ASHLAND, Maine — Three snowmobilers from downstate were rescued just west of Ashland Monday night, after mechanical difficulties left them stranded in deep snow.
“Three men attempting to ride snowmobiles nearly 300 miles from Guilford to Fort Kent in one day were rescued by Maine game wardens Monday night in a remote region of northern Maine. Craig Lemieux, 41, from Parkman, Chad Jones, 31, from North Yarmouth, and Tobey Cleaves, 22, from Sangerville, became stranded on unplowed logging roads in T11 R10 WELS in the afternoon,” said Game Warden Lt. Thomas Ward.
Ward said after one of the snowmobiles had mechanical trouble, the other two men became stuck in four feet of snow as they were attempting to break a trail out to the American Realty Road.
“The group had a satellite phone and was able to communicate with a friend that they needed assistance,” said Ward.
Game Warden Sgt. Durward Humphrey and Wardens Preston Pomerleau, David Milligan and Andrew Smart traveled to the area in trucks, then transitioned to snowmobiles and located the stranded men.
“After a recent snowstorm dumped an additional 14 inches of snow, the snow depth in that area was at least four feet and more in places. The men had some supplies, but no snowshoes, making walking very difficult. Jones and Cleaves traveled approximately a half mile in five hours before making it out to the Realty Road where they were picked up. Lemieux was with his disabled snowmobile and had a fire going for warmth,” said Ward.
Ward said there’s been an increase in “extreme” snowmobiling, whereby riders attempt to travel through the deepest snow rather than staying on marked and groomed trails.
“We are seeing more and more of this extreme type of snowmobiling in northern Maine. Folks make annual treks through the deepest, most remote part of the County; it’s not uncommon to get a couple of these calls each winter,” said Ward.
The lieutenant said the three men were lucky, given recent weather conditions and dropping temperatures.
“These men would have definitely had an uncomfortable night as temperatures plunged into the single digits and another three inches of snow fell in the area,” said Ward.
Ward advised snowmobilers to use caution whenever riding and offered a few tips to ensure a safe journey — for snowmobilers as well as game wardens.
“I want to remind extreme-type snowmobilers to be prepared and demonstrate good, sound judgment before attempting a trip like this, as four wardens and a lot of resources were tied up making sure these men were brought out to safety. Every time I send wardens out for these calls, there is a risk factor involved due to the harsh conditions,” said Ward.
The Warden Service reminds all “off trail” snowmobilers to use common sense and follow the rules of the sport: watch the weather forecast; be prepared for the worst; don’t completely rely on electronic devices such as GPS, cell and satellite phones; never ride alone, tell someone of your travel plans and estimated time of return.
