February 13, 2025

Mother Nature continues to mostly ignore the northwoods of Wisconsin.  Since my report a week ago, we've had an additional 3-4" of new snow (dry & fluffy).  It helps, but we sure could use some wet snow!  Forecast is for 2-4" more on Friday - Saturday.

The Barnstormer trail system is holding up quite well.  You'll find some dips here & there that can only be fixed with more snow, but mostly the riding is still really good.  With the thin layer on top of the base, please be careful going into corners as the ice can carry you into oncoming traffic if you're going too fast.

If you happen to be using the Groomer Tracker app, it gives the appearance that the Barnstormers have not been grooming much.  I can assure you that we are grooming quite frequently.  We currently are trying out two demo machines and they are not yet equipped with GPS, so they don't register on the GT app.

Remember, there are logging operations on parts of trails 11 & 15 between Escanaba Lake Road and Old White Birch Road.  The impact to the trail is minimal, so no reason to avoid.  Just remember the loggers have priority over the trails & have the authority to shut them down if you get in their way.  Please be respectful of their operations.

Be sure to take advantage of our two upcoming fundraising events!

  • Pizza fundraiser @ Hillside Tavern on Sunday, Feb 16.  4 - 8 PM

  • Brat Fry @ Sayner Pub on Saturday, Feb 22.  10 AM - 3 PM

February 6, 2025

The 1-3" that was forecast for last night turned out to be barely a dusting.  They say more is coming this weekend, so we'll keep our fingers crossed.

The Barnstormer system remains in fair to good condition and is actually holding up quite well under the circumstances.  It's thin cover pretty much all over, with a few areas of snirt beginning to show. 

There is still some great riding, so get out there and enjoy!  Be cautious of icy corners.

Remember, there are logging operations on parts of trails 11 & 15.  The loggers have priority over the trails & have the authority to shut them down if you get in their way.  Please be respectful of their operations.

Don’t forget about upcoming events!

Vintage snowmobile show @ Sayner Pub, Saturday, Feb 8,  8 am - 4 p-m

Chili Dump @ Murmuring Waters: Saturday, Feb 8,  2-5 PM

Pizza Fundraiser @ Hillside Tavern: Sunday, Feb 16, 4-8 PM

 

January 23, 2025

Our area got 3-4" of fresh snow last night.  It was pretty dry & fluffy, but new snow.

As of later tonight, the entire Barnstormer's system will have been panned.  As mentioned previously, until we get some good snow, we will only be going out once a week.  This is in attempt to protect the existing base.  With the lack of snow cover, too much grooming will do more damage than good.

Even with the lack of snow, our trails are in good condition.  As you get to the western side of our system, the snow cover gets thinner, but it's all still very rideable.  If you listen to the naysayers on Facebook, you'd think the trails were trashed!  That is far from the truth.  Every rider I've had a chance to talk with has been very happy with the riding conditions.  

Remember, there are logging operations on parts of trails 11 & 15.  The loggers have priority over the trails & have the authority to shut them down if you get in their way.  Please be respectful of their operations.

Don't forget about the upcoming events!

Chili Dump @ Murmuring Waters: Saturday, Feb 8,  2-5 PM

Pizza Fundraiser @ Hillside Tavern: Sunday, Feb 16, 4-8 PM

January 17, 2025

Here we go!!  The Vilas county snowmobile trails OFFICIALLY OPEN at 8:00 am, Friday, January 17!!

It's certainly been a long wait.  Please keep in mind that our snow cover is very thin and the trails are going to be icy, especially in the corners.  The Barnstormers will maintain trail conditions the best we can, but without additional snow, there won't be much we can do.  As long as everyone is aware that we don't have ideal conditions yet, we can get out and finally enjoy some riding!

There are ongoing logging operations on trails 15 and 11.  Remember that logging personnel have the right of way.  They also have the right to shut down trails, so please be respectful.

While you're out there, remember to stop by the amazing businesses that keep us operating.  Check out our upcoming events:

Saturday, Jan 18:  Snowmobile Breakfast @ Stillwaters.  8:00 - 11:00 AM

Saturday, Feb 8:  Chili Dump @ Murmuring Waters.  2:00 - 5:00 PM

Sunday, Feb 16:  Pizza Fundraiser @ Hillside Tavern.  4:00 - 8:00 PM