Got Snow ! ! !

Got about a foot in the last hour or so and still coming.

7:18PM

I may have found the answer.............

The condition of the roads seem to be an on going debate each year and it really is getting old.  So I think I may have found an answer, on what some people find issue with, when it comes to how the roads are plowed and sanded.  Please watch today's video for my thoughts on this matter.  If anything you'll get a laugh out of it. 

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Get dancing and cross your fingers ! !

In a lot of ways the stage is set.  The R we had yesterday changed over to snow shortly after it started and didn't really do any damage to the snow/base we had.  The temps dropped over night and as soon as the new snow packed down into the slush underneath it turned to ice shortly after.  So the base has gotten a little better even without getting a lot of new snow.  So get dancing and cross your fingers we get the snow they are predicting.  If we do, things will be looking a lot better really fast.  One thing is for sure, it isn't getting any warmer.  The temp has been dropping all day and looks like below zero at night all week.

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Well it started.........

At 2pm the temp was 37 and R started to come down.  By 2:30pm the temp has dropped to 34 degrees, so let's hope it keeps dropping and the R turns to snow soon. The forecast is calling for it to turn back to snow later on.   Cross your fingers it doesn't do to much damage before it does.  Because we really can't afford to much more of a melt down.  What else can I tell you besides we need snow, but I think most of you already knew that.

At 4:20pm the temp is 32 and the R has changed to wet snow.

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It's been snowing.................

We have gotten another 3 or 4 inches since yesterday.  But in my book, it's still to thin for me to tell guests to come up and ride.  I've seen a few sleds go past the trail cam and some over getting gas across the street. But I think if the area saw normal weekend traffic, things would get ugly real fast.   Forecast is calling for cold temps, so let's cross our fingers and hope for lake effect like we saw a few weeks ago.

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Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!

Well as you will see in today's video we got a few inches of new snow.  Enough to make it look pretty, but not enough to go riding just yet.  Snow is predicted for the area, but I'm not seeing any big numbers.  All we can hope for now, is the winds to line up and give us another drop like we got two weeks ago.

Today's video...........

Isn't looking good............

Well it isn't looking all that good after last night's R.  But remember, a week and a half ago, we went from no trail conditions at all, to pretty good conditions in a matter of a few days.  Will it happen again, who knows, let's hope so.  I can tell you, that even after the R last night, we are in better shape than we were last year at this same date.

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Time will tell.......

Well it looks like the forecast was off by just a little.  Today and Saturday was calling for a winter mix, but all we have seen today is R.   The snow has settled a lot today and has absorbed a lot of the R.  The snow stick was just above a foot and a half and it is now at one foot.  But I don't think it can handle much more before it starts to melt.  If  the R stopped right now and got cold again, it would have been a blessing for the rest of the season.  But by what I'm seeing, it looks like we are going to see more R over the next two days.  What will we have when it's all said and done,  your guess is good as any ones.  Keep an eye on the cams and cross your fingers we don't have to start all over again.

SnoDeo 2013 one to remember!

The snow piles now, are as big as some years in late January.  Today's video says it all, check it out and you'll see what I mean.  What more could you ask for, besides the winning numbers for the lottery. Then you could be here every day enjoying the conditions we have right now.

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What a start.............

It's been many years since we've had a SnoDeo weekend like this one and to think, just days before we didn't even have enough snow to talk about a trail report.  At this rate I will be out shoveling the roofs before the end of the year and I don't think I have ever had to do that before.  Most years I have to shovel them by the end of January, beginning of February.  Riding must be pretty good, because everyone left this morning and they are still all out at 5pm.

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SnoDeo Weekend 2013

Well someone must of put in a good word with the snow gods.  Because it's been many years since we have had this much snow for SnoDeo. Groomers where out yesterday packing the trails with a roller and I saw one of them with a drag on it earlier today on the trail cam.  The temp has been slowly dropping all day and they are calling for 11 below tonight.  Looks like another round of snow on Saturday.  What month did you say it is?

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Looks like more to come.......

Forecast is calling for the lake effect band to move back north later today and drop some more snow on us.  Will it?  Who knows for sure, but it doesn't look like it will be as much as we got yesterday, when it does.  When I was out yesterday working on the trail cam, I kicked a whole in the packed snow after the groomer went past and I'd give it 4 to 6 inches of packed snow at that location.  By what I saw this morning, it looks like the improvement I did to the trail cam will stop the snow from stacking up in front of the lens and blocking the view.  Here's the link for the live cam again, just in case you missed it the other day.

www.christysmotel.com/live

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It's cold...that's for sure!

Hard to believe another snowmobile season is about to start.  Hope everyone had a great off season.  But now it's time for cold, snow and let's hope lots of it.  Because I to have a new toy I want to try out and it doesn't have skies on it.  It's been snowing most of the day today and we have gotten a few inches of new snow so far, with three to four on the ground. I'm sure most of you have seen the forecast and what they are calling for.   The temps are right, so we'll just have to sit back and see what happens.  I think you'll enjoy this, how about watching it live.  Check it out at www.christysmotel.com/live  Just cross your fingers for me, as I'm not sure how well it's going to hold up to hundreds of people or more all watching at one time.

Here's today's video.........

Polaris For Sale.......SOLD

1996 Polaris Indy 500 Classic, 488cc, liquid cooled, 2846 miles, studded track, reverse, hand warmers, mirrors, excellent condition. Garage kept, serviced every year by local Old Forge dealer. Great sled for a kid just starting out or for ice fishing. $1000.00 or best offer. Contact Leo or Kathy 315-369-6964 or email me at leokathy@frontiernet.net.

SOLD

Only a few days left..............

Till the preseason trail permit sale is over for this year. As you'll see in today's video, the weather has been very much like winter here in the north country this week.  With lake effect snow, temps in the teens and wind chills below zero.  When we first started to get the lake effect it was only in the Old Forge area,  Stillwater, Otter lake and over on the hill didn't get any.  But as our last cold front moved into the area the snow was more wide spread and we all got some.

First sticking snow of the season.

We woke up this morning to a coating of snow and at noon it is still snowing.  Forecast is calling for it to change over to R later this afternoon, so we'll have to wait and see.  You'll see in today's video, it all depends on where you are, on how much snow you got. 

Put in your 2 cents......

Speak up NOW for Adirondack Snowmobiling ~

written comments are needed by July 19th, 2013.  

Here is the link to the write up.  If you have a second or two, please give it a look over.

Hope everyone is having a great summer.

Winter isn't giving up!

Unlike many of the areas south of us, winter isn't going away very fast this year.   We are still waiting for all out spring to get here in the north country.  We've woken up to a coating of snow three of the last seven mornings.  As soon as the sun comes out it melts off.  But it still gets to you, when you take that first look outside for the day and see snow. 

Spring time conditions...............

With the warmer weather today and it looks like more of it this week.  I'd say that spring time conditions will be back with us very soon.  So I wouldn't wait to long to get that last ride in.

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Quiet tonight............

I'd say for the most part everyone had a good weekend of riding.  However it did sound like it was hit or miss on grooming when you got out of the local area.  But even with the lack of grooming in those areas, everyone said it was better than not getting to ride at all.  Last night, at this time, you would of thought it was mid Feb. with all the sled traffic and tonight there is only a hand full of sleds running around.

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Nice Loop............

I did something a little different this afternoon.  I went out for a ride and did a hundred mile loop.  Conditions where pretty good, but when most of your riding is during the week, weekend conditions can seem a little rough.  I know, don't say it, I know I'm spoiled.  Traffic was light and everyone that made the trip north had a great day of riding.

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How sweet it is!

It has snowed most of the day and we have picked up another few inches on top of the two feet.  What else can I tell you, besides you're missing out, if you aren't here.  Watch todays video and you'll see what I mean.

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DSL problems............

I'm having upload problems and at this time I'm not able to upload the video.  I can tell you trail conditions are sweet and I really wish I could show you the video!  As soon as the problem is corrected, I'll upload it.  We wound up with one and a half to two feet of snow from this lake effect event.

Could it be............

We have gotten a foot plus and there is still snow in the air at 7pm.  Forecast is calling for more lake effect bands tonight into the morning.  So we just may hit that two foot mark yet.  Had a guest check out this afternoon and he was all smiles when he came back in from riding.  So is this going to be the last weekend?  Who knows, we all thought last weekend was and look at it now.

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Looks like the next wave.........

The first wave of snow has stopped and has left behind a half a foot of snow.  The radar looks like the next wave is about to hit us and who knows how much this one will bring us.  All the forecasts are calling for winter and snow the rest of the week.  So forget about the spring time conditions, winter has returned to the north country, at least for this week.  The one and only guest I have in, just came in from riding, he put on 70 miles in two and a half hours.

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What's it going to be?

The question of the day is....what's it going to be on Monday and Tuesday.  A watch has been posted for our area and we could see 8 to 16 inches of snow from the storm.  This past weekend was a bonus with the temps dropping and snow on Thursady and Friday.  But this would be the frosting on the cake, to end the season with a dumping of snow like this.  Keep an eye on the cams to see how it all turns out.

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Getting better..................

As you will see in the video today, the lake effect guns have been gracing the north country with snow the last two days.  We have gotten around a half a foot, some areas have seen even more and it looks like it's going to snow into the night.  That makes it even sweeter, because there are times when the lake effect is in just one area and you really can't ride out of it.  This has been a bonus, because the way it was looking earlier this week, it was over for the season.  But now, who knows we might get another week in yet.

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All depends on...............

I haven't been out on the trails to say for sure how things are.  I can say we shouldn't be melting down any more, with the temps they are calling for over the next few days.  So can you ride?  All depends on what you are looking for.  Before we got this snow, I would of told you to stay home.  But this last round of snow has covered up the ice and will give your sled the cooling it needs.  We are in spring time conditions and you will be limited on where you can go.  How's that saying go.....Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

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It's Back............

The tease of warmer weather has gone away and we are back to winter right through the weekend and into next week.  I have gotten a few calls asking if you are able to ride.  As it stands right now you are very limited on where you can even go.  If we get a half a foot or so, it will helps things out and those of you that want to get in that last ride, just may.  I'll let you know more as it happens.

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Don't pack it in just yet...........

No conditions aren't all that great right now.  As a matter of fact, they are poor on the main trails and the inner trails I'd rate as fair.  But it won't be the first time we have gotten a mid March storm.  Will it be good enough to drive up from PA or NJ?  All depends on how bad you want to ride.  But someone an hour or so away may enjoy getting in another ride before it's all over for the season.

I'd like to say Thanks to everyone that stayed with us at Christy's this winter, it was a fun season!

Enjoy Today's Video!  It may be the last time you see sleds in the front yard for many months...............

Boy it's warm...........

At 3pm we are warmer than the predicted high of 42, it's 46 and we still have time for it to go higher, before the temp starts to drop for the day.  There's a good amount of people, getting in that last ride of the season and enjoying SnoFest at North Street. 

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Getting in the last...............

Many of our guests got here early today and are out enjoying, by what I am seeing, the last weekend of riding for the season.  As you'll see in the video, we picked up about 2 inches of snow over night and that helped out things for todays riding.  But the temp this afternoon is making things soft.  It will be freezing back down tonight, but by Saturday afternoon, it's going to be the same thing all over again.

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May be your last chance..........

By what I'm seeing in the forecasts, this may be your last chance to get in some riding this weekend.  Yes we will still have snow on the ground, but the trails will start to ice over and you won't have any cooling for the sled or slide rails.   I'm sure we'll get another blast or two before it's all over.  But you'll have to be right here to enjoy it, as it won't stick around long.  I know it's sad, the season is coming to an end, but it's been a good one.

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It's that time of the year.............

Temps dropped below freezing last night and everything froze back down.  By mid afternoon the temp got above freezing again and things soften back up.  We really haven't lost much snow yet with the warm temps during the day.  But I don't think that is going to be the case on Saturday if we get what they are calling for.  There has been a few people out riding.  The trail cam still isn't uploading the way it should.  I have a guess on what the problem is, but it may be a few days before I know for sure.

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Dusting over night............

As you'll see in the video we had a dusting of snow over night and the sun came out this afternoon.  Traffic has been light and the groomers where out this morning, before things warmed up from the sun.  Parking is going to be tight this weekend with SnoFest at North Street. The video has a few other places you can try around town, if your normal place is full.  Drop me an email or give me a call if you have any questions.  I started a facebook page, for the motel at www.facebook.com/ChristysMotel  If you would, please like it for me.   Thanks!

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If you can............

Don't miss out on this weeks riding conditions.  By the way the forecasts are looking, by next week things may not be so nice.  Will it be over for the season?  Your guess is good as anyones.  I would think we'll get another dumping of snow before it's over.  But the draw back of late season snows, you have to be here when it comes, to enjoy it.  Things are looking very good for the demo rides this year at SnoFest 2013.

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Turned out for the best.........

The temps dropped like predicted and everything turned out for the best this weekend.  It wouldn't of been pretty if it stayed warm like it was, that is for sure.  Sorry I don't have any video from the trail cam today, the file wouldn't transfer for me.   Looks like spring time riding conditions will be here soon.

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Just...........

a video today.

No regrets...........

I haven't had anyone come into the office and say they regret coming up this weekend.  I do have some info on a few things that was just reported to me by a guest.  I was told that Stillwater road was rideable and he also went up the tracks from Big Moose to Beaver River this morning.  But it sounds like any of the roads that are paved are toast.

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Off just a little bit.......

Well we didn't get the 8 to 12 inches of snow the forecast called for, but there is a good side to that.  We didn't get the precipitation in the form of R either, because if we did, there most likely wouldn't be anything left to even ride on.  In the last 24 hours we picked up a few inches of new snow.  This site http://www.wunderground.com/webcams/oldforge/2/show.html   records the pictures from the motel webcam and you can see that the snow level hasn't drop all that much over the last few days.  You can also look at time lapsed video from the webcam here also.   So on the meat scale of trail conditions, I'd give them a hamburger, cude steak rating right now, because they are soft from the warm temps and when they freeze back down, the rating will improve.   If we get the warm temps predicted for the end of next week, conditions may turn to Scrapple real fast.

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Don't give up hope yet...............

Well we haven't seen the 8 to12 that was called for yet.  We did have an inch of sleet overnight and this morning we didn't see much of anything coming out of the sky, just temps in the mid 30 range.  Mid afternoon we did have a short shot of light R and at 5:30 it's snowing.  Forecasts are all calling for temps to drop, so like always it just a wait and see.  The snow level really didn't drop that much today, but it did get soft.  So when the cold settles back in, things should freeze up nice.

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Get a dancing ! !

If everything comes together and we get what the forecast is calling for, fun is going to be had by many this week.  The groomers have been out and they have things back in shape from last weekend.  This new round of snow is going to make things sweet.  There has been some traffic around today, but not like it has been the last few weeks.  But like I said the other day, to many the season is over for one reason or another.  So for those of you that are willing to give March riding a try, you may be shocked how nice it can be.

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March is just days away........

We had snow in the air most of the morning and we saw the sun some this afternoon.  The snow really didn't add up to much, maybe an inch at most.  Wednesday is going to be interesting, by the way it looks and then winter for the rest of the week.  On the webcam page there is a temp/clock image above the picture.  The feed for it comes from a weather station at the info center.  But the weather station hasn't been uploading the way it should and then the temp gets picked up from other locations.  Sometimes it uses Matts Draft House in Inlet and other times it could be from a Rome, NY weather station.  I'm working on correcting this problem and hope to have it fixed soon.

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It's been snowing.........

Yesterday we had some snow during the day and early evening it was just on the edge of being R.  That type of snow that is super wet and we even had a mist for a short time.   Today there has been snow in the air, just about all day and we have gotten an inch, maybe two so far.  This week isn't looking to bad.  The biggest thing I'm  worried about, is the days when the sun is going to be out.  But by the way the forecast looks they are going to be few.

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For some it's over................

Just like Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer for many.  The last weekend in February is the end of the snowmobile season for others.  Is the season over?  No, because you can have some of the best trail riding in the next few weeks.

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Last weekend of February........

It has been nice to hear guests are riding in all directions these past few days.  Unlike last year when you where limited on where you could go.  Don't forget this weekend is the ice harvest in Raquette Lake.  If you haven't ever seen this, you may want to check it out.

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Doesn't get much better.............

With the last round of snow and the colds temps we have right now, conditions can't get much better.  Just had a guest return from his ride for the day. He left this morning around 8:30 and got back at 5.  He and his son put on 170 miles, they did a loop over through  Piseco Lake area.  For those of you that saw the post about the first annual big moose fire dept's chicken bbq fund raiser at Beaver River.  I'd like to pass the word along that they sold out and they said "Thanks" to everyone that stopped by.

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Got a good foot...........

Between the snow from the storm front yesterday and the lake effect last night and today, I'd say we got a good foot of new snow.  Went for a ride to Raquette Lake last night and the snow that was coming down was very wet.  It was freezing to the shields and the windshield on the sled.  A few of the rooms hooked up with the Inlet Barnstormers Club today and I think they went for a ride over to the hill.   Based on what guests where saying as they checked in today.  Lake effect bands where south of Old Forge also and gave them a good dumping of snow to. 

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Snowed all afternoon.......

We dodged the R thing and have had snow all afternoon, with 3 to 5 inches on the ground at 4:45pm.    Those of you who are waiting for conditions to get better, better not wait to much longer.  The days are getting longer and I really don't think it's going to get much better than it is right now.  Heading out for a ride later on and by what everyone has said, the conditions are good.  I'll let you know in the next post.

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It's a wait and see.........

For the weather Tuesday afternoon , but after that it's winter all week long.  One of our guests went out this morning around 9 and was back between 3and 4, he put on 130 miles.  The only other person I have seen back yet, put on 70 miles.  Everybody else is still out having fun.   A group that checked in this afternoon is headed to Raquette Lake for pasta night at The Tap Room.  By the way it sounds the portions are pretty big.  Because Skip takes Tupper Ware along and brings home the leftovers. 

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Upcoming week ..........

is looking pretty good.  Yes, Tuesday might have some mixed weather.  But it's going to very short lived and the rest of the week is winter all the way.  This upcoming weekend is the ice harvest in Raquette Lake.  For those of you that haven't every seen this, it's pretty neat to watch.

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Cold tonight............

Traffic has been heavy today.  But like most President's Weekends, it appears to be alot of families.  What does that have to do with anything?  Alot, when it comes to how make wear and tear the trails will get and families aren't out on the trails late.  Now figure in the below zero temps over the next two nights.  All factors that will help with the trails holding up better over this long holiday weekend.

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Holiday Weekend is Here......

Traffic is going to be heavy this weekend, by the amount of calls I have gotten, from people looking for rooms.  I'm hoping two things are going to help keep things together. The night time low temps and the lakes are frozen, so that will take some of the traffic off of the trails.  It looks like the DEC is done with the lime project at Stillwater.  Be careful this weekend!

Today's Video for........

Light traffic, Great trails.........

Went up trail 1 to Brantingham cutoff trail and then went through confusion flats over to Pine Tree.  All in good shape except the upper part of 1.  Brantingham trails where in the best shape I have seen them in sometime.  On return we went on 1, 2, 29, 9, 8, 3, 38, 83 and some of the small loop trails and all where in good shape. 

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Headed out again..........

I'm planning on heading out tonight again for some more seat time.  Yes I know...two nights in a row.  But the conditions are just to good to pass up.  I just have to wait for some of the guests to come back and see who wants to go out for some more riding.  Last night traffic was very light and I don't think we passed more than 12 sleds in 55 miles.  We lucked out today, because we didn't see the sun at all and had light snow in the air most of the  day.  It's getting to that time of the year, the days are getting longer and when the sun come out it melts things off really fast.  Hope you enjoy todays video, it's something a little different.

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Heading out...........

I'm heading out for a ride with some of the boys staying here at the motel.  The lake effect band, that gave us our snow today has shifted south and I was told that Raquette Lake got close to a foot today also.  Not much else to report, besides poeple are having fun.

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So far..........

So good.  We got up to 38 today, but we did dodge the R just about all day.  At 6:30 there is some R coming down, but it's not very heavy.  But on the bright side the temps have dropped 4 degrees in an hour.  So my guess would be the R will be turning back to snow very soon.  All the forecasts are calling for snow tonight.  It's just a matter of how much.  Let me update this at 6:40.  Winds have picked up and it is back to snow!  Hows that saying go...If you don't like the weather in Old Forge...wait five minutes it will change.

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Could make it better.........

The mixed bag of weather that will be in the area on Monday could make things even better.  Just as long as we don't get to much R and most of the stuff falling from the sky is frozen.  But I do have to say, that this new snow has frozen up pretty tight, all on it's own.

Today's Video for.................

Old Forge, New York Snowmobile Trail Report

I'm guessing that conditions aren't all that bad.  Because everyone left this morning and very few of them have returned yet at 4pm.  The guests that have returned come back about this time of the day, even when conditions are perfect.  It's my understanding the groomers are out in full force and I am sure this new snow is making their life alot easier.  The camera at Nelson's Cottages is back online and I saw a few sleds getting off the lake this afternoon..  There was a problem with the DSL and I had to reset some of the settings to get it back online.  http://www.nelsonscottages.com/webcam/ 

Today's Video for............

Been snowing all day...........

It's has been snowing all day and we have gotten 4 inches so far at 6:30 pm.  The storm coming up the coast hasn't started to give us it's snow yet.  This will be wet snow with good packing properties.

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Mid Week Fun !

Some of our guests hooked up with one of the local clubs this week and went on a ride up to Indian Lake.  By what they told me this is something they do twice a week and try to head to somewhere different on each trip.  If anyone is interested, drop me an email and I'll get more information for you.

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As for the storm...............

Trust  me on this one, after watching many NE storms come and go.  It's all a guess on who gets what.  Because 60 miles one way or another can make a hugh difference on who gets hit.  There was one storm they predicted feet for us and all we saw was a few inches, 50 miles east of us got the a foot, go figure.

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Headed out for a ride......

Traffic has been light all day.  Forecast is calling for snow the next few days.  So slip on those dancing shoes and get those feet a moving.  Not much else is going on.  I'm heading out in a few for a ride.  Not sure where we are headed to yet.  I'll be able to give you more info on what I see later.

Today's Video for..............

Not much to report............

What can I tell you that you don't already know.  Some of the trails are good and some are thin.  But we have something to ride on and that's more than alot of places have.  Just had a guest come back from putting on 125 miles for the day, so far.  He said he has seen it worse over the years and is headed back out after he has something to eat.  Temps are looking good for the week, now all we need is to get some white stuff to go with them.

Today's Video for...........

Not one single guest.......

Came into the office this weekend and said they wished they had stayed home.  I'm  sure you can find some trails that are down right ugly and then there are trails that aren't all that bad.   Can we use some more snow?  Sure we can, but I don't think it's down to dirt everywhere either.  Let's hope the next few days bring us a nice new coating of snow and fun will be had by all.  It all comes down to what you are looking for in riding conditions.

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Traffic is light this weekend......

Which is working out for the best, the way I see it.  Because I don't know how long the trails would of held up with alot of traffic.  But then I didn't think they where going to be as good as they are.  Everybody took off this morning for a day of riding and no one has come back yet at 4pm.

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Sometimes it doesn't take much!

Lake effect dropped 6 to 8 inches yesterday and it looks like it will be passing by us tonight again.  How much will we get tonight, your guess is as good as anyones.  It all adds up in the end and that's what counts.  So how are the trails?  By the feedback I have gotten this afternoon, better than I thought they would be.  Yes there are some wet spots, but why wouldn't there be after all the R we had on Wednesday night into Thursday morning.  The thousand dollar question is, will the trails hold through the weekend.  It all depends on how people respect them.  If they are ridden hard, I think it will show very quickly.

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Lake Effect Has Returned.........

Now it's just a matter of who and where gets what.  The bands have been north of us today and you can see on the Stillwater cam that they have gotten more snow than us.  The wind has been whipping and when the bands shift south I think we will see snow adding up fast off of the lake.  The big question is how long will the band stay in the area and that will be the factor on how much we get.  Don't give up hope, we may be riding this weekend yet.  This wouldn't be the first time conditions have changed over night.

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This morning......

I would say conditions where about the same, as just after the last warm up.  But after it being in the 50's and windy all day, we went down hill even more.  The one thing that we do have going for us, that we didn't have before.  Is some ice base on the trails, not alot but some.  But who knows how long that is going to hold up with the R they are calling for tonight.  It does look like they are increasing the snow totals for us after the front goes past.

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R R Go Away........

and come back some spring time day!  What the heck, it can't hurt.  So far we haven't seen any R today, but it looks like it is to the south of us down around Utica at 6:30pm.  Traffic has been light, because I think just about everyone headed for home, thinking today was going to be a wash.  But the few guests that stayed around got in a good day of riding.  The next 24 hours are going to be the classic wait and see, as far as the weather goes.  Because I have seen this many times before and it goes one of two ways.  One we get a really good dumping of heavy wet snow as the cold front comes in or two, don't ask...trust me.  And for those of you that think it's over for the season, you just keep thinking that.  Because those of us that have been riding Old Forge for a long time know it's not.  Sorry this was so late today.  The DSL was down all afternoon and I got behind in things.

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What's it going to be?

Town was full this weekend, with all the events going on and fair to good riding conditions.  Feed back I got was all the same for the weekend.  Main trails showed high traffic wear.  Some guests went out this morning and they said between the new snow we just got today and the groomers doing their thing, conditions have improved from yesterday.  Forecast is calling for snow into tonight and so far we have gotten I'd say around 3 inches of storm snow.  So what are we going to see out of the warm up?  Your guess is as good as anyones.  Let's just hope it's short lived with VERY limited R.  I'm going out riding tonight and will be able to give you more insight on how well the trails will hold up during the warm up after I see them for myself.

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It's Offical.......

The NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE in ALBANY NY has posted an Winter Weather Advisory for our area.  So I'm crosing my fingers and starting to do the snow dance.  We'll take what ever snow they want to give us, it will help us get past this next warm up.  Also I forgot to put in the video....we picked up an inch of light snow over night.

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Pictures don't lie.........

I didn't delete some of the posts from yesterday, that would of been other days.  Why?  Because I wanted to show everyone, that didn't travel north this weekend, what these posts where talking about.  You'll be shocked what you see.  I would say some of the trails are showing signs of heavy traffic, as there is alot of people in town this weekend.  As for mid weeks weather, I'm not sure what it's going to bring us.  Let's just hope it isn't like the last warm up.  But one thing that is in our favor, is the trails have an ice base to them now.

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The weekend is here !

With extra things to do in the area.  Beside the norm, there is the Ice Bowl Hockey and Zippy's Ride for Kids.  This morning was extra special, as the power went out for about two hours around 9:30. That always makes life fun at below zero temps and trying to get things ready for the incoming guests.

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After reviewing......

 The different forecasts, it looks like we will be below zero for a few more mornings yet....sweet!  As you will hear in the video we went down to 27 below this morning and we had 22 below the morning before.  It was nice the last few days to go out and hear the crunch of the snow under your feet.  Is there a warm up coming to us next week?  Maybe....but like always, I'll let you know when it happens.  So you better ride it while we got it!  Because there are only a few things in life that are for sure and good trail conditions isn't one of them.

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Lake Effect is a funny thing!

The local news last night said the band of lake effect was only about 10 miles wide.  By what I saw on the radar today, the main band wasn't coming inland more than about 30 miles.  Outside of the main band there was snow, but it has been light and we got about 2 inches today from it.  I had someone post asking about the lakes.  I will tell you when to stay off of them, that is for sure.  But I won't ever be telling you to go on them.  Because there can always be just that one spot that isn't safe, sorry.

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Put another log on the fire!

Because we are going to need it this week.  Temps are going to be below zero for about two days by the way it looks.  So those of you that have been waiting to get on the lakes.  This is going to help things get there that much faster for you.   When it get this cold, the ice on the roof starts cracking and poping as it gets colder out.  Sometimes it can be loud enough to wake you up at night.

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White out Conditions............

Could be found most of the day here in Old Forge.  At 6pm the bands of lake effect have shifted to our south, but the wind is still whipping from time to time.  Winter is going to be here for the up coming week, with cold temps every day.  

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Put on the dancing shoes!

Looks like lake effect will be coming to the area very soon, so cross your fingers and get a dancing.  Right after the lake effect we will be going into the deep freeze with night time temps well below zero.  Talked with a few guests that went out riding last night and they said trails are icey in spots with anything from not so good to fair/good conditions on the inner trails.   I still haven't been able to log into the trail cam and get video from it.  But at least it's still uploading pictures to the site.  Guess I'm going for a walk here pretty soon.

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Got 2 to 3 inches and maybe...........

more to come.  Most of the forecasts are calling for snow on and off most of the weekend.  But like always, till it's on the ground, it doesn't mean anything more than a prediction.  They did just post a notice for possible lake effect events Sunday night into Tuesday, cross your fingers.  I thought about pulling the sled out and getting some video of the trails this morning.  But after thinking about it more, I changed my mind.  Why? Well everything is looking pretty right now, after this new snow we just got.  It's like getting a cheap paint job on your car.  It looks good at first, but after time, it chips and peals and you're back to what you started with.

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Looking better, but not yet.....

We've had snow in the air just about all day and a short blast of it this afternoon.  At 3:30pm I'd give it about an inch. No, it's not enough to jump up and down about, but it's a start and at least it looks nice outside again.  Forecast is looking much better than it was yesterday and who knows we might get some riding in this weekend yet.  Best thing I can tell you is keep an eye on the cams and dance your butt off!  Friday is a long way off when it comes to north country weather.

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The cold is back.......

Temps have dropped, we are below freezing and it looks like we are going to stay cold.  Things are freezing down fast, yesterday the weight of just a two place trailer left marks in the front yard and today the back yard was frozen enough to back in the fuel truck.  So what was left out on the trails has or is freezing back down.  But we will need to get some new snow for cooling and slide rail lube.  It will come, it's just a matter of when.  Forecast doesn't look great for the weekend, but don't give up ship yet, it's only Tuesday.

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Looks like it's over!

The temp has been dropping slowly all day and we are below freezing at 2pm, with light snow, from time to time.  The big question is, are we going to see enough snow over the next few days to get us back in shape for the upcoming weekend.  By what I am seeing there is a chance for the lakes to fire up mid week, but that is going to be a wait and see type of thing.  If anything, it looks like the lakes are going to get a chance to freeze up this time.  A guest sent me some pictures he took this weekend and I included them in the video. Here is the links to them so you can see them better. www.oldforgeny.org/1.jpg  www.oldforgeny.org/2.jpg

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It's almost over !

The thall, that is. The riding season is long from being over and there will be lots of riding to be had yet.  I'm crosing my fingers that we don't see the R they are calling for.  If we can get by without it and have the temps drop Monday night.  We will be in a lot better shape than if we do get the R.  Because the snow we have can't suck up any more moisture and all it's doing now is melting.  As I said yesterday, the few that did make the trip to the area got in some riding.  It may not have been the best of conditions, but they got out and had some fun.  Two guys that checked in Friday morning put on 230 miles over the weekend.   But they did say they saw some "ugly" in a few places.

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Not looking so good.

Well we lucked out last night and really didn't get to much R compared to south of us.  This gave the few people that did come to town, a chance to get out and ride some this morning.  But this afternnon the sun has came out and we are in the forties at 2pm.  I would have to think that it is getting thin in alot of places by now.  Now the thousand dollar question is....are we going to have anything left by the time the temps drop back down on Monday?  On the bright side there has been more riding this season than there was last year by this time. 

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So far.........

we have only seen some light R coming out of the sky.  What will we get, is the thousand dollar question.  Today traffic has been very light and I just hope it stays that way.  At least till things get a chance to freeze back down after this warm up.  This will be the first time the snow base has sucked up any R or has been thawed and refrozen.  So as long as it doesn't get beaten up to much, it should freeze down into a good ice base.  Cross your fingers and hope that it all turns out for the best.

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Sorry to say....

it looks like the warm up is on it's way.  I'm just hoping we don't see to much R with it.  We can handle a day or two of above freezing temps.  But R will take it's toll on the base fast.  Because the base we have has never been thawed and frozen yet this season.  So it's all snow with no ice base.    Cross your fingers and hope for the best.  It looks like by Monday night we will be back in the teens.  I'm headed out for a Pine Tree run later on.

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Things could still change........

but the weekend is getting closer by the minute and they are still calling for a warm up.  On the bright side, it doesn't look like it's going to last to long and winter should return pretty fast.  Traffic has been light, but I think a few people have tried to get ahead of the warm up and got into town for some mid week riding.  The cam is out with some guests as I am typing and I will have video for you later.

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Don't give..........

up hope yet.  I know the long range forecast isn't looking all that good for this upcoming weekend.  But Friday is a long way off and things can change.  So cross your fingers and dance like all heck that winter sticks around.  I didn't hear of anyone going for a swim this weekend and I would like to thank everyone for using their head and staying off of the lakes.  I know they may look good, but they aren't safe to ride on at this point in time.

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Fun is being.......

had by everyone I talked to this morning.  This past week fits into the catagory of old time Old Forge.  Snow almost every day and cold temps to keep everything in place.  Heck I think I plowed and shoveled more this past week than I did in the first three weeks of January last season.  Forecast is calling for a short warm up one afternoon this week.  Not that anyone wants to see it.  But it could be a good thing in the long run.  Put a little moisture in the snow we have and then freeze it down for an even better base.

On a side note:  A guest bought the wrong set of carbides and his mistake is your gain.  He is selling a pair of new Woody's dual carbides that will fit 05 and newer Yamaha for $75.00.  I have them here in the office if you are interested.

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We got cold !

The temp dropped down to 17 below last night and things sure firmed up. Traffic has been light today again and everyone coming back from riding is saying the same...no one is out there. Which in some ways is really good. Because things are getting a chance to set up and give us a good solid base for the season. A few people have asked and I am sure most of you have noticed. The cam at the info center is taking a shoot of the lake front on the quarter hour during the day and the bridge the rest of the time. Looks like it's going to get windy tonight. Cross your fingers it doesn't take out alot of trees. As they are hanging very heavy with snow and this snow is frozen right to the trees.

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Going to be a cold one!

We dropped down to 2 below last night before the temp started to rise.  With the increase in temp came snow and we woke up to about 2 inches of new snow this morning.  Forecast is calling for 13 below tonight.  But with the way the temp has been dropping so far.  It wouldn't shock me if we dropped down to 15 below or more. 

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Happy New Year ! !

I'd like to wish everyone a Happy, Healthy and Safe New Year.

Traffice has been light today by what I have seen.  Not to long ago this was the biggest week of the winter season.  The kids had off from school and people vacationed in the area for the week.  But with the unpredictable snow levels of the last few years things have changed.  Forecast is calling for a low of 5 tonight.  But I think they are really going to miss the boat on this one.  Unless we start getting some cloud cover temps are going to drop like a rock when the sunsets. The temp is 6 at 4pm and it feels cold out.  Things should be freezing down over the next few nights with the below zero temps.  Maybe we'll get some ice on the lakes a little faster.  As the snow depth we have on the lakes right now, slows down the making of ice big time.

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