towing

The mauricie have been hit real hard in the 2 last week, when too much snow is worst than too little... the spot I had ride is just on the edge of this. With time nothing impossible but it will certainly take few weeks to completely pass through this Thank you to all the people that work at clearing those trail path

Denis will update you on the opened trails but on my side I really suggest you to go having a meal at pourvoirie du Lac Blanc on the east and another day to the repos on the north west. Conditions are exceptionnaly good for the date this year, in the best we got. Snow amount ar bigger when going toward east but not all trails ready in St-Alexis des monts Alain

The conditions were already good in the Mastigouche Wildlife reserve during our last ride when they had received a good layer of big wet snow that had laid down several trees giving considerable work to the snowmobile clubs to open the trails, although they received another one that over-painted the scenery even more but also giving even more work to the snowmobile clubs to re-open a second time several trails they had already logged a week before and putting a layer on those that they had not had time to do. The work is not completed yet everywhere but it advances greatly. After looking at the information on the open trails, I chose to go once more in the Mastigouche Wildlife reserve, but making a loop this time from the already ready trails. We therefore left the same starting point near the outfitter of Lake Blanc accompanied by Snowcruiser and Toxie. Brutally cold: -28C when starting at around 9:00 am Saturday morning (December 8th, 2018) As for the exact route, the current map of Lanaudière does not really represent what is groomed so it's difficult to show you on a map. We left the outfitter of Lake Blanc by the trail # 350, then the M10 and trail #23 to the west as our last ride but halfway in the reserve Mastigouche we forked to the south on the trail # 345. Currently if you continue this trail along its length it ended a few miles south of the Cabanon on #23. Halfway along the same trail, we took a fork on the left to go to Koubec Outfitter and then came back on #345 to have meal at Cabanon. In the afternoon we made the same trip as our last ride ie #345 north in dam direction and 12 miles from cabanon took the #23 east up to our morning path that we redid in the opposite direction. In terms of trail maps, I went to the sources and was told that an update for the interactive map and Imotoneige is on the way and should be done within a week to adjust those maps to the trails on the field in real The trails had lost nothing of their beauty compared to the previous week. Here on the #350 near the Lac Blanc outfitter Toxie who ride in front of us broke in a brand new grand touring 900 ace in these beautiful trails that he also traveled for the first time Snowcruiser who was with us had pass there last Wednesday and did a lot of zigzagging between the trees lying down to manage to pass after the 2nd layer of snow from last Sunday. Everything was perfect on this Saturday morning, a big thanks to the snowmobile club Mastigouche for their work and recent grooming! The woman behind the camera: the one who takes all the pictures you see, who has been sharing my life for over 34 years and been on my snowmobile back seat for almost the same time. She is also the mother of our 4 boys, the woman of my life. She does the meals and the laundry in addition !!! ..... lollll I love you darling !!! We then forked on the M10 trail to the north, notice the snow ... And then took the #23 to the west. The difference compared to the previous week is obviously the better snow to the ground but especially the amount of snow hanging in the trees Halfway in the reserve we forked to the south on trail #345 And switch again on the left to show the outfitter Koubec to Toxie. Everywhere trail conditions looks like of the end of January in the reserve The Mastigouche outfitter better known as Koubec by most snowmobilers. A real historical gem. We then retraced our steps over several miles to take the back the trail toward the Cabanon in the Mastigouche Reserve A little less snow going east but trees still well loaded and good ground cover We had arrived just a few miles south of the Cabanon. There is a little brownish snow around the Cabanon but nothing bad and everywhere else was beautiful We stopped there to refuel the venture and us We met by chance Bily a friend with whom Snowcruiser and I had already ride a couple time and he joined us with his daughter for a good sledder meal. We then took the #345 trail north towards the Taureau dam rear shot And around 12 miles from the Cabanon we took the #23 trail toward east which takes the path of the Wildlife Reserve road #31 (indicated by big signs). The sun that had been present in the morning let place to some clouds with light snow We took a short break at the fork to the south that we had taken in the morning. Kristine took the opportunity to catch this nice shot of a small river next: superb! We then continued on #23, the same morning path toward the trailer. Notice the amount of snow hanging in the branches everywhere We took a last little break before taking the #350 The sky was already too dark for the pics but it was special to ride this trail that sometimes looks like a tunnel at the sleds lights We got back to the trailer a little past 4:30 pm with a 136s very relaxed miles for the day, all 4 very happy with our ride In the summary, extraordinary conditions for the date for both snow to the ground and scenery. In fact, I don't remembered since I've been snowmobiling that I've seen such large area in Lanaudièrewith scenery so much snow painted in white by the sticky snow that froze there. They preview cold for the coming days so there will be many other lucky people who will have the chance to admire these beauties of nature Several clubs are still in the branch cut to open the trails but it is going well and the playground has grown considerably. Bily, whom we met at Cabanon, told us that he had left from St-Gabriel de Brandon(pretty much south) via trail #23 and everything was good on this side. As the clubs complete their work, they will officially open and you will see the details here: https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ an outstanding season start that is very promising for having some great riding in the christmas holidays.

Here's my yesterday (8 december 2018) video from the first part of our weekend ride, report will follow soon You can click the 1080p on the parameter and put on the sound to better enjoying this one. **disclaimer: I'm not responsible for any side effect you may feel after looking at this video or any crazy plans or spent you may initiate. You watch this at your own risk...

happy birthday guys!

Bienvenue Playhard! I had to admit we got an easy one to show you spectaculars pics on this first report we are spoiled!!!! you are welcome Snomogary! Thanks Actionjack! hoping to meet you again on the trail this season... thanks Shane! 👍 Wow, the snowmobile club crew did an outstanding job in a short time...my hat to them...🏆 unreal scenery, a real treat to open the season in there, like kids playing in the snow!

That's it, our first ride of the new season done yesterday in Lanaudiere! I would have liked before but winter has taken us by surprise: A season starting with groomed trails in mid-November is a new record here and I was not ready at all. To summarize, we catch up well yesterday with extraordinary conditions for a first December. Due to the early opening, there is still active wood work/transport that forces the clubs to adjust the trail network and the current map versions do not represent what is groomed. To show you our trip track, I use a gps map on which I have drawn in pink-purple our trip trace and an approximate of where #23 trail join on the #345 (between the Cabanon and the Dam). For those who know well the area, it is the #31 road of the reserve which is several miles further north than what the sled interactive map currently indicates. Our friend Snowcruiser joined us and we chose the Lac Blanc Outfitter near St-Alexis des Monts as a starting point which minimized the car travel of each. It turned out to be an excellent choice in all aspectWe then took the # 350 trail north, also called the Gaston's trail for regulars in the areaFrom the start the amount of snow to the ground left by the last week storm was impressive ...But very quickly that's what was still hanging in the trees that amazed usThe snowmobille club has clearly worked a good shot because despite it is an incredible beauty, the trails were completely blocked before the dozer passes. Good job guys!We forked on the M10 trail in north direction to get the #23trail. On a short strech there were some small branches reminding us that it is the beginning of the season.Otherwise, next very nice.A little further we took the #23 trail westbound. A little layer of new snow over the last grooming as well a couple trees fallen in the trail on the first miles (easily bypassed, just be careful) Then back on freshly groomed trail. The sky has cleared and the sun was present, the snowy scenery has become even more beautifulTrail conditions are at their best on the #23.At the beginning of the ride on the #350 although the scenery was amazing, it was after storm conditions with a rather soft trail and not much grip on the skis. Here on the #23 a little less new snow on a good solid trail base allows us to ride at a good pace in full control with very little effort. We then took the #345/#23 trail (between the Taureau Dam and the Cabanon) in a south directionThe amount of snow on the ground was clearly less than when we start more east. The trail base is very good but thinner and traffic helping, some curves are a little swept. On the last miles before the Cabanon while the trail path leaves the reserve road to enter in the wood (on about 4 miles) it lacks some snow but not really bad. We got at the Cabanon at around 11:30, pit stop for us and the sledsMany snowmobilers in the place and always as well received After a good meal break, we leave to make the same track in the opposite direction.The sun has accompanied us a good momentWe took a break at the intersection of the M10 trail that we then took in south directionAnother brief break at the other end of the M10 where the signage was a little deficient. We guided a couple sledders in the right direction and also briefly met 2 CMIQ forum's guys for the first time: Greetings guys !!! The Gaston's trail was really the most spectacular end in terms of scenerytoo bad that the sun had quit, in these tunnels it would have gave incredible scenery Here a last break in front of the Lac Blanc outfitterAll this big snow on the lakes before the big frosts has a worrying side however ... caution, it is still early in the season.We returned to the trailer with a total of 120miles in relax mode. In summary a fantastic first ride for us, surprising snow conditions especially more to the east. The trail network is still very small and not interconnected so check the areas you want to go before you go there. I know that the logging will delay a bit the early opening of some sections but the playground will be able to expand anyway in the coming weeks Check out the details here: https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ Wish you an happy and safe new sledding season to all of you !!! Alain

Just did our season opener in the same spot, outstanding for the date!!!

Krikri and I did our season opener between the Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc and Cabanon in St-Zénon, 127 miles of smiles in outstanding conditions for the date Here a little teaser, the report will follow soon... Alain

when I checked after my 2 votes yesterday night Mark was lower than before my vote and no I made no mistake, really voted for Mark!!! But this morning Mark had taken back the lead so maybe there is just a longer delay before the results are up to date?

Yes the actual new governement just elected in october had in their election promise to reopen a trail in Mont-tremblant park, the Caribou trail that link the south east of St-Donat to the 33 trail near the Rouge Mattawin relay. A newspaper, Le Devoir, had today wrongly announced that it was already done but later retracted and modify the news telling that the govermenet should announce their decision next week... St-Donat area people have big hopes with this promise but a part of the public opinion is against this reopening... personnaly i'm surprise that the goverment would state on or realize this promise so soon after their election but we will see... maybe next week...hoping it will be true Alain

Already voted, good luck Mark !

Hi Guys! Just a message to let you know that the trail system already begin to take form In the north of Lanaudiere! As of friday 16 november, the Royaume and Mastigouche snowmobile clubs had begin to groom some trails that sits on forest road between the Cabanon and Taureau Dam and also toward the Mastigouche reserve. They told about 60 miles+ done yet. From all I remember it is the earlier I had ever seen for groomed trails in the area, breaking the earlier mark by near 2 weeks! The reports I seen on facebook talk about 1 foot of snow to the ground and season start conditions of course, but the comments are really positives. I had not the chance the hit the trails myself but it gave me a kick in the butt to finish my sled pre-season maintenance asap!!! You can follow the trail system opening here https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ If it goes as expected, you should be able to read some of my reports in the next weeks Have a good safe new sledding season!!! Alain

Haha!!! I wake the thumb itch... In fact the cold wave had break down this week end and spring get installed since the last days. It was 20 deg. celcius today at home and we could ear the snow melting! The St-Raymond club confirm the #23 trail still open today but won't last long until riding would be possible just from inside the reserve like l'Étape Thank you quebec Bob! Yes, mother nature had a bunch of surprises for us in the last months and we ending with a great season unexpectedly long! As for your inquisitive question, yes Kristine have a younger sister!!!....... but not available and not in the snowmobile world, sorry!!! Have a great summer too

Yep , Krikri twist my arm for an other last ride!!! We let ourself tempted by an annual event called "short sleeves ride" organized by a very nice girl(sledder) called JoAnn on the web that maybe some of you may knowed. This event was as always in the Laurentide wildlife reserve at the Castor shack (named" playa del castor" for this day) located on the #369 trail 25 miles south from l'Étape. This event that started with a small bunch of friends meeting in 2004 turned bigger and bigger over the years and this one, the latest in april since the begginning attracted around 300 sledders Most peoples got there from the north of Quebec city directly on the #369 but like few we started our ride from St-Raymond de Porneuf at the St-Raymond relay (also knowed as Lesage relay before) on the #23 trail. It was the souther point possible to start from (the trail just infront the relay on south side was just on grass!!!) but going north from there, apart from the road approachs we encounter no dirt at all and amazing conditions for this time of the year. It was real winter condition for going and turned to spring on the return (was +10C at l'Etape and warmer down south!). It ended with 223 miles of happiness for us for making this route round trip. I won't make a photo report for this one but put together a short video from our route when going there that you may enjoy to watch (best view in 1080p) It was our last one for sure this time, I just installed today the summer tires on the venture! Have a great off season Alain

It was really a bonus at this time of the year to have such winter like weather. Have a good off season too and take care! Oh ya, a spring ride that had just the name, was looking like winter... in april!!! mother nature is really weird. Happy to read that you enjoyed the virtual ride! wish you the best to the two of you for the off-season! Thank you LInda Glad you too had the chance with Joel to enjoy some incredible "spring sledding" time in Mt-Vallins. Seen some of your pics:absolutly amazing !!! Enjoy the off season and congratulation again for the new born little girl, you will have some good time at cuddling her in the next months! Thanks Grumpysanta! just one day ago I wrote it was my last one and now I feel the itch coming back...i"m not really strong Thank you timbo! glad to see you on the board here! Yes it was a special season, up and down from an extrême to the other... like what we got in this last ride! Have a good summer! Best... Alain

I was disappointed to have missed the Easter weekend to ride but it is sometimes like that... but now that everyone thought sledding was over in my area mother nature sends us another surprise, a good one this time: One foot+ snow drop all over the north of my area on wednesday 4 April Several clubs had already announced or planned their closure. Riding up to April was already good in my area and I must admit that earth started to come out in some spots even in the north. I would like to Thanks all the snowmobile clubs peoples who rolled back up their sleeves and took their groomers out again for this last weekend in the north of my area, especially the Snowmobile Club of St-Michel des Saints, the Club du Royaume (Cabanon), the club Mattawin (Marineau toward Mauricie), the club of Notre-Dame de la Merci and all others that I could have forgotten. Having that large amount of new snow with mild temperatures, we did not expect perfect trails. It was not groomed everywhere and where it was the snow was very soft and the conditions have changed all the day but we had played in the snow under extraordinary weather conditions and scenery and got a real treat. Here is the approximate trail path we rode Saturday, April 7 2018 totaling 236 miles Here starting from La Glacière in St-Zenon at 9:00 am Saturday morning under a cloudy sky with -4C with our friend Steph We took the #350 and then joined the #23 north which were both freshly groomedWe had an overnight new snow bonus of a few inches like the ice on an already generous cakeWe passed by the Cabanon where we made a fuelup before continuing toward the #345The #23 had been groomed after the storm but contrary to what we had read on Facebook, beyond the #345 north had not been but several sleds had passed.The problem in those conditions is that the trail get narrow on some spots because everybody tend to pass in the same line which can get scary to cross other sled especially on a wooded twisty trail so we chose to go toward the Taureau dam. This segment of trail had been even less used but was taking us sooner on the #360 which is wider with better visibility. Two-up on a touring machine in a canal like that is not easy, especially for the stress level of my best half on the back but we had not long to do it And soon we were at the Taureau dam that we crossed to join the #360 trail on the other sideAgain only one track wide but no sled had passed since the last overnight 3-4 inches of new snow so it was a lot easier because I was not tracking in the skis tracks of the others before. I am not sure that the stress level of my darling had decreased much but on my side I had a real blast!!! The venture tossed alot snow in this spot and I admit that I probably have a few more miles on the dreammeter vs the gps because of that segment!The scenery that was already very snowy became even moreHere at the #360/#345north junction (toward pourvoirie du Repos).For ourself we continued on the#360 northeasterly to go eat at Marineau in Rivière Mattawin. The snow that was intermittent since we started became more and more presentThe #360 trail had not been groomed on the first miles...But the Mattawin snowmobile club had begin to groomed just few miles ahead and this, up to our destination for lunch at MattawinIntermittently the snow intensified making this absolutely beautiful scenery even more incredible ... I don't think the trees could have been more loaded than that, the pictures speak for themselvesIt was simply magic ...While we were already stunned at this scenery, the snow got heavierWe were there for an april spring ride!!!It decreased afterwardsBut the sky was still very dark as we crossed the photo spot on the shore of the beautiful Mattawin RiverHere seen from the bridge, the St-Maurice river with the Auberge Marineau seen through the trees in the distanceWe arrived on-time for lunching at around 12:10. We are always well received at Marineau, good food and services. A real sledders place for sledders. While we were having lunch, the snow started again!After a good meal break, we gave a good drink to the venture on the other side of the street before continuing We were still in for some surprises in terms of weather, the sun that we did not expect had come out! And it's under a sun and cloud mix that we retraced our steps on the #360An already beautiful and pleasant trail to ride but with those conditions it was really at the top The same scenery with the sun instead of the snow was so different but just as beautiful, we are really blessed to had had both in the same ride. Obviously the pics are a lot better when it's sunny ... We stopped at the halte 440 for some pictures ...And then continued ...Hum... this white coating on his hood does not seems factory... Here not far from the Taureau dam. The morning single track was beginning to widen a littleOur buddy Steph was a little reluctant to our ride extension plans (maybe he begin to know us well!) but since it was still early we finally convinced him to stretch out the ride by riding around the reservoir and passing through St-Michel des Saints. The first section up to #33 trail had not been groomed either but was riding very well. Here during a short break on the reservoir shoreThen once on the #33, the trail had been groomed by St-Michel snowmobile club, nice and fast Here on the reservoir beach With this beautiful sun giving us maximum visibility we chose to cut on the Taureau reservoir between the Auberge du Lac Taureau and St-Michel des Saints.We took the opportunity to do one last fuelup at the the village before continuing on the #63 trail toward the Cabanon. The big hills near the village were very thin but otherwise the snowmobile club of St-Michel had did a very good grooming job because it was very nice and fast. We then resumed on our morning path to La Glacière. We finally got back at the trailer around 6:00PM with 236 miles on the dreammeter. For the next, I do not expect a lot of extra grooming but you can follow the details on the trail conditions website here: https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ Each ride is an unique small adventure and this one has been an incredible good one! Big chances are it was our last one (unless somebody twist my arm!) but I could not dream of a better way to end the season in my area Have a good off-sledding season !!! Alain

I hope to put some more miles on the venture this season but we are definitely coming toward the end of the season, the trailer will be put back in service for the next! Have a great off season too A blue jay day with blue jay pics!!! Thanks Playhard! Thank you Phil, I enjoy yours too! this forum is one of the best because alot guys share their adventure on here. I know I miss some and will have some good reading on here to fillup the off season. Have a good summer too!!! Thank you Steve! I had been surprised when we ride from l'auberge du Lac Taureau to Canadaventure over the lake, it's reallly shorter, we were at Canadaventure in no time! This last weekend was amazing, perfect temperature+long daylight on end of season perfectly shape flat trails. Sharing those times with the one we love is priceless! Yes, the required water volume to fill up those reservoir is totally amazing but don't worry it will be back at full capacity by June beginning, this every years even when we have less snow than usual. The river network that flowing in those reservoir pickup the water on thousands square kms around. For the Taureau one the Mattawin river source is deep in the Mt-Tremblant park and Rouge-Mattawin reserve via the Mattawin west river. They take 3 months to empty it and it will fill up in just a bit more than one... amazing! Enjoy your summer and take care

We've been invited this weekend by the girlfriend of one of our sons to spend a night at their family cottage on the shores of Taureau Lake in St-Michel des Saints. A great opportunity for us to do the reservoir loop in relax mode on 2 days. Here is the final trail path of 303 miles traveled during the weekend. Saturday morning, -9C under a clear sky and a beautiful sun when we left home in St-Thomas de Joliette . Finally it was not a so good idea to start from home, we were knowing that the 5 first miles were in Berthier snowmobile club that had closed during the week but still having the signage so we went for it. We got ice, ruts, and a plowed section but once in Joliette's snowmobile club, it was just groomed during the night and the fields trails were impeccable We took the trail through St-Félix de Valois. The residential section was bare, no more snow but once crossed it was ok. Here in a maple grove tapped with buckets that we don't see often anymore Every trails in the fields were still in very good condition, here on the old railway in St-Cléophas. All in all, we can say that the good reliable conditions began north of St-Gabriel de Brandon, souther than there, conditions were too unevenSo once in the mountains north of St-Damien the conditions were still winter, very good The pourvoirie Réal Massé being closed, the Mandeville snowmobile club had groomed a shortcut of 1 mile which avoided us to go through there and saved us about 5 winding miles so very nice. In the 90 curve with the wooden mirador, we then passed straight.We then continued the #23 to the Cabanon. No spring's signs thereWe stopped early to refuel and eat at Cabanon and then went right toward the Taureau Damconditions were impeccable in the best of the seasonWe took a good break at the dam, chatted with people who were there and took some pictures of the placeBy taking our time a bit too much we were starting to be a little tight for being on time for the appointement with our son near the Auberge du lac Taureau so I opened up the throttle which was easy enough with these perfect conditionsseveral wide and fast trails sections in this areaA little before arriving at the Auberge, the trail passes right on the shore beach and you can see how low the water is, a good 50 feet lower than the summer level We finally joined our son and his girlfriend at the agreed time. We went on the emptied lake with them before returning to his girlfriend's family cottage. They also ride a venture, 2 decades older than mine!It's been a long time since I went outside the regular trail on the lake, you must always be very careful while riding on the emptied reservoir ice but it's impressive, very special like this dune normally submerged in summer in the middle of lake.The view from the cottage on the reservoir is absolutely beautiful and there are many deers in the yard !!!Kristine took beautiful shots We had a great evening and a great time with our hosts. It seems to me that just a few years ago my boy was still playing with his toys at home and now we are received like distinguished guests by him and his girlfriend in a beautiful cottage ... time flies it is incredible!!! Sunday morning we took it easy, Kristine was very proud to having snap those blue jay great shots We then start our return and took back the usual trail on the reservoirAlthough it is tempting it is not a good spot for speed runs because the ice is far from being even everywhereWe refueled at St-Michel and took the trail #63 to the Cabanon. There are some dirt spots that are starting to come out especially in the big south facing hills near the village but nothing serious yet.The rest is still beautifulWe passed near the Cabanon and went north on the #23 trail to ride the Mastigouche Wildlife Reserve. Still a lot of snow there...The trail was nice with a bit of ripple in some curves but very nice overallgood snow and fast trailsWe arrived at the pourvoirie Koubec a little before 2:00 pm and eat there. We then left on #350 trail to the westAnd have taken the #23 on the same path from the day before but south. Here the diverted trail to the shortcut to avoid Massé pourvoiriethe shortcutWe took a short break at the small snowmobile club's shack just up the big hill in St-Damien. Kristine took this amazing afternoon close-up of the moon We then retraced our steps down to St. Gabriel. As written earlier the good conditions were north from St-Gabriel and south from there the difference was noticeable on the conditions compared to Saturday morning with some dirt that was beginning to appear. To avoid the village of St-Felix we passed by St-Cuthbert/St-Norbert which at final had too bare and dirty spots and was no better than the saturday route. We had just enought water holes to cleanup the skid after the dirt runs!!! We finally arrived home around 5:30 pm with 303 miles on the dreammeter for the 2 days. In summary, the season is over near home but still a lot of snow north in the mountains and Mauricie side seems pretty good too. The temperature and precipitation in the next days will be decisive to know when the clubs will be grooming again. I suggest you to follow the developments here on the trails conditions website: https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ Good season ending! Alain

Thank you Tom! Yes, I think I would search for a long time to find an other maniac that would do this kind of ride... I keep her!!! Yes to bad for the Cooper, not always easy to recognize each other on the trail. The next time I will follow my first idea and will call " Hé Tom!!!" if the guy turn around, it's the good guy!!! Like writen it look really better than a week ago, end of march for St-Zenon area would be no problemo for snow imo but be just prepared depending where you want to go there are some pouvoiries that will be open just for gaz like the Kanawata and probably the Repos... Alain

If I had would be a bit faster I had also show you a bobcat that cross the trail infront us at a good distance. It was in a wood section so when we arrived where he cross the trail he was gone or hidden at least. I had to admit it's our trip where we seen the most animals on the same ride!

It looks like winter was not over! I did not think with the mild temperatures of the last weeks being still able to leave directly from home but this last week's snowfall combined with cold temperatures allowed the groomers to work and give us wonderful trail conditions for the weekend. After having looked at the map for a long time, we finally decided to go for an ambitious ride that we had not done for a few years: starting from home to l'Annonciation in Laurentides area round trip via trail #63. Here is the final ride path that Krikri and I traveled last Saturday which totaled 321 miles Starting from home a little past 8:15 Saturday morning, -11C under a clear sky with very few clouds. The #43 was freshly groomed near home, very nice in full winter condition. A few miles from the start, an undeniable spring sign: trail partially broken over a small ditch that the dozer has filled again to allow the passage. It turned out to be the only place like that on the whole rideThe Joliette snowmobile club trails were also freshly groomed like the majority of the trails we did in the day Here towards St-Jean de Matha villageThe Black river north of the village is still in winter conditions, no spring sign thereA beautiful sunny dayJust past the Pourvoirie Bazinet there were some good snow blades near the lake. We can see that the snowfall has been more generous here in the north than in the south of the area at homeA little further north we fork to the west on the #343 and then on a local trailTo take the #33 trail northThe small river that flows to right of the trail on the first miles gives several beautiful views We continue on the #33 and arrived at the relay Rouge-Mattawin around 11:20, we took there a short break. During the fuel-up, the gentleman there confirmed to me that they would continue to operate 7 days a week as long as there was grooming that he planned to be until just after Easter, around April 3 if conditions allow. We then take #63 trail to cross the Rouge-Mattawin Wildlife reserve. It was already a couple of years since we had not done it but what a nice wide trail to ride!A little ripple in the curves on the first half but nothing to stop us from cruising in the reserve at high speed. This trail that is running along the limit of Mont-Tremblant Park is really similar to the trails that used to be found in the park: Wide, good visibility and fast Here a beautiful river in winter dress that I took better with the Gopro on the return. We arrived at La Macaza on the other side of the reserve around 1:00 PM and stopped at the restaurant/ bar at the airport. A first time there for us: good fast service and good food, we left around 1:50. I felt it was a bit more chilly up north, -15C at noon there! The trail was so nice and flat that it had formed a big ice horn in the back pad going down near scraping the trail when we were sit on...Maybe my venture is a male?... or a unicorn? ok the corn is not on the right spot for a unicorn We then continued on #63. Here just behind the restaurantAnd continued up to l'Annonciation where we refueledWe then turned back and retrace our steps on the #63 trail. Really not a punishment !!! Here another view of the beautiful little river seen earlierWe crossed again the Rouge-Mattawin Wildlife Reserve and then took the #33 trail but toward St-Michel des Saints.The trail was still in very good conditionWe fuel-up up at St-Michel and took the trail towards CabanonHere on the bridge at the foot of Mont-Trinité monutain just behind the villageWe stopped there, up the first hill where we used to have a nive view of St-Michel village years ago but now that the vegetation had grown up it is no longer a view pointThe #63 was a bit bumby but very nice for a Saturday end of the day, not to mention the event at Cabanon: Cabanon spring party It was already 5:20 pm when we arrivied and the outdoor activities of the Cabanon party were pretty well done but still a lot of people and the corral ahead was full of snowmobiles.Having a good run back home to do, we took the #23 trail heading south. We briefly had a freshly groomed trail but quickly pass the Dozer who had just left the CabanonThe trail was still a bit rought but rideable at good speed north of the #350 trailSouth of the #350 however it was really rought up to club transition a little north of pourvoirie St-Damien. It was then very acceptable and in the fields down the mountains the conditions were good and fast. We even crossed the dozer of St-Gabriel who started his run The trails were all beautiful afterwards and we rested when finishing the ride. On the #3 down south in the St-Cuthbert sector, we saw a couple dirts spots otherwise the fields were beautiful and fast. We came back home a little past 8:00 PM with 321 miles on the dreammeter. In summary, except for the few spring signs mentioned in the extreme south, we were in full winter conditions on the whole ride. We have a winter surge that has put the season back on track for some more time. According to long-term forecasts, cold temperatures will still going on and the nights will be quite cold so I expect to have at least another nice sledding weekend to come for near the whole area and more in the north of the area. It was not sounding like that when it started to get warm more than a month ago, maybe we're going to touch the April month this year for riding in our areas! For those who preview to ride here, keep an eye on the conditions there: https://www.snowmobilecountry.ca/en/conditions/ Alain

Yes he was confortably install in the wood border maybe 60' from us, probably hoping for some food... We had not much to give him, he should had show up 4 hours later I had birds in my hands...lolllllll Oh yes we did! It is there that I parked infront the windows and my friend Coyote and Jocelyn were there at lunching, it was 11:45 We join them in the left section of the dining room(more toward the ski slopes) When I get out of the mens room after our lunch maybe 12:45 or so I think I saw you ( from what i was remember having seen you in a picture ) in the right section, I had hesitate to ask but I was really not so sure so I had continue...I now regret! From there in the afternoon we had went toward Chandler. I don't remember having seen your black Apex on the trail? It seems we got really near to meet together in person! Alain

Thank you Jim! again, it was a real pleasure to meet you and Gemma at the clubhouse, you are very kind pair of sympatics, solid experienced sledders. I admire how strong you are at riding just the 2 of you in some remote area that I would be scared to go alone, and you succeed once again this last time on the north shore. All this with real time ride report: I raise my helmeth to you two very high and hope to have some other chances to meet you on the trails in the future. By the way...we had to get gaz in La Cache when we were there and had really wanted to follow your recommendation so when we had push at the fuel tank we asked for premium: they replied: our premium is empty, we just have regular!!! oups.... We had no choice and top with the regular and fortunately had no problem after... but I will make a fuel filter replacement this summer as a preventive care, I had not touch that since i have the sled and I figure it can be the accumulation over the time that would lead to a completely clogged filter. Take care!!! Thank you groomer!!! coming from a good photograph like you Kristine is even more proud of those catch! Again thank you and keep the good work even over the trails than at sharing your beautifuls pics! Thanks P Hardy! especially for you and groomer... Thank you actionjack! Was a real good trip even with rugged trail "texture". Have a good summer too, but... it's too early to talk about summer!!! lets enjoy the spring riding! Thank you Tom! Were you in Murdochville on Tuesday 6 at noon? Yes your equation is right, it's part of our game, but what a nice game!!! Thanks Jean-Guy! as for spectacular scenery, very hard to beat for sure! Thanks smclelan! the small the Lumix is not an high end camera, it's a "bridge"type with a fixed lens of 25-600mm at F2.8 which mean acceptable zoom for near and very good zoom for far and lens big enough to let enter pretty much light. We had a good "reflex" type camera few year ago but it can get expensive to play in this ball game especially with the lens and after having being unlucky with a lens dropped on a ceramic floor, I had prefered to go with the bridge Lumix that give and all around good package for us. Hahaha, very funny Playhard!!! I had get myself a new nick name lolll my Pleasure Hparaptor! Thanks!! Thanks Quebec Bob! I had kept the 2 last Yammies 40000kms/25000miles each which was 5 years for each, we ride a little less we are in our fourth season with this one. The Boivin rear skid have around 55 000kms right now but have been heavily maintenanced and modified. I will do an other season or two with this setup, love the setup I have, it will be very hard to replace because the boivin skid are discontinued and no more sold since many years so I will need to look at something different. Thanks 4ws XRS! yes, I'm the lucky guy that have the best one! We realize we are a bit less tought than we were both as we get older... I remember doing 300miles rides on a Polaris XLT600 95 single place with Krikri litterally stick on my back with her legs fold in half and she was still asking for a detour before coming back home!!! now she don't ask for the detour...loll Thank you revct1! You bet, and we have to realize how lucky we are to be able enjoy it years after years the way we do... Thanks Grumpysanta! yes we can have everything... but not always!!! loll take care Alain

Just back from a week in the Gaspesia area accompanied by our friend Snowcruiser. We left home after dinner by car on Saturday March 3rd and returned home on Saturday the 10th in the late afternoon, a trip of 700 miles by car and 1040 miles by sled. This was our 4th time in Gaspésia, the last one was back 4 years ago The mild temperatures that we had in the last weeks are certainly related with the poor trail conditions we encountered on a large part of the trip. I was expecting that with the warm temperatures but it was a notch worse than expected, no offense to you Groomer, the Tq5 in your area was nice!!! Luckily, our relaxed vacation pace gave us an easy 160 miles/day average which was just enough in these conditions especially for my passenger. Here is the trail path of our trip: Our drop spot in Gaspésia was in Mont-Joli at the motel "Mon Joli Motel". We slept there Saturday night before leaving by sled and finally Friday night when we came back before going home the next day. This was our third time at this location mainly for free parking and their recovery service in case of problems: we leave them our car keys and in case of problems they can come pick us up with our rigs at our request. A service we have been fortunate to never use up to date but still provides a significant peace of mind for the trip. In addition the place is nice, beds are comfortable and the food at the restaurant very good.We had a very cloudy week but a bit of sun in the first 2 days. I hesitated to make a ride report on this trip, doing it as I usually do would make a too big project for the moment(I have a lot of photos and videos) so I'll go differently with what marked us more than a detailed story . To begin we headed south via the trail # 5 on good trail conditions (Mont-Joli is the place where the trail#5 come back on itself as the road #132 that goes around the Gaspésia do ).I had left a message to Groomer. Being in his backyard and having never met in person, the opportunity was too good to not going shake the hand of the best photographer in Gaspésia! So we went having our lunch at the Albertville Clubhouse where he came to meet us. Our lucky star gave us a big bonus having Mr and Mrs Gt riders in persons, Jim and Gemma were there at the same moment. It was so nice to have a great talk with all those passionate peoples. a real great add-on to our trip! I know JG you are more at ease on the other side of the camera but thank you for having been willing for the group pic with us here outside before leaving This day we had went to sleep at Pointe à la Croix and the next day we continued on #tq5 to New Richmond. Here the New Brunswick on the other side of the river Many deers in that area.Enough for having to pay more attention. I watched a lot for deer tracks in the woods as in this one where there was a good flock. We powered the Lumix with the zoom and made some good shots, really beautiful animalsWe then rode north on the #595 to La Cache where we spent the night. Probably the most rought trail of our trip that had not seen the Dozer for a very long time. During a break to our surprise we saw a mosquito on the venture cab! if the mosquitoes come out at this time here I won't imagine what is it in summer!The next day, leaving La Cache we saw the only moose of the trip ... I would have liked to see one in better shape but it is what we got! It left just his coat that had been moved by wild animals during the night.We then headed for the Chic-Chocs trail toward Murdochville. During our climb we were impressed by these snow blades on the trail side A little further, while we were stopped on the trail side to take pictures of the rear view, another "virtual friend" recognized us and came to meet us. It was a pleasure to meet you in person "Je me souviens"While we were talking with him, a little fox appeared in the back sceneryKristine got the Lumix out and made a series of good shots of this little curious When I parked my sled on the side of the Cooper infront a window in Murdochville. A knocking on the glass make us realize our friends Coyote and Jocelyn with whom we did our Chibougamau annual trip 6 years ago were just inside at their table for lunch!!! Another great surprized meeting that put some shine on our trip! After our lunch, we went down the #597 toward south. I stopped for a short break around sixty miles from Murdoch at the spot where the dozer turn around(club change) because I remembered having seen gray jays the last time we went there 4 years ago. Well there were some still there and not fearful at all. they came to get their treat in our hands and stayed there a long time pecking and watching usWe went to sleep at Grande-Riviere and continued to Perce the next day. Seeing the famous Rock is a must in GaspésieAfter Perce we wanted to keep going north but the TQ5 was closed because of a river so we should had to turn back and retrace our steps to take the #597, a pretty big detour. Because we have hard heads, we decided to go to see by ourselves. It was not ideal but very feasible to cross especially north as we did. There was about 6 "of water on the right side. Here seen from the other side toward south direction, it would have been more difficult because the skis could go under the ice and the approach was steeperWe continued toward the north side and went to sleep in Grande-Vallée. There was an annoying high frequency ripple 4 to 6 inches deep on a very large portion of this last segment, we had the feel of riding on a railway.. after several hours it get really tiring. The next day we continued west. Those who already did gaspesia know it: most of the mountainous spectacular scenery is from Mont-Louis to Ste-Anne des Monts and in between Mont-St-Pierre is an icon in this area. The point of view of the hang-glider platform is a classic but I put here some others points of view of this same spot that we like alot And on west side For fun, from this same place Kristine tried a full zoom with the Lumix of the hang gliding platform on the other side: impressive! The trail condition was among the best of the trip in this area up to St-Anne des Monts. I had booked the evening before a cottage in St-Octave de l'Avenir at the Village Grande Nature where we went for the night. Here the view from the auberge on the Chic-shocks mountains with our chalet just down right. The top mountain view was chopped by the cloud line on this pic A different experience in a cottage, relaxing near the wood stove after a sledding day was magicI don't know if they followed us or if we attract them but I saw gray jays on the porch on the next morning! I went out with a bit of lunch and yes they let themselves be tempted once againFor our last day we went west on #TQ5 and then went down south via #591trail and finally took #587 to La Rédemptionon pretty good trail conditions to see the Montagne St-Pierre. Although less spectacular than some other times we had seen it, the frost was present and the scenery very whiten We then went back to Mont-Joli, gave a break to the Yammy in the trailer and passed one last night at Mont Joli Motel. We did the car black trail ride home the next day on Saturday. A trip of a bit more than 1000 miles that went well, the Venture which have now 14500miles act in an exemplary way and my old ADBoivin skid who took a good beating had pass throught without flinching. We would have like more sun, colder weather and better trail conditions but having the chance to ride during an whole week with my best half and a good friend, enjoying the nature beauties in such great area, meeting old friends and making new: I think I'm really blessed, life is good! Alain