Talk to me about riding near Island park

[whitefish]

Heading out there for a week starting 16th. I will be solo that Monday. Others arriving that day to ride on Tuesday. Riding in Jellystone for 2 days then outside the park on Friday. So, where's some good places to ride near Island Park? Monday and Friday could be big boy rides. Tuesday would have to be something where some rookies won't get killed. Thanks

 

[Racer220]

Monday - Get a trail map, study it good, don't venture too far from civilization. Some trails can connect with others that lead even further from the pump, and before you know it you could be in bfe with no friends and no fuel. YNP should be self explanatory since they still guide you through it IIRC.

Riding on Friday - A lot of folks talk about Jefferson area. IMHO, especially if you have 'rookie riders', Jefferson is DEFINITELY NOT the area even a skilled rider should be right now unless you have the self discipline to stay off any of the bigger stuff. It is also still extremely rocky back there, so the chance of carnage is quite high. I would stick to some of the lower trail systems and try to find any powder stashes that may be left.

You should be able to find something for everyone to have a good time. If the snow was better, your options would expand 10-fold for that area. Good luck and ride safe.

 

[whitefish]

Racer- Thanks for the guidance. I think we are pretty level headed on when and when not to get on the big stuff. We are prepared as any. I'm perfectly happy ripping through the trees and small stuff especially in a newer area. If anyone is in the area on Monday and doesn't mind a straggler, let me know. I ride a 09 XP, carry every safety item known to sledders and know how to wrench.

 

[whitefish]

What are some good sources for trail maps of the area?

 

[w2bridin]

Most of the gas stations in West Y. should have the trail maps. Trails are signed pretty well making it nice for newbies. The first day I would make some miles marking your map the areas that look good to you then you will know where to go when your crew is ready. I would say stay away from Jefferson and Lions head area with the bad avy conditions we have. Have fun!

 

[Billy Bigrigger]

It's Thursday and I didn't see this post earlier... We are heading up to the Black canyon area today... What are you riding? How many in your group? We found some real fun areas and don't mind helping out rookies. Plan on heading up around 9am... Look for a New Assault and a gal on a new PRO. Flag us down...

 

[turboDS1300]

Just got back from IP yesterday. Please keep a very close eye on the SE facing and windloaded slopes around Jefferson. I tripped a slide on one of the lower chutes on Jefferson earlier in the week. With the snow that is coming and has already fell up there, please be extra cautious on picking your lines.

As said above, just about any gas station around the area will have the Fremont County maps. Enjoy the pow and be safe!

 

[Hamps]

Turbo,

How much snow in IP/Sawtelle area? Our group will be there in 2 weeks.

 

[801]

there is like 2ft in IP,40" on white elephant and 5 to 6 ft on black bear!! Hope this helps!

 

[mtevoracer]

Head back into black canyon even with rookie riders. Good tree riding and some steeper stuff if you look for it. Rookie riders will have fun on the north end and experienced riders can ride through the bottom and on the east end of it. Its a ride to get there but worth it. Just don't drop in to the canyon unless you are sure you can get everyone out. Seen a bunch of midwesterners with ten sleds stuck on on hill trying to get out last time I was there. So funny!
Anyway try black canyon loop.