We were stunned yesterday when 9 & 10 called asking how the closing of trail 4 would affect Rays Retreat. WHAT?!!! It was a total surprise. Not even the tourism bureau or snowmobile council had any idea it was happening.
Mike got his few minutes of fame when they came and did a short story on the breaking news.

It was equally surprising to get notified today that the DNR had made it happen – somehow the leases were obtained and now the trail is open and available for riders to enjoy this season.

Now.. we need the snow. It is bitterly cold. We have had light flurries on/off today

BREAKING NEWS: Snowmobile Trail #4 reopens in Otsego and Antrim counties

With new landowner agreements in place, Snowmobile Trail #4 in Otsego and Antrim counties has reopened, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced today.

The trail had been closed for a short time between Old-27 Highway and Lakes of the North; the reopening is effective immediately.

Trail #4 is a major east/west trail connecting trails in the Gaylord area with the Jordan Valley and Blue Bear trails. Complications with landowner permissions that allow the designated trail to run contiguously through public and private land had led to the temporary closure, but negotiations between the DNR, local snowmobile clubs and generous private landowners have allowed the trail to reopen.

Snowmobilers are asked to respect the sensitive nature of private landowner agreements that allow the state to have a connected snowmobile trail system by staying on designated trails and following all operating rules and regulations.

For more information about Snowmobile Trail #4, contact Gaylord Management Unit fire supervisor Donald Klingler at 989-732-3541.

Gaylord Bureau

Dec. 4: We have a few inches of snow but the ground isn’t frozen yet. Temps expected to be high 20’s low 30’s this week with scattered snow. We will post when grooming starts!

http://www.gaylordmichigan.net/snowmobile-trail-report-114/

Ray’s Retreat Country Inn
http://www.visitgaylord.com/raysretreat