Spring fever always comes before the snow disappears in Michigan. But the cold weather hasn't stopped the Mudchuggers 4x4 club from hosting the Sno Blind Expedition for the past 11 years in West Branch, just about the time everyone gets eager to hit the trails. People from surrounding states and even Canada show up to enjoy the snowy trails and winter scenery. This year's temperatures were a bit mild and the snowfall was slim, but the winter season still held its grip and made for some icy climbs out on the trails.
The event drew many different types of vehicles to participate, but as usual it was predominantly the Jeep variety. For three days trail leaders took groups out through the local OHV areas located to the north and west of town to try their luck at obstacles like Camel Back, Big Money, and Ant Trap. After a few days of spinning tires, the hills became buffed to an icy shine that made them nearly impassable without some serious throttle. At the end of the event several sponsors donated items that were raffled off at a banquet dinner, including a Warn winch, an Ultimate Air system, and a free ride at next year's event.
For more information on the next Sno Blind Expedition and all of their other summer events, contact the Mud Chuggers 4x4 Club at www.mudchuggers.org.