Well, hopefully they left the trail signs up, and if someone lays first tracks, hopefully they can ride that leg just as a "Wilderness Trail". I heven't been through there in many years. So IDK if there is many areas in there for sapplings to fall in or not anymore? I don't think there is much challenging terrain in there tho - is there?   They may have moved the trail from White River to Marathon sometime over the years, but that was BIG terrain in there! There is litterally winch posts that they use(d?) to winch the groomers up/over, and then right back down to cross a swamp.  I think (?) that was on the east side of Marathon? I know it was Marathon's system, and it seems it was on the east side?   Point being tho, it would seem to me that it would take a LOT more to keep the trail open from White River to Marathon, than between Dubreuil and White River?   ???     .

Agree completely 

I would hope the nominal difference between the early bird and full season would not be a detractor. We're talking a case of beer here.  

Looks like Marathon won the fight.  White River to Marathon and the spur north to Manitouwadge will be open this year.  Closed from Dubreuville to White River.  They are talking about offering a shuttle.  Not ideal, but best case for them.  Will keep the locals engaged.  The timing isn’t great.  How many local folks won’t buy because they skipped the early bird.  

Same, never have and never will. Would be the same for anyone I'm riding with. Using this "data" to make decisions is ridiculous.