Free an ATV with the “Z”

The hour was late and in attempting to hurry back to camp, I inadvertently misjudged my ATV’s ability to successfully navigate a sizeable mud filled obstruction and was immediately and hopelessly mired. Having suffered through multiple back operations and lacking a wench, I was in the middle of contemplating the long and arduous walk back to civilization when I suddenly remembered I had some rope and several carabineers packed into the back seat of the ATV. Equipped with the right tools and knowledge, even the most basic equipment can be fashioned into a simple machine able to greatly add to a person’s ability to maximize their strength, both reducing fatigue and the potential of personal injury.

The z-pulley system, learned during my experiences mountaineering on some of the highest peaks in North America, is commonly used in wilderness rescue situations such as rescuing a climber trapped in a crevasse. The “Zs” practical applications, however, stretch well beyond the mountains. In the back country, the “Z” is useful for hauling out mired ATVs, pulling a moose out of the woods and even for recovering a boat pinned in whitewater.

A simple arrangement of ropes, carabineers and pulleys, the “Z” provides a three to one (1 pound of force to move 3 pounds of weight) mechanical advantage, allowing heavy objects to be moved with limited manpower. Similar in function to a block and tackle system, the “Z” employs the use of (1) a length of high tensile rope approximately 100 feet long, (2) two pulleys, (3) two shorter lengths of rope of smaller diameter than the main line for tying the two prusik knots and (4) a length of high tensile rope for attaching the “Z” to the anchor.

To set-up the Z-pulley system:
1. Establish an immovable anchor capable of supporting the full weight of the intended load.
2. Thread rope through pulley #1 and pulley #2 and tie rope to ATV.
3. Using a smaller diameter piece of rope, tie prusik knot #1 a few feet in front of the ATV on the main rope. Attach the smaller diameter rope to pulley #1 using a carabineer or simply tie it into the eye of pulley #1.
4. Using a smaller diameter piece of rope, tie prusik knot #2 a few feet in front of pulley #2 on the main rope. Attach the smaller diameter rope to pulley #2 using a carabineer or simply tie it into the eye of pulley #2.
5. Attach pulley #2 to the anchor point using the smaller diameter rope and carabineer or simply tie it off to the anchor point.
6. The operator then pulls on the free end and adjusts the placement of prusik knot #1 as needed. When operating the “Z” system, constant attention should be paid to the anchor, movements of the ATV, and the condition of the main rope.

To help mitigate these dangers, people should be well clear of the ATV, anchor and lines unless they are operating the “Z”. It is also advisable to attach a jacket or life vest to the end of the main line close to the ATV to decrease the chance of the line breaking free and creating a serious flying hazard. Should the main rope slip out of the operator’s hands or the operator need a break from hauling, prusik knot #2 is in place to arrest and hold the position of the main rope, keeping the ATV from recklessly falling back into its beginning towing position. This mechanical safety, however, should be cautiously trusted.

While the “Z” hauling system can be set-up to function using carabineers instead of pulleys, the mechanical advantage is much less due to the added friction caused by the rope running through carabineers. The added money for a couple pulleys is well worth the investment. When buying pulleys for your “Z”, it pays to buy a special climbing pulley like the Petzl Oscillante. Climbing pulleys are able to be easily clipped on and off the main rope, while standard pulleys require a user to thread the main line through them to place them in the correct position. Costing under $20, climbing pulleys are a thrifty investment that greatly simplify setting up and dismantling the “Z” system.

Practice makes perfect, so before venturing into the backcountry and suddenly needing to set-up the “Z” (likely in the dark and during a thunder and lightening storm), I caution individuals to first setup and operate the “Z” first in their backyard as this tends to decrease frustration and increase safety.

Camping at Sabao Lake & ATV Riding on the Sunrise Trail System

Easily described as one of the most serene campgrounds in the state, Lower Sabao Lake campground (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 35, E-1) provides visitors with the perfect rugged wilderness experience while also providing access to basic amenities.

While the campsite does not have water for drinking, flush toilets or showers it does however have two outhouses and fire rings and picnic tables at each of its well-maintained tent and RV sites.

All sites are shaded by towering red pines that sing when the wind blows through them. A spacious white sand beach beckons sun worshipers and a gentle grade from the beach and into the water, makes it perfect swimming for young children.

Lower Sabao Lake campground is accessible over the Sabao Road, which leaves Rt.9 (the "Airline") in Township 30 (Map 25, A-2). A 10-mile drive along some fairly rough dirt roads, filled with potholes, washouts, curious moose and speeding ATV riders, add hazards so drivers should exercise caution and drive slowly to prevent accidents.

Lower Sabao Lake campground has tent/RV sites but no hook ups for electricity or water. Costs are $20 for the first night stay and $10 per night after that. A primetime Friday/Saturday night stay is $45. For reservations, please contact Lois Keenan (546-3828) or for additional information Arthur Keenan (664-3198). Lois and Arthur also maintain the Deer Lake (Map 34, E-5) and Cranberry Lake (Map 35, E-2) campgrounds. All three campgrounds are open Memorial Day and close when the snow flies.

Lower Sabao Lake At 755 acres, the waters of Lower Sabao Lake provide anglers with a multitude of opportunities to fish for white perch and chain pickerel. Though the lake is listed on the IF&W website as containing brook trout, the chances of catching one in the lake is slim. Anglers looking to catch trout would be better served to exit the lake via the west branch of the Machias River and paddle the short distance to some excellent locations to catch finicky summer trout. White perch anglers prefer fishing at the end of August and into the beginning of September when the mosquitoes are on the way out and the catch rate creeps to a level slightly above average. Anglers who bring along a small fry pan and oil will be richly rewarded with a meal of succulent white perch, caught with minimal effort. Two small islands with exquisite sand beaches make opportunities for a picnic or stretch ones legs on a “private” beach an easy proposition.

Nature watchers will enjoy plenty of opportunities for moose spotting in the early morning or evening by quietly paddling and maintaining a watchful eye on the shoreline. Moose feeding in the lakes shallow waters regularly provide campers with brilliant photographic opportunities. Additional moose watching opportunities exist by following the west branch of the Machias River out of the lake. Intrepid adventures will pass by nesting bald eagles and loons and to a small meadow perfect for observing evening moose.

Access to the lake is possible via a very good boat launch for tailored boats or canoes and kayaks right from the campgrounds beach.

ATV riders can access the largest ATV trail system East of the Mississippi. Comprised of the Sunrise Trail system (North of Route 9) and the Downeast Sunrise trail system (South of Route 9) it contains over 800 miles of approved trails. Day trips from Sabao Lake campground to Grand Lake Stream, Nicataous Lake, or the blueberry barrens near Cherryfield all present fun possibilities.

During the weekend of July 26-27, 2014 ATV riders staying at Sabao should take the short ATV ride to Grand Lake Stream and attend the Grand Lake Stream Folk Art Festival (10:00 am - 5:00 pm). This very fun and well-attended event boasting over 60 folk art vendors and playing host to music performances and many different cultural exhibits. With so much to do, there is sure to be something to interest all ages!

By late summer, the ATV trails have gotten very dry and ATV riders will find that goggles and a dust mask are mandatory to ensure everyone has a fun experience. Also make sure to bring along plenty of water and dry weather gear for all group members so that a fun day ATV riding continues to be bearable if the weather turns wet or an ATV becomes disabled.

Moose Lottery - Greenville - 2013

Photographic tour of my favorite memories from the 2013 Moose lottery in Greenville, Maine. Photos were taken along the #4 Mountain trail and while entering and leaving the town of Kokajo, Maine.

Of course the REALLY BIG news is that Dad got drawn for a September bull tag in Zone 2, so look for more "MOOSE" stories to follow this Fall!!

Lost Somewhere in Middle of Nowhere

Wild Strawberries! Yum!

Trail Side Flower

Trail Side Flower - Part 2

Sign entering town of Kokajo, Maine

Close Enough Moose?

ATV Trail Riding In Washington County

Top of Trumble Mountain

This article is featured in the June 2012 issue of the Maine Sportsman on page 42! 

It is no secret that in recent years, Maine has witnessed an explosion in the number of All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) clubs, events and trail systems. This increased interest, accelerated by an extensive network of logging roads, old railways and thousands of miles of snowmobile trails, has helped to fuel a healthy increase in the quality and quantity of ATV trails available to discover. ATV riders are finding many areas of the state, previously off limits to ATVs, are now open. One of the largest factors, spurring this exciting growth and additional riding opportunities, comes from the sizable baby boomer population. Many in this generation, are approaching or now retired and able to invest considerable time organizing and running ATV groups or spending long weekends touring the back country, with others ATV enthusiasts sharing their passion for the outdoors. For this group of veteran sportsmen, ATVs afford an easier means of exploring the remote corners of the state, the low rumble of the ATV replacing footfalls, as many of this generation become less willing or able to hike miles into the back country, in pursuit of their outdoor passions.

Boys Being Boys - Stone Dam, Nashes Lake

Exploration of these newly opened areas is as simple as securing a trail map from one of Maine’s many local ATV clubs. ATV Maine (http://www.atvmaine.org) has a fantastic website with links to tons of useful information. It has an impressive statewide events calendar of ATV riding activities and links to almost 100 different ATV clubs, representing all areas of the state. Downloading area maps, gathering information on current trail conditions or even contacting local riding groups is as easy as clicking on the club website or Facebook page. Last minute planners or those not “online” will be happy to note that many country stores have also begun carrying local area ATV trail maps for free, as they realize ATV riders also bring with them money to buy gas and other necessities. With a local trail map, it is an easy task to negotiate the clearly marked and well maintained trails. Many trails even have message boards and signage (ex. gas, food, assistance, hazards, unique areas, club houses, etc.), providing additional information to riders.

Local ATV clubs invest a lot of time and money in maintaining these trails and making sure visitors have an enjoyable ATVing experience. To honor them, please stay on marked trails and make sure to pack out any garbage generated in the course of the trip. ATVing in Maine is a unique wilderness experience, so lets all do our part to ensure it remains as such. Even better, join a local ATV club and help make sure trail systems stay clean and safe for all riders.

Many Registered Maine Guides conduct ATV trips throughout the state, providing access to pristine areas or special spots known only to locals. For a small investment, a guide is able to maximize trip enjoyment and simplify much of the planning and logistics involved, in a successful day of trail riding or an extended weekend ATV camping trip. Guided trips are also safer, as they provide an added measure of security for individuals traveling alone or unfamiliar with the area. For a listing of guides and their provided services please see: http://www.maineguides.org.

Understanding the growing interest in ATV riding, many towns, stores and campgrounds have begun catering to the ATV crowd. State laws limiting paved road travel restriction, are waived in some towns to facilitate ATV rider access to trail connections, gas and supplies. For campers, it is becoming increasingly more common to be able to leave directly from the campground and jump directly on a trail system. As this service is not available at all campground facilities, it pays when selecting a campground to call ahead and ask about their ATV policy. Last summer, I made the mistake of not inquiring about trail access direct from the campground and was forced to trailer my ATV to and from the trail head before and after each ride. This inconvenience greatly complicated access and stopped any chance of spur of the moment riding opportunities, putting a dampener on our trip . . . when in doubt ALWAYS ask.

Lunch at Hundred Acre Wood Cabin

Throughout the spring and summer of 2011, I traveled throughout the state exploring many of these newly expanded trail systems. From Grand Lake Stream to China in Central Maine to Kokajo and Greenville, I managed to fill the glorious season with hundreds of miles of choking back trail dust, sloshing through mud pits and wheeling through some of the most impressively beautiful areas of the state. Of all these newly explored areas, perhaps most impressive were the trail riding opportunities in Washington County. With mile upon mile of quality trail riding and breathtaking scenery around every bend, it is a trip well worth making.

On my trip to Washington County, we stayed at Keen’s Lake Campground in Red Beach. This quaint ATV friendly campground has quiet wooded campsites and ample space for parking equipment. Amenities exist such as a small store and a beach but the campgrounds biggest draw, is its direct access to a massive area ATV trail system and the Downeast Sunrise Trail (http://www.sunrisetrail.org).

Opened in 2010, the Downeast Sunrise Trail project has preserved 85 miles of the Calais Branch railroad corridor for future rail use, while additionally providing a wide, compact gravel-based trail for recreational opportunities. The scenic trail runs from Calais to Ellsworth, along the entire Downeast coastal area, connecting to multiple scenic conservation areas, intersecting the Downeast salmon rivers, and closely shadowing two state designated scenic highways. The rides major highlights are Schoodic Bog and Schoodic Mountain, near the Ellsworth end of the trail system. In addition to ATV riders, the Downeast Sunrise Trail is also managed for the use of snowmobiles, pedestrians, bicyclists, cross-country skiers and equestrians so use care and moderated speed while traveling.

The Calais trail head also has several unique attractions, such as Trumble Mountain, boasting expansive views of St. Andrews, Canada and the St. Croix River Valley. Also a short ride away, on the northern end of Nashes Lake, is an impressive 30 foot high hand build stone dam constructed in the 1800s, to facilitate logging operations and to this day still holds back the waters of this man made lake. For the photographer or nature lover looking to spot wildlife, the area is abundant with bear, moose, deer and many other furry critters. Evening trips, done slowly and with watchful eye are the best way to see these animals.

My trip to Washington County was highlighted by the presence of my two sons, who at 3 and 5 years old are already ATV fanatics. Sporting their racing helmets and possessing a go, go, go attitude, they are the perfect camping and 4 wheeling companions. When ATV riding with small children, it is important to take frequent breaks and continually fuel small bodies with food and water. Packing a picnic lunch and reviewing a trail map for kid friendly stops is an easy way to ensure kids take pleasure in ATV riding.

Don't Mess with these ATV Riding Roughnecks!

Keens lake, Nashes lake and many other area lakes and ponds offer opportunities for an afternoon swim to cool bodies, skip rocks, catch frogs and generally provide entertainment for small children. While you’re at it, bring along a fishing pole for great brook trout and small mouth bass fishing right from the lake shore. ATV riding is a fun recreational activity but remember to do it safely and legally. ATVs can quickly transport riders deep in the back country where assistance might be a long time in coming so be sure to practice self sufficiency, should an accident or mechanical issue occur. Riders should practice common sense, by making sure to always carry extra gas, water and food on long trips. Travel in groups when possible, for enjoyment and the safety provided in numbers and always make sure to carry extra clothing, rain gear and a comprehensive first aid kit.

While trail riding, I always wear a helmet as a safety measure and to serve as a good role model for my children. Despite these precautions, an accident this season, unloading my ATV from the back of a friends trailer, left me badly bruised and suffering from a nasty case of road rash. Adding to the potential for harm, I was not wearing my helmet. I was very fortunate I was able to learn a valuable lesson without fracturing my skull. Whenever operating an ATV a helmet should be worn, from the moment the key is turned on to the moment it is turned off. In the state of Maine, children under 10 years of age cannot operate and ATV, 10-16 years of age cannot operate an ATV without first completing an ATV training course. Though critical for riders of all ages, protective headgear is required of any ATV riders under 18 years of age.

For more on Maine ATV laws please see: http://www.maine.gov/ifw/laws_rules/atvlaws.htm
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For more from the Maine Outdoorsman on ATV riding with small children, be sure to also read ATV Riding with Kids!

ATV Riding with Kids

The rains poured down from the heavens, like God was attempting to drown the entire citizenry of Maine. While the weather forecast had called for on and off showers, dark menacing clouds showed no signs of breakage. Typically such wet weather, would mean nothing to me and on many occasions, I have been exposed too much, much worse. Today, however, my concerns were focused on my four year old son, standing beside me, and what he was thinking, as I prepared to take him on his first ever extended ATV trip. Swathed from head to toe in water repellent vinyl, topped with a helmet and wearing his new goggles he looked so grown-up that he reminded me of a miniaturized version of a man. I looked at my watch and it read 11:15 AM and I knew that if I was to make this outing “fun” and henceforth successful, I needed to insure the trip be no longer than two hours. With anybody from kids to adults, it is critical that their first outdoor experiences be built on happy fond memories. Nothing will destroy a person’s interest and passion in the outdoors faster than having those first times afield spoiled by a negative happenstance. While nobody can control the weather, there are dozens of other things that you can do to insure your kids, family, friends and “sports” have a great time.

I knew of my little one, that being warm and dry were utmost importance, then food and drink and finally the quality of the trail we were riding. Bumpy, challenging trails with frequent stop starts are hard on backs and necks (when little heads wear heavy helmets) and can quickly become scary for youngsters. Being unfamiliar with this particular trail system, I learned from the outset that slow speeds would be necessary, if we were going to make it two hours. Rough trail conditions, made more challenging by two days of heavy rain, had the little one asking to return to the “ATV club house” after an hour. On the return trip, I could see his resolve slowly fading but promises of pizza and chocolate milk soon brought back that huge smile that everyday fills my heart with joy.

By no means was I discouraged in having to turn around early, on the contrary, I was extremely pleased that he had held out that long, in such challenging conditions. Later this summer, we have an extended multi-day ATV/camping trip planned and this initial foray was precisely what was needed to prepare him for the longer trip.