16 | Snowmobile VERMONT Amongst Vermont’s 5,000 miles of snowmobile trails are numerous loops of varying length and duration. This is why the state is a prominent destination for riders with a taste for touring. Diverse terrain, scenic vistas, breathtaking elevations and historic points of interest have folks chatty on social media and at pre-season snowmobile shows. The East Haven loop is sixty miles of fantastic snowmobiling that draws riders from nearby Island Pond, Burke and Granby. This Essex County area also receives top billing from families and winter tourists from New England and beyond. Enthusiasts savor the frequent snow showers, elevation and resistance to pesky winter thaws. Over the past few seasons it has become increasingly popular for day trips. The VAST online map includes more than 70 park and ride locations and East Haven is easy access. The Dennis Pond parking area on Route 102 in Brunswick typically boasts ample snowpack. Unload your sleds and enjoy the short ride on the VAST 98F feeder trail to EX491. Turn north up Corridor 98 and you will quickly notice the sheltered trails sustain a healthy base. The Connecticut Valley Sno-Riders keep the route in pristine condition in addition to showcasing their exceptional signage. When snowmobilers reach the EX49 intersection, it’s the perfect time to top off gas and take in a great hot meal at DeBanville’s General Store & Café in Bloomfield. So head north on Corridor 102 and turn right at EX50. The 102F feeder trail will descend towards the New Hampshire border. The trail winds through woods, a small field and even a brief tunnel of trees as you approach the Connecticut and Nulhegan Rivers. The friendly smiles at DeBanville’s make it the perfect spot to warm up. You might need to… in 1993 Bloomfield set the record for Vermont’s lowest ever recorded temperature at negative 50 degrees! reat ides reat ides By Mike Mutascio