Latest blogs @ Crescent Creek Cottages

Blog: Fishing Update

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:36:54 GMT

The Fish are Biting on Crescent Lake
submitted by Kerry Ellington, Crescent Creek Cottages & RV Park
Gil Ernst, Manager of HooDoo’s Crescent Lake Lodge, says the Macinaw, are bit-ing at Crescent Lake. One 36lb has already been caught, with several 20+ pounders as well. A 6lb Brown Trout was pulled out this month. The Kokanee are starting to come to the surface and have been seen jumping.
Crescent Lake is open all year for fishing. Usually it is difficult to launch your boat because of the snow. With a light snow year and Crescent Lake Lodge doing a great job of snow removal on the beach, fisherman have had a great time. The fuel dock is open and Crescent Lake has parking for boats. It is limited so call ahead (541) 433-2505. www.crescentlakeresort.com. The restaurant is open seven days a week.
Mark Bolton, owner of the Odell Sports-man, says he is stocked up and ready to get fishing season started. The Sportsman sells fishing licenses, equipment, bait, ice, drinks and snacks. Everything for a perfect day on the lake! He does the local fish report and can clue you in on what the fish are biting.
Local Resorts and RV parks are taking reservations. Darrell Ellington, of Crescent Creek Cottages & RV Park, says the full hook-up RV sites and fish cleaning sta-tion are ready to go. The cabins are warm, cozy and affordable. Call (541) 433-2324 to make a reservation. www.crescentcreekcottages.com
Willamette Pass Inn, (541) 433-2211 is taking reservations and has plenty of room to park your boat. www.willamettepassinn.com. Odell Lake Lodge (541) 433-2540 and Shelter Cove Resort (541) 433-2548 are located on Odell Lake. They are gearing up for the start of the fishing season on Odell. Be sure to call for reservations, boat rentals and fishing information.
The Forest Service plans to have the gate open by April 1st for the boat launch at Crescent Lake. They are working hard to get the federal campgrounds open by the start of fishing season for other local lakes, including Odell. Fishing season for those lakes starts April 24th. (See USFS article)

Blog: CRESCENT LAKE, CRESCENT & GILCHRIST AREAS TRAILS REPORT

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 16:17:22 GMT

Sent: Friday, March 12, 2010 11:56 AM Subject: Friday 03/12/10 at NOON
We started a \"bit\" warm...then dry and now a bit more snow and some cooler. Riding in the area is actually pretty good. Especially a bit higher up. Looks to be a pretty good weekend. Forecasts for next week not so favorable during the day. Nights could \"save us\"..... Some notes just in this a.m. say that pretty good ridin\' still in all areas. Likely several have looked to a coast trip for Spring break..... You might want to reassess that... Lookin\' pretty good in the Cascades for a good time on the snow. Later.... Ben S.

Blog: Report of Tuesday afternoon 02/23/10

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:59:49 GMT

\"Some\" would say.... \"NOT TO BE EXCITED...YET\"!!!! Not so, say I. For me, any snow is exciting and we\'ve got, at least, a \"bit\" in the past few hours. Somewhat \"more\" of interest is the time of day and the temps. .... Could be by tomorrow a.m. we\'ll have enough to get back at more trails than just the few we\'ve been able to do something with. The \"cold\" has been our savior. Fact it\'s ice has kept us on the trails. Know it\'s been a bugger to keep the mobiles cool but the warm air when we ride beats cold,cold & rain...right? Be really good if over the hill Lemola way they get a real good snow. Been missin\' trips to Lemola & Diamond Lake. More snow also means more possible in the areas of the plowed roads from loggin\' ops. and on the #5825 to/from the Express by the railroad. Keep in touch, we\'ll be doin\' more updates as more info. comes in and as we get over the trails the next few days \"if\"/\"when\" we can.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman...hotline: (541) 525-2133

Blog: Trals Report of Monday Febr. 15 2010

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:37:14 GMT

Subject: UPDATE and Trals Report of Monday Febr. 15 2010 @ 1030 hrs.
So I finally went to a location to access e-mail with my pc... You\'re in for it now! Have a \"bit\" to impart.... This has been a season of many \"firsts\", at least for me. AND...not all have been \"downer\" things. Surprisingly with the warm weather and low snow conditions with quite a bit of rain, some of our trails have been \"good\" to \"great\".... We may yet see more of the same. \'Tis only mid-February. It has been quite helpful and generally encouraging to see more of the Forest Service this season. Typically on Mondays, a FS staffer is at the snow park checking and cleaning things. This has certainly been a welcome accomplishment. He\'s a very hard worker and very helpful to visitors. Although there\'s been some trails impacts from logging ops., the FS has been sensitive to trails and recreationists needs and most recently have not only completed a comprehensive \"look\" but are looking to minimizing future impacts. We\'ll have a number of items we need do as well. More audits of trails; specifically ungroomed trails needs occur. I\'ll be contacting those who have helped with this in the past and most likely will be asking others to help too. The Ski race around Crescent Lake went quite well and the support and assistance of the Walker Rim Riders (WRR) snowmobile club and 14 of their members who were on site the day of the event certainly made a difference. Thank you to the many others who used the area that day...for your patience and courtesy. The Annual Candlelighters event hosted by the Bohemia Sno-Sledders, with direct participation and support by the Walker Rim Riders, Lodgepole Dodgers, Mt.Jefferson, Central Cascade Snowbusters, and several Board Members, Officers and the Executive Director of the Or. State Snowmobile Assn. and some dog team \"mushers\" did provide for another memorable, successful fun day for the kids and their families. Thank you to everyone for all of the support and hard work that is so important to the kids and families impacted so tragically by cancer. Next up.... snow/conditions existing... a 200 mile dog sled race that is scheduled for early March (specifics later) and is planned to come to the CR.Lk. Jct. Snowpark area. They\'ll start in the Mt.Bachelor area and travel here for a mandatory rest and then back to the Mt.Bachelor area. More specific plans are being put together and we can expect to know more in the next few days. For this event, we\'ll be looking to (potentially) several volunteers in the community in addition to members of snowmobile clubs to help. Soon\'s I get the info. I\'ll be in touch.... SO WHAT ABOUT CURRENT CONDITIONS.... warm, wet and some moisture in the form of slight rain. Some clearing by Wednesday which might bring cold nights which we need to keep what we have. Do know that we have good trails (limited boondockin\' off-trail) on Windago and up Summit, Timpanogas & Kelsey. Regrettably a trip to Lemola/Diamond Lake NOT a good choice.... \"mucho\" dirt & asphalt in the Lemola area. Have also had contact by folks with the Chemult Mountain Trailriders and they continue to have good snow that\'s all been recently groomed. Not good between Cr.Lake & Chemult but an off-load at the Walt Haring Snowpark would be good. Have also had multiple reports that Waldo Lake from the Hwy.58 snowpark is good. From Cr.Lk. North is questionable. Asphalt showing on the Cascade Lks. hi-way and some dirt on the 4660 rd. near West Davis... The West Davis run trail...quite a bit of dirt. Moore Crk has quite a bit of snow...getting\' there an issue but maybe from the trailhead near Wickiup and/or even further North... Our updates are best acquired from the hotline (541-525-2133)... after the report, you too can leave a message. As always, we do appreciate our reports of conditions and if you have a need, leave a message and we\'ll get back to soon\'s we can.... Gotta \"git\"....have a snowcat needin\' some TLC so\'s we can be ready to \"go\" if/when conditions merit. YOU stay in touch..use the hotline... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman

Blog: Snowmobile trail report 01/14/2010

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:20:46 GMT

Subject: Report of Thiursday 01/14/10
Mark did get the Cat (only...no groomer behind) down to the 60 rd. (trail around Crescent Lake...and did go all the way to the 17 Jct. past Summit, Timpanogas lakes, and on Diamond Way. Our choices NOT to break thru the ice base has saved us a lot of snow and I believe Mark\'s strategy today will be the best way to keep what we have longer. The snow we got late yesterday afternoon and the \"dusting\" we got before sunup is \"gone\".... Warmed up and that was that. I note that the temp. is going to \"cool\" tonight with the clearing but that tomorrow will again be warm and then a bit more cooling and \"maybe\" some snow. We\'ve been out on the trails on snowmobiles checking conditions. Still a lot of good rideable snow but \"rough\". Our plan is to proceed to groom a bit more to do what\'s possible for this coming 3-day weekend. THANK YOU VERY MUCH to the logger and the FS for leaving us some snow from near the Boy Scout camp all the way (over 6 mi.) to hwy. 58. We did not get the whole route but what we saw is rideable. REMINDER.... we do have the ski race around the lake this coming Sunday. Appears there\'s going to be quite a few partiicipants. Can expect \"gathering\" to occur at the 60 Road snowpark around 9:00 a.m. .... race \"goes\" at 10:00 a.m. Will be a lot of people and no doubt several will have their dogs with \'em who like the run too.... AGAIN THE ROUTE will be counter-clockwise around Crescent Lake.... ski racers will be on the left side of the trail and snowmobiles to the right side. PLEASE EVERYONE be vigilant.... go \"slow\" use caution and DO continue the typical courtesey you all extend..... BEST WAY for the next several days for \"updates\"....call the hotline (541) 525-2133..... Later.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman

Blog: CRESCENT LAKE, CRESCENT & GILCHRIST AREAS TRAILS REPORT Sunday 12/27/09

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:48:40 GMT

CRESCENT LAKE, CRESCENT & GILCHRIST AREAS TRAILS REPORT

Sunday 12/27/09

AND WASN’T IT OR AIN’T CHRISTMAS “GREAT” ? We certainly hope so… for you ‘n yours. Now lookin’ forward to New Year’s. We continue with a need for “more” snow. Have a pretty good base (thin as it ‘tis) around Crescent Lake but we may have to “suspend” grooming unless we get more snow. Trip out last night revealed “dirt” here/there and the worst is, some cut-off but not ground level stump heads or rocks pocking thru. “Worst” because this is what causes damage to our equipment. We’ll certainly hope that the forcast for some more snow is accuragte. And then we have a bit more being forcast for a couple of days next week. Per contact with ODOT in our area, they are anticipating “more” the end of next week and thru the weekend of New Years.

(again) your best options to get info. on our trails is to listen to the recording on our hotline (541) 525-2133. It too would be very, very helpful if you can leave info. at the “beep” so we can pass along what you might have seen out there. THE NEW MAPS ARE \"IN\" and most have been delivered to our map sponsors and/or to some of the Forest Service offices in the area. Stop in and thank the businesses for their support. Note that we have made a number of changes. We certainly appreciate the very, very hard and long work of Doug & Diane Wardell.

We do know that “some” careful, limited grooming is occurring in the Chemult, Diamond Lake, Lemola & Kelsey Loop areas. Word from Troy, the Grooming Chairman at Chemult is that they’ve gotten over all of their trails. That Miller Lake has 3-4 ft. of “good stuff”. That the parking lot at Walt Haring is usable.

No doubt several of you have run into “plowed” roads that are typically our groomed trails. Some logging operations are occurring in several spots. For us, the most substantial is the operating near the Boy Scout Camp on the Southwest side of Crescent Lake. We’ve been able to put-back some snow on the left-side of the road as you go around the lake counter-clockwise or the right side as you come around the lake clockwise. As long as our temps. stay cold, it’s rideable but PLEASE DO “heed” the advisory/warning signs about trucks on the plowed road. They will NOT be there on New Year’s day or on the weekends and might be finished by Jan. 1st but not sure ‘bout that yet. Of more significance about this operation is that the plowing extends all the way out to hwy. 58 on the 6020 road which is our trails to/from Chemult and this very much does impact passage to/from Mowich, 2-Rivers, Chemult, the Schoonover sub-division; etc. …… impacts nearly 6-miles of trail. For those going around Crescent Lake or making the connection to the 60 road that goes up over Windago Pass, we only have about ¾ ‘s of a mile to contend with and again, if you stay on the side of the road I’ve indicated, should not be too much of an impact… BE CAREFUL.

STAY IN “TOUCH” VIA THE HOTLINE…

Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman

Blog: Snowmobile report

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:50:08 GMT

We\'re gettin\' there....that is....snow conditions have improved BUT not too uncommon early season, the wind \"it\" did blow! A bunch! On Saturday night. Down came mucho trees. Snow depth near the Jct. Snow Park is about a foot or so. Today\'s sun and warmer temps. might \"drop\" that a bit. Several were able to ride Sat./Sun. .... said up higher (Windigo, Tempinogas, Summit on the trail is pretty good. DO NOT attempt any boon-dockin\'. Snow way to thin and as you know, the stumps, logs & rocks might not be OK to go over. Just a bit of a reminder... Be sure you have your new snow park permit. Mark up at the store has \'em. Mark also has \"clear\" premium fuel. President Doug Wardell of the Walker Rim Riders Snowmobile club located at the Jct. advises that the updated map for this season is at the design & print shop. Updates nearly complete. Printing not far behind that. We\'ve certainly had great support for the map this year. When you get your copy, please take a look at our advertisers who have supported not just the map but us too...with the services and assistance they provide. Drop in and see \'em... make some purchases and give \'em a thank you too.... Someone...GRRRRRRrrrrr...\"thiefed\" the door on the stove in the warming hut at the Jct. Snow Park. Efforts continue to locate a replacement stove. Not as simple as just a new door. Has to be \"certified\" and the stove has not been that good. Too small and easily broken. Anyone have a certified stove out there that you can donate? Still awaiting an answer on one possible donation and I\'m going to check on another today. Thank you to Gary Dulley & Co. for the wood in the hut up at Timpanogas. Next....the wood shed at the Junction. Still quite a bit of wood in there but no doubt more is needed. Gary\'s on the task. The hotline is up and runnin\' with updates of conditions. The number: (541) 525-2133. Our e-mail reports may not be as consistent as preferred. Still tryin\' to determine how best to do reports with little or no e-mail access at our new location in Gilchrist. Have some more options to check out.... Later.... Ben S.

Blog: CURRENT TRAILS MAINTENANCE STATUS

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:24:39 GMT

CURRENT TRAILS MAINTENANCE STATUS: We\'ve nearly completed a total trails system audit. Doug & Diane have completed trails East of Royce, Hamner & Davis and recently made it all the way to 4-corners via Moore Creek. Did a \"bit\" of tree/brush removal until they got on the Moore Crk. trail and then quite a bit more extensive. Most downfalls had been cut thru by others (likely some hunters) but about a dozen or so had to be cut and tossed back from the trail. Kay & I, when we did the West Davis trail had about the same number of downfalls but none that were cut thru. Not a typical thing...but...we even had (2) vehicles of hunters pull up on the other side of a downfall and wait \'n watch us remove it so\'s they could be on their way. Oh yeh...they wanted to know if we had seen any deer. A very unusual experience. Generally, as many of you have experienced, folks will \"jump out\" and lend a hand. A \"perspective/interested member\" rode with me on a trip on the saddle between Hamner & Davis (a not groomed trail). Barry had located a way to the #44 rd. near Wickiup that could give us a much better way of grooming the Hamner/Davis Run. The \"prospect\" & I found this spot and \"yes\" it would DO. Next is to incorporate into our (FS approved) map for this coming season. \"Pathfinder\" Mark Bolton on a trip to find a \"suicidal\" deer over Windago, spotted a \"big\" leaner-over-the-trail-nearly-down with a \"very big\" stump up near the summit of Windago Pass. Something like this needed be referred to the FS....and they were \"quick\" to take care of it.... \"mucho thanks FS folks\". The duo of Bob & Dinah made the \"big loop\" run (Windago, East Kelsey, Diamond Way, Timpanogas, Summit and back (understand a lunch @ Lemola involved too). Don\'t have the \"specifics\" but do know that these trails are \"clear\". That the not-so-smooth\" trip from Timpanogas down to Summit was NOT appreciated (justifiably so)!!! A few spots to go...yet. Mowich and the #5825 and then... a plan for the 7th of November. MORE DETAILS ON THAT WILL BE FORTHCOMING..... FIRE BURN AREA NORTH OF HWY.-58 (near Manley\'s): VERY GOOD NEWS!!! The restrictions of last season have been eliminated. It\'s \"business-as-usual\" there. Obviously we need continue to be careful in and around the area.... lots of standing \"dead\" and lot on the ground. A \"solid\" ground (freeze) and deep snow would be good. FS personnel have picked up the barricades and most signs. We need give it a \"look\" to complete what\'s needed for this season. Noted by FS personnel is the appreciation for (most) everyone\'s compliance and patience and help with posting the signs; etc. ...... No doubt, these actions DID play a part in the current decision to removed the restrictions. THANK YOU !!!! To \"us\" \'n \"them\". You do recall, FS fire crew personnel DID cut back the hazards. That FS Admin. provided the \"exceptions\" from total closure. Not unlike some other examples this \"working relationship\" DOES work. the Hotline (525-2133) is \"up\" \'n available and Doug \'n others are at work to get us an updated/revised map.... Groomin\' equip. maintenance (many thanks to Barry \'n Scott and OSSA) is movin\' along...we\'ll be ready! .... no doubt... More later.... Ben S.

Blog: Crescent Lake Area TRAILS REPORTS

Sat, 8 Aug 2009 11:36:43 GMT

----- Original Message ----- From:BEN SUNDERLAND To:Crescent Lake Area TRAILS REPORTS Sent: Friday, August 07, 2009 5:35 PM Subject: Mid-Summer News Update
Sooooo.... we certainly hope your Summer is goin\' good ...that Fall will be even better. Know we all have to be very, very careful about dry conditions. That we don\'t want it to happen too quick..but..some good-type (no lightening) rain would be welcome. This has been a very, very busy off-season. A number of land use & access issues and some other items have certainly kept us busy. Quite a bit left on Summer maintenance on our equipment but some items have been completed and/or soon will be so that we can increase efforts to get ready. We\'ll have more to do this Fall than ever before on our trails...dependent upon pending work completion for another updated, new map which will include some rather substantial changes to our area\'s trail system. Potentially, if completed, a lot to be done to mark trails; etc. ..... Trails inventory work has been occurring for some time and our list of things to do is growing. No doubt we\'ll need quite a bit of help so think of those times when you might be available so as we ask, perhaps you can be available. Some know but some perhaps NOT.... I have another role re: recreation. Both Joni Mogstad & I are on the Steering Committee (Board) for the rather \"new\" Oregon Recreation Coalition which has been involved with up to 42 different recreation groups and/or interests both in and out of state. Simply stated, we work towards maintenance and enhancement of recreational opportunities. It\'s very apparent that there\'s a lot of \"action\" occurring concerning access/use of our public lands. Example is, that we have (4) rather major items to be involved with as many of you know. The 3-Trails OHV proposal, the RV parking area adjacent to the Crescent Lake Resort, the Deschuttes National Forest Travel Management Plan, The Fremont-Winema Travel Management Plan, and the Rim-Paunina Forest Management Plan. Joni continues is a very busy, active role as an Officer of the Blue Ribbon Coalition and with other access/use and funding source groups for primarily recreation items. Frequently I\'ve had an interest and a need to get more information out to those impacted and/or interested and who may be able to help. I am \"some\" reluctant to involve all of you as you may not be able to and/or do not have an interest. Before I start and/or continue the use of my Trails Reports e-mail mailing lists for potential land use/access items I WOULD ASK YOU TO LET ME KNOW IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO BE INVOLVED IN THE RECEIPT OF E-MAILS ABOUT LAND USE/ACCESS. If you do NOT, then I will \"delete\" you from my e-mail list. In fact, this is likely a good time for you to let me know, if you prefer I do not e-mail you about trails reports too... Should I not hear back from you to take you off of my e-mails lists, then I will continue to send you Trails Reports items as before and when possible I too will get you some use/access items. Please let me know.... BACK TO A COUPLE OF NEWS ITEMS.... No doubt many of you have received the info. that Tom & Lori have sold the Crescent Lake Resort to the owner(s ) of the Hoodoo ski area who have also bought several other properties in the Crescent Lake area. I just spoke to Tom, wishing he and Lori \"well\" and thanking them for their many and varied contributions to our recreation in the area and especially out on the trails in the Winter. We would certainly hope the new owners will do the same and from all reports and experiences we understand they will. How \'bout this? Last season and continuing, we certainly have had and will have the service and support of Greg Coen & his staff as the \"new\" Polaris dealer in the Springfield/Eugene and associated areas.... NOW.... we have the expertise and commitment of Todd & April Olson who have purchased the Yamaha dealership in Cottage Grove !!!! This is certainly good news to many. Especially those Yamahummers !!!! Rest assured Todd & April have been and will be a continuing asset to our sports & recreation. I\'ve bent your eyes \'nuff for now.... Let me know if you prefer to be \"dropped\" from either or both of the e-mails lists I have... Trails Reports and/or Land Use/Access items... Ben Sunderland, Chairman Trails Maintenance & Grooming Program Crescent Lake, Gilchrist and Crescent areas.

Blog: this coming Saturday\'s trails maintenance activities and meeting (poss.) time change

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:12:04 GMT

From prior info. provided, we are proceeding with the chainsaw certification process this coming Saturday May 2nd. We\'ll meet at the Jct. warming hut before 9:00 a.m. ....likely leave the parking area at 9:00 a.m. to go to the area that the Forest Service has selected for us to do the certification in. Weather is always a factor. Wear work clothes but we need be warm \'dry. Work gloves a good idea too. I\'ll bring the chaps, ear plugs and/or muff and a hard hat. I\'ll also bring both of our chainsaws. Currently I have the following listed to participate. If you are not listed and you can join us, PLEASE get back to me NO LATER THAN 5:00 p.m. tomorrow (Tuesday the 28th). I must let the FS Certification/Fire crew member know so that he can bring the paperwork he needs for each person so that he can complete the certification process. If you just \"showup\", he won\'t have what he needs. So...\'tis important that you let me know. It\'s also not possible to do more than he can commit his time to. Who we can and cannot do this Saturday will be based on a \"first-come/first served\" basis. But...\"if\" we have more than can be done, we do have the option to schedule another session if need be. I don\'t believe that it\'ll take more than 2-3 total hours and \"if\" you can only come for a \"short time\" we can get you thru first so you can go if you have to. AFTER we\'re done... we do need a few folks to help take down the signs we put up in the fire burn area and to help put the barricades back. The area will again be closed until or unless it can again be opened. Doug is interested, as are some others, in doing the WRR scheduled Club meeting \"earlier\" than the 6:30 p.m. time. Likely we can do this as it won\'t take too long to do the certification and the \"bit\" of trail signage that needs be done. I\'ll let Doug know my \"best estimate\" after 5:00 p.m. tomorrow (Tuesday) and he can/will let us know if there\'s going to be meeting time change. CURRENT LIST OF CHAINSAW CERTIFICTION PARTICIPANTS (note: must be an OSSA member): Bob Holland Bill Karp Ben Sunderland Bob Walsh Doug Wardell Scott Weaver Give me a call or send an e-mail if you have questions or need assistance to attend.... THANK YOU... Ben S. .... (541) 896-0039

Blog: Chainsaw certification

Thu, 9 Apr 2009 12:09:48 GMT

Volunteers who assist with trails maintenance in the forests, if they operate a chainsaw, are required to be certified by the Forest Service to do so. The Walker Rim Riders snowmobile club has scheduled May 2nd @ 9:00 a.m. (meet at the Cr. Lk. Jct. Snow Park) as a time to complete the certifications. WRR club members will likely receive a club notice about this activity and about the club meeting scheduled for 6:30 that same day. It will not take very long to complete the certification. Especially this time because volunteers can no longer be authorized and therefore certified to \"fall\" trees. Volunteers can only \"buck-up\" down timber. Soooo our certification will only be to \"buck\". If you are able to participate because you plan to assist with trails maintenance you need to be at this certification session. Wear warm (maybe \"dry\") work clothing. I will have (2) chainsaws, chaps, helmet and ear protection available. I also suggest you bring a lunch. After the session, we \"might\" gather some firewood to store for next season and/or we \"might\" cruise some trails to remove signs and/or to come up with needs for future trails work that will need to be done before next season. We do have at least one trail that is going to need quite a bit of work before next season. We do plan to have at least one and maybe more than one trails maintenance day before next season...likely early Fall...but...it would be good to start now if we can. LET ME KNOW IF YOU CAN AND WILL BE AT THE MAY 2ND CERTIFICATION AND CAN/WILL HELP WITH SOME TRAILS MAINTENANCE WORK THAT DAY.... I need to know NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY NOON APRIL 22ND... It\'s certainly OK to bring (member) family... These can be \"fun\" outdoor activities too... Thank you..... Ben

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas SUNDAY APRIL 5TH 2009 @ 1030 HRS.

Sun, 5 Apr 2009 18:06:14 GMT

It\'s sometimes not too often that \"things\" come together but according to riders yesterday, they did! Did get to/from the Jct. Snowpark and (maybe) for some time to/from the little park near the 60 Rd. by the lake. \"Bumps\" here there close-in but further out, \"deeper\" snow with lots \'n lots of \"new powder\" a bit higher up. Those that went to the Waldo Lake area via Upper Moore Crk. said \"some dirt by the West Davis entrance and then a short strip or two on Upper Moore Crk. but then \'bout 3 miles from the #204 Jct. .... 1-2 feet of most beautiful powder ever\"...further said \"best ride of the season\"!!! AND, that\'s sayin\' somethin\' \'cause it has, in truth be pretty good on several trips. Spoke to some in the little park and they too said Windago, Summit & Timanogas \"great\".... had a super trip to/from Lemolo. It\'s that time to say.... \"our grooming season is done\". A \"thank you\" to the Forest Service who had advised us that should there be a need and snow conditions (to carry the cat) still existed, we could \"go\" but for now...\'tis NOT the case so we\'re done.... unless ???? No doubt as I sift thru my \"stack\" of notes and make some assessment trips, we WILL come up with a pretty long list of Summer trails maintenance needs. For sure we have quite a bit to do on our equipment. The Walker Rim Riders Snowmobile club for the first time that I know of, are going to continue to meet and have activities monthly during the off-season. CPR & first aid training, GPS learning, chainsaw certification, trails maintenance, and \"yes\" some fun with those but also the \"highlight\", the annual bar-b-que \'n on the water toys play day @ Crescent Lake. For some of you who are not members, we would very much welcome your participation. \'Tis a great family thing. For membership info., contact me. For sure, we can use more volunteers to help with our trails. I\'ll be sending out an additional item about that w/in the next week or two. Many, many thanks to the several of you who have helped this season...with information and when on the trial..your help to others including \"us\" as we groom the trails. Specifically mentioned and observed has been everyone\'s courtesy; a demonstrated interest in \"sharing\" with others. I do get to a number of other areas (within and outside of our state) and this is a \"unique\" accomplishment that you achieve and we all \"gain\" from this. YOU take care... (no doubt)... MORE LATER.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline/message phone: 525-2133

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas FRIDAY APRIL 3, 2009 @ 1455 HRS. (2:55 pm)

Sat, 4 Apr 2009 10:04:30 GMT

It is as predicted...thus far. Light snow and cooler temps. so we do have some \"fresh\" including w/in the Junction area. The Walker Rim Riders have advised their membership that their ride will proceed from there at 9:00 am as scheduled. Yesterday, the 1-lane into the public boat ramp from the small snowpark near that location was plowed and \"thank you\" Mark for some \"touchup\" to complete the task. Folks can still ride the North & Northwest side of the lake. Can get to/from Windago, Summit and Timpanogas & beyond. My last contact with Lemolo is...\"lots of good snow yet\". North of the Junction? Can go to/from that trail system from the Jct. Snow Park...pretty good snow beyond but specifically how much and how good may be an issue if the \"melt\" comes from the warmer weather predicted for tomorrow and Sunday. Am sure that at the Walker meeting at the Community Center in the fire hall tomorrow eve. there will be reports on the day\'s ride. Hotline still available... \"new\" number: 525-2133... Ben

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas as of Thursday a.m. April 2nd

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 18:28:04 GMT

NO...this is not likely to be the final report for this season. Even though per our Agreement with the Forest Service we were to have concluded grooming ops. by yesterday. There is an option to do a \"bit\" more on the trails provided that snow conditions will support it. I have a call in to the F/S to discuss this option...as least for today as I believe we can do one more \"run\". \"Maybe\" by now, a single lane has been plowed into the public boat ramp at Crescent Lake from the small sno-park at the head of the 60 road that proceeds around the lake on the North & Northwest sides. We had suspended grooming into/thru the Resort for about the last 2 weeks because it had closed in preparation for season change from Winter to Spring/Summer. Thus this single lane plowing should have minimal impact at this time. One thing I would like to do if possible is to \"fix\" the access to the snow trail, if needed, after the plowing has occurred. Certainly the residents on the lake need continue to use the snow trail and others who want to ride that trail and to access the higher country like Windago & Summit/Timpanogas would have an interest in using the small park and therefore need as assist across any berm there too. Will check it...today. Also.. the Walker Rim Rider Snowmobile club is still planning a ride for the Waldo Lake area but we need to do a \"scout\" trip to see where best to off/on load. From the snowpark at the Junction...or...the trailhead off of hwy. 58 ??? Will likely so some \"scouting\" today too.... Will update our report re: results of same. Weather wise...sounds pretty good for the weekend. 1-2 feet of \"new\" with snowlevel at 3,000 ft. ... clearing Friday night with temps. in the mid-teens and warming Sat. to mid-40\'s and to lower 50\'s Sunday. If true...earlier a.m. rides could be \"fantastic\"... About the HOTLINE...sorry but the phone number \"must\" change. Had to switch the service provider and even though I filed a complaint with the PUC we cannot keep the same hotline number (very long story). SO PLEASE NOTE THE NEW NUMBER: it is: 525-2133... for many, the good news is, this will not be a toll call but for some you may have to dial the 541... This change is effective today... Gotta run.... more later.... Ben S. (new) hotline: 525-2133

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas report of Thursday afternoon March 26th

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:01:08 GMT

Our ability to groom will likely be over by Monday unless we get quite a bit more snow and colder temps. in the area of the Snow Park @ the Junction. Certainly does not mean that snowmobiling will be done....for those who are \"up\" on Spring ridin\'. Still a lot of snow around the lake and certainly up higher and the trails are in pretty good shape. I had to leave our groomer (Maxi that we pull behind the Cat) at the shed. Need to do some welding in a spot or two. Went past Summit Lake and when up on top, the warmer influence of the West side caught me. Cat was diggin\' some pretty deep trenches. Best part of valor in this case... \"retreat\"! To groom North of the Jct. is NOT an option. Another development to the North is that DOT has started to plow the Cascade Lakes Hi-way from the South. They will get to their \"stop\" point (they believe) by Sunday afternoon. Not going all the way to 4-corners. Several do keep ridin\' up North but I believe they come in from the Waldo Lake Snowpark off hwy.58 or maybe by going out near Wickiup from LaPine. Probably can come West and South from North or near Elk Lake too. Do know that in the last 2-3 weeks there\'s been a substantial increase in snow depth near Waldo. An option from Cr.Lk.Junction is to go to the little snowpark near the resort. Per the message on the Resort phone they will be closed until March 31st. OVER THE HILL across Windago or up past Timpanogas...very good runs to/from the Jct. and/or Lemola. Talked with folks at Lemola....\"lots of good snow there too\". Should be a great weekend.... ENJOY !!! Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline (541) 410-4914

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:08:22 GMT

Hey....how \'bout that? There snow in them thar hills. Got a bit more last night and the better news is that it\'s \"cool\". Appears to be holding. Our plan is to get out and do the \"big\" loop again tonight; meaning that we\'ll go Summit, Tempanogas, Diamond Way, East side of Kelsey Loop and over Windago on the way back. Forecasts call for warming but also says more snow & cooler tonight but then they too have said \"warmer\". It\'ll be ok for keeping the snow \'n trails if it will continue cold at night. Still do not have reports on what\'s North of the Junction. May be just enough from this snow to allow us to get past the hwy.58 overpass to go have a look-see. Otherwise, anyone (PLEASE !!!) if you have been out there or can take a ride for us, do so and send back some info. so\'s we can see about conditions North. We\'ll update the hotline re: tonight\'s trip and maybe info. re: other locations as we see or get info. ... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline: (541) 410-4914

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist aeas Trails Report of MONDAY 03/23/09

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 16:54:42 GMT

Barry called at about mid-night last night while in the Cat on top of Windago Pass.... \"Good powder snow\"... cold and still snowing a bit... Grooming quite well. Thus, our best (groomed) options continue to be North & West side of Crescent Lake, Summit & Tempanogas trail and (now) Windago Pass. This is NOT to say good ridin\' isn\'t elsewhere \'cause there\'s still quite a bit of snow in the area...just that \"too thin\" for us to run the Cat in some other areas right now. YOU (as before) can continue to assist by providing reports of what you see or hear so that we can plan accordingly and let others know. Thankyou & ENJOY... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman (\"more info.\" or you can leave a message..hotline (541) 410-4914)

Blog: Trails Report Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas WEDNESDAY 03/18/09 @ 0850 hrs.

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:47:58 GMT

Do we even \"dare\" to believe that we can \"hold\" this great new recent snow? Could be! Temps. \"cool\" not \"cold\" just \"cool\" (at night). Concern is daytime temps. next day or two. Understood is that it may \"cool\" \'n snow more late this week and maybe a \"bit\" on the weekend. Some Spring breakers this week but more next week so we\'re hopin\' we have snow for then. That YOU will plan to come up to play. We\'re headed out today for a check trip and then we plan to do most of the \"real-stuff\" to the trails at night. Thank you to the several of you who have been our \"eyes/ears\" re: conditions...AND... to let us know your preferences for this and next week. We\'ll see if we can do a \"fit\" to our availabilities and schedule \'n keep things a-runnin\'. Keep in mind that \"warm\" means just a few over the snow and we can \"beat\" it quite a bit. One thing that \"helps\"... DON\'T run \"exactly\" in the SAME track as the person you\'re following. Less we \"pound\" the trail the better. Likely it\'s best you check the hotline for updates.... By-the bye..you should have a map \'n some paper & pen or pencil so you can \"jot\" some info. and/or take notes to check the map for locations. Our new maps for this season are still available at businesses in our area. An item to keep track of...comin\' soon! A change in or hotline phone number. Verizon bought out Unicel so we\'ve changed to AT&T (long-story)...but...we do believe we can provide a better trails report message when we complete the transition which will be soon.... (later) on the new number !! Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman (hotline: 541-410-4914)

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas ... Sunday 03/15/09 @ 7:20 p.m.

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:30:17 GMT

It started out to be \"excellent\"... That is...lots\'n lots of new snow. Kept snowing most of last night and today. Heavy at times and then it started to \"warm\". Now we got \"slush\" mixed with a bit of rain. Roads/hiways \"wet\" near the Junction and most of the way up the East side of the Willamette Pass as I decided to \"bag-it\" after all the effort to get the replacment alternator installed too !!! West side of the Willamette Pass heavy, big flake snow and it was colder....for a ways. Near the trestle...rain, rain...buckets \'n buckets. Forcast was for 40 mph winds tonight too and it was startin\' to \"whip\" as I left the Junction. Not sure what\'s next but I could use YOUR assistance. Do you plan to ride this or next week? Have heard that Spring \"break\" is about upon us but I\'m not sure how many folks will be \"up\" and where they want to ride. Need info. from you.... I\'ll put a schedule together and see if we can make for some good trails for you. PLEASE RESOND..... Later... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chariman hotline: (541) 410-4914
X-Spam-Flag: NO
X-Envelope-From: bnksun@msn.com
Return-Path:
Received: from col0-omc2-s16.col0.hotmail.com (col0-omc2-s16.col0.hotmail.com [65.55.34.90])
by mail911c35.nsolutionszone.com (8.13.6/8.13.1) with ESMTP id n2G2Tgkr018112;
Sun, 15 Mar 2009 22:29:44 -0400
Received: from COL103-DS5 ([65.55.34.72]) by col0-omc2-s16.col0.hotmail.com with Microsoft SMTPSVC(6.0.3790.3959);
Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:29:42 -0700
X-Originating-IP: [71.220.205.15]
X-Originating-Email: [bnksun@msn.com]
Message-ID:
From: \"BEN SUNDERLAND\"
To: \"TRAILS REPORTS\"
Subject: Fw: Cr. Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas ... Sunday 03/15/09 @ 7:20 p.m.
Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:29:21 -0700
MIME-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: multipart/alternative;
boundary=\"----=_NextPart_000_001B_01C9A5A4.5786A030\"
X-Priority: 3
X-MSMail-Priority: Normal
X-Mailer: MSN 9
X-MimeOLE: Produced By MSN MimeOLE V9.60.0053.2200
Seal-Send-Time: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:29:21 -0700
X-OriginalArrivalTime: 16 Mar 2009 02:29:42.0100 (UTC) FILETIME=[0FF87140:01C9A5DF]
X-MMR: 0
X-Antivirus: Scanned by F-Prot Antivirus (http://www.f-prot.com)

Blog: CRESCENT LAKE TRAILS REPORT

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 17:36:57 GMT

In spite of the warm temps. and that quick melt of the snow in the lower areas, we have still been able to get from the shed to the trails around the lake and in the higher areas of Windago Pass and Summit/Tempanogas & Kelsey Loop. Good snow up there but \"soft\" off of the groomed trails as the temps. warm during the day. Be careful about boon-docking. Can be \"stuck-city\". Thursday & thrus. night we went up Windago after a trip around Cr. Lake thru the resort and the East, Southeast side of the lake. Came back via the East side of Kelsey Loop (noted that the Groomer from Diamond Lake/Lemolo had been up to the top of Windago & areound Kelsey). Came down from Kelsey via Diamond Way, Tempanogas and past Summit. Lost electrical power in the Cat so had to come back on 2 very, very dim lights but did get in. Have a new alternator ordered and should get it by noon today (Saturday). Want to get back out soon\'s we can because with the warm temps. it only takes a few sleds to create substantial moguls and we\'ve seen a lot of that recently. Forcast calls for cooling temps. and a bit of snow. Let\'s hope so. We could have some ok trails for Spring break. Will keep you posted best we can. Check the hotline for more frequent updates. Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman (hotline: 541-410-4914)

Blog: THEY’RE CATCHING FISH AT CRESCENT LAKE!

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 11:48:37 GMT

Crescent Lake Lodge has opened an area to launch your boats from the beach and the fish are biting. The weather is beautiful! Book your cabin now. Call for details. (541) 433-2324.

Blog: Trails Report March 9th.... Monday Cr.Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist Areas

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 18:10:15 GMT

Have been off-line for quite a while... We\'re back but only occasionally. Best to check the hotline for most current info. Area riding has been very good in spite of the \"melt\" of a lot of our new snow...but..now it\'s cold and we\'ve had some \"new\" that\'s staying a bit. Have noted this past weekend a lot of new riders to our area. Met some really nice folks. Had a problem up on Kelsey Loop this past Thursday night and most of Friday. Stuck for 11.5 hours. A \"big\" thank you to Scott and his son from the Lemola Lake Resort and to the Grooming Chairman (Jay) from the Cascade Connection from Roseburg. They came up in a Cat and dug \'n dug \'n pulled me out. I owe \'em big-time. Yesteray/last night around Cr. Lake, up Summit Lake, Tempanogas, Diamond Way, East side of Kelsey Loop and home over Windago. Have had up to a foot of \"new\" up there. Lots near Summit Lake. The plan is to do this route again but from the other direction to rebuild the base again. Used the ax and chipped the ice away from the door at the bathroom @ Tempanogas and re-stocked the tp... The design of that bathroom keeps the door frozen in a lot but hopefully it\'ll be ok for a while. Riders reports indicate that there\'s still good snow \'n trails North of the Junction but you can expect a dirt spot here/there and a lot of the Cascade Lakes hi-way is bare pavement. The Walker Club rode to Elk Lake Saturday. Good ride. Thank you Moon Country for the groom job. East of Cr. Lake and in the 2-Rivers Mowich area very thin snow. Too thin to run the Cat down there. Let\'s continue to hope that the snow holds near the Snow Park @ the Junction so we can keep goin\' in/out of there to the trails. More Later.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman (hotline: 541-410-4914)

Blog: TRAILS REPORT Cr.Lk.,Crescent & Gilchrist areas WEDNESDAY 02/18/09

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:32:25 GMT

Have been working on \"knocking-down\" the big moguls left over from a very busy 3-day weekend. And this without much assistance from colder temps. and/or more snowfall. The \"effort\" is having a pretty good effect but to \"cut\" deep enough means a substantial snow loss from the warm days. Last night @ about mid-night it had warmed to 34 degrees from an earlier 27 degrees. NOT good in terms of keeping what we have. Trails further \"out\" from the Junction and certainly a bit higher \"up\" are holding pretty good but we\'ll get to \'em (hopefully) before the weekend. Not likely to go East towards Mowich/2-Rivers. My last trip there of this past Thursday...saw several \"dirt\" spots. Best not encourage \"more\" by trying to groom over the very low snow. I don\'t have any recent Rider reports from that area so not much I can pass on about conditions there. Our effort today will be North...up 4-corners way (near Wickiup). Did get over to the #206 (near the rockpit) late yesterday/last night. \"fixed\" some ugly, ugly moguls to the North of the Junction. Will get back over \'em on the way North tonight as temps. cool more. Also \"knocked-down\" moguls to the #60 Road (South of the RR tracks...the road that goes around the West/Southwest side of Cr.Lake). Depending on today\'s/tonight\'s effort, it\'s quite likely we can get back to trails past Summit & Tempanogas Lakes and up/back on Windago. Thankyou so much to the several of you who are providing Rider reports and especially \"we-all\" thank those who are moving some of the wood \'n sticks outta the way off the trails and/or letting us know \'bout those we need to go after soon\'s we can. \'Tis always a good idea to carry a handsaw and a roll of that bright flourescent tape helps advise others too..... Keep checkin\' and usin\' the hotline.... (541) 410-4914

Blog: TRAILS REPORT Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist areas FRIDAY 02/13/09

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:30:34 GMT

Since Tuesday we\'ve groomed 142 miles of trails. Included: Lower Royce Mtn. past the entrance to Diamond Pks. and then East past the downhill cutoff to Crescent Pines, the local service area @ the Junction, East to Mowich (near 2-Rivers) including around the #5825 Loop and building an alternate trail adjacent to the #5825 to avoid impacts of the Railroad plowing that half mile of trail, and then Windago Pass and around the lake 4 times. Today...plan is to do Summit & Tempanogas Lakes, Diamond Way and to the #17 Jct. on Kelsey Loop and back. This is a 3-day weekend. Trails are grooming very well and temps. are helping hold them. The Bohemia Sno-Sledders will depart the Sno-Park on a ride to Tempanogas Saturday at 0900hrs. .... ENJOY !!! Ben Sunderland, Chairman hotline: (541) 410-4914

Blog: Trails Report of MONDAY 02/09/09 for the Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist Areas

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 11:42:00 GMT

OK....back in business ! Information is that we\'ve got 2-4\" of \"new\". Worth a trip \"out\" to see what\'s what. Over the weekend, rider reports were that the trails were in good shape...most places. Especially \"up\" (higher) a ways. That apparently traffic has been low so not too \"beat up\". Some fabulous boon-dockin\' just off Diamond Way between the #229 & #17 jcts. .... The Walker Rim Riders snowmobile club had a good ride to/from Lemola. Suggested is that you check back later today on the hotline for an update which we can do from the Cat out on the trail...otherwise it\'s likely to be a day or so for another of these reports. (again) thank you to the several who keep us advised of what conditions are out there.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline (541) 410-4914

Blog: \"UPDATE\" earlier Trails Report (Friday 02/06/09)...this report: 2:00 pm

Sat, 7 Feb 2009 12:13:37 GMT

I got soooooooo \"excited\". Not to be. Although 2-3\" of nice \"new\" ...\'tis pretty much \"gone\". Temps. warmed and then came the rains. Little higher up...estimate about 6,000 ft. level and above....looks like it \"held\". Reports say more \"new\" tonight with cooler temps. and some clearing tomorrow. Still a chance for an \"excellent\" ride this weekend. Sorry... still won\'t risk Groomer damage and/or damage to the \"low\" snow levels left. Best the Groomer sits \'till we get more \"new\". In addition to their ride to Lemolo tomorrow, the Walker Rim Rider\'s club is going to meet at the Community Center (Fire Hall) at 6:30 pm.... Come as a guest if you\'re not a member and bring friends too.... Later... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline: (541) 410-4914

Blog: TRAILS REPORT Cr. Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist area FRODAY 02/06/09

Fri, 6 Feb 2009 11:08:03 GMT

\'Tis a good thing !!!! We DID get some \"fresh\"... A just-about-right amount & type. More will help the boon-dockers who still have to be pretty careful but if it will \"hold\" today and then with tomorrow\'s clearing forcast, this is an \"excellent\" prescription for a great ride. I know the Walker Rim Riders who are headed to Lemola will have a good ride. All trails are in pretty good shape with this \"add\". We do have some spots to \"fix\" and if we can get the \"hold\" we need today we\'ll likely get at it late this afternoon. I suggest a check of the hotline after 8 p.m. to get an update. More later.... Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman hotline: (541) 410-4914

Blog: Crescent Lake, Crescent & Gilchrist Trails Report of Wednesday 02/04/09

Wed, 4 Feb 2009 18:56:42 GMT

I completed a look-see of lower elevation trails near the Junction, Resort, (east) Hwy.58 & #6020 rd., (further east) #5825 rd. and then the Muffin Manor, Mowich & 2-Rivers area. Have had several riders reports since this past Saturday and (4) reports that I received Monday & (2) yesterday (Tuesday)..... all trails are rideable and as a result of cold nights and low traffic, they are staying pretty smooth but down low are very icy....\"must-have\" scrathers..even if you ride when the trails warm (\'bout 10:00 a.m.)... most have said \"fantastic Spring-like conditions\"... HOWEVER, I must \"suspend\" grooming operations until we get more snow near the Jct. Snow Park and thus, our grooming shed. We simply cannot risk damage to our equipment...and...\"if\" we additionally disturb the very \"thin\" cover on the trails that we would have to use to get to the \"deeper snow\" trails...we will cause what\'s left to go away even faster.... I know that many of you are familiar with spots to off-load that are closer to better snow...such as, the old snowpark near the Cr.Lake Resort... I would encourage that you use those as travel to/from the Jct. Snow Park, although possible, is not too good. GOOD NEWS and we would hope it occurs.... \"moisture\" is to hit the area this weekend. In spite of that....if your machines are equipped with \"scrathers\"...try this very good Spring-like ridin\'....it can be a lot of fun.... WE WILL DO ANOTHER UPDATE AS CONDITIONS CHANGE AND/OR SHOULD WE HAVE MORE INFO. TO PASS ALONG.... and I do very much appreciate the phone calls and e-mails with trails info. ........ Ben Sunderland, Grooming Chairman (hotline & message phone: (541) 410-4914)