"48"-Day 10-Dashing through the snow
Laurie and her ride!
Originally published 12/23/2022
We awoke to temps still below zero. The air here is cold and dry and we've been keeping the humidifiers running around the clock as it bothers my skin and Laurie's eyes. Laurie's eye doctors (Busbee and Groos) have done a great job managing things and so far so good. I don't want to say too much so I don't jinx it! Thanks guys!
Temperatures were supposed to rise to about 7 or 8 above zero around noon. We went over and picked up our sleds and clothes first thing and came back to the condo to cook breakfast and take it easy until it got a bit less uncomfortable. We have found in the past that going out for a 3 hour ride, taking a break for lunch, then doing another 3 hour or so ride is the best way to do things.
Travelers Snowmobile Rentals is the best!
We rented from Travelers last year. I can't say enough about these folks. The sleds are all brand new, the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, they have clothing rentals (special snowmobile clothing), it's just one stop shopping. They also are affiliated with the Days Inn across the street and have package deals where you can stay and ride at a discount. Five stars all the way.
Lots of stuff like balaclavas, helmets, goggles, gloves
A pretty fair amount of gear is required, mostly just to keep the rider from becoming a human popsicle. Special boots, gloves, and a big insulated pair of coveralls are the minimum, and a balaclava will help keep frostbite aways. Heated handlebars on the sleds are a lifesaver and can be adjusted with switches on the handlebars. For bright days, it's nice to have smoked goggles and rose colored for snowy days, but these are not necessary. The folks at Travelers can rent you everything you need.
Laurie's snowmobile suit
Around noon we decide we'll venture out for a ride. We decide to "stay low" and ride a 20 mile loop around a nearby lake. We'll go high (up into the mountains) when it's a bit warmer and we have better weather. It's a nice way to get reacquainted with operating a snowmobile and to just get comfortable.
The Madison Arm Resort
On the shores of Hebgen Lake is the Madison Arm Resort. It is open from May 15 to October 1, and closed for winter. The snowmobile trail goes right through it. It is so odd to go through a place that spends part of the year full of people and activity. I always think of "The Shining" but there's no caretaker here. It is totally vacant until spring, and the only way in and out is by snowmobile. Snow stacks up on everything, feet deep. There's even a phone booth out here....and I haven't seen one in years.
Hot Chocolate with cinnamon schnapps!
We stop by Travelers Rental and pick up a pair of glove liners for Laurie and some anti-fog for her glasses. The staff was incredibly helpful as always. We stop by the supermarket.....going shopping on our snowmobiles...and Laurie buys hot chocolate. She bought a bottle of cinnamon schnapps in Michigan and now has something to put it in.
Our sleds parked outside the grocery store
Tomorrow, the weather is supposed to be better, with a high of 24. We look forward to another day dashing through the snow.