We have been out riding all this week riding and the conditions are now the
best of the season. We have seen more groomers than sleds in our travels
this week, running into the Berlin, Groveton, Errol and Milan groomers
during our various rides. This coming weekend (Jan 25-27) will probably be
the best riding so far with hard packed trails and moderate temps. Heading
north from Gorham or Jefferson, it will be a little thin in spots. Once you
get to Berlin and points north, conditions are very good. Groveton, Berlin,
Stark, Errol and Milan all have Great riding (BOT does not want us using the
term Excellent any more).
Here are a few updates:
> Cor. 19 between Berlin and Gorham will be open and groomed by Friday.
The groomers started opening the trail up today and the job should be done
by Thursday.
> The water problems on the trail going through the center of Berlin have
been solved with trucked in snow. If you have not tried it, this trail
brings your right into the center of Berlin pretty quickly from Cor. 19 or
Cor. 12. There are two gas stations and at least two restaurants you can
access right from the trail via snow covered sidewalks. I wish all towns
were this accommodating.
> The Berlin club has opened up a new trail in Jericho Mt. State Park
with some great views. The trail is called the Scenic View trail and you can
access it off of Camp Loop trail via Cor. 19 or PT118. For more info, check
their website at
www.whitemtridgerunners.com
> A new set of cabins is opening up on Trail 117 near Pike Pond. They are
just getting their website online, but I have seen their first completed
cabin and it is a very nicely finished 2br unit with a groomed trail going
by the front door to a new trail parking area. They are in the process of
building a 2nd cabin right now. If you are interested in jumping the gun on
their official opening, email the owner at
waynemonty@gmail.com
Bottom line: This is the weekend to head north. The cheapest gas on your way
up can be bought at BJ's wholesale club in Tilton. Another cheap station is
the Blue Canoe located on the Bow exit just south of Concord.
Have a safe trip!