midwest summit thread

[A-wreck]

o.k.
I guess owens didn't move the midwest summit thread.

So here is where we stand the last time I checked.

It's either Bohemia or Searchmont.

Searchmont has backcountry possibilities.

Bohemia is far.

Lower Michigan is gay.



discuss


edit: I guess there never really was an "official" midwest thread

[crashnburn'd]

Searchmont has backcountry possibilities.

Bohemia is far.

Lower Michigan is gay.


Not going to appease everyone, Searchmont is too far for anyone west of Michigan (myself). That is my discussion.

I'll say this again though:

Anyone who wants to go to Bohemia, PM me or email paskebatgmaildotcom... If I get a sufficient number of people, I will start checking around. Otherwise, rtp and me will just go one weekend when snow looks promising.

So far:
FNG and his bro
Me
rtp
A-Wreck
up and down
big sugar (but he'll be pouting)
grange (time depending)

[A-wreck]

Yeah it's all far I guess.

I'm the type of person where if the mini is going to be at bohemia......then I'll go to bohemia and enjoy the ride.

Plus, they have four trailside cabins up there that look as if they are in the middle of nowhere........meaning loud drinking and bare knuckle boxing can take place at 3:00 a.m. and no one will care. We just need sixteen people to get all four cabins on lock down, and I can bring like 5-6 people.

[rtp]

Anyody got any idea of prices?

[FNG]

A-wreck, you've got the right idea.

-edit- do we have a date range yet?

-edit-edit- Bohemia Tix: $38, Searchmont: $45 or $40 group rate (20 people)
Bohemia Lodging: Cabins $100/night, tent space $20/night.

Once we get better feel for dates and numbers, we can try to work a deal.

[rip]

Do I need to remind you guys that bohemia has...ehem..:fm: EXTREME BACKCOUNTRY SKIING!!!!!!:fm: availible right off the lift, its very convenient.

Also nearby is Mt Houghton, I have never gone up there but there are people that ski it, there was even talk of a cat skiing operation up there. I believe there is a snomobile trail right to the top but I do not have a snomobile or easy access to one.

in regards to the summit possibilities, I think the only choice would be one at bohemia or whatever and one at searchmont or blue mtn or wherever. Searchmont definately has the advantage for the under 21 crowd, but the times that I have been to searchmont it seemed pretty flat with a few steep spots(not ripping on it and the moose or megabyte or whatever they call that gladed section wasnt open but I would give the nod to boheems for terrain)

In all reality It would probably be better to have the midwest summit, outside of the midwest, i feel bad for people driving 9 hours and then being disapointed. Although, and I've said this before, a weekday powder day at bohemia is an incredible experience, as close to having your own mtn as possible, if the summit is going to happen at bohemia i highly reccomend pulling some strings so you can go at least one weekday. During the weekends the hill can sometimes attract a bunch of extremo mtn dude wannabees who think they are the shit for gaping down a gladed run.

I wouldnt even know until right before the summit if i could even go because I will be working 2 jobs and still going to school, but i will do my best. I may not be the best skier around but I do know the mtn really well so i guess i'll tentatively volunteer as tour guide.


EDIT- For lift tickets remember those searchmont prices are CAN not USD also if you plan to ski bohemia more than 3 times they have a one day pass sale i dont think the date has been announced yet but its sometime around the beginning to middle of December and they sell passes for $99!! definately a steal, you can buy them over the phone as well.


ok sorry for the long rambling post, here is a pic of mt houghton from a ways away, it does look like a lot of fun though

[bigsugar]

Oh, Mt. Bulemia will be fine I suppose.


I'm gonna go pout now.



And by pout, I mean drink.

[Sublime]

If we are going to Bohemia which is a long ass ways for us down the Detroit area then we should look into splitting some charter planes. Someone said that they run around 250 split 4 or 5 ways is damn cheap. 50 bucks would cover gas there.

My vote is still in for Searchmont. But don't really count it.

[A-wreck]

If we are going to Bohemia which is a long ass ways for us down the Detroit area then we should look into splitting some charter planes. Someone said that they run around 250 split 4 or 5 ways is damn cheap. 50 bucks would cover gas there.

My vote is still in for Searchmont. But don't really count it.

I'm down. I looked into this last year. I was looking at private jets actually. I'm not the ultra baller of the year or anything, it's just the places I called had jets. I think it may have been $250 both ways. But maybe in a plane (not a jet) it would be cheaper.

I forget the names of the companies, but they all flew out of Pontiac.

[up an down]

Not going to appease everyone, Searchmont is too far for anyone west of Michigan (myself). That is my discussion.

I'll say this again though:

Anyone who wants to go to Bohemia, PM me or email paskebatgmaildotcom... If I get a sufficient number of people, I will start checking around. Otherwise, rtp and me will just go one weekend when snow looks promising.

So far:
FNG and his bro
Me
rtp
A-Wreck
add me to the list of those interested in bohemia

[Goose]

Any thoughts on a bus or big van?

[A-wreck]

Any thoughts on a bus or big van?

Instead of?
from where?

[Grange]

I'm up for a trip to Bohemia depending on the time of year.

[A-wreck]

I think it's time for everyone to chime in on what obligations they have and when they'll be able to go. Some of us are in school, and some are employed, so these things will be factors.
We are a pretty small group so it should be easy to please everyone.

If rtp or rip could chime in as to when the best times would be, as far as snow conditions go, that would be cool.

Also yoopers, How crowded does it get? should we stay away from holiday weekends, or is that not really a factor?

I personally love holiday weekends as I work at a bank that is pretty tight with their vacation days. So MLK weekend (jan) or presidents weekend (feb) would be ideal for me.


patiently awaiting two pennies from all

[FNG]

Winter break Dec 22nd - Jan 18th. But we've got no problems skipping out on a thursday/friday and taking a long weekend so long as it doesn't conflict with a mid-term or something.

[A-wreck]

Winter break Dec 22nd - Jan 18th. But we've got no problems skipping out on a thursday/friday and taking a long weekend so long as it doesn't conflict with a mid-term or something.


I like the x mas break time too however, last year there wasn't any snow up there at that time. They actually closed half the hill on christmas day. I think the coverage will be a tiny gamble at that time of year.

best go when there will be snow there.
keep in mind: I don't think they make snow there
They do not groom there, so when it's tracked out, it's dirt

[Grange]

Vacation time isn't a problem with me so I am more concerned with snow coverage than anything. I just have to find a dog sitter for my puppy and I'm good to go.

[crashnburn'd]

I will be gone pretty much the whole month of January, so February would work best for me... Long weekend would be good because it's looking like I won't have Friday classes.

[rip]

The best time to catch good conditions is really any time before superior freezes up too much. Last year from Jan to mid Feb we had about 35 days in a row with noticeable snowfall.

crowds there is pretty relative, weekends it can get "crowded" but nothing like boyne on a weekend or anything like that. Since bohemia is bigger and runs take longer, the hill holds skiers really well. Even on their busiest day, mardi gras, it never really is more than a minute or two wait for the lift. It all depends on if a few tour buses roll in or not.

as for dates, you guys pick and I will do my best to get those days off of work

any of you guys get mid winter breaks from school?

[FNG]

No mid-winter break here. I vote long weekend.

[Pow Master]

If Im back in the midwest when this goes down I suppose I could make it. Ive been wanting an excuse to go back to Bohemia anyways :)

[up an down]

i have a couple jobs, one of which is in a bank, plus i am married with 2 of 3 kids living at home.. so, i think i will let the rest of you decide when to go, and then i will see which arm and leg it will cost me with my wife and my boss before i decide to pull the trigger.

[A-wreck]

The best time to catch good conditions is really any time before superior freezes up too much. Last year from Jan to mid Feb we had about 35 days in a row with noticeable snowfall.

?

soooooooooooo.... presidents weekend feb 18-21. 18th is friday.....monday the 21st is the holiday..........







I I am steadily spending my vacation days before I even get them

[TomMN]

winter break has always made for good riding. I've seen significant snowfall in the 3 week period between the last week of Dec - Jan 14. 2 years ago it was retarded.

[Mustonen]

Let me know when y'all are gonna be up, eh? :the_finge

I'm down for whatever...weekends can be made to be free, I'll be free Tues and Thurs while skool is in session.

january -- early feb is definitely gonna look better for snow than december or after late feb. We get good dumps around those times, but you can't really count on it.

as for the big lake freezing up, that only happens every decade or so, typically.(?)

[rtp]

I am going to be out west for the first part of January and will have some travel that I need to do for work the rest of the month, so Feb would be best for me.

[A-wreck]

SOOOOOooooooooooooooooooooo

you guys wanna lock in a date?

[rtp]

Honestly any weekend in Feb works for me, but for the sake of setting a date I suggest 02/11 - 02/12.

I am going to be in China for the next week, but will try to talk to Crashn'burnd and figure out what works for him too.

[Nohillsnearby]

Too lazy to go back & look, but where are we talking? I'm probably out for this year--got a weird thing going on with my fib as well as the healing MCL. :mad:

[crashnburn'd]

Bohemia... I'd like to see it sometime in February because I'll be gone most of January. 2/11-2/12 works for me, I think.

[rtp]

OK. So if I read this thing right we have about 5 people interested.
FNG and his bro
Me
crashnburnd
A-Wreck

Here's a link that has some lodging info. looks like we could probably get set up with a cabin or 2 for about 100 bucks a night.

http://www.mtbohemia.com/lodging.html

[crashnburn'd]

Aren't you supposed to work while you're in China?


Oh, also, it snowed... bwaahahahahaaha! You should just stay there, it'd be the best winter ever. :the_finge
















It snowed today, I skied in the rain yesterday... :(

[FNG]

Jackson summit runs through the 14th. Not sure on dates just yet, but Zac & I are planning to be out there; however, skipping a week of class to drive cross country to two different resorts would be kinda cool.

[bigsugar]

I wanna play too......those dates should be good.

[Magoo]

I'll keep watching this thread for updates... very likely I can be there.

[focus]

i'm local -- so i'll try and make an appearance.

[rip]

yeah me too, I usually have to work on weekends but could probably get off work saturdays I dont know but should be able to make it if it stretches over thurs or fri, or sun.

[rtp]

Aren't you supposed to work while you're in China?

Oh, also, it snowed... bwaahahahahaaha! You should just stay there, it'd be the best winter ever.

I do once in a while, but this is more fun. I seem to be losing my touch though, last time I went we got about 2 feet, sounds like only 4 or 5 inches this time.

So I am thinking we just rent one of these 4 - 5 person cabins and if more people start showing up they can sleep on the floor.... Any thoughts?

Off to work now... (about 7 am so I've got to catch breakfast then get in for a 7:30 mtg)

[jt]

I'm interested and might bring a friend or two. Any other women going? I'll be in Colo early Feb, so that won't work for me. Would prefer Jan if possible. Could also do late Feb/early Mar. Never been to Mt Bohemia.

[FNG]

So I am thinking we just rent one of these 4 - 5 person cabins and if more people start showing up they can sleep on the floor.... Any thoughts?

I like the way you think.

[gonzo]

truth and i talked about schleping from chi-town. count us as maybes...

i'm going to jackson to, i thinky.

[truth]

Depends on the date, my travel schedule is getting hella full, especially if I gun for JH.

[FNG]

I'll bring the wood if you bring the router...we could make fancy trim and stuff.

[A-wreck]

those trailside cabins will be $125 a night by febuary. Not that $25 is that big of a deal between four people but.........just thought I'd point that out.

this place looks cool.....having trouble figuring out the rowdiness factor because I can't tell if there are any neighbors.

http://geocities.com/worththetrip/index.html

these people live in the Detroit area. I would be able to get the keys and line it up if anyone is interested.

edit: It's $100 a night....looks like it has more floor space than the cabins.

[bigsugar]

What makes you think it would be rowdy? :wink:

[FNG]

Which cabin has bigger reprecussions if we trash it while getting roudy?

[gonzo]

can we use those boats? what about the sled? we could make some tow in kickers and jib the house and stuff. sick brah!

edit: i will have no idea if i can definitely make it or not until right before - if i could tell, i would definitely get in on splitting $ for a place now...

[rip]

A-wrecks place would probably be the best bet, the cabins at bohemia are pretty damn tiny. Not much room for people crashing on the floor and would probably get noticed pretty easily.

Also, this saturday bohemia season passes are on sale for $99. I think passes are 38 for a day? so the pass may be a better deal. I will try and find out about group discounts.

[focus]

I've seen that cabin -- you've got neighbors...but there's a good chance they won't be home.

[crashnburn'd]

I'd be down with either cabin.... The bigger one would probably be better.

[A-wreck]

Also, this saturday bohemia season passes are on sale for $99. I think passes are 38 for a day? so the pass may be a better deal. I will try and find out about group discounts.

I knew this but never thought of it. If we ski 3-4 days it's worth it. You save ten bucks and then can give your pass away to some poor local kid afterwards.

[justcuz]

A-wrecks place would probably be the best bet, the cabins at bohemia are pretty damn tiny. Not much room for people crashing on the floor and would probably get noticed pretty easily.

Also, this saturday bohemia season passes are on sale for $99. I think passes are 38 for a day? so the pass may be a better deal. I will try and find out about group discounts.


Sorry...just discovered this thread. People can crash at my place, too. My fiance would also take company if you don't f*ck her place up. I know my way around (kinda) mt. Houghton, but people that ski that place are very territorial and might get shady if we show up with anything more than about 5 peops. Bohemia's passes are $38, and I don't think anyone would notice if people crashed on the floor in one of the cabins. However, they are small.

Rip, I'll make sure we have the day off of work. :the_finge

I'm in. Let's get a date.

[A-wreck]

Sorry...just discovered this thread. People can crash at my place, too. My fiance would also take company if you don't f*ck her ............... Let's get a date.


O.k. so justcuz isn't into passing his fiance around......thats cool.....I guess.

we do need a date. Are we trying to not let it run into the JH summit?
Are we trying to stay away from holiday weekends? I hope not because I'm already taking two weeks off to go out west in feb/march and don't feel like doing 24 hrs of driving in two days.

So I vote pres weekend. friday Feb 18-21.

[FNG]

Presidents weekend works for me. Give some time to recover from JH, patch up whatever school work needs to be done, and hit the road again. Nomination seconded.

[rtp]

Presidents weekend should work for me as well.

[A-wreck]

All in favor, say "I".

[crashnburn'd]

eye
..............

[A-wreck]

Okie dokie......... Pres weekend it is.

I just got off the phone with this lady: http://geocities.com/worththetrip/index.html

we are penciled in for that weekend. I told her we could set it in stone by the end of the week. If we book it this far in advance she will give it to us for $90 a night instead of $100. She wants one nights rent in advance to reserve the place. I was planning on being there friday, saturday and sunday night and drive back monday. (am I the only one planning on leaving monday? If so I probably will rent a smaller/cheaper place sunday night.)

There are neighbors, as someone already stated, but I don't think they'll be a big deal. The place has one bedroom and that couch you see folds out. She does have a "small" BBQ up there, and she said she's cool with bon fires as long as we don't burn the place down. If anyone (specifically from the U.P.) has any better ideas as to where we could stay that would be more remote and just as close to the hill, please tell us.

RE: Backcountry shite.......i.e. mt. Houghton as posted on the first page of this thread.

Snowmobile rentals are a pretty standard price in that area. They all try to rape the down-staters without fucking over eachothers' business.<--This is what I have decided after talking to three different op's up there. They all rent 550 cc mxz Ski Doo's. They are trail sleds not mountain sleds but, all the people I've talked to claim these sleds will make it to the top of Mt. Houghton if You keep it floored and aren't a gigantic vagina.

ANYWAYS, back to the point: one costs $165 to rent for one day. One day is 24 hrs, not some 9-5 bullshit pricing. We can rent them from a place that is 20 miles away and will give a couple of us a nice scenic ride back to Bohemia area. Or, we can rent them right around the corner from the cabin. Which probably makes more sense.<---this place doesn't open until 4 p.m. so I'll have to call later today to confirm the location. The sled type and pricing is all the same. We will need to reserve these in advance. Like now-ish advance.

ALSO:
My friends and I like to shoot skeet. We have shotguns and throwers and all that shit. we will probably be bringing all this stuff up there too. (it's standard baggage with us during the winter) If any of you have guns too, you should bring them! I don't know if any of you have a problem with this? This is strictly target practice. We don't kill anything. We are safe. And most importantly it is legal. But let me know if you crap yourself at the sight of a gun, otherwise you will wake up every morning to the sweet sound of multiple 12 guages shooting things.

I looked through the thread and counted 10 people as going:
Crash
fng+1
me+1
mustonen
rtp
bigsugar (bigmaybe)
up&down
grange (probably)

The magic number is $100. "what does this include" you ask: This will cover the cabin, 2 sleds one day, and one lift ticket. Beer, Food, Drugs and, prostitutes not included. The $100 is contingent on there being 10 people(obviously). I figure we ski bohemia one day and get the sleds out to mt houghton another.


SO. There you haver it mother fuckers. I think it's shaping up to be a pretty good time. Do you? My finger is on the trigger, I now wait for instructions as to when I should pull it.

Aaron

P.S. I'm sure you will all let me know if I'm forgetting anything. Like strippers, beer bongs, cocaine.

[crashnburn'd]

damn nice work. I can probably bring a barrel or quarter of whatever Lenies product people would like... May also be able to arrange a snowmobile or two, but am not sure.

edit- anyone know how much bush wacking to get out of Mt. Houghton?

[Grange]

I forget about this thread and see what happens.

I would be game for that date. Vacation time isn't an issue for me. The only thing I have to worry about is my puppy. I could probably find a friend to watch her for the weekend.

I guess I'm going to have to try to get out a few more times so I could try to keep up with everyone.

Maybe some of us could do the carpool thing if interested. I have a house in Eau Claire so if anyone lives near there we could carpool to save on gas.

[bigsugar]

Hmmmm........I can't commit to this date. I won't know for sure until about halfway through January. Soooooo.....I guess I'll just play it by ear and take care of my own lodging and shit if I can make it.

[A-wreck]

Grange: My buddy is bringing his dog. He'll have a cage for him to sleep in.
His dog is a year old though and might do a little better being left alone for a few hours as opposed to your dog.

Big sugar: Hope we see you there. I'm sure there will be enough room in the cabin if you decide to go later. Nobody is going to complain that there is another person chipping in.

[blizzard_mk]

Hi, I'm new here.

I live in the houghton area and ski a lot.

It's awesome that you are all organizing this thing. If you haven't skied Bohemia before, it's really fun.

Justcuz and I have skied Mt. Houghton. If you want to do some "backcountry" skiing that's your best bet, but it would probably take a full day, even with proper touring gear, so I'd say that if you're only coming up for a weekend it would be more fun to just ski at Bohemia. Also, Mt. Houghton isn't accessible by snowmobile, but there are a lot of great trails here if you were just planning on renting a snowmobile to go riding.

I'm definately getting off of work that weekend and looking forward to having new people to ski with.

[crashnburn'd]

I forget about this thread and see what happens.

I would be game for that date. Vacation time isn't an issue for me. The only thing I have to worry about is my puppy. I could probably find a friend to watch her for the weekend.

I guess I'm going to have to try to get out a few more times so I could try to keep up with everyone.

Maybe some of us could do the carpool thing if interested. I have a house in Eau Claire so if anyone lives near there we could carpool to save on gas.

I go to school in Menomonie, so I'd have to go near there....

[Magoo]

Pres weekend works for me. I'm almost local (4 hours away), so I really should be able to make it.
I agree, the Mt Houghton thing might be tough to pull off depending on the group size, ambition level, equipment available, etc.
Just to see this thing get off the ground, I'll commit my $100 now. PM me where to send it.

[justcuz]

Hi, I'm new here.

I live in the houghton area and ski a lot.

It's awesome that you are all organizing this thing. If you haven't skied Bohemia before, it's really fun.

Justcuz and I have skied Mt. Houghton. If you want to do some "backcountry" skiing that's your best bet, but it would probably take a full day, even with proper touring gear, so I'd say that if you're only coming up for a weekend it would be more fun to just ski at Bohemia. Also, Mt. Houghton isn't accessible by snowmobile, but there are a lot of great trails here if you were just planning on renting a snowmobile to go riding.

I'm definately getting off of work that weekend and looking forward to having new people to ski with.

Solid first post mr. blizzard, solid. :) :)

[up an down]

A-wreck, thanks for the pm.. i do want to attend, but i can't commit right now to this or any date .. if i do get there it will be a near last minute decision. i might have spend a month of sundays kissing my wifes ass because i told her that i am going to the JH summit... guys don't ever get married or have kids :tdo13:

[rip]

Count me in for the skiing at least. I dont know If I will be able to make it out skiing that saturday, will probably have to work. However I should be able to make it Thurs and Sun for sure, friday possibly.

I wish I could offer up some space but I can't at the moment.

The Ramada Inn sells lift tickets to bohemia for $32, saves you 6 bucks. The ramada also doesnt lock their doors making their hot tub easily poachable after a day of skiing.

Bohemia does have some retarded event planned for the 19th, saturday. First 1000 people get a chance at winning 100k. I dont know if that will increase crowds or not, my guess is no.

for beer, forget the Leines and pick up a barrel of Keweenaw Brewing Company. Their shit is insanely good and moderately priced.

Also, for more accessable "bc" I say we lap the hill by the retirement home, the thing is about 200 vert, steep, and you can drive right to the top and bottom. Anyone driving in on 26 will see it.

hope this helps and sorry I cant help out more

[crashnburn'd]

for beer, forget the Leines and pick up a barrel of Keweenaw Brewing Company. Their shit is insanely good and moderately priced.


Lienes = almost free for me because a roommate works for them...

[rip]

I like KBC more than Bells, and Bells is some good shit. However, free beer is free beer...

Also, those of you who are morally challenged may want to consider bringing up some empty cans to pay for gas money. Items needed include a ninja suit, numchucks, and a garbage bag full of beer cans.

[justcuz]

for beer, forget the Leines and pick up a barrel of Keweenaw Brewing Company. Their shit is insanely good and moderately priced.

Also, for more accessable "bc" I say we lap the hill by the retirement home, the thing is about 200 vert, steep, and you can drive right to the top and bottom. Anyone driving in on 26 will see it.



Leines is good, kbc is good too but leines is better for free.

As for poaching the retirement home hill....not as easy as you think. I have definantely heard of people getting tickets for that.

[crashnburn'd]

Are you guys sure there's no snowmobile trail up Mt. Houghton? Googling it brought up pictures of snowmobiles with a caption of "a view from Mt. Houghton."

[justcuz]

I've only been once, Blizzard MK has been at least twice. Based on the one time that I've gone, there looks to be no easy way to get to the top. I remember (with snowshoes) ducking under tree branches and crashing through forest to stay off of the skin track that was only wide enough for one skier. Maybe there is a "secret passage way" :confused:

I think blizzard mk is right, if you're gonna rent snowmobiles, it might be wise to stick to the trails.

My .02 cents.

I'm in for the skiing part, let us know when the date is a "fer sure".

[blizzard_mk]

It's not that a snowmobile couldn't get to the top of Mt Houghton, it's just not a good idea. Mt Houghton is the best non resort skiing that we have, and there have been access troubles there in the past. The land is privately owned. Snowmobiling up it would probably mean pissed off landowners and definately some very pissed off skiers. It would be different if we were in real mountains and the terrain was endless, then I would have no problem accessing via snowmobile, but we only have this one special spot. If you really want to ski it, I'll take you there, but it will have to be on snowshoes or skins.

I don't mean to sound like a dick on only my second post, but snowmobiling up Mt. Houghton is not a good idea.

[Grange]

My puppy will be 8 months old and she would be fine I'm sure in her cage for a while.

I don't have any back country gear since 99% of all my skiing has been in bounds and my experience is very limited. However I do like to try new things. I can count on one hand how many times I climbed for my turns in the last 10 years. I usually drove to the top of the hill skied down and climbed back to my vehicle.

Leinnes is a great beer. Creamy Dark is my favorite flavor.

I'm heading to La Crosse this weekend for a party and some local bands. I'll ask a friend if he's interested. Read, cheaper cost.

[Grange]

I go to school in Menomonie, so I'd have to go near there....

We'll have to keep in contact and figure something out as we get closer. I don't live that far off the North Crossing.

[A-wreck]

Are you guys sure there's no snowmobile trail up Mt. Houghton? Googling it brought up pictures of snowmobiles with a caption of "a view from Mt. Houghton."

I've got a thread up on this site www.johndee.com asking people just that. He's like some snowmobiling/weather guru of the keewenaw. We'll see what they say.

If we can't get sleds up there: No biggie. Not spending money on sleds means more money for liquor and steak.


rip: "Also, those of you who are morally challenged may want to consider bringing up some empty cans to pay for gas money. Items needed include a ninja suit, numchucks, and a garbage bag full of beer cans."

^^^^
I don't get it.

[A-wreck]

It's not that a snowmobile couldn't get to the top of Mt Houghton, it's just not a good idea. Mt Houghton is the best non resort skiing that we have, and there have been access troubles there in the past. The land is privately owned. Snowmobiling up it would probably mean pissed off landowners and definately some very pissed off skiers. It would be different if we were in real mountains and the terrain was endless, then I would have no problem accessing via snowmobile, but we only have this one special spot. If you really want to ski it, I'll take you there, but it will have to be on snowshoes or skins.

I don't mean to sound like a dick on only my second post, but snowmobiling up Mt. Houghton is not a good idea.


Thanks for clearing that up. I think.

[rip]

I don't get it.

only applies to anyone coming from out of state(WI especially)

[A-wreck]

only applies to anyone coming from out of state(WI especially)


Duh...I'm retarded.

Had you referenced a seinfeld episode I would have known immediately.

[justcuz]

It's not that a snowmobile couldn't get to the top of Mt Houghton, it's just not a good idea. Mt Houghton is the best non resort skiing that we have, and there have been access troubles there in the past. The land is privately owned. Snowmobiling up it would probably mean pissed off landowners and definately some very pissed off skiers. It would be different if we were in real mountains and the terrain was endless, then I would have no problem accessing via snowmobile, but we only have this one special spot. If you really want to ski it, I'll take you there, but it will have to be on snowshoes or skins.

I don't mean to sound like a dick on only my second post, but snowmobiling up Mt. Houghton is not a good idea.

TWO SOLID POSTS mr. blizzard. Well said, I just didn't have the balls to say it.

On that note, KBC tonight sir blizzard?

[blizzard_mk]

justcuz,

Yes, beer will be good.
You can let me know how amazing the skiing was today.

[A-wreck]

O.k. so I just found a bunch of pictures of people sledding on Mt Houghton too. They were hill climbing through the woods and blowing around all over the hill. In a group of 10 nonetheless. Catching air and shit. They weren't being chased off the hill by land owners or skiers.

So what gives? Anyone have the real story? It's pretty obvious that there is more than just a skin track to the top of that hill.

Opinions are cool......but being a party pooper isn't.

Edit for: Just talked to the sled guy. He said you can get up there but that it's hard.

So where do we stand on the sleds? Does anyone still want to do this after blizzard already read the eulogy?

[A-wreck]

This was a response I got on that website:

"Aaron, There is a road that goes from Mandan road to Smith Fisheries Rd. Should be on a map. About 1 mile off of Mandan there is a road that goes south take this to the end. there is a trail there that leads up the west side of Mt Houghton. It is a gradual climb up through the hardwoods. This is the easy way. It was cut by a retired guy from Copper Harber about 15 years ago. Ive been up this way on a 78 pantera, not to difficult.
There could be more roads now, they've been logging this area. Just remember that if you see cliffs on the right when on the road from mandan to smithfisheries you went too far. the cliffs are part of mt. houghton.
There are supposed to be some extreme ski runs claered up there by some tech students. I havn't been there for a few years.
maybe I'll see ya there I'm going to bring some guys up there to film some cornice drops if the conditions are right."

It doesn't sound like Mt. Houghton is the protected Holy land blizzard says it is.
It sounds fun as hell and pretty sick for MI.

SO, I'm still game if you guys are.

[justcuz]

I will ski with you guys, for sure. I'm not trying to be a party pooper or a f&ck face...but I will not join for a sled ride up to Mt. Houghton. It's not a holy land and I don't think blizzard was trying to make it sound that way. But it is a place where people from this area go to do some ski touring, and it may very well be one of the last places to do so. Before Bohemia was bought out, that was the place to tour. Now the owner is blowing it up by building more and more cabins as we speak.

I read through your posts on that website. Many of the posts stated that it wouldn't be wise to head up on a sled until spring anyway. As I recall, there is a road at the bottom of the south facing ski run. The run rises at least another few hundred vertical from there (maybe 400'). I'm not sure if this is the road he was talking about, but it would make sense. I know for a fact that based on where we started, you could not get a sled up that high. The North facing slopes hold some possibilities, but are potentially very rocky with less snow (snow that's probably not as good anyway). I'm merely speculating, but the north facing slopes in this area can have a very dense snow due to the prevailing northwest wind.

I'm gonna watch the thread. People can come stay at my place if they want and I will ski with yall for sure. But no sleigh ridin from me, won't support it. Sorry to be a facker.

[rtp]

I'm in, although I think I will have to go back to China in the time period, but think I have so leway to schedule around that weekend so just let me know what the exact dates are.

How long is the hike to the top? may be the sleds aren't really needed... And do we need to bushwack our way out once we get down to the bottom?

[justcuz]

It's a day hike for sure. Snowshoes are a must, if not proper touring gear.

[Sublime]

Sorry for the late reply.

Chances are I won't be able to make it. I bought a pass to Blue Mountain and I am rather broke as is. but I will be keeping a eye on this just in case.

[crashnburn'd]

I've got a touring setup, so sled or no, I'm in.

[blizzard_mk]

Maybe I was overreacting, but I still don't think that taking snowmobiles up there is a very good idea.

I can guarantee you that there are no "cornice drops" up there. That guy doesn't know what a cornice is. The runs that I have skied did not have any cliffs, they were narrow and reasonably steep, but there was nothing to huck. The wide open area that you see in the pictures was not skiable when we were there in February last year, the best snow was on the narrow cut runs on the opposite side of the mountain.

[A-wreck]

Well I guess everybody can do what they want. I was just trying to explore all possibilities. Lets face it, cruising up a hill on a sled and getting more runs in is better than hiking or skining all day. I just don't see the logic behind hiking all day instead of blowing around on sleds, but thats just me.

[FNG]

No touring setup here. No moral quandries with riding a sled either. Difference in cost? Maybe just hit Bohemia a second day?

[justcuz]

If the snow is good, you're better off getting to Bohemia early. There is a group of guys who will have mt. Houghton skied out by 10am. Unless you guys are really into this snowmobile thing, I would stick to the Hemus. (plus isn't renting a sled like $100 or something like that?

[crashnburn'd]

The sled thing I don't care about so much, but I thought someone said Mt. Houghton is a day trip? Now it's being skied out by 10am? I'm really not understanding something....

Also, the picture that was posted clearly showed cliffs. Someone (to lazy to look at names) said most trails go down the opposite side where there's only trees? I like to hurl myself into the unknown, what happens if we go down the cliff side?

[rtp]

The sled thing I don't care about so much, but I thought someone said Mt. Houghton is a day trip? Now it's being skied out by 10am? I'm really not understanding something....

Also, the picture that was posted clearly showed cliffs. Someone (to lazy to look at names) said most trails go down the opposite side where there's only trees? I like to hurl myself into the unknown, what happens if we go down the cliff side?

I agree... who cares about the sleds if it only takes a couple hrs. Both Crashnburn'd and I have AT gear and could break trail if need be.

Plus I would not mind hucking the cliffs on the otherside if they are really there. Anybody know anything about 'em?

[justcuz]

There are cliffs on the north side of the hill, but I don't know if they're "huckable". I kinda doubt it because of low snow levels and big rocks on the north facing slopes, but don't take my word for it.

With proper touring gear the trip in is about an hour, maybe more. Without gear it seems like an eternity. Once you get to where you can ski, the runs take about 20 mins' each (that includes your climb back up on skins). Again multiply by this by 3 if you're on snowshoes. Trip out is about 45 minutes...

I think when blizzard said it's a day trip, he merely meant that you shouldn't plan on skiing anywhere else that day...not that it will take 14 hours to get in and out.

[FNG]

Damn...I really do enjoy me a good cliff huck, however I'm lacking in the skin department (bad burn incident involving some wax and your sister. don't ask.)

[detroit]

I just came accross this thread I would definitely like to attend. My skiing may not be quite up to par, but This sounds like a great time and a good chance to meet some midwest mags as well as challenge myself. Is it too late to jump on board? I went through the thread but am still not sure of the set up. Is anyone from the SE heading up? Does anyboby need/have a ride? What are the sleeping arrangments? Is it every mang for himself?
Sorry to sound so demanding but I am just currious as to the set-up. Also If there is anything I can do please let me know. As I am a downstater I do not have much to offer unless it includes booze or what not, but would be willing to help any way I can.
I seriously plan to attend and look foreward to an unreasonibley good time :)

[Grange]

I don't have any touring gear but may be able to get a hold of some snow shoes if needed. Skiing Mt. Houghton sounds like fun, but also like a lot of hassle. I am personally more concerned with the private land issue than snowmobiling (assuming there is a route to the top). In my line of work, tresspassing is definitely frowned upon.

[jt]

Okay, count me in, if I can find someone to ride up with me, maybe gonzo (long drive from Champaign, Illinois). I'll probably stay with justcuz's fiance.

[A-wreck]

Sorry guys, been kinda busy lately. I don't know if I'll be making thiis trip. Actually, I am not sure what I'll be doing on a much grander scale. Due to this: (pay attention to the "beloved mother of" part) http://obit.desmondfuneralhome.com/obit_display.cgi?id=170455&listing=Current





I think all the info you need to book the cabin is in this thread. If It's not...............work it out.


Aaron


edit for: link fixing

[Magoo]

Sorry A-W, crummy time of year for a loss like that. My condolences.

[gincognito]

Sympathies and thoughts, A-wreck.

[bigsugar]

Oh man.......

Sorry for your loss, A-wreck.

[Grange]

Sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.

[Nohillsnearby]

Prayers for you and your family, A-wreck. I'm sorry for your loss.

[YetiMan]

I just quickly scanned this thread....if you're travelling through, or want some variety, I'd suggest Marquette.

Having skied all over da UP back in the day, I'll say that Marquette is not a waste of time like much of the other midwestern skiing. Granted, I've only skied Bo when it was backcountry.

Worth consideration (my old favorites):
If the snow's good it can be fun to ski the outruns of Suicide or Copper Peak, and there can be good touring/powder turns off Mqt county road 510, and the Blind End road (Blind 35). It is possible, but maybe not advisable to get into the Hurons...I used to work for the club and they're pretty hardcore about trespassing--I've also been on Mt. Ives as a non-employee--it can be done.

For a potentially sketchy but also very fun ski (again, pending snow conditions and access), find your way to the logslide area of the Grand Sable dunes near Grand Marais (MI, not MN)....this is about 500 veticle feet of open 35 to 40 degree pitch. Please be careful, this can slide into the lake, which is an unsurvivable situation.

I feel like a rat giving up my old stashes, but it's been 9 years and I'm not going back....take care of 'em, they're my babies.

[up an down]

sorry to read the bad news a-wreck :frown:

[YetiMan]

The dunes I spoke of....summertime photo. As you can see, potential for practically endless powder turns, also potential for a slide into lake superior....
We used to ski this in the summer on the schwagboards, it's enough pitch to make GS turns on sand.


http://brighton.ncsa.uiuc.edu/~lrajlich/prpics/dunes2.jpg

[justcuz]

Thanks yeti! We just might have to track that down sometime soon.

[rip]

---bump---

so whats the story with this?

If i want to get these days off of work I need to know soon.


fyi- it has been dumping pretty solid up here. nice big base now, and plenty of pow has been skied already.

[crashnburn'd]

Not so sure that I'm going to be able to make it anymore, it is going to be hard to commit to a date... About the best I can do is say that I am going to try to hit it sometime after it snows.

[FNG]

Ditto. I'm up to my eyeballs in bills. The phone got shut off today. Cable next?