THE DEFENDER HD11
PUBLISHER
Peter Farago
EDITOR
Ann Drzewiecki
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Scott Drzewiecki
CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR
Michelle Sheridan
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Chelsie Dzbanski Fontenelle
WEB MANAGER
Kelly Kosek
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ric Federau, Stacy Drzewiecki, Kim Kisner, Mike Olmstead, Dominic Santina, Jay Haven, Joyce Wiswell
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Faith Taylor SALES
Scott Drzewiecki, Chris Sutton DESIGNERS
Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen
MICHIGAN
County Wide Powersports
In the heart of Michigan’s outdoor recreation country, where snowy trails stretch for miles in the winter and rugged terrain invites off-road exploration in the warmer months, one dealership stands out as a trusted destination for enthusiasts year-round—County Wide Powersports.
Built on a passion for motorsports and a commitment to customer service, County Wide Powersports has become a go-to resource for riders of all experience levels. Whether it’s carving fresh powder on a snowmobile or navigating wooded trails in an ATV or side-by-side, the team at County Wide Powersports is dedicated to helping customers make the most of their time outdoors.
A FULL-SERVICE POWERSPORTS DESTINATION
At its core, County Wide Powersports is more than just a dealership—it’s a complete powersports hub. The business offers sales, service, and parts for a wide range of vehicles, ensuring that customers have everything they need under one roof.
The showroom features some of the most respected and innovative brands in the industry, including Polaris, CFMOTO, and Yamaha. Each brand brings its own strengths, giving customers a diverse selection of machines designed to handle Michigan’s unique terrain and seasonal conditions.
From high-performance snowmobiles built for deep snow and trail riding to durable off-road vehicles engineered for work and play, County Wide Powersports carefully curates its inventory to meet the demands of local riders. Whether someone is a first-time buyer or a seasoned enthusiast looking to upgrade, the knowledgeable sales team is ready to guide them toward the right machine.
WINTER THRILLS: SNOWMOBILES BUILT FOR MICHIGAN
Michigan is widely recognized as one of the premier snowmobiling destinations in the Midwest, and County Wide Powersports plays a key role in keeping riders on the trails.
With industry-leading snowmobiles from Polaris, customers can choose from a range of options tailored to different riding styles. Trail riders, backcountry explorers, and performance-focused enthusiasts alike can find machines that deliver the power, handling, and reliability they need to tackle winter conditions with confidence.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the sale. County Wide Powersports understands that Michigan
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business spotlight
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winters can be unpredictable, and downtime isn’t an option when the snow is perfect. That’s why their service department is equipped with skilled technicians who provide routine maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to keep snowmobiles running at peak performance all season long.
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE FOR EVERY SEASON
When the snow melts, Michigan’s landscape transforms into a playground for off-road riding— and County Wide Powersports is ready to meet that demand.
The dealership offers a wide range of ATVs, side-by-sides, and utility vehicles from Polaris, CFMOTO, and Yamaha. Whether customers are exploring trails, hunting, working on property, or enjoying a weekend adventure with family and friends, there’s a machine designed to fit their needs.
Side-by-sides, in particular, have grown in popularity across Michigan, and County Wide Powersports provides options that range from recreational trail riders to heavy-duty models designed for hauling and utility work. With advanced features like enhanced suspension, powerful
engines, and modern technology, today’s off-road vehicles deliver both performance and comfort.
The team takes pride in helping customers match the right vehicle to their lifestyle—ensuring that every purchase enhances the rider’s experience and opens the door to new adventures.
EXPERT SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON
One of the defining characteristics
of County Wide Powersports is its unwavering commitment to service. The dealership’s service department plays a crucial role in building long-term relationships with customers.
Staffed by experienced technicians who understand the intricacies of today’s machines, the department handles everything from routine maintenance—such as oil changes and inspections—to continued on page 10
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By supporting local riders and promoting safe, responsible riding, County Wide Powersports helps ensure that Michigan’s trails and off-road areas remain enjoyable for generations to come.
continued from page 8
more complex repairs and diagnostics. Their goal is simple: to get customers back on the trail as quickly and safely as possible.
In addition to service, County Wide Powersports maintains a well-stocked parts department, offering genuine OEM parts and accessories for Polaris, CFMOTO, and Yamaha. Whether it’s replacing a worn component or upgrading a machine with performance accessories, customers can rely on the dealership to provide quality parts that fit and perform as intended.
A COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY
Beyond selling and servicing vehicles, County Wide Powersports is deeply connected to the local riding community. The dealership recognizes that powersports are about more than machines—they’re
about experiences, friendships, and a shared passion for the outdoors.
By supporting local riders and promoting safe, responsible riding, County Wide Powersports helps ensure that Michigan’s trails and off-road areas remain enjoyable for generations to come.
BUILT ON PASSION, DRIVEN BY SERVICE
What truly sets County Wide Powersports apart is its dedication to customer satisfaction. Every interaction—whether it’s a first-time visitor walking through the showroom doors or a longtime customer returning for service—is handled with care, professionalism, and a genuine enthusiasm for powersports.
The team understands that buying a snowmobile or off-road vehicle is more than a transaction—it’s an
investment in adventure, recreation, and sometimes even work. That’s why they take the time to listen to customers, answer questions, and provide honest, knowledgeable guidance.
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
For Michigan riders looking for quality machines, dependable service, and a team that shares their passion for the outdoors, County Wide Powersports delivers on every level.
From winter’s snow-covered trails to summer’s winding off-road paths, the dealership is ready to help customers make the most of every season. With top brands like Polaris, CFMOTO, and Yamaha, combined with a full-service approach and a customer-first mindset, County Wide Powersports continues to power adventures across Michigan. • COUNTY WIDE POWER SPORTS 2088 US-31
Located in Reese, Michigan, Finishline Shocks specializes in high-performance suspension solutions for trail riding enthusiasts . Owned and operated by Dave Hausbeck, a seasoned competitor in Alaska’s renowned Iron Dog Snowmobile Race, the company is driven by expertise and passion for the sport. Dave personally builds and tunes each set of shocks to ensure peak performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. Elevate your trail ride with custom-crafted shocks tailored to take your snowmobile to the next level. We specialize in Walker Evans and Polaris skids, but can build multiple other brands of shocks.
“Dave is the man to see for shocks on your Polaris sleds. I’ve had him do a few sleds for me over the years, and they have turned out great. Anyone who rides my sled with the finish line shocks on it is blown away of how well they ride compared to stock sleds. If you want the full potential out of your sled, go see Dave. You will not regret it.”
W. Vassar rd, Reese MI 48757
www.facebook.com/FinishlineShocks1
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY LIZZIE PHOTOGRAPHY
Showroom From Barn to
Gross Mower Sales Celebrates Decades of Growth
Gross Mower Sales began as a hobby for Ken Gross, Kevin’s father. Ken enjoyed purchasing used lawn mowers, snowmobiles, and dirt bikes that needed a little extra attention. He would repair and repaint the equipment as needed, spending countless evenings working in his garage after finishing his full-time job. During those years, Kevin often worked alongside his father, learning the skills and craftsmanship that would
eventually shape the family business.
In 1986, after retiring from his career, Ken transformed his hobby into a business. He moved operations into his barn and began attending auctions to purchase used lawn mowers, which he refurbished and sold. He also started providing repair services for local customers, quickly earning a reputation for quality work and dependable service.
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Over the years, Kevin helped whenever he could. In 2011, when his job was relocated overseas, he returned home to work alongside his father full-time. After six years in the business, Kevin recognized the opportunity to expand and, in 2017, introduced a line of new zero-turn lawn mowers.
Gross Mower Sales became an authorized dealer for Country Clipper zero-turn mowers, giving customers the choice of both new and refurbished equipment.
Later that year, Ken decided
to retire from the lawn mower business. In January 2018, Kevin officially took over ownership of Gross Mower Sales. He hired Josh to assist with repairs and Art to handle repairs, pickup, and delivery services. In the fall of 2018, the business relocated to its current home at 2314 Ditch Road in New Lothrop.
Since moving to the new location, Gross Mower Sales has continued to grow and expand its product offerings. The dealership added the SCAG line of mowers
and outdoor equipment, Boss snow plows and salters, and ECHO and Maruyama handheld equipment and push mowers. The company also became an authorized sales and service dealer for Kawasaki engines, Kohler engines, Briggs & Stratton engines, and Honda Power Equipment.
In December 2025, Gross Mower Sales reached another milestone by moving from its original smaller barn into a newly continued on page 18
906.341.6656
COMFORT
ECONO
continued from page 16 renovated facility. The new location features a spacious showroom, a dedicated parts department, and a larger service area designed to better serve customers. The company also welcomed Zach to the team, increasing its ability to provide prompt and reliable service.
Today, Gross Mower Sales offers repair and maintenance services for all makes and models of lawn mowers and outdoor power equipment, as well as ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles. The dealership installs Boss snow plows on trucks and UTVs, provides convenient pickup and delivery services, and maintains an extensive inventory of parts and accessories.
From humble beginnings in a garage to becoming a full-service sales and repair dealership, Gross Mower Sales has been built on hard work, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The Gross family is proud to serve New Lothrop and the surrounding communities and looks forward to helping customers with their outdoor power equipment needs for many years to come.
MISORVA
Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association
Looking Back to Move Forward
The Successes and Challenges of MISORVA and MSA
For more than four decades, the Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) and, today, the Michigan Snowmobile & ORV Association (MISORVA) have served as the collective voice for Michigan’s motorized recreation community. Like any organization built by volunteers and supported by passionate members, the journey has included both remarkable successes and difficult challenges.
Karen Middendorp Executive Director MISORVA
The Successes
Perhaps the greatest accomplishment of MSA and MISORVA has been preserving and expanding one of the finest trail systems in North America. Today, Michigan riders enjoy over 6,000 miles of interconnected snowmobile trails and a growing ORV trail network that contributes hundreds of millions of dollars annually to local economies.
That didn’t happen by accident.
Generations of volunteers, clubs, legislators, DNR staff, and advocacy leaders worked together to build a system funded by users and protected through legislation. The association helped establish relationships with lawmakers, ensuring that riders had a seat at the table whenever important decisions were made.
The organization has also:
• Helped protect dedicated user-pay funding.
• Supported the constitutional protections that keep recreation dollars within their intended programs.
• Worked alongside the DNR and local grant sponsors
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Looking Back to Move Forward
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to improve trail maintenance and infrastructure.
• Created opportunities for legislators and decision-makers to experience the trail system firsthand through events like the Legislative Ride.
• Promoted responsible recreation, safety education, and environmental stewardship.
Perhaps most importantly, the association has provided oversight. Government agencies need public input, and MISORVA has consistently attended the meetings, asked difficult questions, and represented the interests of riders who simply want to enjoy Michigan’s outdoors.
The Challenges and Failures
No organization is perfect.
Over the years, MISORVA and its predecessor have made decisions that some members disagreed with. Changes in leadership, communication styles, and organizational structure have occasionally created divisions within the recreation community.
The expansion into ORV advocacy happened quickly, and many longtime snowmobilers felt they should have had more input before that transition occurred. In hindsight, additional conversation may have eased concerns and strengthened unity.
Membership numbers have also followed the national trend seen across many volunteer organizations. Like hunting, fishing, and civic clubs, participation has declined as lifestyles have changed and younger generations have less time to volunteer.
The association has also struggled with perception. Many riders simply don’t see the countless meetings, legislative discussions, budget reviews, and behind-the-scenes work required to protect recreation. Advocacy often means preventing bad things from happening— successes that are largely invisible.
Communication itself has been a challenge. In today’s social media environment, misinformation spreads quickly, and organizations can find themselves defending rumors instead of focusing on solutions.
Lessons Learned
The greatest lesson may be that advocacy requires constant adaptation.
The world that created MSA in 1982 is not the world we live in today. Technology has changed. Communication has changed. Recreation itself has changed.
Successful advocacy now requires transparency, education, and direct engagement with members. It requires listening to criticism, admitting mistakes when they happen, and continually improving.
It also requires participation.
Looking Ahead
Whether someone agrees with every decision made by MISORVA or not, one fact remains: if riders are not represented, someone else will represent them.
Trail access, funding, equipment replacement, landowner relations, and legislative oversight do not simply happen on their own. They require people willing to attend meetings, build relationships, and advocate for the future of motorized recreation.
The history of MSA and MISORVA is ultimately not a story of perfection. It is a story of ordinary riders who believed their recreation was worth protecting and who stepped forward to do the work.
The successes belong to everyone who has volunteered, joined, purchased a permit, or supported the cause. The challenges remind us that there is always room to improve.
The future of Michigan’s motorized recreation will depend on whether the next generation chooses to become part of that story.
Local Clubs
The Backbone of Michigan’s ORV Trail System
When riders hit Michigan’s vast network of ORV trails, they often see well-marked routes, maintained trail corridors, bridges, signage, and trailheads. What many don’t realize is that much of that work is made possible by the dedication of local ORV clubs and volunteers.
Karyn Robare President Executive Committee
Behind every mile of trail is a group of passionate individuals who spend countless hours ensuring that Michigan’s trail system remains safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
More Than Just Riding
Local ORV clubs are the boots on the ground. Their members volunteer their time to clear fallen trees, repair trail damage, install and maintain signs, trim vegetation, assist with bridge repairs, and report issues that need attention. These volunteers often work in challenging conditions to
keep trails open and safe throughout the riding season.
Many clubs work to help identify maintenance priorities and improve the overall riding experience. Through grant programs funded by ORV license and trail permit revenue, clubs can secure funding for equipment, materials, and trail improvement projects that benefit all riders.
Protecting Access Through Stewardship
The future of ORV recreation depends on responsible trail stewardship. Every rider has a role to play in protecting access to public lands. When riders stay on designated trails and routes, they help prevent damage to sensitive habitats, private property, and natural resources. Riding off-trail may seem harmless in the moment, but repeated misuse can lead to erosion, environmental damage, landowner complaints, and ultimately trail closures.
Access is not guaranteed. It is earned through responsible behavior and maintained through positive relationships
with landowners, government agencies, and local communities.
Every Rider is an Ambassador
Whether you realize it or not, every time you unload your machine at a trailhead, you become an ambassador for the ORV community. Respecting other trail users, slowing down near trailheads and campgrounds, packing out trash, obeying regulations, and helping fellow riders all contribute to a positive image of the sport. One irresponsible rider can create a negative perception, while thousands of responsible riders help demonstrate that ORV recreation can coexist with conservation and outdoor enjoyment.
Supporting Local Communities
ORV recreation provides significant economic benefits to Michigan’s rural communities. Riders purchase fuel, meals, lodging, vehicle repairs, parts, and supplies throughout the state. Many small businesses rely on outdoor recreation tourism to
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Recognizing the Heart of Our Trails
During your outdoor adventures, you may meet remarkable individuals who make extraordinary contributions to motorized recreation in Michigan. These volunteers go above and beyond to support, improve, and protect the trails we all enjoy.
They are the groomer operators who show up night after night, the clubs that tirelessly give back to their communities, and the leaders who organize events, advocate with legislators, and work with local officials to strengthen our programs. Their dedication keeps Michigan’s trail system strong, safe, and thriving.
NOW IT IS TIME TO RECOGNIZE THEM.
Our goal is to shine a light on the accomplishments of these exceptional individuals and groups and celebrate their outstanding service to motorized recreation.
How You Can Help
LOCAL CLUBS continued from page 21
support their local economies.
When clubs host rides, charity events, fun runs, and trail work weekends, they bring additional visitors and revenue into local communities. This creates partnerships that strengthen support for trail systems and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Building the Next Generation
One of the greatest responsibilities facing today’s ORV community is introducing new riders to the sport. Teaching proper trail etiquette, safety,
Please download the nomination forms from our website www.misorva.orgforms-you-can-use-2/ and submit the names of individuals, clubs, or groups who deserve to be honored. Take a moment to reflect on those who have made a meaningful difference and help us tell their story.
NOMINATE TODAY AND HELP US CELEBRATE THE HEART OF OUR TRAILS: OUR VOLUNTEERS.
and respect for the environment ensures that future generations understand both the privileges and responsibilities that come with access to public lands.
Local clubs play a critical role by offering youth programs, safety training, family rides, and mentorship opportunities that help develop lifelong outdoor enthusiasts.
A Shared Responsibility
Michigan’s ORV trail system is one of the finest in the nation, but its future depends on all of us. The DNR,
local clubs, volunteers, landowners, businesses, and individual riders each play an important role.
The next time you enjoy a day on the trail, take a moment to appreciate the volunteers who helped make that ride possible. Better yet, consider joining a local club, volunteering for a trail work day, or mentoring a new rider.
The trails we enjoy today were built and maintained by those who came before us. It is now our responsibility to protect, improve, and preserve them for those who will ride tomorrow. ■
Summer Tour
BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Once again the International 500 from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is taking the “International 500 Pure-Michigan” Summer tour on the road. The International 500 aims to give true race fans the opportunity to enjoy high-octane racing entertainment year-round. If you’re reading this article, you’ve already committed yourself to joining the fan driven racing community. All true race fans possess a competitive spirit and enjoy racing regardless of the season. The objective of the International 500 summer tour is to bridge seasonal summer auto racing with winter snowmobile endurance racing. Auto racing usually ends in late
fall, which is when winter racing is just getting started. The “I-500 Pure-Michigan” summer tour was developed to keep race fans informed and interested in following racing excitement from Auto racing into professional Snowmobile racing. The summer promotional tour embarks on Michigan-based auto racing venues to promote the sport of professional snowmobile racing and the “International 500” race hosted at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan the first Saturday in February each year.
The “International 500 Summer Tour” is paying off for thousands of race fans eager to learn more about the Sport of snowmobile oval ice endurance racing
and what the International 500 offers as “Michigan’s Premier Winter Sporting Event.”
Race fans attending the various auto race venues throughout Michigan will find visiting the I-500 promotional booth very interesting and informative. What can you expect when visiting the International 500 booth at the auto race venues?
You’ll learn the I-500 is a week long collaboration of racing excitement leading UP to the main 500 mile race, hosted, as mentioned, on the first Saturday in February fans will meet with International 500 Board members and associates continued on page 26
continued from page 25
eager to share extensive information about the I-500 race and the sport of oval ice endurance racing. Throughout the tour stops fans can meet professional snowmobile race drivers and get autographs. There’s usually a oval ice endurance race vehicle at the venues visited. It’s very interesting to actually see one of these extremely fast race machines up close. Drivers are also on site at various times to answer questions.
Oh, by the way.... did I mention the I-500 is the only professional race in the world hosted by 57 years of volunteers working together to make the race possible? That... the International 500 Board of Directors is adamant about dedicating a portion of the International 500 schedule of events as a means to give back to those who serve our country.
Over the past several years the International 500 tour has visited many race tracks around the State of Michigan. From locally owned and operated race tracks to NASCAR sanctioned venues, the International 500 has found the tour to be well received and promoted with support from auto race venues and fans who truly enjoy competitive, professional racing. Racing is racing, it’s the reason the International 500 Board of Directors recognized
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that true race fans will appreciate, follow and share information about the strong effort needed when “Bridging” the gap between summer and winter racing. After all ..... Racing doesn’t stop when the leaves fall. Fans can enjoy the excitement year-round!
Let’s continue as I present the “International 500 Pure-Michigan” Summer tour traveling schedule.
Stop #1: June 5, 6 & 7 – We’re at Michigan International Speedway located in Brooklyn, Michigan. This stop is scheduled every year on the first weekend in June to kick-off the NASCAR racing season. This is the perfect spot to promote the I-500 and oval ice endurance racing. Thousands of race fans visit the I-500 booth to learn more about the sport of snowmobile oval ice endurance racing and more! Much information is shared about the I-500 and the week-long series of events leading UP to the main 500 mile snowmobile race. The collaboration of bringing summer and winter racing to the forefront of race fan awarness is paying off. More and more race fans are tuning into the week-long series of events hosted at the I-500 race by following and sharing the I-500 social media information and details about the sport of oval ice endurance racing.
Stop #2: June 26th – Owosso Speedway, located between Ovid, Michigan and Owosso, Michigan on M-21. Birthplace of the International 500 Summer Tour. “Masters of the Pro’s” 200. Owosso Speedway is fast becoming recognized as one of the nation’s most exciting
short track venues. A Sponsor of the International 500 race and a collaborating partner in promoting the bridging of summer and winter racing for ALL race fans to enjoy.
Stop #4: Aug. 12th – Berlin Racway, located in Marnie, Michigan. The “Tenton 250” Battle at Berlin. This is a BIG one folks. A NASCAR affiliate venue!
Stop #5: Aug. 21st – I-96 Speedway, located between Lansing & Grand Rapids. “AllStar Circuit of Champions.” A first year return visit for the International Summer Tour.
Stop #6: T.B.D. – Owosso Speedway, located between Ovid, Michigan and Owosso, Michigan on M-21. “Owosso Nationals.” A return Summer Tour visit.
Stop # 7: T.B.D. – Whittemore Race Track, located at continued on page 32
I-500 | The Finish Line
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Whittemore, Michigan. Michigan’s oldest operational race venue. Visit Whittemore @Whittemorespeedway.org for additional information.
to provide true race fans with the
to enjoy
The International 500 wishes to express its heartfelt appreciation for the collaboration between all auto race venues, past and present, who have partnered with the I-500
Then, there are a couple of culvert projects W hich, if they work out, should go un-noticed by most sledders And, a reroute in the Raco area Moving a bit of Trail just a bit Maybe this year Probably
next year
racing entertainment and to learn more about the Grand-Daddy of all snowmobile races, the “International 500,” hosted at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan the first Saturday in February every year. NOW ... is the time to make plans for attending the 2027 running of the International
Anyhow, as of June, the SSA is looking good Good membership Good leadership And, a good plan to keep the Trails groomed and open Also, they keep remembering the Number One Rule: When you have a summer picnic, you have to invite the reporter Thanks again guys As always What Martin said, “Good food Good fun Good comradery
500 Snowmobile Race. For MORE I-500 information, visit the I-500 social media site at: www.i-500.com to learn more about this spectacular world-class event Until next time...... It’s “ALL LEFT TURNS FROM HERE”.... •
Alexa Peterman & Grandfather, Al Cottle shar a moment over Smores Yum Yum
Go West
with Gogebic Range ORV
BY JOYCE WISWELL CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Those who travel to the Ironwood area, Michigan’s westernmost county, find much to explore, including stunning natural beauty and dramatic vistas along a 20mile ORV system.
It’s all kept traversable thanks to the volunteers of the Gogebic Range Trail Authority ORV & Snowmobile Club, which was formed in 1973 when two organizations merged. The club has received the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Ironwood Tourism Council.
“Ironwood is the start of the UP trails,” noted Club President Jerry Nezworski, who retired from Sara Lee after 47 years. He likes to cruise the trails while listening to music in his enclosed Polaris Ranger 1000 side-by-side.
“I don’t really snowmobile,” he confessed. “I will go for a ride, but I prefer to run a groomer.”
The Gogebic Range club has about 200 members, though not all are active. Like so many other volunteer organizations, “the same people are doing all the work all the time,” Nezworski said. “Don’t ask me how many hours I put in because I don’t keep track of it. That would scare me.”
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WHITE PINE AREA
WHITE PINE AREA
AREA
Trail 160, which begins just west of the Wal-Mart in Ironwood, has a number of notable features – and 26 different landowners the club must appease to keep the area accessible. Look out for the 19-foot-tall teepee that overlooks Bald Mountain. It has a 16-foot circumference and is a great spot to take a break from riding with its benches, indoor fire ring, and outdoor cooker. The club erected it about five years ago. “It cost us $15 grand to put that up,” said Nezworski. “It’s right on the trail, and anyone can use it.”
The club also installed picnic tables and a grill 200 feet above the scenic Montreal River Gorge, and that same trail brings you close enough to walk over to the
dramatic Superior Falls. Wild raspberries (through July) and blackberries (mid-August to early September) are abundant.
Most visitors make Ironwood their home base. It offers a variety of lodging and has an attractive downtown lined with shops and specialty stores. One unique spot is European Treats, where you’ll find unique imported food items and all sorts of exotic candy. Ironwood is the home of Stormy Kromer, where you can tour the factory where they make the iconic UP caps (it’s free, but reservations are recommended). The Wisconsin border is just a few miles away.
COPPER HARBOR
When it’s time to fill up, Nezworski recommends the QuikTrip on US 2 in nearby Bessemer. “They wanted our business for diesel, so they blacktopped the trail across their whole lot,” he said.
Upcoming events include the annual Calvin Kangas Fall Ride on September 15, held in memory of a beloved longtime volunteer and benefitting UP Honor Flight. On October 12, a fall ride will raise funds for Marty’s Goldenaires, a local parade and concert corps. •
For trail information, maps and events information, visit Gogebic Range Trail Authority ORV & Snowmobile Club at gogebicrangeta.org.
