mccaffrey

Crazy ride, crazy day.   thank you

Crazy ride, crazy day.   thank you

Glad to see the group of solo riders enjoyed having you & Kristine (2 up) with them.                                                                                                                                                           Thank you 

Glad to see the group of solo riders enjoyed having you & Kristine (2 up) with them.                                                                                                                                                           Thank you 

Here the trail path of my last ride 29January22 going to LaTuque from Trois-Rivières round trip



My friend Snowcruiser had invited me to join his group that were going to LaTuque for the lunch round trip. I bring another partner with me to start the ride from Trois-Rivières airport parking when Snowcruiser was starting from his home with his crew. We planned to team up at Lac a la Tortue.
It was the first time that I was starting from Three Rivers airport. The parking is very wide with easy acces by the road by car and to the trail by sled. Our old sony have not appreciate the -21C at start of the ride and misfired a bit like on this pic of the airport.



Freshly groomed trail to start around 8:20


We quickly arrive at St-Etienne des Gres



The St-Maurice river crossing at la Gabelle was ok and gave us a quick drive on the other shore of the river


East side also freshly groomed



And we quickly were at our meeting spot at Lac a la Tortue Ultramar's and Snowcruiser team arrived with a near perfect timing 2 minutes later than us!



The completed team then went for the 20miles run on the St-Maurice river. The river ice is frozen nicely flat but there are very hard snow drifts and bumbs that make the ride pretty rough on the first 2/3 of the river path. My partners riding solo were able to push and fly over but I had to slow down to keep Kristine with me on the sled.


 
Back on the shore the #360 was perfect





The first #355 Gazoduc section was lightly bumpy but the snow is good and the riding was fine. Past the #351 junction going north conditions came back perfect
Here the tall ferry bridge of rivière du Milieu



I put together a video showing the ride from Grand-Mere to LaTuque

Put the sound on and enjoy the virtual ride
(You can click the 4arrows icon on the reader to pass in full screen mode)
Here along the LaTuque airport at 30km/h



And the legendary LaTuque snowmobile traffic light


 
I won't detailed our lunch time but just tell that we found our way to not being cold on this last restricted weekend for the restaurants. From today 31january22 the dining rooms can finally re-open! It will really improve the trips and ride time.
We then returned under a gray sky on the same path up to the #351 that we took through the Tawachiche Zec. It's a more narrow and twisty trail but it was in perfect conditions with a nice snowy scenery





The sun found is way under the clouds at the end of the day





And leave us an outstanding sky after leaving the horizon with this colorful view





We took a last break at relais de la Station in St-Severin



And we then quit the Snowcruiser team to returned at our morning drop spot with our partner. I was expecting to "pay" a bit our nice day when coming back on the #3 trail that got the day traffic in but it was not bad at all and we were even more lucky to cross the groomer few minutes after having leave our buddies



Even more lucky on the west side of the St-Maurice river to also left the first track on freshly groomed snow on most of our return path  



We got back at the trailer around 6:45 PM with 234 miles on the dream meter, a bit tired but very happy with our day ride. A special thanks to Snowcruiser for the invitation and to all those ride buddies that share this day with us.
We are in full winter conditions and with the reopening of the restaurants dining rooms it is really the perfect timing to get the best of Quebec trails riding.
Alain
 

Maybe, but the next time you try to come back to Canada, there might be a check mark by your name and no go? I agree its pretty dumb to give someone a test with no results for 5-10 days and you are only there for 4 days. We were home for 2 days before we got ours back. But they make the rules. so when we go back next week if we get the test we will do them.

No verification on anything, correct on that one.  You can do the app between 72 hours and 1 minute of crossing the border.  Make sure you have a negative test that they accept that is under 72 hours old, or a positive test they accept that is between 10 days and 180 days old.
If you get the random test you have to do it within 24 hours.  Have a decent internet connection and allow 30-45 minutes.  10-15 minutes to set up the account, 10-15 minutes to enter all the stuff from the kit and information on your crossing, and 10-15 minutes to do the test over the internet with a nurse, simple.
 
 

You might need to add at least another zero or two, then maybe. 😉

As Bill would say a blue bird day!!!!
 

With the deep cold we had think it would be a good idea to go feeding the Black Mountain's grayJays



This short ride path was perfect for a very cold day riding. We left the trailer at the Petro-T in Notre-Dame de la Merci village and went north toward St-Donat
It was still at -25C when we left at 10:30 AM. The trail pass directly on Ouareau lake and was mint




We then took #33 trail west that was perfect



and then the #317 as good. Directions are marked at junction for Black Mountain so it is easy to find.



A bit farther the local trail to the right bring us toward the summit. The rising began... 





Just before the summit we took the short dead end summit trail to the right


And got at the summit around 11:15 am. A strong wind insure us to not have any mosquitos or black flies around! 

Even with the deep cold, we ate up there and pass near 2 relax hours at talking with other sledders and playing with the gray jays. Those last ones were a bit shy at first but got quickly more friendly. We also had the visit of a Blue Jay (first time there) but it was way more timid and stayed farther. We failed the catch a quality pic but this blue bird was outstanding to watch flying between those pure white trees.



I put together a short video of footage took at the summit. Those who watch till the end will see that the birds were not shy at all after getting used to us.
 
We then got down the mountain...





And took the #33 trail around Archambault lake. There is woodcutting operation in this area, this is also why the Mont Cenelle summit trail is actually closed. It is riding well but we follow and cross a forest road many times. Although 3 young peoples in a SUV that had decided to explore this forest road learned the hard way how important it is to keep on the road and not the trail... 



the small truck was solid stuck with the side pressed on trees. When we arrived they were just been told no towing company would get there because it was not a public road... We helped them in giving them the information for contacting St-Donat snowmobile club and secure the trail with red flag before the curve to mark the danger zone. They were not dress to walk miles in that weather but some of their friends were about to arrive with an other car to retrieved them when we left.
We then continue on the #33 that was nice

The #33 section between Coin Lavigne and St-Donat village was a bit worn but very acceptable. There was some toc tocs in the skis from time to time so the new snow on the way for tomorrow will be perfect to improve the conditions. The #310 toward NDM was also nice 




We had been back at the trailer around 15:30 PM with a small 70 funny miles on the dream meter, perfect ride for the weather we had

Everybody here is waiting the tomorrow snow storm that should spread a good snow layer in a big part of the Quebec. We expect it will open up the whole trail network for our area and many other around in the very next days... 
let's get burry under snow!

No need for the random test at the border, we did this self testing every nite we were there.😃

We waited until the temperature got up to -22F before we left, which was around 9:15. We headed 13 north which was perfect, same as it was when we came in the night before. The cold temperatures are definitely keeping people off the trails. We did the 25 miles or so up to one of their orange secondary trails that connects over to the 53, it was groomed perfect also and in the past gets minimal traffic.
We then jumped on 53 South and went 5 miles filled up with gas at Lunics, (this would make it so we did not have to go into Manawa to get gas). We continued another 8 miles or so until the 33 Junction towards Manawan. All of it was groomed absolutely awesome till we got within 5 miles of Repos,  then it was fairly bumpy as to be expected. We did take the side trail which bypasses going into Manawan, as we didn’t need gas or food. The 5 miles south of Repos had taken a whooping also since we had been on it a few days ago. When the trail jumped on the first lake we took a left instead of a right and took the lakes all the way down until it intersects with 33 again.
We then rode the trail for maybe 10 or 12 miles which was all unbelievably perfect , (so we assumed it was probably perfect all the way in to Saint Michel). We then jumped off 33 onto the Reservoir at the earliest possible possible opportunity and road to Reservoir all the way back to the hotel.
Lots of folks out today on the Reservoir walking, snowshoeing, skiing, ATV, snowmobiling  awesome day to be out. Time to call it a trip for this go around and begin to plan the next! 
 

I can’t say enough good things about Notawissi being open again, now being owned by Sylvain, same owner as Meekoos, he is running a top-notch operation. The food is absolutely ridiculous, five course meal that you would get in the city or anywhere could not compete. 

Like Jak said, food is take out only.  You can get room service from the hotel restaurant at Universal.  I imagine the other hotels are the same.  The delivery cars have been here, St Hubert, Pizza, etc.  The hotel is empty now but the front desk told me they were busier towards the end of January.
Jak, Sandi and myself went out for a ride yesterday.  We went by 3 or 4 relais, all closed.  I think some maybe open on weekends but again, inside no food.  Maybe take out to your sled?  Not what we are used to.
As far as conditions are, the trails are in very good shape.  The groomers are out.  There are a few thin spots like near the river but nothing to be concerned about.  All of yesterday we saw maybe 10 sleds.  6 of them were at Relais Chevalier des Frontieres.  That is the one on 35 with the single arch and drag strip.  We couldn't go inside, closed.  Just taking a break.
Gas stations are open.  Grocery stores are open.  You do have to wear a mask everywhere unless you have your helmet on.  Make sure you have your mask on when you cross the border too.
Jack & Sandi

Planing on an adventure of sorts out visiting folks we haven’t seen in a bit. One out of four got the random test, random my ass. We will try to get that sorted now rather than wait till the morning. otherwise smooth sailing so far.

here is a video fro this ride between the Taureau dam and Cabanon passing by St-Michel des Saint and the reservoir highway
 

Lack of snow they say
between Lac Edoaurd and Lac Bouchette 
soon it will open

We leave our bed early this morning for a 155 miles ride around the Taureau reservoir



-25C at 9:00 when we started from Lac Blanc auberge trailer parking lot. It is a bit limit on snow near the auberge but when in the mastigouche reserve it was freshly groomed: perfect



We did the north side of the loop first so toward Taureau dam. The #23 section that have been plowed earlier in December was now perfect



This water look very hot!!!



Fresly groomed on the north side of the reservoir





We cut on reservoir by the local trail from l'auberge du Lac taureau to the St-Michel village that was nice and fast. The reservoir level is still high and the ice cover had almost no drops yet.



A foursome was playing golf on the court near the village of St-Michel



We fueled up at St-Michel and then stop at an old view point on the top of the mountain for lunch. There are some potatoes in the big hills but the rest of the trail nice.
The sun was nice but it was for the strong one to eat outside today!



The #63 toward Cabanon was nice and the #23 in Mastigouche Reserve even more





The last strech toward l'auberge du lac Blanc was a bit bumpy. It miss some snow but will be ok with grooming. They install a wood stove with tables and bench around to heat up and eat at the Auberge and take out orders are available like last year. 




So an easy 155 miles for her first run to Kristine and 2nd for me. I have tried some video but my camera setup have hard time trying to withstand those temperature. I will check at what I recorded and probably be able to put something together for later.
So the season is really started there. let's enjoy!

Alain

Interesting, so there is hope there may be some return to normalcy by then. Thanks for the info.

Arrived at Cabanon yesterday evening. Place pretty full. Border was easy Peasy like others reported. One in our group of 6 got tagged to do a secondary covid test. Cabanon has spotty Wi-Fi so he did his test via video while in Montreal and was given a place to drop it off. As of now have not heard back on result. Did a easy route today to Mattawin. Trails freshly groomed and slot car shape as it was -10f when we headed out this morning. 150 mile sunshine day. So glad to be back in Quebec. Last year was first time since 1985 I missed coming here.

So tonight we’ll shake things up a bit, you’ll read about our today’s adventure through Mrs.Ice’s eyes. Hope you like it. 😁
After hearing Mr.Iceman’s melodies all night long, we opted for a late departure since we’re only riding to the mummies and the surroundings to be back at Quality Inn for a second night. 10:30 it was.
Started on 5 to 591. At the beginning, near the hotel, I have to admit that we’re missing some snow. However, only 10 minutes up the mountain and it’s  much better. Snow is somewhat loose, so a little shaky but for sure rideable, I just need to adjust my driving. 
I don’t know about when you’re riding, but I love to look around at the nature, see the fresh snow in the pine trees and sitting on all the branches. Oh, how I was spoiled in today’s sightseeing so early in the season. 
I kept stopping to take pictures for me, for you, so you see it for yourself, but a picture never truly represents what your eyes can see on the spot. Anyway. I guess I was stopping too much... someone’s patience was challenged, hahaha. 😅
Trails were really great all the way to La Redemption. Only saw a few sleds, you know when you can count them, but lose the count because they’re too far apart... gotta love to have the trails to yourself. 👌
I realize that I dislike to be tilted on one side due to an incline on the terrain, we were in the fields at that point, good to ride on, but lack of snow to ride straight on flat. Lover said it was good practice for me. I guess. But I also need to tell you that I do not enjoy big downhills, but I did encounter a few on Cote Nord last week and I’ m sure will see more this trip. I’m getting used to them slowly, gaining confidence each time. 
I get good advice. I know i’m In great hands. 591 to 587 now. 
Got to see the beginning of the mummies’ formation, how nice it was to be in winter’s wonderland. My Hands froze up there because I took too many pictures, Oups. It was worth it though, so beautiful. I can only imagine the look in February. Wow. 
Then, we saw a sign marked canyon about one km off the main trail, 587. Up we went, It was impressive as well. Sketchy trails for us to get there,  but we managed. Lover said there are tracks, we can go. 
Afterward, we came to a point where I was asked if I wanted to go back the same way as this morning or this other trail, little longer he said. Apparently was 30 minutes, 40 some km more. I said you pick. Junction of 591 and a local orange trail. It goes towards St Paul. 
So off we go on that new trail. Some narrow and twisty parts, which I don’t mind because it warms me up. Then here it it, some sort a wide trail on a dirt road. Perfect to go a little faster, just a little. 😉 It brought is all the way back to trail 5, we completed our loop from the east. 
We made It to home base near 4:30. It was a good 240 km. 
Overall, it was a lovely day, not as nice as it was in Escoumins last week, but for January 2nd, it has advanced pretty well, can’t complaint. 
Forgot a thing or two that I will add here.
We do have radios to talk to each other, lover warns me for things to look out for and sleds coming. However, if we’re too far apart I’m on my own. So I’m working hard for my turns to be sharp and tight  on that right. I try to be more on my right than him. 😜 not easy.
Last, we came back in the dark, it has been a long time since I rode in the dark. I was flashed by another sled once no clue why, until lover told me I had big lights on. 😬 
Mrs. Ice

Headed up on the 9th, thats what we did. Rented 2 cabins. Bring food and booze, cant go wrong!!!!!!!!!

bonsoir !!!
wanted to go to la cache ( 75 miles ) or close.....very sunny in town , but once at the  17 miles....thick fog
kept going til mile 30 just in case i could see mt logan ...no luck ....turned around at mile 33 ...
 
jean-guy

This is good that I'm posting this late.  It means we made it thru the border.  😅
We were asked for our passports.  The agent scans them and I'm sure all of our history comes up on his screen.  It probably includes what we ate at the Brown Cow restaurant in Derby, VT a half hour before.  Then we were asked for the ArivCan confirmation sheet.  He asked us if we were feeling well, no covid symptoms.  He asked where we were going and the purpose of our trip.  Remember to answer this according to what you put on the ArrivCan website / app.  The agent is looking at it.
We first go to Valcourt to pick up the trailer and snowmobiles but I didn't go into to that.  I just answered that we were going to Chicoutmi.
The rest of the questions were typical from previous years such as, weapons, knives, pepper spray, cannabis.  Are we leaving anything in Quebec?
It didn't take any longer than before.  I'm still a little gun shy from being turned away on my first attempt on Dec 1st.  I'm slowly getting over that.
A little background on the trip up.  No snow on the ground until we got 50 miles or so into VT.  Pretty good snow banks above St Johnsbury going over Sheffield Mountain.  In Quebec, the Eastern Townships had snow cover but not enough to ride on.  After Drummondville the snow got better all the way to Quebec City.  Motel Bernieres had snow but only one trailer in the lot.  L'Etape had many snowmobiles, cars and trailers.  Looked like a typical day at L'Etape.  Snow on the ground all the way up to Lac St Jean.
It was freezing rain a little overnight in CT.  From VT on up we were in and out of the snow.  Nothing terrible heavy.  Just nice winter snow.  Thank you Mother Nature.  Gas around Quebec was $1.47.  Here in Chicoutimi its around $1.35.
There are sleds here at the Sag.  Not packed but a dozen or so trailers.  I spoke with someone that just came in on their sled and asked them about the spur going out to trail 83.  He said it isn't broke but you can get to 83.  It goes thru the parking lot behind the stores instead of way back at the edge of the woods.  The groomer hasn't come thru yet.
I spoke with the lady at the front desk.  She said what she has heard from other snowmobilers is trail 368 south is OK.  There are a couple of thin spots but it is passable.  You can't get thru La Baie on 83.  It sounded like there isn't enough snow there yet.  There is snow in the forecast though.  She said it is better to trailer to St Honore and then ride to Mt Valin if we want to ride on the north side.
You have to wear a mask everywhere and also show your vaccination card for entry like at a restaurant.
If you are planning on Quebec this year, I would recommend doing a dry run on everything you can.  Get a Covid test.  I like the NAAT test by Walgreen's  Our results came back in two hours this time.  I think the test is free everywhere in the U.S.  See how far ahead booking an appointment takes.  See  how long it takes to get the test results back.
Get on the ArrivCan website or app.  Step 1, create an account for yourself.  Step 2, take a look at the itinerary part of ArrivCan.  It says not to complete it if you travel isn't within 72 hours.  I think you can still go thru it and then delete it at the end.  Do as much as you can to get familiar with all the steps.  I only had to create an account for myself.  Then I could put Sandi on as a traveler in my "group".
Ask me any questions you have.  I may not have the answers but someone else may or I will try to get an answer for you.
So that is what we know so far. 
Be safe.
Jack & Sandi