Today’s report is brought to you by “The Old Codgers”, Don Hurst, Keith Kepler and Jim Kidder: Don, Keith and Jim are trail builder sponsors on the Noque’. Without the support of the Old Codgers we would not have the excellent trails we have come to expect. If you see them, say thanks.
Trail Builder sections are available. Please visit www.noquetrails.org and follow the links. You too can be feted in an up coming grooming report.
Forestville: Today is the Noquemanon Ski Marathon. Trails are closed for skiing and skiers are asked to avoid skiing on the race course until after the skiers are done for the day in the late afternoon.
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T.P. to NMU Race Day
Way too Long Grooming Report:
Today is the day many have been waiting for and the rest of have been dreading; the Noquemanon Ski Marathon (NSM). Everyone signs up for such an event for different reasons. Not being one that even hopes to get a bell, I join for other reasons. Clearly one reason is to force a life style that will at least allow me to finish inside the elimination time. Another good reason to join the event is to support what has become an institution. Staging a point-to-point ski marathon is a real challenge for organizers. Half a lifetime ago we had a two lap ski marathon when a small group of visionaries said we should stage a world class point to point race in Marquette. I wont list names for fear of embarrassing, or worse yet, missing anyone but you both know the first race director. He carried the event on his back for several years when a strong breeze could have been its end. There were hard times but he would not let it fail. Now, can you imagine late January in Marquette without the Noquemanon Ski Marathon? Few of us can be responsible for creating an institution. People come from all around the world to enjoy(?) the NSM. The trail is spectacular for both its challenge but also for the scenery. Weather is always great and the snow is all but guaranteed. I have skied each year and even the -10f days were quite pleasant, in memory anyway. Today looks to be a wonderful day to be outside even in real time. See you out there.
A Note on Race Trail Conditions: Thursday I did get to enjoy the run from the Superior Dome to Forestville. The section from the Dome to Forestville has never been better. The last five K and especially the last three K have always been problematic. Many a year volunteer crews are out every night this week getting more snow on thin spots. There is not a single spot on the entire trail that is short snow; even on the rail road grade last two K before the Dome. The picture above is from the hill just west of the big pond looking west. Skiing through the mature red and white pine forest in a 30f steady snow and no wind; it was magical. Race day snow conditions and weather look to be most enjoyable with a little new snow each day and temperatures near freezing. The precipitation looks to be right on the boarder of “wintery mix” but on the “wintery” side of the boarder. I mention this weather commentary because I don’t want either of you to see the prognostication as anything less than ideal. I assure you, I am stoked. The snow should be fairly fast; a big plus for the under trained, and the temperature indicates no need for boot covers and maybe even sans balaclava! See you out there.
The race site has real information on the trail and events; https://www.noquemanon.com/ It is a wonderful event and we are so blessed to live in such an area. I am still a few months short of where I want to be but next year…
Saux Head: All trails groomed and track set Monday the 20th. After an inch of overnight snow the trails should be in very good shape.
Big Bay Pathway: Big Bay Pathway was groomed on January 24th. Due to the occasional rain and wet/heavy snow, the tracks a few imperfections. Hidden Grin is currently in fair condition.
Fit Strip: Fit Strip was groomed Wednesday. After an inch of overnight snow the trails should be in very good shape. Fit Strip is groomed weekly or as conditions warrant.
Snow Bike South Trails: Trails were plowed Saturday and again Sunday. Trails will be firm with some loose snow in small areas. After an inch of overnight snow the trails should be in very good shape.
Snow Bike North Trails: As of Tuesday night all North Trails in the system are rideable and firm. Riding will be great today. After an inch of overnight snow the trails should be in very good shape.
THE FORESTVILLE TRAIL HEAD CHALET IS OPEN! Chalet hours are 7 AM to 10 PM and rental equipment is available between 10 and 4. Space is still limited during construction but come in and enjoy the fire and company.
To learn more about the NTN, to join, volunteer, become a sponsor or make a comment, please visit www.noquetrails.org .
Sondo