Trail Reports
March 26ᵗʰ, 2026
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
As the snow season draws to a close, our crews are heading out for the final grooming runs of the season. Operators will be out tonight and tomorrow night to finish up on 7N, 413, 41, and the 2E trails. Please remeber UP421 has a partial trail closure and BCS is closed for construction. Check out out map on out homepage for the reroute. SCMTAUP.ORG
Don’t forget to support our sponsors! SCMTAUP.ORG/SPONSORS
This season has seen its fair share of challenges, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated team behind the scenes. A sincere thank you goes out to our trail coordinators, groomer drivers, and shop coordinators for the countless hours spent keeping the equipment moving and the trails in shape.
We also want to extend our gratitude to the landowners who allow these trails to cross their property; your support is the backbone of our system. To the riders who visited Schoolcraft County this winter, thank you for choosing our trails. We hope you had a great experience and look forward to seeing you back on the snow next year.
While the sleds are being put away, the work doesn’t stop. We hope you’ll consider joining us in a few months when ORV season is in full swing.
Safe travels home to all our visitors, and thank you for a great season!
BEAR CREEK SWAMP IS CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION
Starting Sunday March 8th, the gates will be closed and construction will commence throughout Bear Creek Swamp!
This long awaited and much needed project is finally getting underway thanks to all of our volunteers who worked tirelessly to secure all permits and approval from many sources. And much thanks to Zeller Excavation for their quick response in making sure the work can be completed to EGLE standards while the ground is still frozen. We will be focusing on taking care of the largest and worst of the holes first, and then continue to evaluate and fix what holes have the highest priority for safety until all work is completed!
Currently the only way for travel through that area is the UP2 reroute. That route will be less than ideal as the warm up continues, but if we receive another batch of snow, travel will be easier through there. It was a hard decision to close the route through BCS, but thankfully the snow came in early and gave us a nice long season of snow compared to some of the last few! By closing down early this year, we can hopefully open up BCS even earlier than we did this year!
To view the route closure in question, please take a look at our map on our homepage here – Scmtaup.org – The route closed is covered in red. Make sure to follow our facebook page for the most current updates and news of everything SCMTA!
Do you have an issue to report?
Past Trail Reports
March 2026
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers! Important Trail Closure Info!
Pack in on all trails has been completed and crews are switching to grooming. BCS is still closed for construction; please view our map on our homepage for the reroute. scmtaup.org
2E – Has a good base for the most part, with a couple of small wet spots.
421 – Fair base with several wet areas. *PartaI Trail Closure See Below*
2W – Several wet spots have been reported out to 7S and caution should be used if traveling this trail.
7S to Big Springs – Fair to good condition.
City Trails – Experiencing the same with better coverage toward Intake Park.
7N – Good base with a bit of snert.
41 to Jack Pine – Good with a few wet spots.
41N – Good.
Some end of the year repairs needed on one of our grooming machines will put it out for the remainder of the season. Please bear with us as we are on a 2 groomer schedule.
UP421 PARTIAL TRAIL CLOSURE
Unfortunately we have had to close down part of 421 that goes through some of our private property. This is completely due to the Snowmobiles going off trail on private property causing damage and putting the safety of the property owners at risk. While a large open property may seem tempting to ride through, by not knowing if it is private property or not, you risk a very real possibility of losing a section of trail. Not all cases will a reroute be possible so losing just one section could mean losing an entire trail system. Our volunteers work hard to maintain our wonderful trails and all it takes is a couple of people to ruin it for the rest.
You must ride the road when you get to the closed area. Fencing has been put up and signage has been installed. The road riding will not be ideal, but we are left with no other choice as SCMTA is committed to supporting our landowners in every way possible!
Let us all take a moment to help all our fellow riders when out on the trail, with everyone’s cooperation we can keep maintaining this wonderful trail system. Please know the rules for the areas you plan to go out riding in. If you aren’t sure you can ask us or vist the DNR Website here https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/snowmobiling
Lets all take a moment to help all our fellow riders when out on the trail
Don’t forget to support our sponsors! scmtaup.org/sponsors
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
Our grooming teams were out last night working to repack and groom the Haywire and the Boot Lake Spur!
Please be patient with the crews as they work through a significant amount of heavy snow to get the system back into shape. If you are heading out, use extra caution and watch for downed trees and groomer operators on the trails.
Please also remember that Bear Creek Swamp is closed for the season due to construction. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
The crews are working hard to break through the recent accumulation, and we plan to get to the other sections of the system soon. We appreciate your patience as we continue to clear obstacles and reset the base across the trails.
To see when were out on the trails, make sure to follow us on Groomer Tracker. It is $10 to subscribe to our club, and $5 of that goes directly back to supporting our operations. Your subscription is good for 365 days so you will be ready for next year! Your support truly makes a difference in keeping our trails in the best shape possible.
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Ride safe and enjoy the new snow.
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
We are incredibly grateful for the fresh snow we’ve received over the last 24 hours. Our team was able to get several sections of the trail groomed just before the heavy snowfall hit, and we are eager to get back out there as soon as possible.
We were able to groom trails 7N, 41 and 413 and they are in good shape. We plan to get to trail 2 East and West once we are able to get out. Please also remember that Bear Creek Swamp is closed for the season due to construction. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
We ask for your continued patience as we work to get the system back into top shape. Our crews will be busy tackling the new accumulation, clearing downed trees, and managing any other obstacles brought on by the storm.
Please keep in mind that many of our dedicated volunteers are currently working to dig out their own homes and driveways before they can head to the groomers. We will be back on the trails as quickly as we can. Thank you for your support and understanding.
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
Unfortunately, the recent warm temperatures have forced us to temporarily halt all grooming operations. We are keeping a close eye on the forecast and remain hopeful that the incoming weather system will bring what we need to get back out there.
Regarding our equipment, one of our groomers has been pulled for the remainder of the season. Our volunteers did an amazing job getting another machine repaired. It is fixed and ready to hit the trails as soon as the weather cooperates!
Please also remember that Bear Creek Swamp is closed for the season due to construction. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Everyone please do your snow dances. We are really hoping for at least one more good dump of snow before the season officially comes to a close.
To see when were out on the trails, make sure to follow us on Groomer Tracker. It is $10 to subscribe to our club, and $5 of that goes directly back to supporting our operations. Your subscription is good for 365 days so you will be ready for next year! Your support truly makes a difference in keeping our trails in the best shape possible.
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Thank you all for your continued support and patience.
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
The recent warm spell has certainly taken its toll. We’ve lost a significant portion of our base, leaving the trails in rough shape with frequent icy patches and bare spots. Because of this, we haven’t been able to get the groomers out, but we are holding out hope for a cold snap to help us firm things back up.
If you’re heading out, please remember that BCS is closed for construction. Check our pinned post about the project and the map for the designated reroute. On the equipment front, unfortunately we had two machines go down at the same time our 400T has been pulled for the remainder of the season due to brake issues. The 100T went down and had a quick turnaround thanks to our amazing crew.
We want to give a massive shout-out to our dedicated volunteer crew. On Tuesday the 3rd, during a routine weekly de-icing, one of our sharp-eyed volunteers noticed that a torsion bar had snapped all six bolts connecting it to the frame.
The response was immediate. Within 24 hours, the team had the machine stripped down and ready for repairs. When the parts arrived that Saturday, our crew dropped everything to get the machine back together. Thanks to their hustle, the 100T was back in action by the 7th.
We are so lucky to have a group of people who are willing to pivot at a moment’s notice to keep this operation running. Their hard work and expertise are the heartbeat of these trails, and we can’t thank them enough for their tireless dedication.
Don’t forget to follow us on Groomer Tracker for live updates when the groomer heads out. Also, please support our sponsors, listed on our map on our homepage SCMTAUP.ORG
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
We at SCMTA are pleased to announce recent progress in trail maintenance activities on Bear Creek Swamp.
After considerable effort and completion of an extensive permit process, we will begin repairs on Bear Creek Swamp. This section of the trail will close starting Sunday, March 8, 2026, and will remain inaccessible for the rest of the season. Zellar Construction will perform the repairs in compliance with our EGLE permit, with work scheduled to commence next week. We will post signage and provide updates on our website and Facebook page. Trail users are asked to follow the designated reroute for the remainder of the year.
Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Currently, our trails are beginning to show signs of snert in the corners and low-snow areas; otherwise, they remain in good condition.
However, an upcoming warm spell may affect operations for the rest of the season. We will provide additional updates as conditions change.
For live grooming updates, make sure to follow us on Groomer Tracker. It is $10 to subscribe to our club, and $5 of that goes directly back to supporting our operations. Your support truly makes a difference in keeping our trails in the best shape possible.
Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
We encourage all riders to take advantage of current conditions and enjoy the trails!
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
Our trails are still in decent shape, but we are expecting conditions to change this week with the upcoming warm up. Please plan your rides accordingly and be prepared for softer sections as temperatures rise.
We are also continuing to see water holes at Bear Creek Swamp. Please ride with caution in that area. We strongly recommend taking the UP2 reroute for a safer option during this warm up. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
One of our groomer operators came across a couple of trees that had been run down by a sled. Situations like this are exactly what can put our trail system at risk. This is an example of how we can lose access to snowmobile trails. Please respect the forest, stay on the marked trail, and ride responsibly so we can continue to enjoy and maintain the system we all work hard for.
For live grooming updates, make sure to follow us on Groomer Tracker. It is $10 to subscribe to our club, and $5 of that goes directly back to supporting our operations. Your support truly makes a difference in keeping our trails in the best shape possible.
Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Thank you for riding responsibly and supporting the club.
Feburary 2026
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
It’s a white, wet wonderland out there. All of our trails have been groomed and are in good shape!
Please continue to ride with caution, especially at Bear Creek Swamp, as there are still wet spots throughout the area. We are still advising riders to use the UP2 detour to the north. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Conditions can change quickly with the recent weather, so stay alert and ride right. Most importantly, get out and enjoy it. There are only 33 days left in the official snowmobile season. Make the most of every mile while we have it!
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
With the continued changes in weather and another drop in temperatures, we sent the groomers back out to get ahead of conditions. The trails were heavily used and mogulled up, so it was a slower process getting everything worked back into shape.
Overall, trails are coming back together, but please ride with caution. At bear creek swamp, water holes have started to appear again with the recent temperature swings. Be sure to check out our map, located on our homepage, for the current reroute before heading out. scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
As always, ride right, ride safe, and watch your speed.
Your Trail Report from SCMTA Volunteers!
With the recent storm moving through, our trails have become icy in many areas. Most of the system is still in fair to good shape, but riders should expect icy stretches and some snert building up in the corners.
A good system snow would certainly help improve conditions, but overall the trails are holding up and still rideable. Please use caution, watch your speed, and ride right especially in corners and shaded areas where ice can catch you off guard.
All trails are expected to be groomed by this weekend, which should help smooth things out and improve overall conditions.
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report from SCMTA Volunteers!
All of our trails are currently in good shape. The recent warm-up helped add some moisture to the base and really improved overall trail conditions. Riders should find things holding together well across the system.
We had the Relic ride this weekend on our system, and our system definitely received the most use in one single day this year! If you were out there with the ride this weekend let’s see your pictures! You can see how many moguls built up from the picture, but our volunteers went out that same night to get it all smooth again for the next day!
We are still operating with one groomer down at the moment, but we are working to resolve the issue and are hopeful to have it repaired and back out on the trails soon. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue doing our best to keep the trails in great condition.
We would like to remind everyone when you see a groomer approaching you, please pull off the trail at a safe location as soon as you find one. Much of our trail system has locations that will go from a wide open area to an area where there is barely enough space to walk next to the groomer, let alone pass safely with a snowmobile.
If you come up behind the groomer, trust us when we say the groomer operator sees you! They also know the trail and the hidden dangers off the trails! So if they aren’t immediately pulling over, they are just waiting until the area is safe enough for everyone to get through! A couple minutes of waiting is much better than getting a snowmobile out of a creek!
Here is an example of a group of snowmobilers that all got off safely to let the groomer pass! While we understand it is not always possible to see the groomer in time, we just asked for everybody’s cooperation to make the trails a safe and enjoyable experience!
As always, please ride right, stay on the trail, and watch your speed. Have a safe and enjoyable ride.
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! scmtaup.org/sponsors or view our map to find where they are located!
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Our trails are in great shape heading into the weekend. Grooming efforts have the system looking good overall. With the recent warm-up, there are a few wet spots in low areas, so please ride with caution and watch for changing conditions.
If you are looking for a fun event to get out and ride, be sure to check out the Relic Ride at Jack Pine Lodge this Saturday. It is a great opportunity to enjoy the trails while supporting some great causes. SCMTA will also have a groomer at Jack Pine during the event for anyone who would like to stop by, take a look, and get some photos.
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! – scmtaup.org/sponsors
or view our map to find where they are located!
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
As always, we expect this to be a busy weekend on the trails. Please ride at a safe speed, stay alert, and be mindful of other riders so everyone can have an enjoyable and safe experience.
We look forward to seeing you out there!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report for SCMTA volunteers!
All of our trails are currently in good condition and riding well. We are seeing that powdery, sugary snow base, but the upcoming warm-up should bring some much-needed moisture to help everything set up and pack down even better. That added moisture will go a long way in tightening up the base and improving overall trail conditions.
As always, please ride safe and ride smart. Adjust your speed to match the conditions, especially in corners and areas with limited visibility. Trail conditions can change quickly, and hidden hazards can always be present.
We want everyone to enjoy the trails and make it home safely so you can come back and ride again. Stay on the marked trail, respect the work that goes into maintaining it, and keep safety a top priority.
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! –
scmtaup.org/sponsors or view our map to find where they are located!
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
We appreciate everyone doing their part and hope you get out and enjoy the ride!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
All of our trails are currently in good condition and riding well. We are seeing that powdery, sugary snow base, but the upcoming warm-up should bring some much-needed moisture to help everything set up and pack down even better. That added moisture will go a long way in tightening up the base and improving overall trail conditions.
As always, please ride safe and ride smart. Adjust your speed to match the conditions, especially in corners and areas with limited visibility. Trail conditions can change quickly, and hidden hazards can always be present.
We want everyone to enjoy the trails and make it home safely so you can come back and ride again. Stay on the marked trail, respect the work that goes into maintaining it, and keep safety a top priority.
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! –
scmtaup.org/sponsors or view our map to find where they are located!
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
We appreciate everyone doing their part and hope you get out and enjoy the ride!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
We were able to get the bear creek swamp packed down with the groomer last night, and our groomer will retrace through it tonight. Please slow down while traveling through this area, stay on the marked trail, and continue to use caution through the swamp.
Current Trail Conditions:
2E: Great condition
413: Good condition
410: Good condition
41: Good to great condition
7N to 411: Good to great condition
2W: Good condition
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! –
scmtaup.org/sponsors or view our map to find where they are located!
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
As always, please ride with caution. You never know when another sled may be coming around the next corner. Ride safe and help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
Ride Right,
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Our trails are currently in great condition. The snow is powdery and sugary right now, but we are hopeful that the upcoming warm-up will bring some moisture to help the trails pack down even better.
Please remember that on bear creek swamp you must stay on the sled pack. Riding off the established base can create hazards and damage the trail.
To view our trail system map please visit our homepage at – scmtaup.org
Don’t forget to Support our sponsors! –
scmtaup.org/sponsors or view our map to find where they are located!
If you want live updates on what our groomers have most recently taken care of, give us a follow on Groomer Tracker. The cost is only $10 per season, and SCMTA receives half of that. By supporting us on groomer tracker, you can help continue to support the work that our volunteers do year round.
When riding in a group, be sure to travel at a safe speed and always adjust to your least experienced rider. Keeping everyone comfortable and in control helps ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for all.
Most importantly, ride safe so you can make it back home and enjoy the trails again another day.
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
January 2026
Your trail report from SCMTA members!
Trail 41 North and South are groomed and in good condition.
Trail 2 East is groomed and in good condition.
Trail 413 is in good shape.
Trail 7 North is also riding well.
Snow conditions are a bit sugary, which is expected with the cold temperatures. The recent cold stretch has really helped get our trails into great shape overall.
BCS remains closed until further notice. Please check our pinned post for the reroute.
One of our machines experienced some unexpected maintenance issues. We appreciate your patience as we get it repaired and back out on the trails soon.
Support our sponsors!
Don’t forget to follow us on Groomer Tracker to see where our groomer have been!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Enjoy the trails!
Your trail report from SCMTA members!
Trail 41 North and South are groomed and in good condition.
Trail 2 East is groomed and in good condition.
Trail 413 is in good shape.
Trail 7 North is also riding well.
Snow conditions are a bit sugary, which is expected with the cold temperatures. The recent cold stretch has really helped get our trails into great shape overall.
BCS remains closed until further notice. Please check our pinned post for the reroute.
One of our machines experienced some unexpected maintenance issues. We appreciate your patience as we get it repaired and back out on the trails soon.
Support our sponsors!
Don’t forget to follow us on Groomer Tracker to see where our groomer have been!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Enjoy the trails!
Your trail report from SCMTA members!
All SCMTA trails have been groomed and are currently open. Crews are continuing to pack snow into wet areas, and riders should expect some soft or wet spots, especially with recent temperature swings. Colder temperatures should help improve conditions.
Bear Creek Swamp remains closed until further notice. Please see the pinned post for the reroute. Groomer drivers will evaluate conditions and groom safely through the weekend as conditions allow.
Please watch your speed while riding. There have been a high number of recent accidents, and trail conditions can change quickly. Ride within your limits and watch for other riders.
Don’t forget to support our sponsors and follow us on Groomer Tracker!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA members!
All SCMTA trails are fully groomed at this time. There are some wet spots throughout the system, so please ride with caution. With colder temperatures moving in, we are hopeful these areas will firm up and freeze this week.
Bear Creek Swamp remains closed until further notice. Please refer to the pinned post for details on the reroute.
With colder temperatures coming in, if you are planning on heading out for a ride, make sure you are prepared for the conditions.
Don’t forget to support our sponsors and follow us on Groomer Tracker
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail report form SCMTA Members!
All trails have been groomed. Crews are currently working to pack snow into wet areas across the system following the recent warm-up. Riders should remain alert for soft or wet spots, especially in low-lying areas.
Bear Creek Swamp will remain closed at this time. Members will be out periodically to assess conditions in that area. Please refer to our pinned post for the latest information regarding this closure.
Despite the warmer temperatures, trails remain in good shape overall. Colder temperatures are expected, so let’s all do our snow dances and hope everything locks back up with a fresh layer of snow.
Thank you Fle Defle for sending in some pictures of your ride for us to share!
Don’t forget to support our sponsors and follow us on Groomer Tracker
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Bear Creek Swamp is closed until further notice.
Please check out our previous post about the reroute:
All other trails are open at this time and looking great after all the snow and volunteer hours the groomer drivers have been putting in.
The tree from the boot lake spur has been removed.
With all the fresh snow we have received, riding conditions are shaping up nicely. Make sure to get out and enjoy the trails!
Please ride responsibly, watch for changing conditions, and remember that trail conditions can vary throughout the system.
Make sure to support our sponsors and follow us on Groomer Tracker
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Bear Creek Swamp is closed until further notice.
Please check out our previous post about the reroute:
All other trails are open at this time and looking great after all the snow and volunteer hours the groomer drivers have been putting in.
The tree from the boot lake spur has been removed.
With all the fresh snow we have received, riding conditions are shaping up nicely. Make sure to get out and enjoy the trails!
Please ride responsibly, watch for changing conditions, and remember that trail conditions can vary throughout the system.
Make sure to support our sponsors and follow us on Groomer Tracker
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
December 2025
Your Schoolcraft County trail report straight from SCMTA volunteers!
The recent storm system delivered much-needed snow but also caused significant tree damage across portions of the trail system. Crews have cleared many downed trees, but there are still areas that require additional work. Please be patient as volunteers work to access and address these locations.
We also experienced a grooming machine being down for several days. A big thank you to our crews who put in the time last night to get the machine repaired and back out grooming.
Trail Conditions:
City Trails: In great shape and being groomed again today.
Trail 41 (Manistique to Shingleton): Many downed trees have been cleared and the trail has been groomed.
Trail 410 / Boot Lake Spur: A large cluster of fallen trees remains across the trail. The area is passable on a sled-packed trail. Use extreme caution. (See pictures for location)
Trail 2 East / 421: Crews will begin work tomorrow. Trees are known to be down. Please use caution when riding.
Bear Creek Swamp: Not frozen. Open water holes are present and this area should be avoided. There is also a sled currently stuck in the area, which is scheduled to be removed today. We strongly advise avoiding this section until it has safely frozen. (See picture for location)
Trail 413: Cleared of trees, groomed, and in great shape.
Trail 7 North to 411: Groomed with plenty of snow. Camel Riders report snow two camels high.
Trail 2 West (Big Spring to the State Park): Clear and groomed. Some open water remains through the swamp area. Crews plan to address this later in the week.
From all of us at SCMTA, we wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Please remember to:
Give groomers the right of way,
Ride safely and within your means
Ride right and mind your speed
Ride sober and make it home safely
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
We finally received the much-needed snow. This system also brought strong winds, and we are receiving reports of trees down on the trails.
Please be patient with us, as our volunteers had to shovel their way to the groomers in order to get out and take care of the trails. Crews are actively clearing downed trees and working to get the trails back into safe riding condition.
As always, please ride within your abilities, give groomers the right of way, and use caution while out on the trails.
Don’t forget to support our sponsors!
Follow us on Groomer Tracker! Search Schoolcraft County Motorized Trails Association.
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Our trail system took a hit with the recent warm up, and conditions have declined across most areas. Many trails currently have bare spots and thin coverage.
With Christmas here, our groomers will be taking a short break to allow our volunteer operators time to relax and enjoy the holiday with their families.
At this time, most trails need additional snowfall before conditions can improve. We are hopeful for snow in the coming days and will resume grooming as soon as weather and conditions allow.
Thank you for your patience and continued support of SCMTA.
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers
There are no significant changes to the trail system at this time. Crews have addressed a few minor brushing issues where possible.
Manistique City Trails:
Poor coverage with dirt and bare spots throughout. More snow is needed for improvement.
Trail 41:
Manistique to Jack Pine –
Fair base, becoming thinner closer to the city limits. Some gravel is showing in thin areas.
Jack Pine to Shingleton –
Good base overall with some thinner spots in long corners and near bridge areas.
Trail 7 / Big Springs to 411:
Fair to good base with some dirt and bare spots.
Trail 413:
Poor coverage with dirt and bare spots throughout. More snow is needed.
Trail 2 West to Big Spring:
Thin at best, with some wet areas in the old three mile swamp near the power lines.
Trail 2 East / 421:
Varying coverage ranging from thin to fair, with some bare spots.
Bear Creek Swamp:
Trail is open but has wet spots and has only been sled packed. Please use caution, stay on the sled pack, and ride carefully. Warmer temperatures this week will delay grooming, keeping conditions soft and uneven.
The recent warm up caused significant damage to the trail system, and another warm up is approaching this week. Careful throttle control will help preserve what remains. Easing up will make a big difference.
Everyone here at SCMTA would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!
Your Schoolcraft County trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Trail 2 East / 421 to Gulliver
The gates are open on Trail 2 East, 421 to Gulliver. The trail is packed in, but the base remains thin with areas of snirt and some bare spots showing through.
Due to the warm temperatures, grooming operations are on hold today. We anticipate resuming grooming over the weekend as conditions allow.
Temperatures are expected to be warm today with rain, and the trails will take a hit. The forecast is calling for additional snowfall this weekend, which should help improve conditions moving forward.
Please ride with caution and continue to check for updates before heading out.
Trail 2 west to 7 south – from Manistique was broken today. The trail is in poor to fair condition, with frequent patches of dirt and gravel, and riding may be rough in spots. The crew broke through the swamp area, but low snow levels prevented them from adding enough snow to fill in the uneven sections. Please exercise caution in those areas.
Bear Creek Swamp – was packed with Sleds, and we will continue to use them to help us out. Please ride only on the sled-packed path and stay on the trail. There are still some open water crossings, so while the trail is passable, it requires caution. With this warm-up and pending weather, we will assess running a groomer through there. This will likely happen late next week.
Also, tree trimming is underway from Intake Park to 2 west to 94. Please use caution and remain alert when passing through this area.
Expect some wet or unstable areas throughout our system.
Get out and RIDE!
Please find the start-of-week Trails report from the grooming team at SCMTA below.
Recent snowfall has significantly improved trail conditions. Additional snowfall is expected to further enhance the system.
Most areas of the Manistique city trails have a thin layer of snow. Crews will be brushing select sections; please watch for maintenance teams.
Trail 41 from Intake Park to the S turn at the 5-mile marker has a fair-to-good base, with conditions improving further north. Please reduce speed at bridge entries and exits to help preserve these areas.
Trail 413 remains thin throughout most of its length, with snirty conditions in the corners. Reducing speed in these areas is recommended.
Trail 7 has improved with recent snowfall and it now has a fair base that continues to improve further north.
Trails 2 West and East remain closed for hunting. Plans are underway for reopening.
Reminder: The groomer has the right of way. If you are approaching from behind, please allow operators time to prepare and stop so you can pass safely. PASS ONLY WHEN WE STOP!
If approaching from the front, find a safe spot to pull off and allow the groomer to continue. Please don’t wait until you’re right on top of the groomer…you see it start looking for that spot!
Let’s Ride Right
Ride Safe
Ride Sober
Your trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
We are still seeing early season conditions throughout our system.
Trail 41:
• 41 South – After the recent snowfall, the trail has a fair base with some thin areas with snert and exposed rock.
• 41 North – Conditions continue to improve. The base is good and beginning to firm up nicely. Riders are asked to use throttle control at bridge approaches and exits to help maintain the surface.
Trails 413 and 7:
Both trails have a fair base with snirt in the corners and some thin stretches through wooded areas. Light traffic and responsible throttle control will help maintain the base as it continues to build.
Trail 2:
Trail 2 East and West remain closed until muzzleloading season ends.
Conditions will continue to improve as the snow machine winds up.
We’ve added some updated photos from a run earlier this week on the trails. Our groomer made the trip from Big Spring Tavern back to the club for a quick de-icing, then headed right back out toward Big Springs Tavern to continue working.
We have a chance for snow this weekend so everyone do your snow dances!
Be sure to check out Groomer Tracker to see where our groomers have been and follow along with our progress throughout the season.
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your trail update straight from SCMTA volunteers.
2 east and west are still on hold due to private property hunting!
At the last Check, Bear Creek Swamp is still not frozen or passable this early in the season, but with these colder temps and more forecasted, it’s looking promising to get through earlier than in previous years.
Trail 41: North from Jack Pine to Shingleton has a fair base, and some extra snowfall there helped, but some areas and Bridge approaches are still thin and have rocks. Jack Pine to Manistique, the base varies from good to poor, thin in areas with some rock and snert, especially as you head south into Manistique.
The area where the vehicle got stuck near town was fixed by the Groomer yesterday.
Trail 413 and Trail 7: Have similar issues with a fair Base with snert and bare spots in many areas and corners
Although the trail looks nice and frozen, these are not mid-season conditions, not even close. Please mind the throttle through the corners, road crossings, and bridges to help save the base.
Lake-effect snow Monday evening, transitioning to widespread snow overnight through Tuesday morning. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 8 inches, Luce and Southern Schoolcraft County.
Want to see where we Groomed? Join us on Groomer Tracker!
Your trail update straight from SCMTA volunteers.
2 east and west are still on hold due to private property hunting!
At the last Check, Bear Creek Swamp is still not frozen or passable this early in the season, but with these colder temps and more forecasted, it’s looking promising to get through earlier than in previous years.
Trail 41: North from Jack Pine to Shingleton has a fair base, and some extra snowfall there helped, but some areas and Bridge approaches are still thin and have rocks. Jack Pine to Manistique, the base varies from good to poor, thin in areas with some rock and snert, especially as you head south into Manistique.
The area where the vehicle got stuck near town was fixed by the Groomer yesterday.
Trail 413 and Trail 7: Have similar issues with a fair Base with snert and bare spots in many areas and corners
Although the trail looks nice and frozen, these are not mid-season conditions, not even close. Please mind the throttle through the corners, road crossings, and bridges to help save the base.
Lake-effect snow Monday evening, transitioning to widespread snow overnight through Tuesday morning. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 8 inches, Luce and Southern Schoolcraft County.
Want to see where we Groomed? Join us on Groomer Tracker!
Good Morning, Sno Busters!
Last night, we ran from JP/Boot Lake to Shingleton and back, and it was a great experience. We laid down some ribbon and made the trail look nice, which the sled heads appreciated!
We got a great ON TRAIL report from Jim Snider, who was out on his Sled. Thanks, Jim!
We received another 3-5 inches of snow, and the north haywire is starting to shape up nicely. We repacked the new snow and removed several more trees and hangers. The trail base is improving, but there are still some chatter and soft spots along the edges, especially near the water.
There was a lot of sled traffic both north and south, which was great to see, and we had some wonderful conversations with a few riders. While we’re not quite ready for nightly grooming yet, we plan to check both the south and north trails on Sunday and start grooming the north end every couple of days.
Drivers will be checking the other trails throughout the weekend. Snow is forecast from Tuesday through Thursday, which we hope will provide much-needed coverage on trails 7 and 413.
The city trail is being packed today. There’s nothing north of D&D Lumber that’s currently being done, and the machine will only be used to break in the swampy areas behind the County road Building.
2 west/7 south to Big Spring, The 2-east trail/421 remains on hold until after Muzzleloading.
Riders please continue to have steady throttle control. It will continue to save the base and corners , ease the squeeze…
The temps for the week continue to stay under 30° during the day, with each day getting slightly colder. Be sure to wear your warm gear. More snow is coming tomorrow with only 1″ expected closer to the water, while our trail system on the north side is hoping to get the full 8″ of snow predicted. It’s currently been a lot of lake effect snow, but predictions call for it to be changing into a system snow by end of well. Checkout Sundays forecast from Michigan Storm Chasers and let’s all continue to hope for more snow!
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.
Your weekly trail report from SCMTA volunteers!
Even with the snowfall we have had, our base throughout our System is thin, poor to good, and the ground has not frozen completely, causing some wet issues in areas.
TRAIL 41 – from Manistique to Jack Pine Lodge is in poor condition in some areas, with thin snow coverage closer to town. This section of the trail is on hold until Friday
JACKPINE TO SHINGLETON – is fair to good, but there are some wet spots and snerty areas. The next run for this trail is also scheduled for Friday. Additionally, there are trees in this area that still have heavy snow on them, and we expect more to fall. Approximately 30 trees were removed yesterday.
TRAIL 413 – is in poor condition with a fragile base, sandy and snerty areas throughout, and is on hold until further notice.
TRAIL 7 – appears to be in a similar shape, and we will conduct an assessment this weekend, but it is on hold until then.
Please be aware that we are still in hunting season, so expect truck traffic and tracks through our freshly groomed trails. There are logging operations on Trail 7 near the Camel Riders Lakeside Resort spur, and at Intake Park, there is some construction just north of the bridge. Please ride with Caution in these areas.
We are experiencing typical early startup snow conditions, and all we can do is hope for more snowfall!
If you do go out, ease up on the throttle, help keep the base we do have, and enjoy the trails.
Ride Right.
Ride Safe.
Ride Sober.