Sorry, not a ski picture…not even winter but this isn’t “real winter” yet anyway.
Grooming February 4, 2021
Forestville: Groomers are parked getting ready for the expected snow event. Precipitation is forecast to begin mid day but may be in the form of what we used to call sleet but now wintery mix. Light mid-week traffic will mean the trails are in very good shape today although no fresh corduroy. Groomers will keep an eye on the weather and get out when warranted.
Fit Strip: I expect the fit strip is hard pan with dirt and foot prints. Any local knowledge would be appreciated.
Big Bay Pathway: The Pathway was groomed Sunday, January 31. Meditation and Hidden Grin are both freshly groomed and in great condition. We just need more snow..
Dennis
Saux Head: Yesterday the 3rd Wally reported he skied Saux Head “…for the first time in a while, I skied Saux Head (classic) today. I’m left with three thoughts: 1., it is still hilly but always feels like seeing an old, fun friend 2. the tracks are in good shape, and the lane has about an inch of fluff on top of packed snow 3., we are indebted to Craig and Bill for this piece of Nordic paradise. “.
Snow Bike Trails:
NORTH TRAILS
Last Groomed: 1/28/21 on Upper Loop Trails (Collinsville, BLP Rocks, Blue Heron, Upper Blue Heron, Silver Lead & Peter’s Sandbox) along with Wildcat, Ramblin Man and Midnight Snack). Remainder trails last groomed 1/22/21
Conditions: Continued cold temps have kept the base firm and fast with good coverage. The absence of freeze/thaw cycles since the last snow means less user generated trail degrading such as ruts and potholes to detract from the trail experience. Infrequent rocks/roots showing through, mainly at the lower elevations/ along the river.
Any more current information will be appreciated.
Caution Areas: Runoff from the penstock is collecting on the trail in 2 areas of BLP Rocks- in the ‘ice cave’ area under the penstock and further upstream, near the crossing across the river- leaving icy sections of trail that require care. Trail users can throw some sand found in the garbage can under the penstock on the ice to improve traction. Those without studded tires or boot crampons should use caution.
South Trails Grooming: Rubin buffed up Eh Line, OCR, Enchantment, and Greywalls tonight. Note: Harlow Farms connector is temporarily closed for tree clearing between Grove Street and Wilson Street. Please stay clear of this area until further notice. We will re-establish a route in the near future when safe to do so.
WTLGR: Raise your hand if you have used or heard the phrase “real winter” in the last two months. You know, like, “When are we going to get real winter?”; or “In the olden days we had real winter.”. I bet you have central heat and indoor plumbing. We have seen sub zero days and enough snow to make excellent cross country skiing every day since mid-December. First Nation peoples in the area knew it was best to winter in Menominee so they started walking that way in October. We have the great good fortune to see it coming. I just put a log in the stove and will bike or ski in the afternoon because tomorrow looks to be real winter.
Sondo