Why Would Anyone Go Snowmobiling? - Michigan Upper Peninsula Trail Riding

Snowmobile Riding in 2021. I made this video to explain what I think the point of snowmobiling is and show how a trip to Michigan to go snowmobiling can be a rewarding experience, even when things are expensive or don't go as planned. Snowmobiling in Michigan while hanging out for a week with 8 long time buddies is a positive experience and I think everyone that enjoys motorsports should try it at least once. We were trail riding, eating at interesting small town restaurants and taverns, exploring the Michigan wilderness, sight seeing at some waterfalls and lakes and spending some good bonding time together with buddies. Watch this video and let me know what you think, especially since it isn't about trucks, tractors or diggers. #skidoo
#michigansnowmobiling
#UP

[@arnoldaltjr.2099]

I am 80 now with aftermarket knees and a few other parts only work once in awhile. But oh what fun we had for very many years. I rode some of these same trails. I still have a running sled. It's me that don't run well anymore. Have fun guys.

[@digdrivediy]

Really appreciate it Arnold. I'm glad at 80 you're watching snowmobiling vids on KZbin! That is very cool to me. Thanks for watching!

[@mhm8222]

Im on my 850 switchback with 2 stryker knees and a shoulder.. get a sled !!!!

[@dabprod]

I'm 79, totally disabled Army vet in up-state NY. Sold my last sled several years ago after the "first" knee surgery. Can still walk and sure miss riding in the winter. Have two four wheelers but not the same as a sled. Have no more buddies to ride with anyhow, all dead or moved to FL. This video just made my January day. Thanks for posting, brings back great memories. 😁

[@prevalenttruth]

I'm in my mid 40s and live in Tennessee. Going on a snowmobiling adventure is definitely in my top 5 on my bucket list. Right now I have to settle with living vicariously through others on KZbin. God willing, I will get to have that adventure before I get too old to be able to enjoy it. Thank you for this video.

[@mikesims9181]

Moved from south Africa to Ohio never seen snow till my late 20's and a friend took me sledding in Michigan - now a few years later I own a sled and I live in northern Michigan on 10 acres in snow country- cant wait for the snow. Sledding is so much fun with the right people - will not trade it for anything in the world ( looking out my window watching the snow come down) - Almost Time

[@digdrivediy]

Wow! That is quite a transition. Thanks for sharing Mike and for checking out this video!

[@Munmi4]

Back in the 1970's, my family hosted another family from Capetown, South Africa. He was a student at a Michigan engineering college. They came to UP during a winter visit and I had the privilege to take them snowmobiling. It was also their first time experiencing snow. Treasured memories. Welcome to Michigan.

[@digdrivediy]

@@Munmi4 That is a cool story as well. Thanks for sharing!

[@mikesims9181]

@@Munmi4 thanks - I love MI

[@lannyyeakle8826]

Really I have a friend in Africa I chat with all the time great guy. He also would love to come here.

[@fulltiltgrading8366]

I grew up riding Colt 295 Polars and loved it. In 2001 I bought a new XC 800 and me and 7 of my buddy’s rented a cabin in Eagle Bay NY for the winter. We were up there every chance we got and had a blast! As life happens 8 turned in 4 and we keep renting a cabin every year until 2011. I remember standing in a Tavern one night and the four of us made a pact to keep coming up riding for ever. As life happens one of them lost his life in a car accident a few months later. Wow it feels really sad to write that down! I bought his sled from his estate and it sits next to mine in the shop not ridden since that trip. The three of us went once in 2014 but it just wasn’t the same. I have had some of the best memories snowmobiling and would recommend everyone try it! Don’t mean to tell a sad story but seeing this video brought a lot of memories back. Great job on this one Neil I know my buddy Jason would have loved it! 👍🏻

[@digdrivediy]

I am very thankful for you sharing that memory Ed. I'm truly sorry for the loss of your friend but I hope this brought back those good memories. Your story further illustrates what I was trying to convey in this video... I've had some great times and you have to do it to know what it is I guess. Thanks for checking out this video. I was worried that it was too off topic but comments like this make me glad I did it. Many thanks and my respects to the memory of your friend Jason.

[@tomtraynor5384]

It is sad-because you guys chose to joyfully live fully. Maybe it’s time again.

[@bigguydiy2184]

Same here, Our riding group went from 7 to 6 after one member, who also owned the house we stay at, passed away 2 weeks before the "Guy's Weekend Ride". We still all gather at his house to ride. It became a memorial ride as we left his ashes at his favorite riding spots. We all made a promise to keep this group together at all cost and ride every year. One of the guy's in our group bought the house from the estate sale to keep us together. It will be 2yrs coming up this Feb. and we all as a group still get choked up missing our best friend and brother. I have been riding with my friend since 2001 until his passing. He and I started the riding group thru close friends who share our passion of snowmobiling.

[@fulltiltgrading8366]

@@bigguydiy2184 I hope you guys keep going. A great way to honor your friend. Thanks for sharing.

[@BS.-.-]

You prob rode past a cabin I was a member at. It's an old log cabin with a wood shed right off the snowmobile trail near the train tracks.

[@MrMayoTheRealMayoMan]

This is the kind of video everyone needs to watch. Not just for snowmobiling, but for all powersports that can be taken on a trail. There's no greater experience than the ones we can make for ourselves.

[@digdrivediy]

Really appreciate it Mr. Mayo. Thanks for watching.

[@thesensitivepsycho2288]

I live in the UP and couldn’t imagine getting out on the sled anywhere but here honestly. For me personally the UP will never get old.

[@daddyrabbit835]

I live in the U.P. and I can honestly say we don't take it for granted. We treasure our beautiful area and are glad you can enjoy it as well.

[@digdrivediy]

So nice up there Dan. You're lucky!

[@scottburgoyne7043]

Love this video! My wife and I love sledding. So many memories being made. Teach your kids to sled. Then they won’t be able to afford drugs!

[@Crashed131963]

LMFAO !!!!

[@digdrivediy]

So true Scott! I'm trying. They love the snow so it's a good start!

[@scottburgoyne7043]

@@digdrivediy we recently bought the family camp. It’s in beautiful sled country in New Brunswick Canada. It’s 20 miles from home to the camp. 90% is through the woods and across fields. I really enjoy going there. Putting on a fire and making coffee. It’s fully functional so we are considering getting into renting it out for sledders to truck their equipment to and go from there. Some places south of us have poor conditions.

[@digdrivediy]

@@scottburgoyne7043 That sounds awesome!

[@TopoPilot]

The point is... Camaraderie. Being with friends and living the dream. Nothing is better than hoisting a cold one and saluting the triumphs and the failures and being able to laugh and joke about it. Your video made me smile.

[@digdrivediy]

Great! I'm glad you liked it.

[@carlatamanczyk3891]

I'm 72 now but started riding in 1968 in Idaho where I live. I have never snowmobiled in Michigan but I do encounter some Michigan folks each season near my winter condo in Island Park Idaho. Among me and the kids and grandkids we have 8 snowmobiles in the family! Such a wonderful way to enjoy a great family sport!

[@digdrivediy]

That sounds awesome Carl. I've witnessed snowmobilers in Idaho on a trip out there once but never been riding there myself. Thanks for sharing!

[@djm8707]

Going on trips like that it’s all about the adventure and to see where you end up and how you handle situations long as nobody gets hurt it’s always a good time👍😁

[@digdrivediy]

For sure. Lots of great memories up there in Michigan!

[@mr.soundtek5793]

Neil, I just now watch your snowmobiling trip of 2021. Wow, what a fantastic time you all had. I bought a sled in 1979 after the blizzard of 78. I did get a lot of use for the first few years. THEN NO SNOW. It sat in a shed for many years and only got a little use. Had I have know a group of guys like you do, I would have gladly endured 10 hours of driving for a trip to remember. Great experience, great friends, great scenery and a fun adventure. To say I'm a little jealous is an understatement.

[@sassafrasvalley1939]

That’s one thing I have never done... the closest that I ever came was tubing behind my dad’s Farmall H on a tractor inner tube. I learned that the tractor can turn sharper corners and stop quicker than a tube on a 20 foot rope! We have a lot of spring fed Ozark mountain creeks here. At 18, my buddies and I started going on weekend ‘float trips’. Two of us were fishermen... the rest were there for the fun. Our canoe was always the last to launch. We picked our way through the ripples and fished our way through the deeper pools. Our buddies would stop on gravel bar beaches to drink beer and swim. When we caught up to them we would get wet and take off again. We always had a predetermined meeting place and time for lunch. I can’t recall how many times we had to paddle hard to get there on time. Fortunately, by the time we got there they would usually have lunch ready and coolers to sit on in the shade. They always chided us for skipping out on the lunch duties. One trip, they decided that the only lunch we were having was the fish that me and my buddy caught... so the pressure was on. This was a new creek to us so we didn’t know if there were any fish in it... especially since we were in a late summer drought. The ripples were so shallow we had to get out and tote the canoe through them. At first break, we had only passed through two pools deep enough to have legal sized bass in them. We caught a few but, they were all too small. The third pool looked perfect... but, that is where our buddies had been swimming and horsing around for the half hour they waited on us. As we moved on down the creek, we found a few more fishing holes and managed to catch a couple of keepers. But, there were 8 of us and everyone expected his own fish for lunch. As lunchtime drew near we realized that we were way behind... because we didn’t know the landmarks we didn’t know how far... so, we took to the paddles. At 11:45 we heard our buddies around the bend. Just before we got to the gravel bar, we saw the best fishing hole of the day. It had willows along the inside bank and a limestone cliff along the outer edge. From the cliff issued a spring. The opening was about 12” wide and 16” high at its triangular apex. It was pouring about 2” of water into the creek. We changed our tackle and set the canoe to float about 12ft from the cliff. As we approached the spring, the bass began hitting. On the first pass we caught 7 of which 4 were keepers. On the second, we caught 5/3 keepers. Mission accomplished. We needed 8 and we had 9. I grabbed an oar and my buddy said, let’s drop these off for them to clean and cook. Then, we can come back and hit that bank with the willows. So, we paddled down to the gravel bar, dropped off the fish... took a second to lie and say we caught so many we’ve been culling fish for hours... and, went back up to the pool. The water had washed out the bank beneath the willows. And, they offered the only shade within a mile of creek. We both caught personal best small mouth bass within about 15 minutes. Almost every cast drug in a keeper size fish. But, the most amazing thing to both of us was that I caught a 5lb Channel Catfish on a dinky little beetle spinner. We carried our stringer back to camp... one of our buddies a had a rinkie-dink camera. Of all the photos I have of me fishing... that one is my favorite! We turned all the fish loose and after lunch, resumed our float. My buddies still talk about us brining in the lunch... unfortunately we’ve not gotten up another float trip for almost 20 years... but, everyone we meet we agree that we ought to. So, I’d have to say, “Yes, it was worth it!” Before I forget... that was a great video... many of the shots were Cinematic quality... and, the laughter and camaraderie... those will likely be the best memories!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks so much Dave. I really appreciate hearing that fishing story too, as I feel it all stems from the same underlying desire and need to create experiences. What a wonderful memory you have of that day and the terrific fishing hole you found. I'm not even a fisherman and you made me jealous somehow! And, to have a picture from that day as well! Just priceless. I wish I could tell my story as well as you do. As I was narrating the voiceover for the third time I thought of you and imagined you reading it in one take and making it sound way more interesting than I could. I'm behind on a couple of your videos but I'm anxiously awaiting a rainy day in the shop to get caught up. This early spring stuff has prompted a business that I usually don't experience until late April and I'm behind on everything it seems (obvious Tuesday video post). Always appreciate your time, comments and continued support.

[@jdhogyellowhelmetproductio358]

COOL! had a 1968 ski doo ,ran out of gas on my way back home from taking a guy to his house during blizzard of 78...

[@meghanlynn10]

Great video. You hit all the right points. I think it's in the blood. You FEEL snowmobiling in your bones. I was taken by my Grandparents as a kid and didn't hop back on until my late 30's but as soon as I did, I felt like a kid again and I'll chase that until I can't anymore. Good job. You just got a new subscriber!

[@digdrivediy]

Hey thanks a bunch! I'm glad to hear stories like that one with your grandparents. I hope to make some memories for my kids and I'm not done making my own either! Happy riding and thanks for watching.

[@aukanmeister]

This reminds me of how we in western Norway travel to Sweden for our snowmobile/motorcycle ride in winter. It's very similar :)

[@lucascady4992]

I was also hooked in the early 80's, riding on the front of my Dad's Sled as a infant! Got my first sled in 2000 when I was almost 20, have been enjoying it ever since, recently moved to Northern Lower Michigan where I can ride my Skidoo close to 5 months out of the year. Mostly used for ice fishing, but I still do a couple good ride's each year.. The things scene on and off trail in the winter are truly Priceless!!

[@Adam202]

Snowmobiling in Northern Michigan and the U.P. is my favorite thing to do. My Dad started taking my Brother and I snowmobiling at an early age. Some of our fondest memories are going snowmobiling up north. Lake Gogebic has fantastic trails. Snowmobiling on the lake is quite an experience too. If you are going on an extended snowmobiling trip then Lake Gogebic is the place to be. However, if you are on a budget or only have the weekend then you don't have to go to the U.P. to have a great time snowmobiling. Northern Michigan has great trails too. Renting sleds is an affordable way to enjoy the sport without having to buy a sled. These days we are often times short a sled or two when we go and we have had great experiences with renting sleds. Ski-doo/Lynx(BRP) snowmobiles are in my opinion the best snowmobiles on the market. However, pretty much all manufacturers make nice sleds these days. Which are the "best" often comes down to personal experience. I hope this video encourages people to try out the sport of snowmobiling. Thank you for sharing this video!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks for checking it out Adam. I probably rent a sled for the next trip I make up there.

[@TWTexasA1]

Dude you’ve seen some beautiful country…that’s why riding snowmobiles is so much fun…👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@digdrivediy]

Right on. Thanks for watching!

[@danmcgivern1345]

I travel over 12 hours from Ohio every year to ride those same trails. I recognized most places you stopped.

[@digdrivediy]

Pretty cool up there for sure! Thanks for watching Dan!

[@EdBrumley]

Spectacular views! Loved the drone shots. In 1977, when I was in the U.S. Air Force at Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota, I had a Yamaha GP 433. It was a screamer. I loved it, but at 8 miles to the gallon it nearly bankrupt me. 😎

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Ed! You found one of my favorite videos! :)

[@gregkneubuhler5798]

Great Job! That was an awesome video. I'm glad I was able to be there! It was another good EXPERIENCE 😉

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Greg! I'm glad you took the time to go along as well. Thanks for the use of the sled! It was perfect 👍

[@easyrider9950]

Amazing video and a great explanation. In 53 and waiting to take delivery in Ontario of two skidoo 900ace expedition sports for my wife, son and I. Can’t wait to get out on the trails near our cottage. Life is all about experiences. Maybe some day our paths will cross out on the trails. Thanks again for the awesome production

[@digdrivediy]

That'd be great to meet you out on the trail. thanks for watching Easy Rider!

[@kerrylewis2581]

Great sleds that can go almost anywhere

[@Brent6437]

I drag raced from 1976 to 81. We raced Arcticcat. We were always going to the UP. It’s a blast 💥 going 90 mph down the trails. There’s nothing like it.

[@Brent6437]

Out of the thousands of miles we. Never once broke a Arcticcat down. Our cousins who rode other sleds were not so lucky. I don’t know why people don’t prep their sleds better when you put over 200 miles a day on the sleds.

[@jackkoch1368]

Another good video Neil. After watching it I couldn't help but reminisce a little bit. About 40 years ago when a group of me and a bunch of are my friends went to Michigan snowmobiling we had found a spot with a neat jump in it. We all decided that we would see how much airtime we could get with the sleds. We had all taken our turn at the jump and had marked our airtime Landing oh, there was only one person left oh, it was Mike Burlingame, your cousin Paul's brother-in-law, it was Mike's first time snowmobiling with us oh, of course we all schooled Mike on how to approach the jump and told him just before you launch give it all the gas you can. Mike hit the jump just the way we had told him, he was on what looked to be like the winning jump, gaining altitude like a 747, but all of a sudden he must have panicked and hit the eject button because all we seen was Mike flying backwards landing on his back in the snow and the sled still gaining altitude and coming down about 50 yards in front of him into a stop. We thought he was dead! On inspection we found that he was fine and laying there laughing, the only thing we found was a brown spot underneath him. We walked up to get a sled and we all started to break down laughing even harder there it was setting there in the snow motor running and his gloves still wrapped around the handlebars in the death grip that he had left them in. So yes it is a snowmobile trip that I will never forget, good friends good memories good times. In fact I'm laughing still as I write this. Dad

[@digdrivediy]

Oh man, that is a great story Dad. I appreciate you sharing it here and I was chucking the entire time reading it. That is exactly the type of thing I was talking about and hoping to hear about from viewers. I know that everyone has some great memories if they've spent any time sledding in Michigan. Thanks again for sharing and for providing the influence that made me want to go riding in the first place.

[@maxmartz4665]

It is great to hang and travel together w friends and family. Eating great food. Logistical navigation games to find food or fuel add to the fun. It is a great winter getaway in the dark months.

[@truthseeker111]

Never witnessed a sled being pulled without someone on the brake?? 😮🙃 & in U.P. burp the sled for that extra gallon! Great video, backpack trips are the best!

[@gregshupenia1377]

Awesome vid. 61 yrs old. Been riding sleds since 1971. Video says it all. We ride in CANADA. GIVER AND JUST KEEP UP !LOL.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Greg!

[@alaskarailroad3996]

Nice video. If you aren't a sledder, or haven't been on 1 for at least 5 minutes. You just won't understand. Ive been riding since i was 14 years old. I just turned 51 last week on November 6th. Riding is who i am. The outdoors, being one on one with my machine, the memories made with family and friends, seeing nature along with many other reasons is why i will ride as long as the good lord allows me too. God Bless. Happy sledding everyone. ❄❄❄❄❄❄

[@digdrivediy]

So many head nods with this comment. Couldn't agree more. Thanks so much for checking out the video and taking the time to comment. Happy sledding indeed.

[@hd1450]

Great video, sir. The riding, the breakdowns, the panic for gas, the time with the boys. It’s all part of the adventure….

[@digdrivediy]

Thank you very much. Appreciate you watching!

[@1111111idiot]

I'm from Michigan (LP) this is just a great video. I enjoyed it so much. To get together with friends and family - There is no way you can explain it in words. I rode Ski-Doo all my life (and still doo) All the best to you boys.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks a lot Ray. I like hearing that folks enjoy this one. We sure had fun getting to make it on that trip.

[@thegreatone11]

Western u.p. may be on paper part of Michigan but if you ask the people they have nothing in common with lp

[@mountainadventures7346]

NE Washington here. First sled was a 74 Cheetah! All the ranches in those days would open up gates and create thousands of miles of riding. Parents would make lots of hot buttered rum stops. And us kids would sled and make forts while the parents drank until it was time to jump on the snowmobiles and go to the next ranch. Good times! I now have a tracked Yamaha Grizzly.

[@digdrivediy]

That sounds like great memories! I love hearing stories like that so thanks for sharing and appreciate you watching the video!

[@charlesgriffith210]

I have been all over the upper Midwest on my sleds , I always enjoy da U.P. Beautiful place and great memories made each time . 43 years riding and I am not stopping anytime soon , HAPPY TRAILS !!!!! Thanks for the awesome video !!!

[@spaky1954]

Hey I love snowmobiling! I go in Michigan as well! I do nearly 1000 miles a year and love it! I got a 2014 artic cat ZR 600 its a great slide to ride on and dink around with!

[@32degreesretarded62]

My grandparents bought a '69 Panther and '69 Lynx brand new. My mom and dad bout an '89 and '91 EXT El Tigre brand new. I run a '96 ZRT. My boy just got his license and his first sled, '87 Jag 440. He is 12 and my grand parents are 77. Best feeling in the world to ride 4 generations deep. Not sure how much more my grandparents have in them but its enough to put a solid memory in my boys head. Looking forward to the photos this year with all of us on our own machines.

[@digdrivediy]

Wow, that is really incredible Jason! Four generations is something to be proud of for sure. Thanks for sharing and appreciate you watching the video!

[@ripsawtrackin]

I really appreciate your perspective … taking the good along with the challenging experiences and realizing it’s all part of it and enjoying and being thankful for it all. Nice video.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks James. I'm glad you took that away from this video as that is what my long winded version was trying to say. Thanks for the comment!

[@thomastoth435]

This is pretty cool. We live in NW Indina and we have a cottage in Cadillac. I just started on sleds 4 years ago and love it!

[@digdrivediy]

That would be sweet. Cadillac is a great place and likely even better with your own cottage!

[@douglasborgaro6801]

I started as a kid of course. To me snowmobiling is one of the most fun things to do. I’ve been addicted to it since childhood. Depending on where you live, it may not be the most practical sport and It certainly isn’t the cheapest sport. Love and obsession have nothing to do with practicality either. I was born in the north and I love the winter. Yes, I said it, I love winter. Not the frigid cold, but the snow. The change of seasons, the feeling & smell in the air of the holidays and an old fashioned Christmas. There is a romance about the north woods. Some may never understand and that’s ok. To each their own. Riding a motorcycle is a totally different thing. I’ve done it and I liked it, but I didn’t love it. Snowmobiling is where the heart is for me. Snowmobiling has a little of everything to offer. Peace and serenity as you coast through the wooded trails, views of the majestic landscape that many never get access to and heart pounding, adrenaline busting speed when you want it. It offers great opportunities for adventurers and families alike. The peacefulness of stopping along the trail in the woods with ear shattering silence while a gentle snow falls; to the fierce roar of acceleration. There’s something for everyone. There’s also the conversation and fun in front of a fire with good food and drink afterwards. I can’t imagine anything better, more exciting, or more satisfying as far as outdoor sports.

[@digdrivediy]

Beautiful explanation. Thanks so much for sharing a well spoken insight into why so many of us love it. Appreciate you watching!

[@darrellfolk5284]

I Love snowmobiling its my Biggest Hobby and Passion. From my 1976 Eltigre to my 2012 F800 SnoPro. I just love being out there! It's all I talk about... hope Everyone has a Safe and enjoyable season this year!

[@digdrivediy]

Same to you Darrell! Enjoy the snow this year and hope for lots of it!

[@chucknorris277]

Darrell I picked up the same sled with 50 miles on it.... best decision ever. It's like a dirt bike on the woods trails. Light, nimble, acceleration, great sled. I got a 136 ice attack track1 5/8 for her but the stock track 129 1.25 picked is holding up amazing. Love the chassis on this kitty

[@darrellfolk5284]

It's Definitely a great Sled Chuck!! I put a 2014 team clutch on mine because they said it was better! Other than that Stock

[@gerspachman8398]

That was awesome. I have been a sledder all my 50 yrs and everything you said in there is what I tell anyone that asks me why . Love the scenery, the people you meet and it's just fun to feel the power . Take care guys and enjoy, Ger

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Ger!

[@gerspachman8398]

@@digdrivediy your welcome and hope you guys have another great winter of sledding .

[@termitedave5356]

Neil what a FANTASTIC video!!!!!! Been taking the wife and kids up to Tug Hill every year since they were 10 and 11 years old. Now they are 20-21 and what memories from those trips. Great times and so thankful to have done it with the family. When your girls get a little older make sure to take them on those winter sled vacations, they will never ever forget them. Experience like no other in those majestic white backwoods!!!!! Have a great day and Keep Split N

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Dave. I LOVE that idea. My wife and I hope to take the girls up within the next year or so. Been looking for some affordable snowmobiles to get things started. I've ridden at Tug Hill before. It is amazing up there. We went to NY 3 different times in the early 2000's when there wasn't enough snow in Michigan. Thanks for the kind words and awesome comment.

[@termitedave5356]

@@digdrivediy Neil that’s exactly what we did older year sleds hardly ridden (here in Jersey people buy them ride for a year, than they sit, because not many places to ride)

[@donaldwhite2744]

Started riding when I was 16 and rode every year up until last was winter of 18/19 when I turned 69. Have a 2018 Ski-Doo Renegade Adrenaline and am ready to transfer it to my son, he has the same sled of 2016, but with the poor winter in the Adirondacks last winter, and with covid this winter, it was not easy to travel from PA up there. (Also, I've been fighting the big C and traveling has been out of the question, too). Therefore, I understand perfectly why you showed us this wonderful video of such beautiful country and the great time riding with friends!

[@digdrivediy]

Well I hope you get well very soon Donald. Thanks so much for the kind words and for sharing your riding experiences with us. I've ridden in the Adirondacks too. It is fantastic snow up there and wonderful trails. Got lost in the middle of the night up there once and was worried for the first time ever on a snowmobile as the temps were -20 and more. I've always wanted to do a video like this and more but never took the time. Appreciate you watching and commenting sir and once again, hope you kick the big C in the butt very soon.

[@marykoch5168]

Such beautiful scenery! Easy to see the amount of work you put into making this one so scenic. Love the waterfalls and bridge especially. This brought back so many sweet memories of that trip to MI, my little one Troy sleeping, as he snuggled against me on the trail, and how delighted you boys were with the adventure and the indoor pool after a day of riding. I'll bet none of you boys remember the pool was in a different building and we froze going back to our room all wet. Thanks for the sweet memories Babe. - Mom

[@digdrivediy]

Awe, thanks Mom. You can obviously see how influential that trip was on at least me. Pretty obvious what seeds took deep root from some of those childhood trips. I didn't remember the pool trip but now that you mention it I think I do. We were lucky to get to go on so many vacations and now I hope to be able to repeat it with our girls. Thanks for watching the video. Best way I've found to share the adventures and it's fun to do.

[@BIGJ1437]

Great Video, great explanation on why we snowmobile that only a few will understand.... and all the memories. Thanks for sharing !

[@digdrivediy]

Appreciate it Kevin!

[@davidmommerency4589]

Live in the upper peninsula. Snowmobiling is a part of life here.

[@digdrivediy]

Love visiting up there. Beautiful place!

[@400brian]

We rode John Deere sleds in the early 70s where we farm in south central Wisconsin. We had relatives who rode in Northern WI, but I never got to do that until I was 50 years old. When I did do it, it was on the same vintage of Deere sleds as I rode as a kid. A group of us Vintage riders from all over the USA ride from St Germain Wisconsin, up into the UP to Fishtales Resort on Lake Gogebic, have lunch and ride back, 150 mile ride. We have done this 10 years running. Good times.

[@digdrivediy]

Man, that sounds really cool. My uncle always had JD sleds. Thanks for sharing that story as that is pretty unique. Appreciate you watching Brian.

[@Summitoutdoorproductions]

Great video Neil. I just recently returned to the sport after 15 yrs. Raising kids and a demanding winter job left no time. I was finally able to go up north in the Adirondacks in New York State and experience it once and for all on a new 2020 sled. It was unbelievable. I’m hooked again and we are planning new trips every year, but now my kids can ride and that is well worth the wait !! Dave

[@digdrivediy]

I love hearing that Dave. I'm hoping I can get back in at more regularly as well. Once my kids get a little older. I've snowmobile in the Adirondacks up there as well and it is beautiful. Thanks for watching the video!

[@kevinm3059]

Great video! I grew up riding a '71 Ski-doo Nordic. One of the local trails ran by our house and I could get on it from our yard and ride for as many miles as I wanted. Great way to spend a winter day with the neighborhood gang.

[@digdrivediy]

That would have been awesome to have growing up! Thanks for watching Kevin!

[@thomaskennen3470]

I still have a 70 Nordic. 399.

[@briantownsend7607]

Thanks for posting this Neil, it brought back so many memories. I worked with Ski-Doo from 2004 to 2014 doing their Trade shows and Dealer shows showing the new year models. It was a great time and some of the time I was able to get out and enjoy riding like you were showing.

[@digdrivediy]

That's awesome Brian. Thanks so much for sharing. That would be cool to work for Ski-Doo. They were well represented on this trip as you could see!

[@robjohnston5292]

Great video, you nailed it on the head. Brought back fond memories of sledding in the western UP in the late 80's.

[@digdrivediy]

Thank you so much Rob!

[@jessicabrueggeman1943]

The U.P. is my home, you should visit in the summer...you'd never want to leave. It's like a little piece of heaven on earth💞.

[@digdrivediy]

I know I've never been up there in the summer. It's on the bucket list! Thanks Jessica!

[@gary6934]

This is the BEST snowmobiling video I have ever watched!! I've been to some of those places & was the best trip I have ever been on. I love snowmobiling there. You did an excellent job telling a great story & the camera work was over the top! Sure am glad I found your video. Safe travels & many more miles on you & your friend's sled's. Great times...

[@digdrivediy]

Wow, I really appreciate that Gary and I'm glad that you enjoyed the video. We've made lots of memories and had really great experiences up in Michigan. I took my daughters skiing for the first time last winter and hope to transition to family snowmobile trips to go with the skiing in the coming years. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!

[@NorthwoodsNomad]

Great video ! Glad to have you here neighbor ! I love my state of Michigan, best place in the country to ride snowmobiles ( and ATV’s / dirt bikes ) so much to do and see . Truly a winter wonderland ❄️ and sportsman’s paradise. I hope you’ve had the opportunity to stop and eat some pasties ! One of my favorites . Love the Ski Doos , my 1st choice. Go Blue ! 💙 🏈 💛

[@digdrivediy]

Oh yes, enjoyed a pastie or two over the years! I've been going to Michigan in the winter or summer for nearly every year for the last 25 years. Love it there! Thanks for watching!

[@jerryfrederick6610]

We use to go to Pike Lake, North of Newberry and West of Paradise every year for 14 years in a row for a week of riding the day after Christmas. (1988 - 2001 missed on year due to NO SNOW) We never rode less than a 100 miles a day. We once rode a little over 300 in one day, we visited the shores of Lake Superior at Grand Maris, Lake Michigan at Naubinway, and Lake Huron when we rode the ice over to Mackinaw Island, the same trip had us all the way in to Soo Sault Marie before we headed back to Pike Lake for the night through Trout lake and Paradise. Best day ever. WE rode hard and fast. To kill the ignition on your sled out there in the middle of nowhere was the best. Silence would be deafening and the almost total black except for the stars was incredible. I swear you could hear the snow as it fell to the ground. I do not ride anymore, became too damn expensive for me with a wife and two kids. But, I loved it very much and miss it terribly. Think about this "The Wind Chill" that we the rider experiences is all the way at the bottom of the chart. Say it is minus -20 outside and you are going 60 to 120 mph. I think I have a tear in my eye.

[@digdrivediy]

Boy, I love stories like this. Thanks for sharing Jerry. This was the point of this video exactly. All about those experiences. You just can't replace them with a video screen can ya? Thanks so much for watching!

[@davesauter4681]

I put on about 2500 miles every season in da. U.P. Absolutely love it up there. Being from S.E. WI. Its only a 4 hour drive so I go every chance I get.

[@digdrivediy]

I'd go way more often if it was only 4 hours! Thanks Dave!

[@sixramsalot]

there is nothing i love more,you nailed it!

[@digdrivediy]

Thank you!

[@yamaharaptor01able]

Man...all these stories are absolutely amazing. And they all share one common factor. I grew up on skidoo Elans and now at 44 have 2 Elans for my son and daughter to ride. They're still a bit young/small to go off riding on their own,but it's a tradition i plan on passing down to them so they can grow up making all the great memories i did riding snowmobiles. My grandparents started it way back when,and it's been in our blood since. Those who don't "get it" might never,and sad to say but man are they missing out!

[@digdrivediy]

You're so right. I love reading all the stories. Thanks for sharing and watching. I'm like you I hope to pass this passion on the the next generation.

[@aceyorba]

great Stuff,, Been riding the central Sierra for 30 years. .Every ride is a new ride.

[@digdrivediy]

That would be a cool ride to experience in the Sierras.

[@aceyorba]

@@digdrivediy no snow yet this season..let's hope we get a huge dumper soon...

[@randywheeler3234]

So agree with you . The wife and I have stayed and that exact same cabin the last 2 years .

[@andyschwartzbauer6717]

Wow, this was an amazing production, Neil! Wisconsin got it’s first snow fall of the season today, and let’s just say I’m starting to get the itch. This video brought back memories like they were the first time that they happened. Thanks for sharing!!

[@digdrivediy]

Appreciate you watching and the kind words Andy. It snowed here this morning as well. I like the first half of winter 🥶

[@jarodjochimsen3736]

I went out and started the sled today I got the itch as well

[@bobshams7231]

Great video from up in my area. In fact, at 5:09 you're driving past my house!! That shot with dollar general in the background is right where you stop at the intersection before crossing the bridge. Great views up here. 46, rain, and zero snow right now in the area. Have a wonderful and safe season guys!!!

[@digdrivediy]

Wow really? That is pretty cool to know so thanks for saying something. Hope you get some snow soon. Getting cold here. Thanks for watching!

[@aecox1265]

That is certainly some beautiful back country that could”d never be seen almost any other way. Beautiful video as usual. I appreciate you taking us along!

[@digdrivediy]

Thank you so much AC. I have always wanted to make a snowmobile video. I'm glad that some folks enjoyed it cause I knew it wasn't my usual content. Appreciate your viewership.

[@thunderroad7289]

That’s a great trip. Nothing like riding a snowmobile….

[@KyleKAP]

I just found this video, my son and I were in that area January 2022 and it was cold -15 for highs and lots of snow, I still do trips with friends but riding with my son is the best! We are going to western UP next week (January 23 2023) Huron Mountains near Big Bay, then near Bergland to look at some property. I'm lucky I now live in snow country near Petoskey and the drive isn't too bad. Great Video!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks a bunch! I think it would be great to go riding with my kids as well. Hope you have a great ride next week!

[@tomascharles5080]

Thanks for taking along on such great scenery. Great vid.

[@digdrivediy]

You bet. Thanks Tomas!

[@peter-hr1gl]

Saw you visited my old home town of Ontonagon, MI. Nice small town and caters to snowmobilers and campers going to the Porcupine Mountains area about 16 miles away. Great to see the old homestead in some of your shots. Glad you enjoyed the hospitality of the UP of MI.

[@digdrivediy]

It's great up there Peter! Thanks for watching.

[@davidwarren2883]

Awesome video! You hit all the right points about snowmobiling. I’ve only being snowmobiling for the last 4 years and I love it!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks!

[@christianbeliveau6489]

Anyone who says “ why go riding” has obviously never ridden. We go riding for the adventure, and to hang with our buddies. It’s all about the journey, sometimes a 10 hour drive is worth it. Great video, man.

[@digdrivediy]

That's so spot on! Thanks!

[@rickyoung360]

Another great video Neil!! I've never snowmobiled but I'm an avid dirt biker including racing for many years back in the day. There's nothing like loading up the dirt bikes and heading "up north" for a weekend of trail riding on Michigan's vast trail system with your buddies. We ride for many of the same reasons as you. Without experiencing it, it's hard to explain to anyone. The same can be said for hunting camp "up north", spending a week away from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives and spending time with some of the best friends we could ever ask for. May I suggest taking a long weekend and heading up to the middle part of Michigan with your daughters (you'll need to check the regulations for the little ones) for a weekend of trail riding on your quads. They'll never forget it.

[@digdrivediy]

Rick, I appreciate this comment very much. I was hoping there would be viewers on here that could relate and understand what I was trying to convey. I love your suggestion too. We want to do more of that stuff as well. We bought a motorhome this past winter and it has a trailer hitch, so... Great to hear from you on this one.

[@alancall5113]

You're absolutely right I love when you're caught and late at night and you're worried if you're gonna make it make it that's part of the adventure venture great video keep it coming

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks so much Alan! Michigan is great for adventures for sure!

[@davidgray3294]

Great video, good times with great friends, got to love snowmobiling.

[@digdrivediy]

yes sir David.

[@tlh001]

Great video! Snowmobiling is one of my favorite activities. Always create great experiences and memories! We did a 5 day Bergland Trip in January 2020 with 10 guys and a 5 day trip to South Range in February 2021. Bond Falls is one of the most beautiful spots in the UP. Snowmobiling is ALWAYS worth the time, money and effort. Just nothing like it and the western UP is so special!

[@digdrivediy]

Very true! Those sound like some really good trips! I hope to do more of those type of things in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@jeffglass8222]

Great video, rode 1000's of miles in W/UP.... Kyle was my hero... GO GREEN.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Jeff! I'll be sure to tell Kyle he has one fan :)

[@michaelmoore6207]

This is the best video I've ever seen about snowmobiling. It explains exactly how it is and the passion of riding. Great job!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks so much! Share it with every snowmobiler you know! :)

[@kevhead1525]

Fun can be costly but fun is priceless.

[@erich7751]

This had a Warren Miller vibe to it. Very well put together!

[@digdrivediy]

I'm gonna have to look into that. Thanks!

[@alexkiefer5837]

Well done Neil. Awesome storytelling of why we do this year after year. I'm gonna rewind to hear ryan's comments at the 600's end - I think they were worth hearing.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Alex! I hope I did the trip justice. Thanks for putting together the cabin rental and including my name on the invitation list! It was a pretty good trip and I'm reminded of why we do it... until I have another snowmobile blow up or something at least :)

[@stevefrench3564]

Grew up snowmobiling, thousands of miles traveled along northern lower and UP trails. I miss it, hopefully this will be the year i have enough to pick up a decent used one. i dunno what it is but i definitely enjoy snowmobiling way more than riding trials in the summer..

[@ducky1496]

Great job on the video!!! I used to run all those places up around Lake Gogebic too. You don’t really touch on the exhilaration of flying across a frozen lake at ridiculous speeds at night with tons of stars!! I preferred night running back in the day.

[@keithrogers5832]

I watched you on TTWT and you now have a new subscriber. I'm glad you love our State.

[@digdrivediy]

Well thanks so much Keith! So glad to have you with us and thanks for dropping a comment to say Hi. Hope you find some entertainment here and I appreciate your time.

[@markspeckan156]

You captured some great shots of the UP. Been riding in the UP for the last 30 years and have had some great memories and have met a lot of great people. Well worth the drive. Thanks for sharing

[@digdrivediy]

Appreciate it Mark. We always enjoy it up there. I haven't been to the lower in years cause we just like it so much better farther north. Glad to have you watching sir.

[@shkspear52]

Thanks for sharing your Passion! Mom and Dad got me into it at age 1 and I've gone every year since...things sure have changed!! Still So Beautiful!!

[@digdrivediy]

You're right. The machines have changed a bunch but the scenery still remains as beautiful! Thanks for watching!

[@jackbuys3711]

I remember as a kid riding on my dad's 1972 Lynx and 1973 Polaris Charger. I then had my own snowmobiles for years and like you took a break when I had kids. Now that I am looking at retirement in a couple years, I want to get back into it and enjoy those days riding in da UP again! Nice Video.

[@digdrivediy]

Makes sense to me Jack! Go for it while you still can is what I say. I hope that I can transition back as my girls get a bit older. Thanks for watching!

[@bigyellow1234]

Love your storytelling your channel is becoming my new go too keep it up love how relatable your content is

[@digdrivediy]

Very humbling. Thank you.

[@MichiganQuadTrailsTales]

Great Video! I love the Scenery that the Winter time has, with the Snow on the Ground.

[@digdrivediy]

Yes, the snow seems to make everything more beautiful somehow! Thanks for checking it out!

[@ryanpaul5604]

Very cool video. I LOVE snowmobiling

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks! We love it too.

[@jaysmith5105]

I live in N. MI , Im a ski bum, def want to be a sled bum too . looks like a blast, fun to hear that da UP has some of the best trails in the country. Surprised to see no one carrying a small 1 gallon gas can on every sled? Pure Michigan Rocks . Enjoy

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks, Jay!

[@rodneywager2142]

One arctic cat. There's always one. LOL, nice riding

[@digdrivediy]

Haha! He's good people though :)

[@TheMondros]

I have been riding since i was a kid, took a few years off when i had kids, but now my wife rides, my boys ride, and a few of their buddies do too. Mostly older sleds but we have a blast, get outdoors, drink some beers, have a laugh and occasionally wrench on some things. Its more quality of riding now, not so much focused on tons of miles like when we were young. Nothing like a good day of riding then to finish up at the cabin playing cards and making empties...

[@digdrivediy]

Very true Matt. That's the part I like too. Not into making miles. Just having a good time and making sure I've got enough rest for the next day!

[@larrydartel1610]

Great Video,, at 16:50." It is getting deep" and the bs is that why you wear boots👍😂. Fond Memories --hot UP Pasties to thaw frost bite , -no black flies, mosquitos, --geting a sled out of tree when missing a turn,-- greatest thing GPS to find great adventures without getting lost ,- winter camping by a camp fire,-- falling thru snow up to your neck👍

[@digdrivediy]

You said it Larry. Love all those things and the memories that go with. I'm glad you caught the "it's getting deep" remark. Yeah, it wasn't the snow that was deep 😋 Thanks for watching!

[@squishmaster]

I love skidooin I cant wait you got me jonesing watching this video thxs for the video!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks for watching Aaron!

[@darrindunn8707]

Another TTWT guy. I enjoyed your snowmobile video. Having a few miles on a snow machine I always say it's an adventure. It was never just about the snow machine but all about the adventure of the entire trip. Definitely something I miss. We had some good times all over northern Michigan and the UPPER.

[@digdrivediy]

So true Darrin. Love the adventure and the time with friends more than the riding for me. Thanks for watching this one and thanks for jumping over to my channel.

[@G8rquest]

Lately I've been saying "Freedom is DIY". Adventure is the same, and you educate one another through problem solving like a spare gas bladder. The fact that your ripping through wilderness is icing on the cake. Be well and HAVE A BLAST!!!

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks Mark!

[@parks9665]

It’s awesome watching this video because I’ve been riding up there my whole life and it cool to see places your riding that I’ve been a lot

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@rokhed21]

Excellent video. Western UP riding is on my bucket list. Love the scenery.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks so much!

[@oleanderson3693]

Back in the 1980's we had a farmhouse in Luther MI called the Last Resort. Long gone. Five families, all with same age kids, used it for snowmobiling. What great times and memories. Had as many as 23 sleds there at a time. Only my two sons and I with an occasional grandson still ride a couple of times a year, fun but will never match the memories of that time in our lives.

[@digdrivediy]

Those are great times for sure. Thanks for sharing the memories.

[@larrydartel1610]

Thank you mentioning areas and sights,, Also for your above tree camera work.

[@digdrivediy]

It was fun. Glad you liked it.

[@bigyellow1234]

Love your storytelling your channel is becoming my new favorite

[@digdrivediy]

That is quite a compliment Curt. I really appreciate hearing that. I really enjoy the process so hope I can continue to evolve. Thanks for the support!

[@Reeser00]

I missed this gem! Great video. I had the opportunity to go to Eagle River many years ago. I loved it! I hope to take to kids soon.

[@digdrivediy]

Thanks!

[@jessjames3624]

Some of my best times were riding in Cadillac Michigan in the mid 90's ... there was this unbelievable food buffet stop everybody would go to... absolute incredible times... Now I live in NYC.... I ski every weekend during the season with the family I now have... but I've been eyeing doing a snowmobile trip with them... :) ... now I remember... we would hang out at Lost Pines in Harrietta, Mi..... my sled was a 95 ski-doo formula z 583 ... machined head... cut rotax valve...piped... and jetted to lean... blew the motor 3 times... but man was it fast when it ran... pulled the skis off the ground all the way upto a 100mph.... the place was known for lots of drag racing.... fun times... thanks for jogging my memories.... :)

[@digdrivediy]

That's awesome Jess. Really appreciate you sharing the story and checking out the video. Take care.

[@michaellasley7764]

Great video and couldn't agree more!