The Cabinet Ridge Riders are a diverse group of motorized and non-motorized outdoor users: snowmobilers, 4-wheelers, motorcyclists, and horse back riders in and around Sanders County Montana. It is a charitable, non-profit, organization giving to many local charities and youth organizations as well as 4-high school scholarships each year.
Work started July 2, 2006 on a warming hut for anyone's use in the Gem Peak saddle area. This structure, 2 years in the permitting process, was completed on the 14th of October 2006. This 24x24 structure was built with all volunteer labor and materials donated by Ridge Rider club members, local businesses and numerous other individuals.
We made our first club snowmobile run to the shelter on December 16, 2006 for lunch and some maintenance work. It seems our planning did not anticipate 55 inches of snow with only a 36 inch stove pipe. Improvements have continued on the shelter since then. The shelter comes complete with a wood stove, firewood, and a grill on top for hotdogs, etc. Ridge Rider members handle the upkeep on the shelter, cutting of wood, and area cleanup. This summer a vaulted toilet will be installed by the Ridge Riders in conjunction with the Forest Service.
In May of 2008 we purchased a 1996 Bombardier groomer, with help from our local bank. We groom a 32-mile stretch around Gem Peak. We have managed to keep the groomer operating and in good condition with help from Fish, Wildlife, and Parks' recreational trails grants.
Each year on the 2nd Saturday of February we have our annual charity poker run for riders of all ages, which includes a hotdog and chili feed lunch at our warming shed. Check in and the drawing of the first card is in the morning at the Wayside in Trout Creek, draw 3-cards along the trail, and the final card by 5PM back at the Wayside. Money is paid out to the top hands; 2009 we paid out $1,800 to the winning 13 hands. That evening, also at the Wayside, we have our charity auction and raffle, featuring numerous excellent auction items and door prizes donated by individuals and local businesses. Because of our annual snowmobile poker run, the club has donated thousands over the years to charity.
The 2nd Saturday of June we have our annual ATV poker run. Same type of setup as our snowmobile run, but check-in and out is at the Lakeside Motel in Trout Creek and with a different route. In the evening we have door prizes and a BBQ dinner.
We belong to the Blue Ribbon Coalition, Treasure State Alliance, Montana Snowmobile Association, and the Snowmobile Alliance of Western States. It is our belief that if we do not work together, the environmentalists will control our public lands. Our members are hunters, fishermen, and general outdoor users who take care of our forests and want to protect our use.
Together we can succeed; individually we will fail.
