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contents.

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RIDING THE EDGE OSM RIDES EXPLORERS EDGE

WHITE GOLD TOURING NEW BRUNSWICK

MAPS

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58 ONTARIO

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128 NEW BRUNSWICK

B105

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CANADIAN SNOWCROSS RACING ASSOCIATION SNOWCROSS.COM

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CSRA RACE TOUR PROGRAM

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Advertising Sales: 1-888-661-7469 Sr. Manager Sales & Marketing: Matt Clark Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Cody Speares Administrative Assistant: Sarah Day Photographers: Todd Williams, Brett Moist, Aaron Belford, Gracey Dove, Joe Wiegele, Lissa Marsolek, Steve Hamilton, CJ Ramstad Archives, Jason MacDonald Contributing Writers: Levi LaVallee, Jason MacDonald, Matt Clark, Justin York, Tyler Swarm, Suzy Stenoff, Darren Desautels, Ross Antworth, Dale Cormican, Jacob Travers, Jordan Hammack Subscriptions 1-888-661-7469 or info@osmmag.com OSM is published six times a year by OSM Publishing Ltd. Office address and undelivered copies and change of address notice is: PO Box 551, 27083 Kennedy Road, Willow Beach, ON L0E 1S0, Canada. Telephone (905) 722-6766. Printed in Canada by: Dollco, a divisions of Lowe-Martin Group • Copyright 2015 OSM Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. Subscription rates for magazine (includes Trail Map Atlas) $19.00 per year, $29.00 for 2 years. $37.00 for 3 years.

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DRIFTS

Winter is here

W

inter is here; lakes and ponds are tightening up, the snow has started to accumulate and the groomers will soon be busy rolling the trails for us.

We’ve attended many fall events across North America and the enthusiasm has been up. It’s great to see going in to Winter 2016. If you haven’t already planned a ride this year, or are wondering where to ride, this edition of OSM is a great starting point when planning your winter. We rode some incredible rides last year and you’ll read about some of them in this issue.

Maybe this season you’d like to experience a new area, new trails and and editorials featured on many areas, idea of what is available. Having maps new hospitalities. Or visit the same rides and you can map out your sledding together in one magazine makes it you’ve always enjoyed. There are maps excursions; check trails to give you an pretty easy to reference. The guys have some great products available for you to look at in the Nomad Buyer’s Guide.

Also included in this issue of OSM is the 2016 CSRA Race Program. If you’re interested in Snowcross racing, or thinking about giving it a try, all the details on how to and when to register are within the program. Remember • Located right on Trail 7 • Indoor saltwater pool, sauna you’re never too old to be in the winner’s • Book online • Free wifi circle on the podium! The CSRA has classes for everyone. Check one out • Resort rooms, chalets • Includes dinner and breakfast this winter and visit their website and villas • Secure trailer and sled parking snowcross.com As the lakes continue freeze, and more snow falls, get out and ride and enjoy the winter of 2016. If you’re ever riding around Lake Simcoe in Willow Beach, Ontario, we invite you to visit our office and warm up, there’s always a pot of coffee and water at our office. It’s minutes from the trails on Lake Simcoe.

We are also updating our website www.osmmag.com twitter @OsmMag and Facebook daily with new excursions and adventures that we’ve ridden or are planning to ride throughout the year. So sit back and enjoy, plan a trip and read RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTRE about some of the great places to ride. pinestone-resort.com | 1-800-461-0357 | Haliburton ON Hope to see you out on the trails this season! J

Sledders Package

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

RIDE LIFE TO THE FULLEST Explore the possibilities at ontariotravel.net/goride

onsnow osmmag.com

Story and Ph

otos by Mat

t Clark

At OSM we ar e always look ing for somet a new loop w hing new to as being deve do. When we loped, startin riding North th got word that g in the region rough Explorer of Muskoka O s Edge, the O jumped in the ntario, and SM ride crew truck and mad of Jeff, Mike, e tracks to th but remembe Dan and Matt e region. This r that the wor loop is called d ‘Big’ is differ distance of th the Big Loop, ent for every e loop is 589 in dividual sledde kms, so wheth your comfortab r. The total er it is ‘Big’ or le km/day is. H not, is really ba ere at OSM, w Loop because se d on what e would describ it is located w e this more as ithin hours of of “hidden ge a Gateway the GTA, and m” trails that it takes you th give you the up amazing am rough a loop feeling of rem enities and ac ot e wilderness, bu commodation you wouldn’t t still offers s. This loop w usually visit, sh ill take you to ould you find pl known as Expl ac es we’d bet yourself in th orers Edge, al e beautiful ar l easily access a relaxed few ea of Ontario ible by the aver days out on th age sledder th e trail. at is looking fo r

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Edgewater loves sledders

“

Yes, this place is next level. It should be noted that there is no licensed bar directly in the hotel, but not to worry

The itinerary was set, and our drive was a short one for us from our offices in Jackson’s Point to The Residence Inn Marriot in Gravenhurst ON, which would be our home base for the loop. I have stayed in a lot of

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

Above: There are three types of guys that investigate ice caves: The one that stays outside, the one that stands up, and lastly “The Blakoe” who crouches own and really investigates. Which one are you?

hotels, and trust me, The Residence Inn is certainly set-up for sledders. There is a lot of parking for truck and trailers, making it a perfect spot to start the loop, and the rooms are chocked full of amenities like fridge, microwave, Free WIFI, separate bedrooms, a living room and two TVs. Yes, this place is next level. It should be noted that there is no licensed bar directly in the hotel, but not to worry, there’s a local beer store in town if you want to hang out in your apartment-type rooms. Also, it’s a very short walk down the pier to the local Boston Pizza, where the staff is always friendly, and for sure you’ll run into

fellow sledders to chat with at the bar.

Day One The first day would have us leaving the Marriott under a brisk -26°C morning, to make our way through Huntsville for lunch, and ending up at the Edgewater Resort for the night. As we unloaded the trailers to get the sleds ready, we knew that it was going to be a cold one. It was one of those days that there is not a cloud in the sky and the snow is crunchy.

It was crazy cold! Leaving the Marriott, you head out the driveway and hook up with the main trail that runs through Gravenhurst. Head

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Some cool scenery along the way

left and follow the trail through the town. Gas is a short 10 min ride to the local Canadian Tire gas bar, which is accessible directly from the trail. The local trail number is C101D that takes you through town towards the D trail, and takes about 15min to get out of town.

After you hit the D, the most part of this trail is wide-wooded sweeping trails, with a few really fast straightaways. Our tour had us stopping in Huntsville for lunch, and following the signs off on the main D trail into the town limits is a breeze. There are several spots to stop for lunch on trail, and knowing the area well, we decided to stop at the famous 3 Guys One Stove restaurant, located off of Fairly Lake. To find this place, you follow the 88 trail and get on the lake in Huntsville. At approximately half way down, you need to veer left and there is a small local trail. There are no signs for the restaurant on trail, but you will see it on the shoreline. If you are not comfortable, then you can stop at a few other local locations, as there are a ton of options right in Huntsville. After lunch, head back out onto the lake and make your way across the stakes to hook back up with the main trail towards Sprucedale, then

“

The menu has been completely updated and offers a lot of different options

onto Kearny. After lunch is a really nice ride that is about 70kms long, so it’s a leisurely ride to dinner. Once you get into Kearny, we made our way to the Edgewater Resort, which is located directly on Sand Lake, and is #1 on the district 11 map. The resort is still 30kms outside of Kearny, but not to worry, the signage to get in is over the top and you can’t miss the Edgewater Resort.

Edgewater resort totally caters to sledders.

After checking in and a few après sledding beverages, you can walk back to your room, change for dinner and get back to the restaurant for a really good meal. The menu has been completely updated and offers a lot of different options. The staff is absolutely amazing and friendly and will chat sledding with you, as they all ride as well. Take note,

they do like to close the restaurant around 8:00-9:00pm, so if you want to make it a late night, you will need to bring extra beverages.

However, after putting down 160kms in the fresh air, I’m not sure you are going to need too many.

Day Two After breakfast at Edgewater, (which opens at 8:00am) we headed out to check out the much talked about scenic ice caves that are located a short ride from the resort. The trail into the caves is about 9km from Edgewater, and is really easy to find with lots of signs. It is a one-way-in/one-way-out trail, so round trip you are looking about 18kms to see them, and it should not be missed if you are in the area. The caves themselves are a really cool ice formation that happens as the water freezes while rolling down the Canadian Shield. You can actually climb in and great some great photos for your snowmobile album. After the caves, we started our way to lunch into Port Loring, then onto the Whitestone Lake Resort for Dinner. It was during this part of the loop that the crew at OSM realized just how much we have stumbled

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The bar/lounge at the Whitestone Lake Resort is…just…epic…

“

We tip our helmets to the passion of the signage couple, and we must say, the effort does not go unnoticed.

across some ‘hidden gem’ trials. This portion of the loop takes you along the D Trail, and then across the C105 out of Sundridge, towards your lunch stop in Port Loring. The trails are double wide, and a mixture of some fast straights and fun sweeping trails. The signage along this route is over the top, and after stopping at Jake’s Place for lunch we discovered why. At lunch we had the pleasure to meet the owner, (yes Jake) who is also the local club president who explained to us, after our raving reviews about the signage, that it is done by a local couple in their 70’s who, if you can imagine, put out a total of 1490 signs every year. We tip our helmets to the passion of the signage couple, and we must say, the effort does not go unnoticed.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

After lunch we decided to take the staked lake trail out of Port Loring and hook up with the 501 local trail towards the 510, back south to the Whitestone Resort. This part of the loop was a lot of fun and for about 14kms, you are dip-diving and dodging through the woods and skipping over about five different lakes. We all commented that it was old school sledding and a ton of fun. You don’t have many kms to put down after lunch, so take your time and enjoy this part. After playing through that part of the trail, you will find a single track, alpine trail that, if you are an old time sledder, will take you back to your youth when every trail was like this trail. Single track, tons of different corners, and drop offs that make you feel like you are a kid again. At the end of the 605, you pop out onto Whitestone Lake, and immediately to the right, when you are on the lake is the lodge.

The Whitestone Lake Lodge is another great gem we found on this tour. The Main Lodge is over the top with its eight lake view rooms, and a large open lounge and full service restaurant that completely caters to your needs after a long day out on the trails. The staff is really

friendly and chef gets a solid two thumbs up from us. The lodge does like to close the bar and restaurant down at 8pm, so there is no late night at the bar. However, the rooms are extremely comfortable with separate living rooms, so getting together with the lads after dinner is totally do-able.

Day Three The previous night had dumped over 8 inches of fresh powder, so we were excited to get rolling. Breakfast starts at 9am at Whitestone, so if you are an early riser like us and want to get rolling before 9am, we suggest you fire across the lake and stop in at The Duck Nest for breakfast. It is literally a 7 min blast down the lake; the food is good and the coffee is hot. This day would have us heading back down south along the C101 towards MacTier. These trails are a lot of fun and remember, we had the snow gods on our side, so we were literally making fresh tracks down the fast wooded trails. The trail is an epic run of wide sweeping forest trails that will not disappoint. After coming down the C101, you

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Whitestone Lake Resort does not disappoint.

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THE PIONEER 1000 MOTOR IS BUILT TO BE BOTH SMOOTH AND PRODUCTIVE, EQUALLY IDEAL FOR BOTH WORK AND PLAY.

connect up with the C103D which is part of the Sequin Trail, and we like to refer to this as the Autobahn of the region. We met up with a group of fellow travelers at the 201 junction, and based on the beaming smiles they had on their faces, we decided to take that trail off the Sequin, and it would take us directly to our lunch spot at Memories of Muskoka. Located

directly at the junction of Trail C, Memories is easy to find, and if you are in the area, it should not be missed. The place has a really cool vibe and the food is really good.

From lunch it’s an easy ride to the final destination, H&H resort, where we would bed down for the night. The trails from the lunch stop to overnight is not long at all, but is a

A Sledders’ Moment: Following animal tracks down an untouched groomed trail in the early part of the morning.

If you have not experienced it, you just don’t understand it.

really cool, tight, windy forest trail that helps you work off the massive lunch you just had at Memories. The H&H Restaurant and Resort has a friendly family atmosphere, and is run by the Sieglar and Klein families. It offers up a few room options, from either motel-style overlooking the lake, or if available, there is a two bedroom cottage. Here is a travel hint: Leo the chef is insanely good. He is going to cook you up some German cuisine that will literally change your world. May we suggest you go off the menu and order the Rouladen? Now, again as we have found in this region, the restaurant closes at 8:00pm and cannot offer you après beverages to your room. This is not a big deal, however. If you like to tip a few cold ones after dinner, then you are going to need to be packing your own roomies.

Day Four The last day is an easy 65kms back from H&H to the truck and trailer parked in Gravenhurst. Ultimately, this could be an optional day if you want to skip the last night and get rolling, or do what we did and take an easy morning ride back, load up the truck and trailer, and be back in Toronto mid-afternoon. It ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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Ride Guide:

Explorers Edge: www.RideTheEdge.ca OFSC District 7, OFSC District 5 and OFSC District 11 The Residence Inn Marriot Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf 285 Steamship Bay Rd Gravenhurst ON P: 705-687-6600 W: www.marriott.com

Enter to

Win! Three (3) night Stay Breakfast Each Morning Dinner Each Night

PLUS $100.00 in Gift Tokens

Residence Inn Gravenhurst was our home base

all depends on your schedule. The trail back is very easy to navigate and has some really cool elevation changes along the hydro lines. When you get into town limits, the signage is a breeze to get back to the Residence Inn, to where your truck is waiting.

After spending four days on this loop, you truly get the feeling that you have traveled some really great wilderness trails. However, not once did you get the feeling of being way off the grid. We understand that this is a big thing for some snowmobilers. The area you cover on this loop is a perfect mixture that makes you feel like you are riding in a remote area, but still in touch with all amenities needed on a sled trip. All in all, this is a leisurely paced loop that takes you to great places along amazing trails, to meet really good people. Who could ask for anything more?

A Special Thanks to everyone along the loop.

Check out the Ride Guide below for complete details of places we stayed and ate.

Boston Pizza Gravenhurst 1100 Bay St. Gravenhurst ON P: 705-684-8024 W: www.bostonpizza.com

Edgewater Park Lodge 45 Edgewater Park Road RR#1 Kearney ON P: 705-636-5683 W: www.edgewaterparklodge.com E: info@edgewaterparklodge.com

Jake’s Place Port Loring, ON P: 705-757-2012 W: www.jakesrestaurant.ca E: j.weller@sympatico.ca Jake and Donna Weller Whitestone Lake Resort 406 Whitestone Lake Road Dunchurch, ON P: 877-430-0034 W: www.whitestonelakeresort.com E: info@whitestonelakeresort.com The Duck Nest 2097 Hwy 124 Dunchurch, ON P: 705-389-3322

Visit the OSM facebook for complete details and entry form!

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

Memories Of Muskoka 1200 Lake Joseph Rd Parry Sound, ON P: 705-378-0200 H&H Restaurant & Resort 60 Kapikog Lake Road MacTier, ON P: 705-375-5323 W: www.hhresort.ca E: hhresort@rogers.com

1:16PM The moment your snowmobile ride made you forget everything else.

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CENTRE Polaris recommends thatallallsnowmobile snowmobileriders riders take take aa training training course.

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19890 Highway 11, Box 1240, Bradford, ON S HUR BAT

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Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2015 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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LET YOUR SLED BE BLACK AND BLUE, NOT YOU 19890 Highway 11, 19890 1 989 890 0 Hi High Highway ghwa way y 11, 11Box Box Bo1240, 1240, 1240 12 40Bradford, Bradford, Bradfo Brad ford rdONON

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WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA WWW.EDGEPERFORMANCE.CA HWY 11 HWY 11

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CENTRE CENTRE Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt

Polaris recommends snowmobile riders a training course.

Do not attempt maneuvers beyond that yourall capability.

Always weartake a helmet and other safety apparel. maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel.

Never drink and ride. ©2015 Polaris Industries Inc. Never drink and ride. ©2014 Polaris Industries Inc.

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PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE

TERRAIN DOMINATION TerrainDomination.com

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Brand new cabins with drive up parking is a nice touch

The decision was made to make the Wilson’s Sporting Camp our home base, to do a couple of days exploring the region through the center of the province.

The drive to Wilson’s from our office in Willow Beach ON is an easy 14 hours, or in sledder terms, two tanks of gas and 4 bags of beef jerky. Wilson’s Sport Lodge is absolutely perfect for a group of sledders to use as either a starting point for a saddle-bag trip, or what we did; use it as home base and do a few loops around the lodge. The snowmobile trail literally runs out the back door of Wilson’s lodge, and the owners Keith and Bonnie have truly created a sledder haven. The lodge is located directly on the Miramachi River and has been in operation for over five generations. Originally built as a fishing camp, today the lodge boasts three amazing river cottages that have a modern feel and top-notch amenities.

The cottages offer several different bedroom and bed options that work for any size group. There are even rooms available with fully working kitchens and

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an available BBQ, so you can impress your buddies with your grilling skills. A really nice touch we noticed was the heated floors. Yup, that’s right! After a long day out on the trails, you can kick off those boots and enjoy a relaxing beverage, all on toasty warm floors…kinda’ next level.

The main cabin has been completely redone, with a licensed bar and a kitchen that produced some of the best meals we have had out on the road. After a full day on the trails, you can walk up to the main cabin, relax by the fire and recap the amazing trails you just rode.

The first day of our New Brunswick adventure had us starting out on the 42 trail, (again that runs literally through the resort) towards Fredericton, which would be our lunch destination. Kyle Good, trail manager of the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs and Keith Wilson would be our guides for the day, and they took us along the river through some pretty amazing views. The first thing you notice when you are riding the trails in New Brunswick is how much

After a full day on the trails, you can walk up to the main cabin, relax by the fire and recap the amazing trails you just road. effort goes into the trail signage and just how easy it is to navigate the region. The second thing you notice, (see the subtitle of this story) is how fast the trails are. New Brunswick has no speed limits.

There we said it. We were trying to find a way to explain this aspect of the trail system in a way that would be politically correct, but honesty seems to be the best method. Let’s say that again; there are no speed limits in New Brunswick.

The no-limits however, does not give you the right to ride beyond your abilities and ride dangerously. Remember, these trails are going to take you through some pretty remote areas, and if you blow a corner because you were going to fast, it will result in a long afternoon of getting back. The trail 42 into Fredericton is a

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mixture of fast, swooping trails through the woods, which offers up some pretty amazing vista views along the river. The run to lunch is not a big haul, and takes you from trail 42 to trail 15, and onto the 720 that brings you directly into the city limits. If you take your time, it is the perfect distance to see some really

The NBFSC takes signage VERY seriously.

cool views, have some fun squeezing the throttle through the woods, and then stopping at the clubhouse, that conveniently had a drag track staged out front from the weekend before. Yes that’s right, we found a drag track which, in good conscience could not ignore. Yes, we did some speed runs, and no, we will

The trail 42 into Fredericton is a mixture of fast swooping trails through the woods, which offers up some pretty amazing vista views along the river.

Fully functionally clubhouses are a common sight. Having a drag strip out front…. that’s New Brunswick style.

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not tell you what sled was the fastest – that’s for another story. After working up an appetite, it was a straight shot to lunch at the Ramada, and after that, an easy ride back to the lodge that gets you in early for dinner. Upon arriving back to the lodge, we all enjoyed some après beverages in the main cabin, and ate like kings in the restaurant. We were joined for dinner by Ross Antwerth, General Manager of the NBFSC, who was going to guide us the next day through the center of the province, through the Christmas Mountains. The theme around dinner was “Get ready boys for some fast trails tomorrow”, and as we adjourned back to our cabins for a good night sleep, we really didn’t realize just how fast those trails would be.

The second day had us up early and eating breakfast in the main cabin.

Today’s guide was Ross, and we would also be joined by Keith’s son Kyle (who is 6th generation at the lodge) to make our way up into NBFSC trail #58, which is the southern entrance to the Mt. Carleton/Christmas Mountains. Ross explained to us that this area is being developed, with newly added groomed trails in the very near future. The idea is to add more groomers that will be left in the center of the region that can groom more trails out. This is going to open up a snowmobile playground of off-trail riding that is accessed by really fast, groomed trails. Upon the printing of this story, the groomers have already been delivered into the region.

After breakfast and some more discussion around what we were about to witness on these trails, we were loaded and ready to ride. The day was one of those perfect blue-sky days, with the mercury hovering just above freezing, so getting up-and-at-it was a breeze. We left the Lodge on trail 42, then hooked up with #58, which would take us to our old friend Alyre Marquis’s Serpentine Lodge for lunch. As we got into the heart of the region we soon realized that - a) just how amazing this trail was, and b) that all of the bar banter from the night before was not one bit of exaggeration.

It has been said, since this trip and many times afterwards, that this had to have been some of the best snowmobiling we

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After breakfast and some more discussion around what we were about to witness on these trails, we were loaded and ready to ride. at OSM have ever done. That’s a bold statement we know, but it is all true. The trails are groomed doublewide, and then the woods are cut back off the edge of the trail another 6 feet, which offers up a complete view of the landscape. These trails are extremely fast, but not “rail line” boring fast. What we mean by that is, if you have ever rallied down a rail line, which is dead-nut straight, there comes a time (and we hate to say it) when you tend to lose interest. It gets boring right?

Well we can say with 100% confidence that these trails are anything but boring.

The turns are gradual, which can be taken at speed, and as you are cruising down the trail, you pass through some epic elevation changes, with hills that will literally take your breath away. These trails can be ridden at any speed you are comfortable with, and we guarantee you will not be disappointed. It is not often that you see grown men, after riding 100kms (60miles) of trails, stop, get off their sled, and high-five each other out of pure adrenaline and joy. Heck, there may have even been some hugging. That’s right, these trails are so good they had grown men hugging it out. That is what snowmobiling in New Brunswick is all about.

The main lodge has some serious relax-mojo going on.

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The trail out of Wilson’s Sport Lodge follows some amazing views along the Miramichi River

Moose are a big thing in New Brunswick, so are the wild life gates.

The view from the Serpentine lodge.

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Last picture of the day caused major debate around the dinner table…Did anyone see the albino deer?

Local 5-0 stopped by to discuss the speed limits…you should hear the answer…

Always a cool one waiting at the end of the day from Keith and Bonnie Wilson

The rooms at Wilson’s Sporting Camp.

They are that good.

Lunch and Gas is at the Serpentine Lodge, which is located off trail #58, after a short run down the snow-covered road. Alyre the owner, is good people and has the two things that sledders need; gas and a hot burger on the grill. He is always at the ready to make sure snowmobilers’ stomachs and gas tanks are always full. Quick note: The Serpentine Lodge is cash only, so make sure you are packing bills with you for both lunch and gas. After lunch, we made our way back out the road and back down the same Trail #58, back to Wilson’s Lodge for dinner.

After a complete day out on the trails, we made our way back to the Wilson’s Sport camp just before sunset. Keith had left us homemade burgers and salads in our cottage, and we utilized the fully stocked kitchen and BBQ to make a home-cooked meal. A quick note as well; we also suggest taking a quick run into town, which is a short 10 minute drive, to stock up on some late-night snacks and well deserved beverages.

The talk around the grill was exactly what you thought it would be. We could not stop talking about how amazing the trails were and just how much fun riding in New Brunswick is. With amazing signage, pristine groomed trails and no limits, the only question remains…”Who gets to go next year?”

Pat heard exclaiming: “… this was the REALLY fast part guys….”

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Reference Guide Trail Map: New Brunswick Federation Of Snowmobile Clubs (NBFSC) 147-B Houlton Rd. Woodstock NB E7M 1Y4 E-Mail: info@nbfsc.com Phone: (506) 325-2625

Wilson’s Sporting Camps Ltd. #23 Big Murphy Lane McNamee, New Brunswick E9C 2P6 Toll Free: 1-877-365-7962 Email: wilsons@nbnet.nb.ca

Serpentine Lodge Alyre Marquis.

Open 24-7 Gas Food Lodging Phone: 506-473-0397

Our good buddy Alyre owner of the Serpentine Lodge always has a warm coffee and hot burger at the ready.

Welcome to a land of snow Over 1100 km of perfectly groomed trails One of the longest SNOWmobile seasonS A world of discovery

Plan your trip now!

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James is a tourism region of Quebec

escapelikeneverbefore.com 1 855 328-2029

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g n i r o l p x E Abitibi-Témiscamingue

ation in t s e D e il b o m w the ultimate sno STORY AND PHOTOS BY MATT CLARK

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W

ith over 350 0 region of A kms of truly amazing bitibi-Témis trails, the camin those you to get th snowmobile destinati gue is one of on e loop. Spend entire Quebec experi s that allows ence in one a few days e notice just epic how divers xploring and you too e the trails will region. From a re Abitibi-Tém wide-open-fast to tigh throughout the tiscamingue can be defi turn-technical, an “Ultimate nitely classifi Snowmobil ed as e Destinati on”.

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Pure snowmobilers like trail diversity. We like to pick our way through winding technical trails, blast down rail lines, and squeeze the throttle through sweeping logging trails. The reason that sledders will plan a year in advance, and spend money to ride in different places is simple; they want something different and new. Abitibi-Témiscamingue in Quebec is a snowmobile destination that will not leave anything left after you check off what you want from your preverbal “Snowmobile Trip Wish List.”

Fellow OSM rider Ian Penny and I had the pleasure to take a few days with Guillaume Travert, of Tourism Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and take in all that the region has to offer. I really appreciate touring with members of the region like Guillaume, as you tend to see more when you ride and learn much more when you stop. After covering over 900kms, it became clear that this is one of those destinations that offers up all sorts of different trail types. Unlike some regions that tend to either be all wooded tight trails, or wide-open rail lines, this loop we took was a perfect mixture of all things snowmobiling.

Getting to the region from our office located near Sutton, Ontario, is an easy 5 ½ hours. Our starting point for the loop would be Le Bannik, located in Duhamel-Ouest. Basically, you drive to North Bay, head north and cross over in Témiscamingue. Once you cross the bridge, you find a big Esso station, built for “billy-big-rigs”, so getting your trailer into the parking lot is a breeze. This makes it a perfect stop to gas up the sleds and truck before you make the trek up into Le Bannik outfitters. The drive from the gas station to the resort is about an hour, and the directions are really easy to follow. There are literally three turns and tons of signage, which will bring you right into the resort.

When you arrive, you immediately notice that Le Bannik is the place to be. There is an over-the-top restaurant with great food and amazing staff. There’s a very modern feel and a cool bar overlooking the water that makes après sledding really nice. The accommodations at Le Bannik consist of high-scale, luxurious cottages that are available for rent. Each chalet has its own kitchen, separate bedrooms, depending on the size, hot tubs, and free Wi-Fi (which is a really nice touch, seeing as you usually don’t even get cell service at a northern outfitter). There is ample room for truck and trailer, which you can leave there if you are planning a few day, saddle bag loop, and if saddle baggn’ is not your thing, then you will definitely want to make Le Bannik home for the duration. La Bannik is located directly on the trail, and is definitely a spot that this guy will return to. The owner and staff are just amazing people.

Inside look at the La Bannik Cabins.

Heated snowmobile parking at La Bannik is a nice touch

Day One We left La Bannik under a balmy -12° morning with a light snow. This day would have us making tracks on the 63 south via Témiscamingue, to hook up with a brand new trail that was just developed this year, to the first over-night destination called Les Guides de la Vallèe Dumoine in Rapides des Joachims. The trail was an amazing mixture of wooded trails and fast logging roads. Right before you get to the town of Témiscamingue we stopped for lunch at a local restaurant/gas station in Kipawa called Migizy Gas. This is one of those local gems you wouldn’t necessarily think to stop at unless someone told you to. It is a great family owned business where the food is home cooked and the staff is great. Here’s a hint: We all had the clubhouse and fries - trust us, you will not be disappointed.

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Cabins at La Bannik

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Main Lodge at Dumoine Valley Guides

Having a Polaris AXYS 800 and a Yamaha Apex for this trip, we were confident, but not crazy, and we packed a couple of 5-liter tanks for the ride.

After lunch, head out across the lake that is staked, and that is when you will find the new trail. The afternoon was a complete blast on the new trail. It takes about 4 hours and this trail is going to give you the thrill you look for in sledding. It is nice and windy, without those crazy hairpin turns that really slow you down. They trail sweeps through the woods with a few really cool elevation points. A really important thing to note is that this new trail from Lunch to Les Guides de la Vallèe Dumoine, in Rapides des Joachims requires a sled that can go over 200km (120 miles) on one tank, or you are going to have to pack some extra go-go juice. Having a Polaris AXYS 800 and a Yamaha Apex for this trip, we were confident, but not crazy, and we packed a couple of 5-liter tanks for the ride.

Just as it was starting to get dark, we made our way to our first over-night location.

Les Guides de la Vallèe Dumoine (Demoine Valley Guides) is located on the shores of the Ottawa River, and has been a family operated business since 1987. The owners Etienne and Kieran Desnoyers are great people, and offer some really personal accommodations.

They love to cater to snowmobilers, and they open their lodge to sledders all season long.

This is very common in Quebec, where the outfitters will literally open their homes, and you can get an amazing home cooked meal and enjoy it in the comfort of the lodge. There is a main lodge and a few cabins that can accommodate up to 16 sledders comfortably.

We all know what sledders love to do after a good day on the trails, so take note that thee Dumoine Valley Guide is not a licensed

establishment. However, a short trip on the sled into town, and you can stock up on a few cans of refreshments and a bottle of your favourite vino for dinner. The lodge has ample room for trailer parking, and is located directly across the river from Ontario, so if you wanted to make it your starting point, they will accommodate parking.

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Respect this sign.

Trust us.

Day Two Day two would see us making tracks out of Rapides-des-Joachims on the 386 north to Val-d’Or. The first part of the trail is windy, wooded trail for about 100kms, perfect to get the blood flowing and the cobwebs out. Not to mention, the temp was a balmy -29°, so it was a bit of a relief not to be running rail bed for the morning warm-up. About 20kms before we reach our lunch destination at La Vérendrye Lodge, the trail opens up to a doublewide, fast sweeping/rolling trail. It lets you squeeze the throttle a little more, and work up an appetite for lunch. Finding the lunch spot is really easy with great signage and a trail that leads right to the front door. The owners Carol, Gilles, Karine and Sylvain will welcome you for a really good home cooked lunch. This is one of those places that you don’t need a menu, just order whatever they are cooking that day and you won’t be disappointed. After lunch we are back on the 386 north. The first part of this trail is some of the best snowmobiling you are going find out there. For the first 120kms, you are going to strap a rubber band on the throttle and hang on. The trail then starts to change from the flat speedway, to some of those stomach flipping rollers that

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Once you leave the gas spot, the trail almost immediately changes shape to a tighter track, with some really crazy up and downs. are this guy’s favourite. You are going to need to stop in Kitcisakik Reserve for gas (that is all that is there). Once you leave the gas spot, the trail almost immediately changes shape to a tighter track, with some really crazy up and downs. If leaving the ground and taking some air is your thing, then you are going to love the next 40kms of this trail. This would be a perfect time to discuss the signage in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. I have to give a serious shout out the amount of signage in this region; the region even signs hills! This particular part of the trail has a lot of hard angle hills that drop off at a serious angle. You start to notice after a few pucker moments on these hills that the sign of a sled making a hard angle with an exclamation point really mean ‘take with caution’. Trust me when I say, respect that sign. This trail is going to keep you honest.

Some of those hills, if you take too fast, are

going launch to past the down slope and you are either going to flat-land a 20 foot drop or case the next hill that is coming up. It truly is an amazing job of the club to sign each and every crazy hill. This section is going to be some the most fun you are going to have on this trip. The last haul into Val-d’Or reverts back to glorious fast, doublewide highway trail, so making up the last 40kms is a breeze.

When you get to the city limits, the trail takes you right downtown. Our hotel for the night would be the Continental, which is located in the heart of the city, and the snowmobile trail leads right to the parking lot. We met and had a few beverages with the hotel manager, who explained that snowmobilers are a big part of the winter season at the hotel, and they are very welcome. Here is a travel hint: The Continental also has a fully decorated, separate house-type suite that you can rent if there is a bunch of you going. It was available during our stay, so I can tell you first hand that this is a perfect suite for a large sled party.

The Continental has a great little bar and a separate restaurant for breakfast, which by the way, if you book under the special snowmobile package, is included along with dinner.

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Day Three The last day had us heading back to truck and trailer at Le Bannik. After our included breakfast at the hotel, we packed up and headed out of Val-d’Or. This town is completely snowmobile friendly. The trail runs through a back alley, down the main drive.

Getting in and out can be done on both sides of the town, and the signage is amazing. Our itinerary had us taking the 309 south. The first part of the trail is pretty fast, taking your through some amazing wooded trails. This trail is some of the best snowmobiling I have had in my 30 plus years of being a sledder.

That is a bold statement I know, but had to be said. The trails were so well maintained, and the signage is flawless, that you get to really enjoy the trails. This day is a short one, with only about 225kms, so you can take your time, and you are not killing it to get to lunch. This is non-stress day, which is what you want on your last day. The spot to lunch is at the Rapide

Inside look of the suite at Hotel Continental Choko_Design_7.25x4.75_2016.pdf

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Trail leads directly to the Hotel Continental

We decided to take a local trail right at the town of Laferce, to join up with the Trans Quebec 63.

Sept, which also offers gas (you will have to get gas here). After lunch, you cross the hydro dam, and continue on the 309. We decided to take a local trail right at the town of Laferce, to join up with the Trans Quebec 63. This is a local trail, so lots of turns and not as wide as the main trail. Once you get on the 63, you are definitely going to make up the time lost on the local trail, because it becomes a fast trail with wicked sweeping corners and lots of straightaways. The signage to get back to the La Bannik is flawless and easy to navigate, and takes you through some pretty cool elevation changes right near the end. Again, you are not going to be stressed over this day, so take some time as you will pass a few really cool lookout points on the last part of this trail.

This day, if you need to, you can get back to

the truck and trailer by mid-afternoon, so you can either spend one more night at Le Bannik, (which we HIGHLY suggest you do) or you can head back to Ontario and be home for work the next day.

After three days of touring AbitibiTémiscamingue, you will soon realize what all the talk is about. This three-day loop covers some of the best trail riding you are going to find, and all done within a no-stress schedule.

If you like to go fast, find sweeping corners, and meet some really great people, then you need to make Abitibi-Témiscamingue your destination.

A special thanks to Guillaume Travert of Tourism Abitibi-Témiscamingue for spending a few days on the trails with OSM!

Reference Guide

2015 Abitibi-Témiscamingue Trail Map Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue 1-800 808-0706 www.snowwwild.com La Bannik 862, Chemin du Vieux-Fort Duhamel-Ouest, QC. J9V 1N7 GPS: 47 17’ 30”/79 27’ 12” 1-877-322-0922 www.bannik.ca Dumoine Valley Guides 685 Chemin du Moulin Rapides des Joachims, QC. J0X 3M0 613-586-2300 www.dumoinevalley.ca Pourvoirie Pavillon La Vérendrye Lodge 2326, Chemin de l’église sud Mont-Laurier QC. J9L 0C7 819-435-2133 www.pourvoirielaverendrye.com Continental Centre-ville Val-d’Or 932, 3rd Avenue Val-d’Or, QC. J9P 1T3 1-800-567-6477 www.hmcontinental.com

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Via trail 5, 597 and 595 A

fter another stellar riding season in 2015, we at OSM are scratching at the walls of the office and shop, just waiting for snow. The Toronto Snowmobile show was another great success and it was a pleasure to see so many of our readers in attendance, checking out all the new sleds that will be on the snow in 2016.

With so many exhibits and vender booths it was awesome to feel the sledding enthusiasm in the air at the end of October, anticipating another great riding year.

Our fleet sleds have arrived at the shop for another season, and with a few rider preference tweaks and a few

after market accessories installed, we are looking for Mother Nature to bless us with another large, white blanket playground for the winter.

As most diehard sledders do, we start looking at our calendars in November and set up our destination tours and weekend getaways, looking to experience what we have craved for months in the off season. Regions and locations in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick fill our calendars, with even a few cross border tours thrown in.

We do our best in the Travel Guide issue to highlight a couple of exciting trails and lodgings to visit that we have experienced firsthand. We also to try

Story and Photos by: Warren Geer

and give you our take on the riding and accommodation packages to help improve your tour experience.

As part of the OSM editorial group, my calendar usually has me heading east from the office into Quebec.

The eastern regions have been on my destination list every season. I have had the pleasure of riding the entire Gaspé Peninsula, and it is one of my favorite stops to ride. This was the 5th year in a row, and every tour has brought us some amazing riding, great lodging and along the way we have learned that you can never predict, and must respect Mother Nature when riding in the Gaspésie Peninsula.

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onsnow osmmag.com

To return to this sledder’s playground for another season got us pumped to go, and it took very little correspondence with our Quebec Maritime Tourism representative Camilie Beaulieu to get us set up with yet another great ride. The Qc Maritimes has 6000 kms of groomed trails, and has some of the most scenic views while riding that you could ever imagine. With volumes of hotels to choose from, plenty of fuel stops and a toll free trail conditions line, (1-877-202-4636) you’re connected directly to Dale or Louise for any assistance you may need during your visit to the Peninsula. They will answer the phone between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, and you’ll get an answer to your trail conditions, lodging or fuel stop questions…Yes… a trail conditions direct line, and website updated daily at www.quebectrails.com . The Gaspé offers something for everyone’s riding style, from long distance trail rides and overnight stays, to off trail boon docking that will test your deep powder abilities …..This place is a Must Ride!

With our Itinerary confirmed for four days of riding trail 5 and the interior trails via 597 and 595, the crew was anxious to get our tour started for our six day getaway in sledder’s paradise. This year’s tour group was made up of Gaspé rookie Cory Manion from Ardock, and seasoned vets Jamie Colvin and Wayne “Wobblie” Evans. The GPS in the truck was set for Matane to stay at Riôtel Matane, only a short twelve hour drive east from the office. This

Trail 597 north of Murdochville entering the Chic Chocs

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Trail 597 thru the wind turbines would be our first and last night’s stay of this tour with the truck and trailer parked for the week with 24hr security watching our rig while we are gone on our ride. We have stayed at this Hotel several times, and are yet to find something to complain about.

The food is excellent and the rooms are completely modernized and just recently had an addition and restaurant update, along with a brand new pool and spa area. Once you get a feel for

onsnow osmmag.com

Entering into New Richmond on trail 5 these kinds of accommodations, it’s tough not to return. www. quebecmaritime.ca/riotelmatane Day 1 of our ride was set to leave Matane via trail 5 easterly for 243 km to the beautiful town of Mt. Saint-Pierre and an overnight stay at Le Délice Motel, nestled in the valley. The Mountain peaks bookend this small town sitting at 1,350 ft above sea level, and the views on a clear day that sights the northern shore of the St. Lawrence are remarkable. Trail 5 in this area offers the most scenic views of the coastal shoreline and is well known as a marked stop to get the cameras out.

Day 2 had us heading southeast looking for trail 597. We went down thru the easterly interior via Murdochville with our sights set on Hotel Chandler, sitting on the south shore of Chaleur Bay. This trail brushes along the eastern edge of the Chic Choc Mountains, and offers grade changes and valley runs that keep you smiling the entire day. Riding our way thru wind turbines and snow covered evergreens on perfectly groomed trails, it was making the summer layoff all worthwhile. Arriving at Hotel Chandler, we could back our sleds up directly to the door of our rooms for easy unloading. They have a top notch restaurant and pub that allows you to sit back and enjoy your meal to recap your perfect day of riding. www.hotelchandler.com Day 3, now along the south shore of the peninsula, this is our shortest ride of the tour at 200 km. We are headed for New Richmond via trail 5, and our third night stay at Hôtel Le Francis www.hotelfrancis.qc.ca . This day started out with the weatherman giving us the heads up that some high winds were to be expected and a volume of snow would be landing on the Peninsula late in the day. This day was nothing short of great riding again, with loads of wildlife spotted along the ride. As we were nearing New Richmond, we discovered that (the rookie) Cory’s clutch was in desperate need of some TLC, and would not be making the next day’s ride back to our start point without a big hug from the wrenches. In serious need of a dealership, the signs on the trail had us pointing in the direction of Sports BG, a BRP dealer only a few kms away on the trail. Once we arrived, the guys at Sports BG were more than helpful, saying they would need a few hours to make the repairs, and even shuttled Cory to our Hotel.

Once checked into Hôtel Le Francis, we had a hot shower and fabulous meal. Now the clock read 10:00 pm, and the boys from

Arriving to Mt Saint-Pierre, Day one

Day two south on 597

Cory and I Sports BG pulled into the parking lot to drop off the sled. The mechanic had stayed long after closing to fix the sled, to ensure that we were good to go the next day. We want to extend a huge thank you to the guys at www.sportsbg.com for their efforts.

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Backed up to our rooms at Hotel Chandler

Day 4 was an early rise with 307 km to cover back to Matane, up trail 595 thru the Chic Choc Mountains. The weatherman from the morning before was spot on, with close to 30 cm of fresh snow reported along the south shore and close to double that reported in the mountains. When starting from the southerly part of 595 in New Richmond, you need to have your fuel tanks topped up, as fuel is a 100 km pull to Le Cache, midway up and your next chance for fuel.

We have ridden this section twice before and it does top my list of favorite rides. This trail is as remote and scenic as you will find, and keeps your eyes wandering to take it all in.

The Chic Choc’s tip is at a 4,160 ft. elevation, and is known for its wildlife, including moose and caribou. If you catch this trail freshly groomed after a snowfall, and are not breaking trail, this alone will make your group want to return to Gaspé every year. As we made our way north out of the mountains and were nearing the last 60 kms of our ride, we came across an RV trailer along trail side, with snow close to the roof line (see picture). This is mid-February and the snowfall amounts in March are equal to February in this part of the Peninsula.

So, if you’re looking for awesome all season riding with great

South point of 595

snow all winter long, with near perfect accommodations, Gaspé is this rider’s first choice.

I WISH YOU ALL ANOTHER GREAT SEASON OF SAFE RIDING FOR 2016, AND “I WILL SEE YOU ON THE TRAILS”!!

Top of Mt Saint-Pierre looking down on the town

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High winds on the shoreline and your lid isnt secure.... spells problems ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

THIS OSM BUYER’S GUIDE IS DEDICATED TO THE SLEDDERS THAT LOVE TO PUT ON THE BIG MILES. ‘THE IRON BUTTS’ IF YOU MAY. WE AT OSM CAME TOGETHER, AND COMPILED A THOSE LONG TRIPS A LITTLE MORE ENJOYABLE. FROM APPAREL TO TECH TOYS, THERE WILL BE SOMETHING IN THIS GUIDE THAT YOU WILL FOR SURE BE ADDING TO YOUR “I NEED THAT” LIST.

1

Excursion Jacket The name alone tells the story of what the designers at FXR were thinking when they developed this bad boy. Built to get out there in all extreme conditions, the Excursion from FXR has a heavy-duty 600d Polyester shell for durability and crazy insulation to keep you warm. The seams are 100% sealed and the jacket has a cold-stop multi placket heavy duty snap front closure for added protection from the cold air that blasts you on the long hauls. Then the designers added a ton of pockets that are both waterproof and have dual entry options for ease of use. Lastly the Excursion jacket has FXR’s F.A.S.T™ (Flotation Assistance Technology) that is an insulation membrane made from expanded, low-density polyethylene foam, which offers buoyancy assistance for up to two hours. If long haul is your thing, then the Excursion is your jacket. For complete details check out: www.fxrracing.com

>>

+

Rattle Stop Equal to waterboarding, the sound of a rattling trailer on an 8 hour trip, is enough to drive any road warrior batsh#t crazy. This simple but ingenious item affixes to the trailer hitch, and has a pretreaded bolt on the bottom. By tightening the bolt the Rattle Stop applies downward force on the hitch to the receiver resulting in a rattle-free ride. Bet you just muttered, “Yup need on of those…” Available at Sled Pro distributing for the low price of $19.95.

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

>>>>>>

NOMAD

LIST OF PRODUCTS THAT WE FEEL WILL MAKE

3

2

DuraForce Phone

Snowmobilers know the problems faced when sensitive electronics meets sub zero temperatures. Kyocera has released new for this year the DuroForce smart phone that is truly built tough. The number one feature of the DuraForce, is the fact that it works, stock out of the box, in cold weather. Kyrocera designed this phone to also withstand shock, drop and water immersion up to 1.8m for 30mins. There is no extra smart phone covers needed with the DuraForce, as right out of the box, you notice the rugged design and overall toughness of this phone. OSM has gotten a few of these bad boys into the hands of our ride crew and will let you know what we think this winter.

Available on the Bell Network www.bell.ca

4 Heat Packs

BriansServiceCentre.com

4

Here is an item that definitely should be on your “I need that list”. The Heated Insole from ThermaCELL is a rechargeable heating insole that warms your feet with just a touch of a button. Three settings allow you to adjust the heat wirelessly, with the supplied remote, without ever having to remove the insole from your boot. The benefits of this technology are just too extensive to list, but all we have to say is; “Thank you”, to whoever invented this product, and are a hero in our eyes. Looking for a set of these? www.gammapowersports.com

94 London Road Box 309 Hensall, ON N0M 1X0 Phone: (519) 262-3634 Fax: (519) 262-3635 Email: briankipfer@hay.net

5

NFX Goggle

At OSM we are typically open face helmet guys. It offers a much broader vision and fogging is pretty much non-existent. One downside is that it can get cold on those long haul rides, so the key is to find a goggle that is large enough to cover a major portion of the eye port on your helmet. The NFX frameless goggle from Dragon is as big as it gets, so the protection level, is high on these goggles.

The NFX has expanded foam to fill up all the openings around the eye port of the helmet and comes with a large nose protector to add to the protection level. The Lens themselves are a flexible dual Lexan construction with an Anti-Fog treatment – so it pretty much covers all you will need in a snow goggle. Head over to your local Gamma Powersports dealer for complete lineup. www.gammapowersports.com

5531 Main St. Stouffville, ON L4A 7X5 (905) 640-2332 atccorral@bellnet.ca

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NOMAD

Bridgedale Socks

Dry, warm feet vs wet, cold feet can make the difference between an amazing day on the trails, and a miserable ‘I want to go home day’ on the trails. Bridgedale Socks are the last piece of defense against a bad day on the trails and should be part of your standard sled gear. The fusion technology of the Bridgedale Sock is what makes these socks so good. The designers combined high quality yarns and high performance microfibers to ensure all day sock performance, and then the designers added cushioning and mesh panels to ensure all day comfort. So if you are planning on putting down big miles this winter, head over to www.bidgedale.com and order yourself a few of these bad boys.

+

>>>>>>

8 54

>>>>>>

+

BV2S Modular Helmet

7

It is an age-old debate here at the offices of OSM as to Full Face or Open Face helmets. There are good arguments for both sides, and usually open face wins, due to the fact we all agree that open face goggle combo rarely fogs, and offers way more peripheral vision, however, when the mercury drops to “minus WTF” then the full face arguments tend to garnish strength.

If full face is your thing, then you should take a look at the BV2S from BRP. Simply put this helmet is high tech. If features a state-of-the-art fogresistant mask system that utilizes a soft surgical rubber seal around the face and expels the moist breath through a very technical venting system.

The BV2S also delivers window-like 180° vision and one-touch sun visor.

Also, new for this season, BRP has also added an anti-scratch lens coating to the inside of the visor for easier cleaning – even at minus 40 weather.

For complete details check out www.brp.com

Cobra Windshield >>> Sure we all love the look of a short/sporty windshield however the “look cool factor” quickly diminishes when you find yourself on a rail line, doing Mach 1, in sub zero weather. This is when the tall windshield is your best friend. Cobra snowmobile shields are offered in all sorts of different heights and styles for all makes of new and old sleds. They are constructed from optical-grade polycarbonate for distortion-free viewing and made with a durable 0.08” thick material so they are going to stand up to whatever you throw at them. So yes, you are going to have a tall Windshield, but at least you will be warm. For complete size charts and models head over to your local Gamma Powersports Dealer: www.gammapowersports.com

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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>>

9 Tactic BOA Focus Boot Here is a boot that has been rated with a moderate activity rating of -70°c. If that does not say enough about this boot then not sure what more you would need from a snowmobile boot. The Tactic BOA® does not stop there though. The boot also features a dual zone BOA® system, minimal seams in sled-contact areas, heavyduty rubber reinforcements, a low profile toe and a removable liner with speed lace. This is a serious boot for the iron butt sledder. For complete details check out: www.fxrracing.com

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10

NOMAD

Navigator Ski Protector Attention Pilot Ski owners, looks like you could use a Navigator. Woody’s Navigator™ is a simple yet ingenious protector that reduces wear on your Pilot skis. While protecting your ski, it also helps reduce darting, so really this is a win/win kinda product. The Navigator™ will work with any single Pilot Ski that has a host bar up to ½ inch. For complete details head to www.WoodysTraction.com

+

>>>

Scott Artic Pro GT Jacket

>>

+

11

Here is a jacket from Scott that is a true all year round jacket that is perfect for the rider who puts on the miles. With an external waterproof shell and a soft thin removable insulation this jacket can be used in all different types of climates. Whether you are riding in a +20 moist warm climate or bashing down the trail at minus 50, the Arctic Pro from Scott is going to perform. Check out the entire lineup at www.scott-sports.com/ca/en

With the every increasing popularity of 1.5” lug tracks, Woodys introduced the new Gold Digger® Traction Master® in 1.575” length for the 2015/2016 season. If you need us to explain the importance of studs, then we will kindly ask you to put this magazine down, and mail in your man card as you will not longer be needing that. For those that do know the importance, after installing these, you can be the cool guy and say things like: “yah I’m running the Gold Diggers…” For complete details head over to www.WoddyTraction.com

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>>

12

The Gold Digger

13

FXR Balaclava Longsleeve

This bad boy was designed by FXR to be worn in three different ways. You can either wear it as an over-the-head extra balaclava, pulled down as a turtleneck, or flipped back as a hood. We bet you just read that and mutter: “Yah that’s pretty cool”. The material is 50% merino that provides exceptional warmth and has antibacterial (anti-odor) properties.

Match this bad boy with FXR pant of the same fabric and you got yourself a serious base layer. www.fxrracing.com

14

Virus Base Layer >>>>>> Guys we cannot stress enough the importance of layering to stay warm out on the long hauls. If you spend huge bucks on a suit then use an old college T-Shirt and your hockey long johns as a base layer, you are wasting your money. The base layer system from Virus was developed for riders that ride in the coldest climates.

With a comfortable fit and a material that is engineered for staying warm, this base layer actually contains coffee charcoal infused yarn which is proven to increase skin surface temperatures. Who would have thought – Coffee in our base layer? That next level stuff. For complete details head over to www.virusintl.ca

Dayco Belt >> You need a spare belt – ‘nuf said. www.dayco.com

15

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57

ONTARIO MAPS  Red Red Lake Lake Red Red Lake Lake Red Red Lake Lake

1 1 Sioux Sioux Lookout Lookout Lookout Sioux Dryden Dryden Dryden

Kenora Kenora Kenora

Geraldton Geraldton Geraldton

6 6

2 2

3 3 Rainy Rainy River River Rainy River River Rainy River Rainy Rainy

Nipigon Nipigon Nipigon

Fort Fort Frances Frances Fort Frances Frances Fort Frances Fort Fort

4 4

5 5

10 10

Hearst Hearst Hearst

8 8

9 9

7 7

Kapuskasing Kapuskasing Kapuskasing Cochrane Cochrane Cochrane Iroquois Iroquois Falls Falls Iroquois Falls Falls Iroquois Falls Iroquois Iroquois

Marathon Marathon Marathon Timmins Timmins Timmins

11 11

Thunder Thunder Bay Bay Thunder Bay Bay Thunder Bay Thunder Thunder

Wawa Wawa Wawa Wawa Wawa Wawa

14

13 13

12 12

Kirkland Kirkland Lake Lake Kirkland Lake Lake Kirkland Lake Kirkland Kirkland

Chapleau Chapleau Chapleau

Englehart Englehart Englehart

KEY MAP

Haileybury Haileybury Haileybury

NORTHERN ONTARIO

17 17

LEGEND

16 16

15 15 Number Refers To Map (Page 18)

18

Capreol Capreol Capreol Capreol Capreol Capreol

Blind Blind River River Blind River River Blind River Blind Blind

Northern Ontario Scale 1:800 000

18 18

Sudbury Sudbury Sudbury

Sault Sault Ste. Ste. Ste. Marie Marie Marie Sault Espanola Espanola Espanola

North North Bay Bay North Bay Bay North Bay North North

Gore Gore Bay Bay Gore Bay Bay Gore Bay Gore Gore

Southern Ontario Scale 1:320 000 Natural Resources Canada

Lake Huron Huron Lake Lake Huron

Digitally Prepared By DigiMap Data Services Inc.

Bobcayge Bobcayg Bobcayg Bobcayge Bobcayg Bobcayg

MAP ATLAS LEGEND D A

TOP TRAILS

D

O.F.S.C. TRAILS

PRIVATE TRAILS HYDRO POWER LINES

H

HOSPITAL

ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE

ROYAL DISTRIBUTING STORE LOCATIONS

1

RED CIRCLE REFERS TO SNOWMOBILE SALES AND SERVICE LISTING

1

RED SQUARE REFERS TO DINING & ACCOMMODATIONS LISTING

REFER TO DIRECTORY LISTINGS AT THE BACK OF THIS ATLAS FOR ESTABLISHMENTS SCALE: MAP PAGES 1-18 (1:800,000) • MAP PAGES 19 TO 53 (1:320,000)

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

This entire Map Atlas has been published from information deemed correct and available at the time of publication and is intended to assist the snowmobiling public to more fully enjoy the sport of snowmobiling. No responsibility or liability is accepted by the publishers for discrepancies, error or omissions which may appear, or for actual conditions on the indicated trails at any time, or any resulting loss or damage.

OOPS....

ONTARIO TRAIL MAPS HAVE BEEN REMOVED FROM THE DIGITAL EDITION. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OSM AT www.osmmag.com/subscribe TO RECEIVE THE PAPER VERSION OF THE TRAVEL GUIDE!

Photos: Studio du Ruisseau, É. Marchand, M. Loiselle

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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BITEHARDER.COM ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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FOX AIR EVOL" REAR SUSPENSION FOR ALL 008/2009/ -DOO MODELS 2008/2009/2010/2011 SKI-DOO

AUTHORIZED FOX SALES & SERVICE DEALER

ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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OSM LISTINGS

To advertise your business in this section call: 1-888-661-7469 ONTARIO

ONTARIO

ONTARIO

Address: 51 Bourbonnais Rd Field, Ontario P0H 1M0 Phone: 1-866-324-3324 Email:roxyriverrental@gmail.com Join us on Facebook The ATV/Snowmobile trail runs right through the property offering miles of scenic trails. The 2000 sq.ft. Man Cave has a “drive in” living room! It has an open concept with a state of the art kitchen. The Sturgeon Falls Man Cave has 4 comfortable bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The deck has a year round hot tub to be enjoyed after a long day of ATVing/snowmobiling.

Conference Centre, Spa and Golf Course

4252 County Rd. #21 4252 County Rd. #21 Haliburton, Ontario K0M 1S0Haliburton, Ontario Canada K0M 1S0 (705) 457-1800 • (800) 461-0357 (705) 457-1800 (800) 461-0357 Email:reservations@pinestone-resort.com Email:

www.pinestone-resort.comInformation • Located directly on Trail 7 • Located directly on Trail 7 • Sledders package includes breakfast and dinner • Sledders package includes breakfast and dinner • Secure sled and trailer parking • Saltwater indoor pool and sauna • Secure sled and trailer parking • Rooms, chalets and villas • Free wifi • Saltwater indoor pool and sauna

• Rooms, chalets and villas

• Free wifi

Highway 101 East Matheson, ON Phone :705-273-2555 lodge@littlefoxlodge.com www.littlefoxlodge.com We are open year round from 7:00 AM to 8:00PM Closed only on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.We are located on HWY 101 East of Matheson, ON Canada on a “L” trail. We have Cabins, rooms, a suite and bunkhouse rooms available all year long as well as fish huts to rent if they would like to ice fish. We also have a gas bar on site if they need to fuel up.

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Field River Valley Lodge

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58

ONTARIO

North Bay/Astorville q ONTARIO MAP 18

Cozy Camp Cottages

#1, 49 Trails End Rd., Corbeil, Ont. P0H 1K0 Phone: (705) 752-2085 • Toll Free-1-877-752-2085 www.cozycampcottages.com Lct 18 miles south-east of North Bay on Lk. Nosbonsing, just off TOP Trail A102D. Modern housekeeping cottages. Fully equipped including microwaves, coffee makers, gas BBQs. Rentals by the season, weekly, weekends or mid-week when riding is the Best! Guide Service available. Ice Fishing Packages also available. Snowmobilers serving snowmobilers. Check us out on the web! Your hosts Brian & Diane.

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Nearby

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Haliburton R ONTARIO MAP 32 Pinestone Resort Pinestone Resort, Conference Centre, Spa and Golf Course

reservations@pinestone-resort.com

Seguin/Parry Sound U ON MAP 30 Grand Tappattoo Resort 30 Tapatoo Trail, Otter Lake, Seguin, ON P2A 0B2 705-378-2210 • info@grandtappattoo.com www.grandtappattoo.com Weekend Package 2 Nights: $200 per Person (HST Included) • Daily breakfast & dinner • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to full resort

Weeknight Package 1 night $110 per person (HST Included) • Daily breakfast & dinner • Late check out 12pm • Deluxe accommodations • Access to full resort

* Based on double occupancy

* Subject to availability

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9 ONTARIO MAP 21

Wawa . ONTARIO MAP 11 Wawa Motor Inn 118 Mission Road, Wawa, Ontario P0S1K0 Tel: 705-856-2278 • Fax: 705-856-2171 Toll Free: 800-561-2278 Email: wawamoto@shawbiz.ca Website: www.wawamotorinn.com Your Superior Vacation Experience featuring 50 main building rooms, 20 cozy log rooms and 18 rustic Chalets with fireplaces. All main building rooms are 100% smokefree. Enjoy fine dining in the Fireside Dining Room and Lounge; home of the largest fireplace in the North. Easily accessible to snow trails and ample parking.

24

Nearby

Matheson ^ ONTARIO MAP 14 Little Fox Lodge

Sundridge 9 ONTARIO MAP 21 Atlantic Host Hotel

1450 Vanier Blvd.

Bathurst, NB E2A 4H7 Toll Free: 1-800-898-9292 Office: (506) 548-3335 • Fax: (506) 548-9769 thehost@nbnet.nb.ca • www.atlantichost.com Known to all sledders as the place to stay in Bathurst.

Located on Trail #19, or take exit #310 on Rte 11. Loading ramps, indoor sled parking, heated repair bays. Fuel nearby.

Excellent accommodations, excellent restaurants, pub-style lounge, heated indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. And did we meantion we’re the only hotel in New Brunswick located directly on NBFSC trails?

24368

Nearby

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rONTARIO MAP 13

Hwy 560, PO BOX 67, Gowganda, ON P0J 1J0 info@gowgandalakecamp.ca (705)624-3446 www.gowgandalakelodge.com

Our 4 season resort has groomed trails to our door. Located in the center of A107C and the south end of L136 (north shore of Gowganda Lake) or drive directly to us on Hwy 560. We have 6 deluxe cottages, 5 which will hold up to 6 people, and 1 cottage that will hold up to 10 people. All units are fully furnished with 4 pc baths, full kitchens, wi-fi and satellite TV. General store, LCBO, beer store, wood burning sauna, and fuel are all on site.

Meal plans are available with reservation. Accomodation as low as $30 pp/pd.

538

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678

SUBSCRIBE TODAY GET IT NOW! SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

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ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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5 ISSUES - $19

2YRS 3YRS 10 ISSUES - $29

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atvworldmag.com

OSM LISTINGS

To advertise your business in this section call: 1-888-661-7469 ARNPRIOR UXBRIDGE

ONTARIO

78

• MAP 25

Urban Sport 46 Pine Groove Road, Arnprior, ON, K7S 3G8 Phone: 613-623-4410 Fax: 613-623-7418 Email: sales@urban-sport.ca www.urban-sport.ca ONTARIO

GRAVENHURST

8

• MAP 31

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BOBCAYGEON UXBRIDGE

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• MAP 42

BRINGS NEW LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE & RELIABILITY TO YOUR ARCTIC CATS

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BRADFORD

Come be satisfied by the rising stars of POLARIS. York Region's newest, biggest dealer.

19890 Hwy 11, Bradford, ON L3Z 2B6 (905) 775-1717 • Fax (905) 775-0518 UXBRIDGE MINNESOTA, USA GREENBUSH

ONTARIO

HENSALL UXBRIDGE

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• MAP 47

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MARMORA UXBRIDGE

92

• MAP 43

Muskoka’s Only Polaris Dealer SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • ACCESSORIES

94 London Road Box 309 Hensall, ON N0M 1X0 Phone: (519) 262-3634 Fax: (519) 262-3635 Email: briankipfer@hay.net www.briansservicecentre.com

1689 Winhara Rd. Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1R1 Phone: (705) 645-8464 Toll Free: (800) 696-3849 northgatemuskoka.com ONTARIO

PEFFERLAW

ONTARIO

PEFFERLAW

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TRENTON UXBRIDGE

98

• MAP 43

102317 Highway 7, Marmora, Ontario 613-472-2633 www.bontermarine.com ONTARIO

UXBRIDGE

JUST 50 MINS NORTH OF TORONTO

HWY 48, Pefferlaw, Lake Simcoe 705-437-1122 quinnsmarina.com ONTARIO

WHITBY

• MAP 41

Full stock of Ski-Doo snowmobiles, CAN-AM ATVs, Sea-Doo watercraft and Triton Trailers.

New Products - New Attitude.

701 Brock St North, Whitby, Ont. L1N 8R3

1-866-430-6360

www.bennettpowersports.com

347 Cranston Crescent NE, Midland, ON L4R 4K6 705.526.2248 www.factoryrecreation.com W ONTARIO

WHITCHURCH-STOUFFVILLE

48

• MAP 41

516 Hwy 2, Trenton ON K8V 5W6 613-394-6691 • 1-877-394-6691 www.bay-Marine .com 87

Durham Region's #1 Ski-Doo/Sea-Doo, Sportboat, Can Am dealer. Full line of Ski-Doo sleds, parts, clothing and accessories.Trail starts at our door.

3 Douglas Road, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1M7 (905) 852-5884 • 1-800-668-SLED uxbridgemotorsports.com

• MAP 32

Authorized Polaris Dealer 5531 Main Street, St. Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON, L4A 7X5 Phone: 905-640-2212 Email: atccorral@bellnet.ca

www.atccorral.com ON SNOW MAGAZINE • VOL 30 • ISSUE 4

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2016 Cold Cross Race Replica Kit

Race Ready.

Be as good as your gear.

ASPEN 2015

X GAMES SILVER MEDALIST AMSOIL CHAMPIONSHIP SNOCROSS SERIES

kody k am m - Hentges Racing [Photo Credit: Crystal Wallem]

MATCHING COLD CROSS RACE REPLICA PANTS ALSO AVAILABLE

REV FASTER

DAYCO APP

Find parts faster using state-of-the-art technology. Look up your sled’s belt with the Dayco App. The app includes belt specs, part numbers, a Where to Buy feature and training.

Download the free mobile app at daycoapp.com

PROUDLY BUILT ON THE SAME SOIL YOU RIDE ON

What Belt are you? Download the app to find out!

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INTO THE WILD

速 SE TWENTY16 I SR VIPER X-TX FOX FLOAT 3 SHOCKS ON FRONT AND REAR I TUNER SKI I GENESIS 4-STROKE TRIPLE A HUNTER ON OR OFF THE TRAIL

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ONLY JUDGE A MAN BY HIS CHARACTER. From grille to tailgate, Ram pickups speak volumes about their owners. Maybe that’s why Ram holds the highest customer loyalty of any full-size pickup. From powertrains engineered for superior strength to cabins so well designed and appointed they’ve earned a Ward’s 10 Best Interiors award.

With Ram Heavy Duty you get Best-in-Class towing 3 powered by the Legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel.® While Ram 1500 EcoDiesel delivers Canada’s Only Half-Ton Diesel and Canada’s Most Fuel-Efficient Pickup Ever.1 Two powerful statements as to why Ram out-measures everyone no matter how you size them up.

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Based on Automotive News full-size pickup segmentation. 2015 EnerGuide highway fuel consumption ratings. Government of Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors. 11.3 L/100 km (25 mpg) city and 8.0 L/100 km (35 mpg) highway on Ram 1500 Quad cab 4x2 HFE model with 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 and 8-speed automatic. 2Based on a comparison of 2015 EnerGuide highway fuel consumption ratings for Ram 1500 4x2 with 3.0L EcoDiesel HFE V6 and 8-speed automatic (up to 35 MPG highway) and 2015 Ford F-150 4x2 EcoBoost V6 6-speed automatic (up to 31 MPG highway). 3Based on 2500/250 and 3500/350 class pickups. 4Longevity based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian Vehicles in Operation data as of July 1, 2014, for MY 1988–2014 for the entire Ram large pickup segment compared to all competitive large pickups that have been on the road since 1988. 5Based on third-party Canadian competitive ‘trade-in’ data for MY2008 to MY2013 new full-size pickups.

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