Forbush Corner to increase snowmaking to 5km in two phases
Thu, May 30, 2024 - By Forbush Corner
We are thrilled to announce the next big step at Forbush Corner Nordic: Expanding our snowmaking capabilities beyond the loop!
Our goal is to have a total of 5 km of trails with snowmaking that will incorporate our newly designed biathlon course.
Our Phase 1 goal will add another 1.5 km of snowmaking this year. This will almost double our current coverage. Phase II will follow with the addition of another 2 km.
Why Expand?
Enhanced experience - Winters with limited natural snow have left us relying heavily on our current 2 km snowmaking loop. While it’s been great, skiing the same loop repeatedly can get monotonous. The new expansion will introduce diverse terrain and more loop patterns, offering a more enjoyable experience for everyone
Continuous Access - Currently, snowmaking requires us to shut down the loop for 2-3 days to let the snow drain (set-up, settle) and to spread it around the trail. This expansion will allow us to make snow in two areas, ensuring one area is always open for skiing, minimizing disruptions.
Beginner-Friendly terrain - We aim to create a beginner-friendly 1 km trail with no hill, providing a safe and welcoming space close to the nordic center, for newcomers to enjoy skiing.
The Plan
We will once again be using Snowmakers Inc. from Midland, MI to bring this vision to life. The expansion will utilize the Ridge Trail with some modifications and parts of Lil Coaster. Linda’s Link will be flattened and transformed into Linda’s Loop, a beginner-friendly trail. These adjustments will allow for a variety of loop patterns, with Ridge and Lil Coaster being one-way trails, enhancing safety and flow. (see map below)
Support Needed
The cost of the expansion is estimated at $400,000. We will have a precise quote in June after a site visit from SMI. With a generous $100,000 donation already pledged, we need your help to raise the remaining funds to have the extension ready for next season.
Everything we achieve at Forbush Corner Nordic is thanks to our incredible supporters. Let’s work together to create even more snow-covered trails for everyone to enjoy!
Contributions can be made through a Paypal link, through an individual’s charitable mutual fund, stocks/bond transfers or by check.
We are a 501(3)(c) non-profit organization, registered with GuideStar and with the State of Michigan.
Paypal link https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/3939852
Checks should be made out to Forbush Corner Nordic and mailed to the following address.
Forbush Corner Nordic
PO Box 118
Gaylord, MI 49734
989-889-2843
Thank you for your continued support!
