Early Winter 2018 | 17 After your rest stop, head back to the EX50 intersection. Follow the signs for the acclaimed Corridor 102 and point your sled south. The trail follows the path of the Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) powerlines, often weaving alongside the mammoth towers. The powerline trail is a thumbs-up among many snowmobilers due to its thrilling hills, sweeping curves and broad sightlines. VELCO not only maintains a partnership with VAST to permit snowmobile trails, but continuously maintains service roads, peripheral debrushing and ground water control. They keep the pre-season base in top shape. As your journey continues south towards Ferdinand, riders who savor some more elevation might try the short jaunt on 102A. It too follows the powerline towers, yet offers a brief wow-factor with southeast views into New Hampshire and the Kilkenny Mountain Range. Whatever your route preference is, be sure to continue to EX401 in Ferdinand. Corridor 1 is now your route of travel at EX401. At the trail’s edge, the dripping ice of Madison Brook is relaxing, but the deep gorge to your left can give you the shivers. Luckily you can soon regather your thoughts once you pause at the snowy oasis in the clearing just ahead. If you need another warmup, nestled near a frozen bog on Corridor 1 is The Roost. This remarkable camp is reminiscent of days when some clubs would provide shelters for snowmobilers and groomer operators in isolated areas. The Roost, open to passing snow travelers, includes a sitting area, kitchen, tools, supplies, woodstove and even an outhouse. Guest tradition includes signing the log book and relishing in the entries made by others, sometimes earning a well-deserved frosty laugh. Vermont snowmobilers protect this treasured icon as if it was their own and leave it better than when they came. Many return annually to thank the owners during the Sno-Riders Cookout At The Roost Event. During your break at The Roost, take the time to gaze upwards to the left. You will be humbled by the 3,000 foot East Mountain high above. Look closely and gaze at the bold towers of the Lyndonville Air Force Station still standing at its peak. The site was known locally as The Radar Base. It served as an early warning Air Force facility during the 1950s Cold War era until it closed in 1963. Decades ago, the Lunenburg Polar Bears would obtain permission from the landowners to host a day-ride to the top. Sadly, the base is now off limits. Your journey continues on Corridor 1 along the Madison Brook. The route gradually climbs to 2300 feet and opens up to a breathtaking plateau. Riders usually stop to snap panoramic pictures of small fir trees that often grasp clumps Great Rides Connecticut Valley Sno-Riders’Cookout At The Roost event