A Winter Worthy of Winterfest

What a difference a year makes! Last year the snow plows were almost idle, the local sled dog race was cancelled and Randy Gravatt was swimming to shore because there wasn’t enough snow in Alaska for the Iron Dog Snowmobile Race. I didn’t even license my sled because there wasn’t enough snow to make it worthwhile.

The ensuing summer saw much of the western forests engulfed in fires that were aided by the lack of winter moisture. Island Park dodged that bullet but not by much as we saw a couple of late season fires crop up last fall.

With a solid three foot base throughout the caldera and a foot or more of fresh powder, it’s a great weekend for Winterfest. It is time to celebrate the moisture that we have been given by reveling in the activities that the glorious white blanket provides. The Island Park Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with other community organizations is sponsoring numerous outdoor events this weekend. Whether you want to ice fish, ride in a horse-drawn sleigh or snowmobile, there is an activity for you in the caldera this weekend.

It is difficult for some to pry themselves away from the warm confines of their home to spend time in the snow. This is the perfect weekend to make your move. The high temperatures are forecasted to be around 30 degrees and the lows around 20. Combine those conditions with fresh powder and a great group of people throwing a party and that is a recipe for a great weekend!

Celebrate the snow that we have been given this winter by participating with us in the activities of Winterfest. 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Avoid Driving Sleds Continually on Hard Pack *

Avoid constantly operating snowmobiles on plowed roads and parking lots. Loose snow is thrown in the tunnel of the machine (under the seat) by the tracks to cool itself. Driving on hard pack deprives a snowmobile of the ability to regulate its temperature.  

The Snow Has Arrived!

A little more than a week ago employees of local businesses felt like Maytag repairmen. I swear that I heard an echo when I entered a store and said “Hi” to a clerk. A couple of feet of snow later, things are hoppin’ in the caldera. I believe I saw the Lodgepoles sway from a collective sigh of relief as merchants were suddenly inundated with snowmobile enthusiasts.

Crowds of sleds surround gas pumps in clusters. Adults and kids alike are completely outfitted in the latest snowmobile apparel. The inside of the stores looks more like a Star Wars convention where everyone decided to wear their Darth Vader costume. Stocking up on munchies, the procession returns to the pumps. Firing up the sleds, their pending excursion is confirmed and off they go in single file. Their adventure is on.

What must be acknowledged is their joy as they tour the Island Park Caldera that is blanketed in white. For many, this is an annual opportunity, for some it is a weekly event and for others it is a once in a lifetime experience. It is difficult to tell from their enthusiasm which visitors cherish the experience more.

Island Park offers much of the scenery available in Yellowstone Park without the heavy hand of the Park Service. It is truly a blessing to have this corner of Yellowstone Country available to tour on snowmobiles. Residents of the caldera enjoy hosting visitors who appreciate what we have been blessed with.

Remember to be safe while operating your machines. Watch out for traffic when crossing roads. Don’t allow your speed to exceed your control of the sled. We want you to return home safely, with great memories of your visit.