December 9, 2019 Grooming Report
Forestville: Groomers are holding off on grooming this morning given the forecast snow event. Groomers will get out when snowfall levels indicate that it is time. More on this in the WTLGR below. Saturday’s Bombi grooming has left us with a wide firm skate base as well as machine cut classic tracks with firm(ish) outside pole plants. The classic skier impeding sapling whips have been removed by some industrious skiers that went out with loppers instead of poles. Give a big shout out and thank you to whoever they are.
Way to Long Grooming Report: Grooming after all is simply an attempt to replicate the ideal natural condition of the universe. Early skiers today may find the surface somewhat unforgiving but by 10:00 AM an layer of new snow will be transformative. With the Noque open to the Upper Bismarck Bridge (just 1/2k short of co rd 510), we have enough out-and-back skiing to satisfy all but the most self-loathing. Those of us that fall into that category enjoy(?) the out and back runs because everyone can ski 15k; but then you have to ski the other 15k. I am reminded of a biologist’s study of ruffed grouse flight patterns. Taken out in a boat, none could make it to shore from 400 yards (and they can’t swim). I have always envied (alternate translations read this as “pitied”) skiers with a “misery” gear. You know the guy/gal; they can put themselves into real hurt even if not faced with necessity.
Anyway, we have a good deal of trail and for that we are blessed. Bagwagi and Chiwagi will be ready soon and then we will add the detailed grooming report that lists each trail segment and when it was groomed last. I really should have all the trails listed in today’s report but they are on another storage device and I have dumb-stuff-I-godda-do items before I wax and then ski at the optimal new snow accumulation time (currently estimated to be 10:45).
Saux Head: All trails were groomed and track set yesterday. The trail is in very good skiing condition.
Big Bay Pathway: After a strong volunteer showing this weekend, we have the Big Bay Pathway near ready for setting classic tracks. We have completed brushing from the storms on Hidden Grin Loop, and with fresh snow, will be in good shape. Tracks will be set as soon as this next snow event is over.
Fit Strip: Fit Strip was roll packed yesterday so skate skiers should have fair to good skiing today. Classic tracks will be set as soon as snow depths in the City permit.
Snow Bike South Trails:
As of Saturday morning
• East of 553
• Mt Mesnard loop (granite/jeep) & chapel spur in good condition, 4-6 psi.
• Cx race course for today 3-5 psi, occasional soft spots.
• West of 553
• Main loop (benson/freak/smiley) groomed and getting good, 3-4.5 psi.
• Other loops remain closed by trees for now, storm recovery continues.
Snow Bike North Trails: Heading into the weekend, most sections of North Trails have been regroomed to pack down the traffic and loose snow, with The Pine – Penstock – BLP Rocks loop firmest for biking and other activities.
Equipment and Facilities Update: If you have been to Forestville for the early November skiing you will have seen lots going on. We are expanding the trail head and will be done soon. We plan to be open before Christmas. New grooming equipment has been purchased for both skiing and snow bike grooming. We will detail equipment and trail head facilities over the next few weeks.
To learn more about the NTN, to join, volunteer, become a sponsor or make a comment, please visit www.noquetrails.org .
Sondo