Local clubs working to clear ski and snowmobile trails in Cook County after winter storm
The most recent winter storm wreaked havoc on numerous buildings, houses, and trails throughout Cook County.
A quick drive through downtown Grand Marais or up the Gunflint Trail shows the aftermath and numerous downed trees following the storm.
“It’s really been quite an ordeal,” Chris O’Brien said with the North Superior Ski and Run Club.
Many local ski and snowmobile clubs along the North Shore are working hard to repair and clear the trails for recreational use as the winter sports season quickly ramps up.
“It just highlights how much all the trails in the county, including the snowmobile trails, hiking trails, and bike trails, and our ski trails really depend on volunteers to keep them open,” said O’Brien.
He added the North Superior Ski, and Run Club has two teams of volunteers working all day on Pincushion to clear over 100 fallen trees after the big windstorm.
“The good news is that all the trees and trails are cleared,” He said. “So they’re open for skiing, and we’re excited.”
In addition to the North Superior Ski and Run Club, the Cook County Snowmobile Club has also worked hard to clear and groom trails throughout the county.
On Dec. 28, the snowmobile club announced they had groomed:
- G Trail, X Trail, Lullaby, & Swamper (along with the spurs around Hungry Jack/Mid-trail)
- Lower X Trail up to Trestle Pine and out to the State Trail
- Mid-trail going north to Gunflint
The club is still working to clear and groom the CJ Ramsted State Trail and the Blueberry Trail that goes towards the east end of town. In addition, the section from the town of Grand Marais to Devil Track has not been officially groomed but is “packed and rideable.”
Please take caution, as the swamps/rivers are not entirely frozen. Expect some slush and potential drifts on lakes.
As we near the New Year weekend, most trails have been cleared throughout the county. To find the latest trail updates visit the Pincushion Trails or Ridge Riders website.
WTIP’s CJ Heithoff spoke with Chris O’Brien regarding a Pincushion ski trail update following the recent storm. Audio from the interview is below.
Kalli Hawkins December 30, 2022
