Grooming February 6, 2020
Today’s report is brought to you by David Grant & Nicole Alexander, Team Ruffino: Team Ruffino is a trail builder on the Noque’. Without the support of folks Team Ruffino we would not have the excellent trails we have come to expect. If you see them, say thanks. I would add, the grooming report staff think the deep snow sign pictures are cool or we would have dug it out to show the full sign. I do hope Team Ruffino agrees.
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: Andy is grooming and track setting the Noque’, Animoosh and Chiwagi By Pass to 14k with the Bully. The lower traffic trails including all the way to co rd 510 will remain in excellent shape. By the way, as it turns out, the Ginzu groom planned for yesterday did not take place. Doug did start the run but felt the Ginzu was not improving the trails. If you did ski yesterday we would like to hear your thoughts.
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Way too Long Grooming Report:
If one were to graphically represent the life cycle of snow quality it would show a bell curve with the first day providing a low quality enjoyment factor because of the soft pole plant and skate lane. Once the air is removed and groomed the enjoyment rises and after a few days, peeks. Later in life, especially after a thaw, the enjoyment falls representing the other bell curve tail. Bully grooming flattens out the bell such that ideal skiing can last for weeks. This is especially true in cold weather. If you did ski Tuesday you were greeted with perhaps the best conditions I have ever seen. Today will be a repeat. The Bully is grooming the high traffic areas and (by my count) there are about 4 skiers that bother ringing the bell at Co Rd 510. If either of you read this far into the report you should be sure to ski today. The weather will be ideal with temperatures in the high 20s (f) and very light air. A light dusting of snow is expected for late in the day keeping the snow quality at the top of the graphic representation. The six day forecast looks to be ideal.
I would add, not to guild refined gold, the same graphic representation goes for snow biking and we are at the top of the bell curve on the North and South trails. In fact, Lyle commented Tuesday that every trail is open, groomed and in great shape. Groomers have been very busy this year with tree clearing and deep snow grooming. It has paid off in spades for skiers and bikers. I think I will ski again today but it will be a game time decision. We do hope to hear some first hand comments about snow bike conditions; pictures too.
Saux Head: All trails were groomed and track set Tuesday, the 4th. Expect very good skiing conditions.
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Big Bay Pathway: The Big Bay Pathway was groomed on Monday, February 3rd. Hidden Grin is in Excellent Condition and preparations are underway for the Honey Bear this coming weekend.
Fit Strip: Neil groomed the Lit Loop Monday night. Skiing should be good but sections under the hemlocks are thin.
Snow Bike South Trails:
One note, that section from under 553 up to the snowmobile trail is NOT OPEN. It will be open for the Polar Roll Race. It is not good for riding yet and it is dangerous as it crosses the snowmobile trail. Please do not ride this section.
AS OF Monday February 3:
All south was groomed Sunday during the heat wave. Heavy wet snow packed well to a firm base, trails are in great shape. 4-5psi, some areas firmer.
Mt Mqt (East) – firm
Har-Lang (BG Connector) – firm
East Greywalls – firm
Main (Benson/Freak) – firm
West Greywalls – mostly firm
Enchantment – firm
Oak Hill – mostly firm
Old Camp Ridge – closed (trees)
PPP – packed, technical
Seppi – packed, technical
Bob’s Sled – closed (trees)
Eh Line – closed (trees)
Shirley’s – closed (high water)
IOHT to South Beach – plowed, chunky
Polar Roll Climb – mostly firm
Snow Bike North Trails: As of last Wednesday night all North Trails in the system are rideable and firm. I do trust riders used proper tire pressure during the mini thaw. If you do ride today let us know what you find.
THE FORESTVILLE TRAIL HEAD CHALET IS OPEN! Chalet hours are 7 AM to 10 PM and rental equipment is available between 10 and 4. 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