2019 March 23, Grooming Report;
I actually hope you both read today’s report. There is real information provided (if not entertainment).
Today’s report is brought to you by our land owners. Over 99% of the trails we ski, bike, run and walk are owned by private land owners. Most of the trails are on commercial forest land. These land owners wish to see their land used by skiers, bikers, runners and walkers for 99+% of the time. All they ask is that we understand they need to use the land for a few months per decade.
If I could be serious for a minute (not likely I know), I really want both of you to understand how important our commercial forests are to life in the U.P. In much of the country where commercial forestry has fallen behind other uses as the highest and best use, trails like the entire NTN are not possible. Land in such areas is owned in small private blocks and the public is locked out.
Beginning next week, part of our trail system will be closed for logging. One of the keys to the NTN’s success is the fact our users understand this symbiosis. Our part in this process is to stay out of the way of the loggers and thank them for their support. Logging is a dangerous and capital intensive operation. We need to help them be safe and look out for their equipment. Trails will be marked as closed and we trust you will stay away from the logging operations.
The land owners always wait until late in the year to allow as long a ski season as possible. In addition, they attempt to keep as much of the trail open as possible. Beginning next Monday, several sections of trail near the power lines will be blocked and logging trucks will be driving on them.
There are several good news aspects to this report. First, tomorrow will be spectacular Bombi groomed skiing from Forestville! Cold overnight temperatures combined with warm sunny light air during the day will make for one of those splendid days many skiers only see in their dreams. The other item of good (or even great) news is the fact that virtually all of the trails west of the 12 k mark will remain unaffected.
The NTN is committed to providing top quality skiing if at all possible. You have come to expect nothing less and we are used to providing nothing but. We will continue to groom trails between Co Rd 510 and the logging areas. Most skiers (especially the spring time skiers) know the best skiing is near Co Rd 510 anyway.
More details regarding trail closures will be in tomorrow and Monday’s report. However, the critical take away from this report is that you must ski tomorrow. It will be Bombi groomed and the weather looks to be one of the few ideal spring days.
Each season has just a few perfect days. You can count them on one hand. You know, in summer you get that one or two where it is warm in the morning and the water is like glass. You water ski from 7AM until your arms fall off about noon. The biting insects are all dead so you can loll on the beach for a siesta after lunch. A cool breeze comes up to keep you cool during your bike ride and the barbeque makes your cold beverages hit the spot in the evening. In the fall you can enjoy the gales of November as the sleet bites your face just before you drop into the over head surf at the Zoo. Winter has its charms as well whether it is an alpine powder day or the mesmerizing corduroy following a Bombi groom. Well, tomorrow is the spring ideal day. I do trust you will get out and enjoy. I assure you, I will not be on the couch regardless how much aerosol cheese is on the coffee table. See you out there.
In any case, if you have not done so, please renew your membership. There are K markers available. Your name and favorite picture can be here too.
New pictures from anyone will be appreciated. I really mean this. I agonize missing some Trail Builders.
Forestville Real Grooming Report: Bombi grooming on as many trails as Andy can hit before dawn. Enjou.
I should add a CRUST ALERT to the report. Tomorrow should be the first day of a long period of excellent crust skiing. Warm days and cold nights should allow skate and classic skiers to go for miles on the crust in open areas. Look for big timber, clear cut areas or untraveled woods roads and enjoy.
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TRAIL – Third Priority Trail head to ponds |
No grooming since thaw
As always, your feedback is appreciated via reply to this email or to FB. Send in pictures and you too can get your K marker moved to the front of the line. See the Nordic skiing FB page https://www.facebook.com/NTNNordic/
Saux Head: Tim plans to ginzu the skate lanes in the morning. Skiing should be great.
Fit Strip: The trail was groomed Sunday but the 4 wheeler used to pull the equipment has broken down. Sunday’s groom is likely to be the last for the season.
Big Bay Pathway: There are a few areas on Bear Mountain that are starting to deteriorate. Boe is not sure if the trail will survive the warm weather ahead.
South Snow Bike Trails: We are in spring “freeze/thaw” cycle. Riders will find Shirley, Chapel, Granite, Jeep, Main and Enchantment open. We repacked Thursday night but you will find trails a little bumpy in places, but will be good firm riding all day Friday and Saturday until maybe noon. Please try to avoid trail damage if they are too soft to support your weight.
This may be the end…
North Trails:
Trails will be hard in the morning. Look out for soft snow later in the day and try not to “pizza cut” the base.
Of course you can also post your own information on the FB page and you are encouraged to do so. Here is the link:
https://www.facebook.com/ntnsingletrack/
Sondo