Mills, MN 218-385-3466

Doherty’s Tavern Prior Lake, MN 952-447-9010

Spud’s Small Engine Service & Repair Barrett, MN 320-528-2299

Grant County Lumber Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-5321

Warner Garage Door New York Mills, MN 218-385-2853

Schlemmer Electric Bloomington, MN 612-296-6000

O’Brien’s Public House Shakopee, MN 952-217-5490

Battle Lake Inn Battle Lake, MN 218-862-2500

Haley Oil Company Elbow Lake, MN 218-685-4466

54K LLC Norcross, MN

Idea Builders LLC Golden Valley, MN 612-245-8040

Hollywood Sports Complex Watertown, MN 952-955-2424

Bleachers Sports Bar & Grill Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844-6820

Superior Shores Resort Two Harbors, MN TH Auto Inc. Two Harbors, MN 218-834-6167 Two Harbors Federal Credit Union Two Harbors, MN 218-834-2266

REGION

8

Belle Plaine Equipment Sales Belle Plaine, MN 612-902-2773

Kassbohrer ATV Pisten Bully Jordan, MN 952-345-3330 Ox Yoke Inn Maple Plain, MN 763-479-2522

The Doublewide New Market, MN 952-461-3682 √Dent Werks PDR Plymouth, MN 612-599-7719 Charlie’s on Prior Prior Lake, MN 952-226-5253

REGION

9

Business Partner

Detroit Lakes Express Inc Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-8049 Okeson Offtrail Sales Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-9304

Midwest Machinery Elbow Lake, MN 218-332-0550 Frontier Marine & Powersports Fergus Falls, MN 218-998-4386 AJ’s Gas & Grocery Herman, MN 320-677-2300

Duane Rau Trucking Kensington, MN

Joe’s Backhoe Ottertail, MN 218-371-6923 Ottertail Aggregate Ottertail, MN 218-367-2581 Voltedge Electric Ottertail, MN 218-637-3725

New Horizons Realty Perham, MN 218-346-7767 Perham Area Chamber of Commerce Perham, MN 218-346-7710 Steve’s Sanitation Perham, MN 218-346-4834 United Community Bank Perham, MN 218-346-5700 Ruther Excavating Inc. Richville, MN 218-298-1477 Farmers Cooperative Oil Association Wendell, MN 218-685-4491 OTHER MEMBERS V & V Insurance Agency Inc Cresco, IA 563-547-2161

AmericInn of Calumet Calumet, MI 906-934-6115 Stud Boy Traction Ravenna, MI 231-853-2323 ArcticFX Washington, MI 586-786-9851 Simonson Station Stores, Inc. Grand Forks, ND 701-772-3971 Texas Crossing Bar & Grill Wahpeton, ND 701-642-1991 Absolute Insurance West Fargo, ND 701-365-0515 Custom Manufacturing Clinton, WI 608-676-2282

Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association

Ultimate Snow Groomer Drags Galesville, WI 608-539-4600 Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Assn.

Hayward, WI Lulich Implement Mason, WI 715-746-2477 Track Inc - Tucker Sno-Cat Dealer Monico, WI 952-888-7372 Arrowhead Groomers/ Hamblen Equipment St Germain, WI 715-479-4200 √Marsh’s View Point Resort Wascott, WI 715-466-2447 √Wyoming High Country Lodge Lovell, WY 307-529-0914 Northwest Outlet Inc Superior, WI

This month...

SPOTLIGHT If snowmobiling is your winter passion, make Thief River Falls, Minnesota, your next destination. Known as the proud home of Arctic Cat, this snowmobiling hub offers everything riders crave— endless trails, deep snow, and small-town charm. Arctic Cat was born here, and is still part of the community today, reinforcing the area’s deep connection to the sport.

Thief River Falls boasts an impressive network of wellmaintained snowmobile trails stretching across scenic landscapes. With fewer crowds in the winter months, the trails remain perfectly groomed and ready for riders seeking adventure without the traffic.

After a day on the trails, warm up in one of the town’s cozy lodges, grab a bite at local restaurants, and explore unique shops that offer everything from gear to gifts.

30

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer ride, the community offers welcoming accommodations and everything you need to make your trip seamless.

Skip the busy resorts and overcrowded routes this season—experience the thrill of snowmobiling where it all began. In Thief River Falls, the snow is deep, the trails are open, and the ride is waiting.

For maps, lodging, and local tips: www.visittrf.com.

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Pork chops are back! Easy I-94 access Trail ride both days

Silent & live auction

Fashion show

Ballroom display

Judged sled show

Swap Meet

MWVSS.COM

New in-stock sleds arriving daily!

Now is the time to service your sled for the upcoming season.

Call your local

dealer to schedule a maintenance appointment.

Chopper Powersports Fridley 763-572-2100 Chopperpowersports.com

Chopper Powersports Maple Plain 763-479-3719 Chopperpowersports.com

Duluth Lawn & Sport Duluth 218-628-3718 duluthlawnandsport.com Podein’s Power Equipment Stewartville 507-533-8841 podeinspowerequipment.com

Davis Motorsports Delano 763-972-5045 davismotorsportsdelano.com

Hansen Sports on Bay Lake Deerwood 218-678-2051 hansensonbaylake.com

Ray’s Sport & Cycle Grand Rapids 218-326-9355 rayssportandcycle.com

Stacy Hardware & Powersports Stacy 651-462-4342 stacyhardware.com

WARNING: Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris® recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.