Hey Gang.
Been riding the Four Lakes Trail for a while now. Usually in the dark so as not to run into hikers. Over the holidays it's been real busy with walkers, tobogganers, skaters/hockey players on Stump Lake, the usual dog walkers, basically everybody and their relatives.
The Four Lakes Trail is good for riding. Compact snow with very good climbing traction, good straightline braking, satisfactory cornering grip (you can lean the bike) and it's just tons of fun! I'm pretty comfortable out there as I am every winter. I have ridden on Stump Lake, and Edith Lake already this year.
I went through the ice on Edith Lake this morning! My guess is that there is a spring in the center of the lake. As I was riding on the rock hard ice I suddenly came to a soft spot. Imagine riding on something that has the give/play of a slack line. The bike slowed quickly, I carefully stepped off. Standing there on soft ice I figured I could walk out as my feet sank less than my tires. Nope, went through the ice within a few steps. Again the soft, "stretchy" ice sagged before it broke allowing me grab onto more solid ice and work my way out and roll safely away. I was soaked and not clear of danger yet. I know this must sound a little dramatic.
I walked back to more solid ice and rode off the lake. Rode home; all is well, stroy to tell. Do NOT go onto Edith Lake!
A couple random shots. The second one is of a hole in the ice from a safe distance. Yeah, it's a crappy,stupid, blurry, photo. It is what it is.