The Forks Trail Report 1/26/2012
Weather Service is calling for 4” to 8” on Thursday night and Friday. This would be a big help and would improve riding greatly.
Here's the latest update: We have finally begun grooming some sections of The Forks Trail System. The warm temperatures on Tuesday, followed by the subsequent freeze up, means that there is ice in spots. Also keep in mind that although it is mid-winter, it is early season conditions. Ride with caution at all times. Generally speaking, trail sections on roads have pretty good riding. Woods trails are very poor, but passable.
- ITS 86 heading east from Berry’s Store toward Greenville has been groomed. Intown is very rough, but passable. Once out of town, things improve somewhat. Road sections (Boise Road, Shirley Road, Brochu Road) have good riding.
- Bald Mountain Trail heading south from ITS 86, has been groomed for the first 8 miles or so. Has not been groomed further south toward ITS 87.
- ITS 87 south to Northern Outdoors has been groomed. This is mostly on the Divide Road with decent riding. Last mile into NO is rough.
- ITS 87 south toward Bingham has not been groomed. Need more snow.
- Kennebec River Trail has not been groomed. Need more snow.
- Pleasant Pond Trail has not been groomed. Need more snow.
Jim Yearwood
Trailmaster,
Northern Outdoors Snowmobile Club
Food, gas and trail maps are available at the Northern Outdoors Lodge.
Call 888-770-SLED for details.
I recently visited Maine and Northern Outdoors (NO) as a student participating in an Outdoor Recreation class through Keene State College. We stayed at Eagle Cove in the guest houses and was impressed with the quality of the accommodations. The food was provided by NO and was top-notch. It being winter, I was not able to enjoy the rafting trips, but I can attest that the Adventure Bound campus was high quality. Above all, I feel that the service was above and beyond. From Kevin, who manages the restaurant to the adventure programs director Nick. I was most impressed with the attitude and intelligence of the president of NO, Russell. He was able to display genuine enthusiasm for the offerings of NO while also understanding the needs of business and the environment coexisting. I would highly recommend NO for anyone looking to experience adventure in a remote location with the benefits of full services.
Jason A
Keene, NH
Rating: 5 *****
Keene State College Outdoor Recreation Course
I thought the course was amazing it really opened me up to a lot of things i did not know about and overall i learned a great deal. this course really had an effect on my life and in the future i plan on making a trip for rafting, snowmobiling, and hikes. it really meant alot to me personally and the staff was wonderful, Sandi and Brent are 2 very smart, fun, and enjoyable teachers that i would recommend anyone to take this course prior experience or not, its worth every penny. I also, want to thank Russell for making this all happen. Food was great, lodging was beautiful, there isn't one thing i could complain about.
Spencer B
Roseland, NJ
Rating: 5 *****
Keene State College Winter Leadership Program
New England Snowmobile enthusiasts will have a chance to explore some new territory during the weekend of January 27-29, 2012 (Friday through Sunday), for the first-ever New Hampshire-Vermont-Maine reciprocal snowmobile weekend.
Here's how the weekend works:
All snowmobiles legally registered in Vermont and New Hampshire will be able to operate on Maine trails during the three-day open weekend without a current Maine registration. All other Maine laws and rules regarding the operation of snowmobiles must be adhered to, such as speed limits, youth operation standards, etc.
In addition to the reciprocity weekend, Northern Outdoors located in The Forks on ITS 87, is offering a 50% early season lodging discount through January 29th, 2012 to encourage riders to come on up and explore The Forks, Jackman and Greenville area trail network.
The weekend of January 28th, brings top class cross country snowmobile racing to the Upper Kennebec Valley with the inaugral
USSC Lake Parlin 100.
The USCC Racing circuit is the largest cross country snowmobile racing circuit in the United States and Lake Parlin will be the destination for the first East Coast race on the tour this season.
Registrations will begin at the USCC Trailer, Friday January 27th from 7-9am at Lake Parlin Lodge just off of U.S. Route 201 and again on Saturday morning from 7-8am.
Gates open at 9am and races begin at 10am
Admission: $10 Adults and $5 Children
You do not need to be a professional to enter these races. There are daily memberships available as well as seasonal memberships which allow you to race just for the day!
Northern Outdoors is offering a 50% lodging discount during the weekend of January 27th through the 29th for all racing teams, staff and supporters. Come on up to join in the races or watch the action and then kick back and relax by the fire at the lodge and enjoy a handcrafted beer from the Kennebec River Pub and Brewery.
There is groomed riding from the Capital Road heading north on ITS 87 to Parlin Pond and on ITS 89 north to Jackman. Jackman has reported that they have groomed toward Pittston Farms, and Pittston Farms have groomed their trails. Rockwood trails (ITS 88) are reportedly not groomed.
There is an updated map available at the front desk at the lodge. The highlighted sections are mostly logging roads, and have been packed by the groomers. Riding on these roads is pretty good, considering the minimal snow. The short sections through the woods that connect these logging roads are very rough, but passable.
There are rideable trails (with trailering) for those who want to get out on their machines. Remember it is early season and the base is just being established, so conditions are not prime. You can’t go 70 mph, but if you want to get out, enjoy the scenery and put on a few miles, there is enjoyable riding.
How to trailer to get to the riding
Set your odometer to zero at Northern Outdoors. Drive north on Route 201 for 13 miles. Take a right on the Capital Road. This is a plowed logging road. Always yield to logging trucks. Follow the Capital Road for 0.9 miles where you will cross a small bridge over Cold Stream. As you are crossing the bridge, you can see the snowmobile bridge just upstream (north). About 100 yards after crossing the bridge, there is a large parking area plowed out on the left. There is also a smaller parking area plowed out on the right. Park off to the sides of these plowed areas as best as possible, to allow others in there. Unload and head north on ITS 87, toward Parlin Pond. Gas and food are available at Lake Parlin Lodge, and in Jackman and Pittston Farms.
Friday the 13th brings good winter news for Maine's snowmobile season! We received about 5" of snow yesterday and it looks like more is coming tonight. The lodge, bar, and restaurant will be open from noon to close (12am or 1am depending on who's rocking) Saturday / Sunday/ Monday of this MLK holiday weekend. Come watch the Pats on Saturday night and enjoy tasty handcrafts KRB Ales and pub fare.
We're exploring riding options and think that theres should be riding around Coburn Mountain, Parlin Pond, and north to Jackson. We'll post a full trail report when we have more info, but this is the scopp for now. We're offering a 50% discount on lodging the next couple of weekends.
It's a slow start to the season, but it's a start! Stay tuned.... from The Forks.
Maine SnowmobilingSnowmobile Trail Conditions ReportFollow our Facebook talk on winter conditions here.
Maine Huts & Trails recently opened a new 14.2 mile trail section that connects The Forks with the Grand Falls Hut and west onto the Bigelow Range and Carrabassett Valley, completing the full 45-mile first phase of this very exciting project.
The new section of trail opens up a variety of winter cross country ski and snow shoeing opportunities and it enables us to offer an exceptional two-day Hike & Raft package.
The Dead River Hike & Raft package starts and ends at our lodge in The Forks and incorporates a full day of hiking with spectacular scenery, a night at the Grand Falls hut with dinner and breakfast and then a full-day of whitewater rafting on the Dead River. This package will be available on all scheduled Dead River highwater trips except the September 2nd release.
We had a great evening at your facility. Beautiful lodge to relax and enjoy by the fireplace. We were there New Years Eve. The cozy cabin was a great little place...clean neat and cozy. The only complaint we had was that the bed was extremely hard and no radio or t.v. in cabin. If we stay again we would just bring our own radio and maybe ask for a different cabin for a softer bed :) Had a great time. Hoping for some snow to come back and stay for a couple of days with our children.
The food was great, a little pricey but, what isn't now a days. My husbands biggest complaint in the bar was that there was no BUD LIGHT! I myself, I am a COORS LIGHT fan so, I was very happy :)
He tried the deer in head light beer but it just didn't do it for him... The staff were all very nice, helpful, and friendly. Will recommend this place to others but, tell them to bring their own beer, and a radio...hahaha
Josh & Lori D
Carmel, ME
Rating: 4 ****
New Years Eve Party at Northern Outdoors
Great food and hospitality, had a wonderful time.
Randall M
Philippi, WV
Rating: 5 *****
Maine Whitetail Deer Hunting
Even though we didn't see any deer, our week was great. The cabin was beyond expectations, as were the meals. The staff was terrific. We were treated like family. Our guide Greg worked his tail off to get us a deer. I feel we made new friends during that week. One nice thing was we saw wildlife not native to our area of New York......moose. I would certainly return to Northern Outdoors in the future.
Walt A
Latham, NY
Rating: 5 *****
Guided Maine Whitetail Deer Hunt
Bringing my grandchildren, ages twelve and ten, along, I kept saying to myself: "Are you out of your mind?" But the trip leader Chad, and our guide Seamus, were very professional, very well-trained, and after Magic Falls, I stopped worrying about the kids.
The whole trip was idyllic; the weather perfect, the shore lunch superb. At the finish, I felt that, just as every American should see the Grand Canyon, every Mainer should experience the Kennebec River this way, and I will strongly recommend your company for doing so.
Thank you!
Michael L
Augusta, ME
Rating: 5 *****
Maine Family Rafting Adventure
Our first River Rafting trip with the family at Northern Outdoors was a blast! Went with my 3 kids (20,18,16) my 2 brothers and nephew (18). Rented two 4 person tents in the campground which was ideal - within 10 minutes of arrival we were set up and hangin' by a fire! Restaurant on sight was ideal as it minimized the trip planning and packing and the food was great. The rafting was enjoyed by all - daughter (20) was a little apprehensive but our guide Brandi set her mind at ease. Brandi was awesome - true professional, knew her stuff and had a great personality which added to the entire positive experience. Lunch on the river was a quality meal and plenty for everyone.
We plan on hitting the rapids again with Northern Outdoors next year on the Dead River!
Greg C
Methuen, MA
Rating: 5 *****
Family White Water Rafting Adventure
I planned this white water rafting trip for my best friend as her bachelorette party. There were 7 girls who had never white water rafted before and we were all looking forward to the experience. We enjoyed ourselves from the moment we got to our cabin (the King Pine), which was gorgeous and perfect for 7 girls, to the moment we checked out. The rafting trip was a total blast and even the girls who were a little nervous and not sure if they would go through with it, were so glad they did. Our guide, Zack Davis, was absolutely fantastic. He was great with all of his new timers and made our rafting experience that much better.
We had a delicious meal at the lodge and enjoyed our last night there with some great drinks and music at the lodge. Every employee was super friendly and helpful and the 7 of us can't say enough about this trip. On Monday, our first day back to work, I got an email from my friend, the bride - thanking me for planning the trip. Her direct quote was the following: "that was THE funnest weekend i think i've ever had" - I don't think we can say it any better.
Thank you Northern Outdoors for a wonderful experience, and a whole bunch of great memories!!!!
Kelly L
Boston, MA
Rating: 5 *****
Bachelorette Rafting Weekend
I usually don't participate in surveys, but my experience at Dead River Rafting was nothing short of fantastic! It was my first time white water rafting. I was nervous. The staff was nothing but helpful, caring and exciting! It was very nice to see such friendly faces and staff who were actually excited to be there. My guide was Blaize. He was awesome! Two thumbs up for him! He made me feel comfortable the whole time.
Camping was wonderful. The campsite was clean and inviting. I'm a "city person" in every respect. The fact that I spent a weekend rafting and camping, and felt right at home, was amazing. I contribute a lot of this comfort and fun to Northern Outdoors. Smooth transitions between activities, good food, live music, and lots of fun. It was definitely worth the 8+ hour drive.
Zorah S
Zorah S
Stamford, CT
Rating: 5 *****
Dead River RaftingMaine Camping
Back again this past wknd with the boys. Decided to run the Dead w/high water and the Kennebec - what a great weekend. Not even the cold and rain could "dampen" our trip.
Friday night started, like many other trips, a little Blueberry from the brewery.
Saturday morning wake-up wasn't early at all and we were on the Dead by 10ish. Great high water and constant paddling for the 14 miles - good stuff. Day ended with a little lunch, Blueberry, music by Suzy and the Smelts and fire by the cabin.
Sunday morning wake up was early for another trip, this time on the Kennebec. What a great ride. We must've hit every hit square on because we were all suffering with whiplash (jk) later in the day. We have had Victor for a few trips and he was amazing again - taking us to the edge and back again.
Already stoked for next year's trip. Heading back to the Penobscot with a couple of class V newbies for a little class V action. Will be a blast again!
Thanks to everyone at NO, the brewery, guides and of course, Victor, for another great experience. Btw - the ride does have some cool nuances when it is cooler and rainy. Awesome!
Kevin
Pelham, NH
Rating: 5 *****
Kennebec River Whitewater RaftingDead River Whiewater Rafting
This past weekend I had a bachelorette party for my friend and 22 of her closest friend! Half of the gals rafted and half chilled out in the fabulous/comfy cabins! The rafters were chilly, due to the lateness of the season, but the guides were wicked caring and helpful! They outfitted them in warmies, made sure they were happy and having fun! Food in the pub was AWESOME!
Staff was accommodating and generous from the point we started planning until checkout! We'll definitely be visiting Northern Outdoors again SOON!
Kerry Mc
South Casco, ME
Rating: 5 *****
Bachelorette Party Rafting Adventure
This is one of Trevor's Angels.
First I want to say: Trevor: We HAD the best tiMe ever, you are one of a kind. Thank you for not tipping us over. (LOL) We couldn't ask for a better leader. It's not easy leading a group of 10 STRONG women, and Trevor found away to successfully do it, from the girl talk, to the silly games, and ALL the funny pictures we took. You showed us how fun it can be to do something you enjoy. I wish you the best in your journey.
We learned so much on this trip about each other as a group, with that said, I wanted to Thank the staff at Northern Outdoors for a "Great experience" and good food. Now, I can scratch white water rafting off my list of fun things to do in my Life.
P.S. I can't wait to come back in the summer.
Ms. Sahadia
Boston, MA
Rating: 5 *****
Maine Group Rafting Adventures
We pass by Northern Outdoors every year on our way to Canada for Thanksgiving (US Columbus Day). We always say wouldn't it be fun to stay there. Well, this year we did. We arrived at supper time and enjoyed a lovely dinner in the game room where my sister and I could talk and the kids could jump from game to game. We then went for a swim. The kids enjoyed the heated pool and the fun of swimming in October. We heated up in the jacuzzi before heading off to bed. In the morning, we got up early and hit the pool and jacuzzi again! We will definitely look to make this a yearly stop!
Thanks again for starting off our weekend with a relaxing night and a good laugh - deer in the headlights beer - LOL!!
Danielle R
Clinton, MA
Rating: 5 *****
Fall things to do in Maine
We came to Northern Outdoors for our honeymoon. We stayed in the Boom Chain Cozy Cabin and we loved it. It was just what we wanted. Nice bathroom, kitchen, and it was very clean. We came up for an ATV trip and we rode almost everyday. It was nice to come back after riding all day and get a nice meal and relax at the lodge. The food and beer were awesome. Having a place where we could eat, relax in the hot tub or shoot pool was a real nice touch.
I would love to come back sometime. Its well worth the trip from Vermont.
Jamie P
West Topsham, VT
Rating: 5 *****
ATV Trails
Powered by Compendium