Fisherman's Picnic sees snowmobiling waterskipping event

On Saturday, August 3, there was an unusual sight on the Grand Marais harbor. Snowmobiles launched from the Grand Marais Recreation Park boat launch and sped across the water, turning in circles and bouncing over the water before returning to shore. Four riders took part and entertained--or alarmed--folks on shore for three hours.

The activity is snowmobile skipping and it is not just a regional phenomenon. There are many snowmobile skipping events sanctioned by the International Watercross Association in North America. The activity was once a common occurrence during Fisherman’s Picnic in Grand Marais. However, it has not taken place since 2008.

A group of young people decided to resurrect the event this year and obtained the necessary approval and permits from the Grand Marais Park Board, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

WTIP checked in with Connor Ingram, of Grand Marais, one of the participants in this year's event to learn more.