Date
Wednesday, February 11th
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Master the Art of the Corduroy and Classic Tracks
Are you ready to elevate your trail-tending skills from “functional” to “world-class”? Join us at ABR Trails for an immersive, hands-on workshop led by legendary Chief Groomer Eric Anderson and his expert team.
Whether you manage a small community loop or a sprawling Nordic center, this clinic is designed to pull back the curtain on the science and art of perfect snow deck preparation.
What You’ll Learn
This isn’t just a lecture—it’s a deep dive into the mechanics of snow. We will cover the full spectrum of grooming theory and practice:
Grooming Fundamentals: Understanding snow crystals, temperature variables, and moisture content.
The Early Season Hustle: Techniques for packing thin cover and building a durable base that lasts until spring.
Advanced Surface Refinement: How to achieve that signature “ABR corduroy” and perfectly set classic tracks.
Mechanical Mastery: Choosing the right tool for the job.
Why Learn at ABR?
ABR Trails is recognized nationally for its impeccable grooming standards. Eric Anderson and additional professional groomers bring decades of experience navigating the unique challenges of grooming, even in “Big Snow Country.” This is a rare opportunity to learn the “why” behind the “how,” helping you troubleshoot difficult snow conditions and maximize the efficiency of your equipment.
Additional Details:
- Location: ABR Ski Trails E5299 W. Pioneer Road Ironwood MI
The ABR big barn (w/ 3 doors) near the dog trails is the location for the clinic. E5298 West Pioneer Road
o Coffee and rolls are sponsored by UP Fabrication. Vendors will display brochures and groomer information.
o The parking lot across the road from the trailhead will be for parking and will have all the equipment displays and demonstrations.
o The dog-friendly ski trails across the road will be available for testing equipment.
Schedule – 9 AM- 4 PM
Schedule:
8:30- 12:00 Registration and name tags
9:00-4:00 Vendors will be present with equipment to view and demo with supervision.
10:30 “Snow Cross” Kyle will be available to go over snowmobile steering
11:00-12:00 “Wide Track” Rick will be available to go over snowmobile tuning and set up
11:00-1:00 SISU Endurance Youth Ski Team is grilling for lunch on premises for a donation to the local 4H Youth Ski Team
INDOOR Lectures
1:00 Introductions/ house rules – Eric
1:15 Grooming 101 basic grooming fundamentals – Kyle
2:00 Advanced and early season grooming techniques – Eric
2:45 Grooming with a snow cat vs. ATV/UTV vs Snowmobile – Paul Scanlon
3:15 Grooming from a “Skier’s Prospective” – Jim Waters/ Greg Greene
3:45 Grooming test/ certificates – Randy Ahnen
Fee Schedule cost/person
- $50 Nonprofits (5013c)
- $100 Private and government organizations
Invited Vendors or Equipment Available:
1. PistenBully Tier 4 new model PB and PB 100’s Rubber Track and Combi track
2. Tidd Tech G2
3. Yellowstone Track Systems Ginzu Groomers
4. Ski-Doo Expedition SE
5. Polaris Ranger 1000 with Camoplast Tracks
7. Arctic Cat Bear Cat Groomers Special
8. UP Fabrication Snow Implements Rollers and Drags
9. Lakeland Equipment dealer for John Deere
10. Prinoth
11. Arrowhead Groomers
14. Timberline dealer for Ski Doo and Can Am
15. Nortec with power tiller
12. Mountain Groomers
