It is with sadness we announce that Dr. Howard Feit, a longtime friend and supporter of Stokely, the Byker's, and generations of lodge guests, passed away last month. Howard touched many lives and made many friends at Stokely. He understood that the lodge and it's trail system needed to be saved for the next generation of cross-country skiers and snowshoers, which included his own grandchildren. His grandson Jacob came with him often and introduced him to snowshoeing. Howard came many times over the years and stayed in the place he loved the most, "The Hut." With the help of friends, he developed a new scenic snowshoe trail. The trail goes to the Cedar Cliffs and circles up to the top of the ridge where there are expansive views of King Mountain. Stokely has named this new trail, "Howard's Trail." We want to thank the Feit family for donating his skis and ski equipment. He will be missed by all.
Norm Bourgeois, a legendary figure of the Stokely community, played a big role in the Stokely story! He owned a charming old trapper's cabin on Bone Lake, right off Stokely's Trapper trail. His door was always wide open to welcome skiers with tea and cookies and tall tales. His walls were covered with memorabilia, often gifts from his returning guests. After he passed away about 15 years ago, the Algoma Highlands Conservancy honored his legacy by replacing Norm's old cabin with a new one that he would have loved. It is still called Norm's Cabin. Now, every weekend, the Algoma Highlands Conservancy enthusiastically welcomes skiers for tea and cookies.
Back in 1977, Chuck Peterson and his family opened the Stokely Creek Ski Touring Center, and the adventure began as they welcomed their first guests. We've been there from the start, and when Stokely was for sale, we jumped at the chance to buy it, eager to keep its magic alive for the next generation of cross-country skiers. Our kids always enjoyed our annual winter getaways at Stokely, and now our grandchildren have grown up exploring its incredible trails. Just last night, during dinner, the conversation buzzed with stories comparing skiing experiences from around the globe. Everyone agreed that Stokely's trail system and breathtaking scenery make it their top pick. Owning Stokely for the past 18 years has truly been a labor of love. So many wonderful people have joined us on this journey. A huge thank you to our loyal guests who come to Stokely to soak in the full experience, making new friends over great meals, relaxing around several fireplaces, and spending the night at the resort where your room is right off the trails. system Your encouragement and support make it all possible!
Stokely guests recently voted Stokely into the top 5 cross-country ski resorts in North America in a USA Today's poll. Help spread the word to your friends and family who ski and snowshoe by sharing this email.
With Great Enthusiasm
Gaylen and Susan Byker
Norm only served Red Rose original black tea! :)