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First-Hand Trail Reports
These reports are maintained by skiers LIKE YOU!
Payback the people who submit trail condition reports by adding your own experiences. Add
a trail report today!
Last 2 Weeks
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Phone Photos |
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Michigan: Southeast Lower Peninsula
South of West Branch, East of Lansing; includes Detroit, Flint, Midland |
Tue, Mar 9: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Still good crust skiing this morning. Significantly degraded from Sunday but Bill Kaltz and I were able to ski all over the golf course without removing our skis. Softer and slower by 10:00am.
I suspect by tomorrow there will be large islands of snow which will require a short hike to get from one to the next. The groomed trail was intact in some areas but too icy for my taste. All we need is a couple of inches of new snow...
- Greg Worrel
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Tue, Mar 9: Local golf course (Wixom)
Plenty of snow on the local golf course this morning for a dawn ski before work. Raced around for 45 minutes on the fast snow, on my good racing skis. Sure was noisy! And very bright once the sun came above the treeline.
- Mike Muha
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Mon, Mar 8: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Today may have been the last attempt at "grooming" our skate trails. There are more bare spots as the days get warmer. Although there are some spots with very adequate snow depth - getting to them may be the problem. Crust skiing is not bad - I skated yesterday a.m. Timing is the key to that option, but we have a lot of snow in some fairway areas - watch out for cart path areas though and "holes" where people have walked.
Bill
- William McConnell
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Sun, Mar 7: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Bare spots are growing in number. North loop is probably the best with fewest bare spots. South loop is rougher with quite a few ice/muddy areas. Beware of hill at south end of the lake - hill is 60% or more dirt!! You won't see it until you turn the corner to go down hill by the "Steep Hill" sign. Weather is calling for 50's today and first of the week with rain likely. I'll do what I can - off-trail skiing is another possibility.
Bill
- William McConnell
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Sat, Mar 6: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Considering the weather - very good trail condition. Few bare spot , but overall surprisingly good for skating.
- Leonid Tikh -
- Leonid Tikh
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Sat, Mar 6: Huron Hills (Ann Arbor)
Crust skiing possible but have to fight footprints and cave ins. Best on southeast snow bowl. The hoar frost growing on the footprints was picturesque. I think it would have been better earlier but Boston training was on the docket first.
Mary M headed to Leslie golf course and says the flat section was best.
Overall a great day-crispy morning for skiing and bike-able in the afternoon!
- Lexanne
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Sat, Mar 6: Golf Courses (Bay City)
The local golf courses all have fantastic crust cruising if you are willing to follow the snow and take off the skis once in a while. Contitions have been ideal up until 11a or so. The next couple of days could spell the end of a good thing so grab some local glide while it lasts. Skied both the Bay County course and Maple Leaf and both had plenty of large snowfields for big fun.
- Will Brewster
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Sat, Mar 6: Maybury State Park (Northville)
Ok/to poor condition. In some areas off the regular most beat down areas early this morning there was pavement and dirt showing in the sunny areas. Would not recommend coming with a dog. I recieved a ticket for having my dog off the leash, a $140 crappy ski morning.
- Thomas Hudak
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Thu, Mar 4: Burchfield Park (Lansing)
Better than expected. Still plenty of snow - no bare spots. At 4:00 Thursday, some spots were glazed and fast, others soft and slow, but I never sank in deep and the skating lanes were pretty good despite some footprints. All in all, I had an enjoyable 1.5 hour ski. I switched off between skating and double poling in the tracks. I was on rock skis, but I could have used the good ones. The one short, steep downhill between Burchfield and Riverbend is pretty icy and fast - be careful - not for beginners in these conditions.
Get out and enjoy - it looks like Sunday could be the end.
- Alec Drachman
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Thu, Mar 4: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Big thanks to Wm. McConnell for all his grooming efforts today and for the whole season. Trails were the best today since the warmup has set in and the crust skiing is also terrific!
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Thu, Mar 4: Independance Oaks (Clarkston)
Just got off the phone with Independence Oaks and they will not be grooming again unless it snows. They have not groomed in over a week and when I was there this past Tues. conditions were mediocre. Too bad they could not have prepared trails to make it to the weekend.
- Jeff Powers
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Thu, Mar 4: Orchard Lake Country Club (West Bloomfield)
Ryan just called me on the phone (9:30am) and said crust skiing was fantastic and lighting fast on the Orchard Lake Country Club Golf Course, under bright sunny skies!
- Mike Muha
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Thu, Mar 4: College Field (East Lansing)
Emily Flynn and I went skiing at College Field on a beautiful morning with the temperature at 13F but the sun was rising and the crust skiing was great. This is the time of year I just love bushwhacking through the woods on my skis and gliding effortlessly over the frozen snow. Enjoy the conditions while they last.
- Ken Dawson
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Thu, Mar 4: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
I was able to groom north and south skate trails - results varied with drifts from last week. Bare spots showing through around trees and ridges. Groomed around lake trail also for skate trail. Classic is icy but well set - can't improve what's already there. Enjoy your trails - grooming will be challenging after today ( thursday )- thanks again for your support this season.
Bill
- William McConnell
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Wed, Mar 3: Stoney Creek Metropark (Shelby Township)
Trails in the woods are still snow-covered, but very icy and nearly suicidal going downhill. So I tried the golf course, which is still almost completely snow-covered, but I was there at the wrong time of day (evening). Tracks were undercut by angled sunlight and almost unusable. Crust was forming but still too thin at that time of day to hold me up reliably while skating. There probably is good crust skiing on the golf course if you get there at the right time of day.
Strangely, all the bad conditions added up to a good workout. It really uses a lot of different muscles when you're trying to keep your balance and recover from crust breakthroughs every couple strides.
- Dave Yeras
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Wed, Mar 3: John Gierke (Appleton)
34F; Full sun. 35" in woods, 15"-20" base. No leaves, no pine needles, no ice, no dirt. Excellent skiing in the a.m. and later in the afternoon. Do not think of bringing rock skis.
Snow from last week has not transformed, so VR40-45 still working. Skier using Start Universal Tape, reported great results. Temps in high 30's next three days will not hurt these trails. Taste & Glide on Saturday is fund raiser to support grooming. Three tables of catered food along the trail makes for a great outing.
- John Gierke
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Wed, Mar 3: Burchfield (Holt, MI)
Went out today at around 4:30. What a beautiful day! Sunny, 35 degrees lots of snow. The snow was soft so I could skate though the lumps and bumps but oh what a day. It is leaving fast so get out and enjoy this wonderful spring skiing in Lansing. A first for me and great to keep in shape! Also watched the hawk for a few minutes.
- Linda S. Weeks
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Wed, Mar 3: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Great Crust Cruising ! I stoped at 11:30am but it was still good at that time!
- william kaltz
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Tue, Mar 2: Burchfield (Holt, MI)
After a very long day, I decided to try the trails later in the day. What a wonderful ski! They were soft but not "mushy" so you could skate easily, sliding over the footfalls and the old skate tracks. I watched and did not go deep myself. I went from Burchfield to MacNamara on the river and back in the fields and all trails were well covered. The sun was setting but still has that warm edge to it. Season is coming to a close soon.
- Linda S. Weeks
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Tue, Mar 2: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
I was able to "groom" the north and south loops and around Maltby Lake today. Some parts turned out very well, others . . . There are a few bare spots showing through- especially on the cart paths. Drifted areas are soft, but also rough to groom to our usual standards. I will go again tomorrow a.m. but with the warmth coming, things could deteriorate very quickly. I'll continue to do as much as I can to keep skiing possible for as long as possible.
Bill
- William McConnell
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Tue, Mar 2: Independance Oaks (Clarkston)
Skated in AM today, Tues. Trails were frozen and rough. Classic tracks shallow and sketchy. Began to thaw slightly as temps went up and sun shone. Trails were not groomed while I was there. A couple of bare spots are showing up and I had to take skis off to cross the roads.
- Jeff Powers
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Tue, Mar 2: Independance Oaks (Clarkston)
Ski'd on Sunday. Trails were in their usual shape for skating and classical. The park swares they groom almost every morning, but everytime I'm there it looks like they haven't been groomed in weeks.
- Dale D. Piske
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Tue, Mar 2: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Unfortunately, trails were not groomed on Monday. I will try again on Tuesday, but I'm not too hopeful of success - grooming machine is overheating due to temperature. Classic is still in good shape - we may have to switch skis until we get more snow ??? I'll try the other machine and give it a try.
Bill
- William McConnell
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Mon, Mar 1: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Tough skating tonight, real soft and chopped up. Any plans to groom this week?
- TA
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Mon, Mar 1: Independance Oaks (Clarkston)
Skied Independence Oaks yesterday (Sunday) because I wanted to work on long uphill and fast curvy downhills in prep for the BLack Mountain Classic. The skiing was fine but it was obvious they had not groomed in over a week. Classic tracks on uphills were pretty much gone. Skaters had packed all the snow in the skating lane, so they were fine. Downhills had banks of snow from snowplowers that you could ski off of...
- Mike Muha
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Sun, Feb 28: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Skied the trails on the South side , Track set was perfect , in the early morning a little icy but for the last day of Feb. conditions were superb. From the looks of it there will be skiiing all week or longer
- Jeff Walker
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Sun, Feb 28: Burchfield (Holt, MI)
Lots of snow, but since it was so wet, it froze very hard. Best for skiing in the tracks and double poling. Still great to get out in late Feb. Snow should last for at least the week!
- Linda S. Weeks
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Sat, Feb 27: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
What beautiful snow!!! Sorry all of the trails weren't completed earlier this a.m. Snow was a little deep where it drifted, but that should help us have snow for an extended time. It was really difficult to see the skate trail in places - sorry for the soft stuff, but I will try to enhance and refine tomorrow morning. Classic came out well, especially south of Hammel Road - you're right Dan - deep tracks and clearly defined. Enjoy your trails!!
Bill
- William McConnell
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Sat, Feb 27: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Do we really need a report today?! It's AWESOME! Classic tracks are deep and pretty firm considering how much snow we have received in the last week. I can't remember ever skiing in such a nice track in SE Mich. Hats off to the grooming team.
I can't think of what your excuse would be today, so GET OUT AND SKI!!!
Great to see all the cars and ski buddies today!
- Dan Motowski
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Sat, Feb 27: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
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Fri, Feb 26: Midland City Forest (Midland)
Very nice conditions with good snow coverage despite the lack of grooming.
- Will Brewster
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Fri, Feb 26: Independance Oaks (Clarkston)
Still snowing with minimal grooming at 2PM. Tough to skate, no classic track set.
Was told grooming is 'planned'. Hopefully they execute to improve conditions for Saturday
- TB
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Fri, Feb 26: Burchfield Park (Holt)
Tons of fabulous new snow. Skied the park late yesterday afternoon and all the trails were grommed and tracked. Classic was near perfect using Start Terva kick wax. The Lansing lads reported conditions were a still a bit soft skating. More snow today.
- John Kruger
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Fri, Feb 26: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Skate loops will be groomed this morning all other trails will be groomed when the snow stops. The golf couse is very windy so the lake loop is you best option for skating. All trails will be groomed Saturday before 9:00am.
- Adam
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Fri, Feb 26: Huron Meadows Metropark (Brighton)
Fresh snow, fresh grooming. Snow was somewhat soft and fluffy after the evening accumulation. Wind may be an issue on some of the Frosty 15 trail route. Wooded areas are in great shape. Walkers are still an issue though. More snow on the way?? NEW RENTAL SKIS have arrived and will be available this weekend - tell a friend who might want to get started in nordic skiing - conditions are right.
Bill - groomer HM
- William McConnell
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Michigan: Southwest Lower Peninsula
South of West Branch, West of Lansing; includes Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Big Rapids, Cadillac |
Thu, Mar 11: Deerfield Park (Mount Pleasant)
The interior trails at Deerfield are in surprisingly good shape for spring skiing, with a an inch or so of wet corn on a semi-solid base underneath. Skied around noon today. Your best bet is looping the Raceway to the Wildwood Pathway to the Natures Way trail -- all have goog coverage. The Riverloop has many bare spots and should be avoided. The outer loop is skiable with a few detours. The trail from the parking lot to the bridge requires a few portages. Rock skis recommended.
- Steve Steffke
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Wed, Mar 3: Love Creek (Berrien Center)
Pretty good skiing on softened transformed snow. No rock skis needed yet. Got faster as the sun went down and the track started to get crusty. Probably better to wait until it softens a bit tomorrow.
- Randy Bladel
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Sun, Feb 28: Randys Private Stash (Greenville)
Enjoyed an hour of fun rolling terrain that was perfectly rolled and groomed. thanks for the tour of you Ski Trails Randy!
- Rick Plite
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Sat, Feb 27: Cannonsburg State Game Area (Grand Rapids)
Skied the Game Area today. Forgot how fun the first and last sections are. Section 2 is a bit too tight. Fresh snow and warm temps made kick and glide tough.
Hit Siedman and Pickerel next and Siedman was fast, packed down and a blast. Pickerel was back to slow skiing but not sticky for my wax vr65. Saw my first snow fleas of the winter, damn, spring is coming.
Glad to do a Trifecta, next year toss in Pando, what is that a Quadfecta?
Thanks for joining me at CSGA Scott and Paul !
- Rick Plite
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Sat, Feb 27: Milham Park Golf Course (Kalamazoo)
Milham was groomed this morning. Skiers should find good conditions. The trail has full coverage and is not dirty with sticks and such. Please try to stay of the trails when above freezing; noon/oneish to sixish. We are unable to remove the deep skate marks left behind and with little snow still is the forecast lets try to make the trail last as long as we can. Thank You.
- Richard Neumann - Kalamazoo Nordic Skiers
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Fri, Feb 26: Ludington State Park (Ludington)
Very windy but that was OK. The snow was at least a foot deep from the recent storm. Someone was very nice to set tracks for classical skiing. Perfect conditions especially for late Feb. Definitely looks like mid-winter up here.
- Mark Melinn
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Fri, Feb 26: Pickerel Lake (Grand Rapids)
2" fresh and surprisingly fast snow. No foot traffic. Pando looked to be groomed as recently as yesterday. vr45
- Rick Plite
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Fri, Feb 26: Seidman Park (Ada)
trail was in great shape with little or no foot traffic. fast yet forgiving tracks. vr45
- Rick Plite
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Fri, Feb 26: Pigeon Creek (Grand Haven)
The trails are in great shape today. Skating lanes were freshly combed and the diagonal tracks solid. Very fast. Should be a great weekend of skiing at Pigeon Preek.
- Jim Stark
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Michigan: Northern Lower Peninsula
North of West Branch; includes Traverse City, Grayling, Gaylord, Tawas |
Thu, Mar 11: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The warm weather continues. The temps are so warm that grooming the trails would damage them further.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Ungroomed spring conditions prevail. The Rolling Hills, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey trails are the only trails that do not have long stretches of bare ground.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 11
Areas of morning fog. Mostly cloudy. High 59F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph.
Tonight March 11
Overcast with showers at times. Low 39F. Winds E at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Tomorrow March 12
Cloudy with occasional rain showers. High 56F. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 0 - 4
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 1 - 5
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
The Blizzard, Manitou, Adventure, Trappers Cabin and Tall Pines trails have some serious bare spots
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progrss! Call 800 832 2663 for mail order. Great prices.
Chances are good that we will receive at least one more round of winter before spring!
Lynne, Bob, Fran & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Wed, Mar 10: Boyne Highlands (Harbor Springs)
RACE UPDATE:
We still have plenty of base and at this time, we plan to hold the races this weekend.
Because of the uncertainty of the weather, the meal and prizes have been cancelled and we may have to alter the course somewhat. The fee will be reduced to $15 per day and will include a snack after the race.
A FINAL CALL ON THE RACES WILL TAKE PLACE FRIDAY AM BY JOHN GOBLE AND ROB DENDEL AND POSTED HERE BY NOON FRIDAY. Any questions, call us at 231 526 3029. Thanks.
- Gary Day
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Wed, Mar 10: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The weather really warmed up yesterday and our snow pack suffered. There is still good spring skiing on the Rolling Hills, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey trails but the temperature is so warm that grooming them would damage them further.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Ungroomed spring conditions prevail. The Rolling Hills, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey trails are the only trails that do not have long stretches of bare ground.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 10
Cloudy skies with a few showers this afternoon. High 54F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Tonight March 10
Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 38F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Tomorrow March 11
Cloudy skies. High 57F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph.
Friday March 12
Showers. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the upper 30s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 0 - 4
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 1 - 5
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
The Blizzard, Manitou, Adventure, Trappers Cabin and Tall Pines trails have some serious bare spots
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progress!
Spicy Chili is today's lunch special.
We are hopeful that later in March winter will return!
Lynne, Bob, Fran & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Tue, Mar 9: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
I cannot ever remember such GR-R-REAT skiing after so many warm days & nights, with such purr-fect trail conditions. Not many out midday, besides Roger Raehl(after grooming, thanks!), Paula Dreeszen, Debby Westphal & Vita Morse. I skied all of the 27k from Timber Ridge in race direction, and only melting spots were the 2 south-facing crossings of the 27k powerlines, and the bottom of the Jack Pine hill up to the Vasa food station. Between The Rock & TR, the snow fleas were so thick in the classic track that it looked like black asphalt. It was 50 when I finished and still good skiing, esp since it may be my last LSD day (long, SLOW day) of the season! Waxless rules!
- Sara Cockrell
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Tue, Mar 9: Green Timbers, Pigeon River Country (Wolverine/Vanderbilt)
G.T. This morning was top-notch Backcountry Performance Skiing. Crust was hard and fast everywhere. Top speeds effortless on the flats. Hills take some skills as snowplowing is relatively ineffective. Tomorrow morning might still be good until 10:00. Really Ski Free Northern Michigan Open Wild Highland Savanna. It will all be over by tomorrow afternoon. Remember this for next year. This place is incredible. Easy to find; easy to park. On Trowbridge/Fontanalis Road Southeast of Wolverine and Norhteast of Vanderbilt. Park at large open field at sunrise and head East and Northeast. Sometimes we have to tuck our skis under are arms and hike a little ways. Keep going. If it gets cold enough tonight you will be rewarded.
- David Spieser
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Tue, Mar 9: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
I skied the 27 loop started early, very good skiing, no bare spots. The f in skis I used at Black mt worked great today.
- Glenn Goodman
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Tue, Mar 9: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
As of 6:40am the temperature was 22 degrees. This is very good. As long as the snow pack gets frozen at night we will be able to continue grooming.
All the snow in the woods that is shaded is still holding up well. The result is that the best trails now are the Mackinac cut, Wild Turkey Adventure and Rolling Hills. The rest of the trails have some serious bare spots.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Groomer Greg will ginzu grooming and setting fresh tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey and Trapper's Cabin trails this morning at 9am.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 09
A mix of clouds and sun. High 52F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 09
Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Low 33F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 10
Overcast with showers at times. High around 50F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Thursday March 11
Mostly Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the upper 30s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 4 - 8
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 3 - 7
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: The Blizzard, Manitou and Tall Pines trails have some serious bare spots
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progrss!
Spicy Chili is today's lunch special.
Spring X-C Skiing is a perfect way to spend your day!
Lynne, Bob, Fran & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Mon, Mar 8: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Good snow conditions yet for XC skiing in Northern Michigan, but thinning fast! "Spring skiing" is HERE: good early as crispiness softens (excellent, fast skate skiing!), slower and soft midday, then fast again in late afternoon and in the woods. Great morning "Crust Cruising" should be coming on as well, OFF TRAILS.
Timing is everything. Mid morning ski conditions are excellent as snow thaws. Getting very soft by afternoon and melting away rapidly. Get out and MAKE TRACK!
- Lou Awodey
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Mon, Mar 8: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Monday, March 8, 2010
What a great day on the Sun Deck yesterday. Not only did Bob Hagerman make up a fine batch of Cajun Gombo but the Catch and Release Blues Band played an outdoor concert in the sunshine!
It is still getting cool enough at night to groom in the morning. All the snow in the woods that is shaded is still holding up well. The result is that the best trails now are the Mackinac cut, Wild Turkey Adventure and Rolling Hills. The rest of the trails have some serious bare spots.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Groomer Greg started grooming the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, and the Manitou trails this morning at 6am.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 08
Plentiful sunshine. High 52F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 08
Clear to partly cloudy. Low near 25F. Winds light and variable.
Tomorrow March 09
Generally sunny despite a few afternoon clouds. High 54F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday March 10
Occasional showers possible. Highs in the upper 40s and lows in the upper 30s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 6 - 10
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 3 - 7
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: The Blizzard, Manitou and Tall Pines trails have some serious bare spots
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progrss!
Cajun Gumbo and Spicy Chili are today's lunch specials.
This will be fine sunny day to get outdoors!
Lynne, Bob, Fran & & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Sun, Mar 7: Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls)
Skated all of Boyne Highlands system on Friday and the lower trails at Boyne Mountain on Saturday. Conditions were excellent both days between 10:30 and 1:30. Rob has been grooming the Highlands nice and wide. We were able to skate three abreast for some stretches and carve turns on the steep downhills. Gotta love the warming huts for yoga breaks. Petoskey State Park is packed hard and wide and the Hemlock shade keeps most of it from getting too soft throughout the day. Portage trail in the PSP offers a quarter mile of roller coaster action and most of the trails are wide enough for rough-skating. Short, sweet, top-notch local single track free-for-all! This week should be the time to hit the Pigeon River Country Green Timbers area for the backcountry crust-skate mecca! Plenty of room there for everybody. Ski Free!
- David Spieser
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Sun, Mar 7: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
Skied the 27k backwards from Timber Ridge, passing many other smiling skiers out enjoying lots of sunshine & high 40 temps, including Janine & Jay Hardin, Connie Zoutendyk, Dan & Judy Yeager, Nancy & John Briggs, Cliff Onthank, Pat Hall, Connie Brown... Good, deep classic tracks, and completely covered skate lane.
A few skaters reported having a scary descent on the hardpack down Anita Hill earlier in the morn. By the time I got to the Wall around noon, even my snowplow was a little too close for my comfort to the tree at the bottom, but my skis finally made the right turn at the last minute, whew! And, thanks to Paul for a great grooming fix-up from the truck trailblazer last night.
- Sara Cockrell
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Sun, Mar 7: Nubs Nob (Harbor Springs)
Skied Sat and Sun am. Trail power-tilled both mornings. 14 feet wide with set track, excellent conditions. Velvet snow. Ideal air temp seems around mid 30's, maybe soft later.
- greg putalik
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Sun, Mar 7: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Welcome to Springtime Skiing under sun drenched landscape. Timing is everything. Mid morning ski conditions are excellent as snow thaws. Getting very soft by afternoon and melting away. Get out and MAKE TRACK! Still enough snow on all trails, but bare spots will start growing. Rafting trips on the Jordan available today as well. Some crust cruising early in the morning too. ENJOY!!!!
- Lou Awodey
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Sun, Mar 7: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Sunday, March 7, 2010
What a beautiful day yesterday. The only problem is that is was a little too sunny! The number of bare spots increased on the Manitou Trail. The Rolling Hills Trails, Adventure, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey trails are still holding their own.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Groomer Greg started grooming the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, and the Manitou trails this morning at 6am. These are very good Spring X-C Skiing conditions!
The Blizzard and Tall Pines trails have gotten sunburned and will not be groomed today.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 07
Partly cloudy. High 48F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 07
Mainly clear. Low near 25F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 08
Mostly sunny skies. High 51F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED:6 - 10
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 3 - 7
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
There are a few mors small bare spots on the Manitou that are easy to ski around.
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progrss!
Today is the Cajun Gumbo Music Fest in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge and on the Sun Deck - Enjoy Pat and Bob Hagermans famous New Orleans Cajun Gumbo over rice. Add the File Powder and Hot Sauce to taste. $5 for the Gumbo and that includes the Band! Enjoy some of the best live music North of Jackson by the Catch and Release Blues Band.
A day of sun, X-C Skiing, good food and music!
Lynne, Bob, Caterina, Chase, Amy, Jennie, Shelby & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Sat, Mar 6: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Saturday, March 6, 2010
As 6:17am this morning the temperature was 11 degrees. These cold nights continue to save the snow pack.
Groomer Greg started grooming the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, and the Manitou trails this morning at 6am. This is Spring X-C Skiing at it's best!
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and renovated classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, and the Manitou trails. Very good conditions prevail on these trails.
The Blizzard and Tall Pines trails have gotten sunburned and will not be groomed today.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 06
Plenty of sunshine. High 44F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 06
Mostly clear. Low 23F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 07
Partly cloudy. High 48F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: There are a few small bare spots on the Manitou that are easy to ski around.
EVENTS:
The March Sale is underway!
Back by popular demand, grill cook Matt Stone will be grilling your favorite steak, burger or Koegel Skinless Franks on the Sun Deck this afternoon.
Tomorrow, come to the Cajun Gumbo Music Fest in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge and on the Sun Deck - Feast on Pat and Bob Hagermans famous New Orleans Cajun Gumbo over rice. Add the File Powder and Hot Sauce to taste. $5 for the Gumbo and that includes the Band! Enjoy some of the best live music North of Lansing by the Catch and Release Blues Band. Gumbo is served at 1pm and the Band starts at 2pm.
Enjoy this sunny day: X-C Ski!
Lynne, Bob, Caterina, Chase, Matt, Chelsea, Shelby & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Fri, Mar 5: Black Mountain (Onaway)
It is still the middle of winter on Black Mountain. There were shaded areas where the snow was still untransformed with mildly transformed snow in most areas and transformed snow where the sun has been hitting hard. I think most will be very pleasantly surprised by the conditions. Some four wheeler (exemplative) were out last night and destroyed the lake crossing making large water filled ruts everywhere. Anyway, I spent my day fixing everything the best I could. It actually worked out pretty good. We should have a very good race!
- Denny Paull
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Fri, Mar 5: Grayling Area (Grayling)
Welcome to March and spring ski conditions! To follow are the latest reports.
Forbush Corner: Friday, March 5, 7:30 am. 5 deg f!!!! As long as it gets so cold at night there is not much worry of losing snow thru the day. Tonight and Saturday night that will be the case with highs up into the 40's. That means that there will be a sweet spot for skiing in the late morning and early afternoon and then again in the late afternoon. Mid afternoon, I would expect things to go very slowly. Very early and very late will be too fast. The snow is holding up very well. Expect some dirty spots but they can be skied around without leaving the trail. Expecting to have the "Hydro trail" open in the morning. Today, Friday we will be closed but open on Saturday and Sunday.
Hanson Hills: Trails are in good condition.. Groomed today... nice firm tracks... Great skiing.
XC Ski Headquarters: As 6:12 am this morning the temperature was 6 degrees. These cold nights continue to save the snow pack. Groomer Bob will start grooming all trails this morning at 8am. These sunny days are some of the best March X-C Sking days ever.
XC Ski Shop: TRAILS ARE GROOMED and IN EXCELLENT CONDITION with Double Set Tracks and Big Skating.A couple of small bare spots may start appearing with all this glorious sunshine. LIGHTS ARE ON! COME AND ENJOY! NO TRAIL FEE. FREE LIGHTED TRAIL. Open 7 nights per week till 11:00PM. 8/10 Mile LIGHTED LOOP with Double Set Track and Big Skating Lane.
- Illene, Grayling Visitors Bureau
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Fri, Mar 5: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Great snow conditions yet for XC skiing in Northern Michigan. "Spring skiing" is coming on now: good early as crispiness softens (excellent, fast skate skiing!), slower and soft midday, then fast again in late afternoon and in the woods. Great morning "Crust Cruising" should be coming on as well, OFF TRAILS.
Trails at Aspen Grove XC Center maintained goods snow cover and ski conditions for both classical and skate skiing. All trails are groomed and in very good condition. The weather report is comfortable with fine spring skiing on new snow! Make tracks, It's Pure Michigan!
- Lou Awodey
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Fri, Mar 5: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Friday, March 5, 2010
As 6:12 am this morning the temperature was 6 degrees. These cold nights continue to save the snow pack. Groomer Bob will start grooming all trails this morning at 8am. These sunny days are some of the best March X-C Sking days ever.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and renovated classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very good freshly Ginzu groomed conditions.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 05
Plentiful sunshine. High 39F. Winds light and variable.
Tonight March 05
Mostly clear. Low 17F. Winds light and variable.
Tomorrow March 06
Mainly sunny. High 44F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday March 07
Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the low 30s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
There are some very low snow spots on the Tall Pines Trail
EVENTS:
The March Sale is in progrss!
Tuna paninis are today's lunch special.
Sunday 1 PM - Cajun Gumbo Music Fest in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge - Feast on Pat and Bob Hagermans famous New Orleans Cajun Gumbo over rice. Add the File Powder and Hot Sauce to taste. $5 for the Gumbo and that includes the Band! Enjoy some of the best live music North of Lansing by the Catch and Release Blues Band.
Good luck to all of tomorrow's Black Mountain Racers!
Lynne, Bob, Caterina, Shelby & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Thu, Mar 4: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
Ditto to Jody's comments for Paula Dreezsen & me today on the PURR-fectly groomed Vasa trail. Deep, firm classic tracks, great corduroy layer over the hardpacked base, and many others enjoying spring skiing, including Linda Deneen, Connie Z, Eddie Andres, Riley Messer, Dennis Murphy, Matt & Judy Vajda, .... Midday, it was too soft to crust ski, but doesn't get any better with all that warm sunshine! And, I met a trail report fan of mine, Linda in her '90s Vasa jacket, with a friend of Paula's, Mari. Always a good day on the Vasa!
- Sara Cockrell
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Thu, Mar 4: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
A perfect "10" today. The trail was groomed to perfection. Hard to beat it with sun, no wind, blue skies, and lots of smiles. Still lots of good snow out there to enjoy.
- Jody Hofstra
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Thu, Mar 4: Chris' Course (Rapid City (Traverse City))
Super spring skiing. Crisp and crusty early (10AM) - violet kickwax works great, then softening-to-damp when the sun comes out (1pm) with red kicker and klister (k22n universal) working great. The skate lane is good in either case. Use a medium linear rill, and a blue or violet glider with some flouro. I hope the Black Mountain course is similar. (231)384-0978.
- Bob Eifler
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Thu, Mar 4: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Groomer greg had great success in setting fresh tracks yesterday and the skiing stayed fabulous all day long.
As 6:20 am this morning the temperature was 8 degrees. These cold nights are really saving the snow pack. Groomer Greg will started grooming all trails this morning at 6am. These are some of the best March X-C Sking days ever.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and freshly set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very good freshly groomed conditions.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 04
Sunshine. High near 35F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 04
Some clouds. Low near 15F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 05
Partly cloudy skies. High 38F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday March 06
Abundant sunshine. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 20s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
There are some very low snow spots on the Tall Pines Trail
EVENTS:
The March is in progrss!
The Cajun Gumbo Blues Fest comes to Cross Country Ski HQ this Sunday!
Jimmy paninis are today' s lunch special.
Another beautiful day to X-C Ski!
Lynne, Bob, Chase, Caterina, Shelby & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Wed, Mar 3: Green Timbers, Pigeon River Country (Vanderbilt)
Headed out at sunrise seeking off-trail, open-prairie crust we could stay on top of but snow is still very deep (up to two feet) and we were punching through constantly even with full-length Europa 99's. Even all of the animal tracks exhibited the same pattern; on top for a bit and then busting through. Apparently still a little premature for spring crust-skate heaven but this is the place to be when the time is right. We will keep trying.
- David Eric Spieser
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Wed, Mar 3: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Great snow conditions yet for XC skiing in Northern Michigan. "Spring skiing" is coming on now: good early as crispiness softens (excellent, fast skate skiing!), slower and soft midday, then fast again in late afternoon and in the woods. Great morning "Crust Cruising" should be coming on as well, OFF TRAILS.
Trails at Aspen Grove XC Center maintained goods snow cover and ski conditions for both classical and skate skiing. All trails are groomed and in very good condition. The weather report is comfortable with fine spring skiing on new snow! Make tracks, It's Pure Michigan!
- Lou Awodey
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Wed, Mar 3: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The skiing is great in the morning after grooming, but around 1pm the skiing gets a little slower. Then later in the afternoon around 5pm the trails get cold and crusty.
As 6:20 am this morning the temperature was 10 degrees. Groomer Greg will start grooming all trails this morning at 9am when the snow has warmed up a little and setting new tracks will be easier.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly Ginzu groomed skating lanes and freshly set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very good Ginzu groomed conditions.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 03
Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 36F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 03
A few passing clouds. Low 18F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 04
Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High around 35F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Friday March 05
Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the low 20s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
There are some very low snow spots on the Tall Pines Trail
EVENTS:
The March sale starts today!
Chicken pesto flatbread paninis are today' s lunch special.
Another beautiful sunny day to X-C Ski!
Lynne, Bob, Chase, Shelby & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Tue, Mar 2: Black Mountain (Onaway)
Good snow coverage remains on the Mountain. Preparations of the lake for the start/finish have been occuring. Compaction of a large swath across the lake has been necessary to reduce the chances of water over the trail on race day. The evenings continue to be very cold (11F) this morning with day time temps in the mid 30's. More of the same is expected through race day on Saturday. The 10k race/tour will start at 9:30 with the 31 km classic starting at 10:00.
- Denny Paull
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Tue, Mar 2: Reindeer Run Nordic Center (Empire)
improving conditions for skating
and it is fast
10:15am 28f sunny dead air
326 5216
- kevinski slowski
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Tue, Mar 2: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The warmer afternoons are creating more spring like conditions. The skiing is fast and great in the morning after grooming, but around 1pm the skiing gets a little slower. Then later in the afternoon around 4pm the trails get cold and crusty.
As 6:20 am this morning the temperature was 9 degrees. This is good. Groomer Greg started grooming all trails this morning at 6am.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and freshly renovated classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are renovated on the Tall Pines and Adventure Trails. Very good freshly groomed spring conditions
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 02
A mix of a few clouds and lots of sun. High 34F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight March 02
Some clouds. Low 18F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 03
Mostly cloudy early, then afternoon sunshine. High around 35F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday March 04
Partly cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the upper teens.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.:
There are some very low snow spots on the Tall Pines Trail and the back end of the Adventure Trail.
EVENTS:
The March sale is underway!
For today's lunch special we will serve Famous Chili and a sourdough roll.
Thanks to Bob Ampulski for the following Muffin race photo album: http://web.me.com/ontrackrr/Muffin_2010/Muffin_Race_2010.html
Lynne, Bob, Chase & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Mon, Mar 1: Chris' Course (Rapid City (Traverse City))
HEAVEN!!! Cross country skiing with my sweetie on our glourious backdoor course. Our 1 mile loop is fast, nicely textured, and beautiful(a little soft in places). Blue or violet glide wax works well with a shallow medium linear rill. Blue extra to violet is the ticket for kick wax. I am getting Chris some skate skis Sunday after the Black Mountain Classis race, so we will keep the skate lane packed for the rest of the season. Call (231)384-0978.
Thanks Max and Denny for keeping us posted on conditions and ski prep for the Black Mountain Classic.
-
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Mon, Mar 1: Vasa Trail (Traverse City)
Nice hardpack trail conditions this morning. Due to yesterday morning's grooming, the trail surface has not been allowed to compact down into a hard unforgiving experience. Instead, despite Sunday's crowd of weekend skiers, there is still a soft and gentle feel to the trail providing a fast and fully controllable cruise through the woods.
Best skiing is before 11am while its still below 32F.
Despite forecasts of sun and above freezing daytime temps for all of this week, the base is so thick that we have plenty of weeks of good skiing remaining.
- Jim Datsko
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Mon, Mar 1: Black Mountain (Onaway)
To add to the information posted by Max....I skied this morning and the tracks were deep and firm. The Mountain received about 5 inches of heavy snow on Friday over an already deep base. With our grooming equipment we can compact scrape and pulverize to a degree but we do not have a rotary piston bully. That said, I would expect a very firm set of classic track with a wide corduoroy skate lane to the left which will assist those not wanting to stay in the classic tracks on steeper downhills. Those familiar with the course should agree that Black Mountain is not highly technical. There are a couple of corners which will likely be snow plowed but overall the hills are of the run-out type. I would expect a fast and fun course for the first half and maybe a little slower for the last half. I will send daily updates. Lets try to get as many folks out for the 31km classic and 10km tour/race as possible both for fun and a show of support for this epic trail system.
- Denny Paull
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Mon, Mar 1: Reindeer Run Nordic Center (Empire)
Still in the snow biz. I hope for some time yet...
with the latest accumulations we have up to a 30" base.
Last day for Sleeping Bear Ski Club from Glen Lake who had an awsome showing at the Jr Muffin.
326 5216
- kevinski slowski
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Mon, Mar 1: Black Mt. (Cheboygan-Greater Onaway Area)
To try to give Bob Eifler a answer will be pretty vague for Saturday's Black Mt. Classic Race. There is more than enough snow with none forecast for the rest of the week. Sunshine looks to be in order through Saturday. It will be Spring conditions with a freeze-thaw cycle thru Sat. That translates to a cold fast start with warming conditions starting halfway thru the race. There will probably be the usual pre race frenzy as to how to wax. The only advice I can give is bring everything. Hard wax, klister, no wax skis and a strong set of arms and shoulders. Try skiing somewhere between the hours of ten and twelve this week and that might give you a idea of what to expect on Sat.
- Max Johnson
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Mon, Mar 1: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Monday, March 1, 2010
Thanks to all racers, volunteers, timers and staff for help to host yesterday's Jr Muffin races. 50 junior racers competed and every one had a great time.
As of 6:20 am this morning the temperature was 21 degrees. These cold nights help hold on to the snow pack and keep our ski conditions in great shape. Groomer Greg started grooming all trails this morning at 6am.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and freshly set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very, very good freshly groomed conditions
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today March 01
Variably cloudy with light snow flurries possible. High 34F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Precipitation 30%
Tonight March 01
Snow flurries or snow showers. Low 18F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Precipitation 30%
Tomorrow March 02
Scattered snow flurries and snow showers before noon. Becoming partly cloudy later. High 34F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
Wednesday March 03
Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the upper teens.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: No icy or bare spots
EVENTS:
The March sale starts today!
For today's lunch special we will serve some of the best pulled pork (only $5 per person) this side of the Mississippi River!
The snow is waiting for your tracks!
Lynne, Bob, Fran, Chase & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Sun, Feb 28: Black Mountain (Onaway)
What is the latest with the Black Mountain trail? Come race time, what structure/glide wax do we need? Should we plan on klister? Please keep us informed.
- Bob Eifler
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Sun, Feb 28: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Great weekend for cross country skiing in Northern Michigan, and with 4"new snow! Trails at Aspen Grove are in great conditions; all will be regroomed today and as needed with new snow this week. Make tracks; the winter is winding down!
Instructional Skate Ski clinics taking place today, Sun. Read the information given on the Nordic Ski Racer home website or call me: 231-620-5679.
- Lou Awodey
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Sun, Feb 28: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Sunday, February 28, 2010
This morning we will host the 17th Annual Muffin Race. Registration starts at 10am. The senior racers (ages 11 to 19) will race only on the Rolling Hills and Tall Pines trail and will be finished by 12:30. All of the rest of the trails will be open all day from 10am. Spectators will enjoy watching some of the fastest youth racers in the state compete.
The younger racers (up to 10 years) will race on the Blizzard trail after the finish of the seniors race.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Groomer Greg started grooming today at 6am.
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and freshly set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very, very good freshly groomed conditions
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today February 28
Variably cloudy with light snow flurries possible. High 32F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight February 28
Snow flurries or snow showers. Low 21F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow March 01
Snow flurries or snow showers. High 32F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 7 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 4 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: No icy or bare spots
EVENTS:
The Midwinter Sale continues!
This afternoon we will serve some of the best pulled pork (only $5 per person) this side of the Mississippi River!
Another great day to X-C Ski!
Lynne, Bob, Fran, Caterina, Chase, Amy, Catlin, Matt & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Sat, Feb 27: Hanson Hills (Grayling)
Trails are excellent once again... Fresh skate lanes and set track on all trails..
www.hansonhills.org
- Justin Andre
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Sat, Feb 27: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Saturday, February 27, 2010
We are a little jealous of all the snow coming down east (like Manhattan) of us where it isnt very appreciated! Fortunately we do have enough snow for very, very good X-C conditions. Groomer Greg started grooming this morning at 6:00 am.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snow combed skating lanes and freshly set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Shallow tracks are set on the Tall Pines trail. Very, very good freshly groomed conditions.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today February 27
Variable clouds with snow showers. High 33F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 40%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.
Tonight February 27
Intermittent flurries and snow showers, especially early. Low 23F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
Tomorrow February 28
Variably cloudy with light snow flurries possible. High around 35F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 9 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 5 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: No icy or bare spots
EVENTS:
The Midwinter Sale continues!
Get your "fill at the grill" returns today by popular demand. Grill cook Matt Stone will grill to perfection your choice of Tilapia, Bratwurst, Steak or Hamburger, put it in a bun, and serve it hot along with chips and veggies.
Tomorrow morning registration for the Muffin race starts at 10am and after the race we will serve some of the best pulled pork this side of the Mississippi River!
Looks like a fine day to go X-C Sking in the forest.
Lynne, Bob, Fran, Caterina & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Fri, Feb 26: Aspen Grove XC (East Jordan)
Great weekend for cross country skiing coming on in Northern Michigan, and with some new snow! Trails at Aspen Grove are in great conditions; all will be regroomed for the weekend and as needed with new snow. Make tracks; the winter is winding down!
Instructional clinics taking place this weekend, Sat. and Sun. Read the information given on the Nordic Ski Racer home website.
- Lou Awodey
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Fri, Feb 26: XC Ski Headquarters (Higgins Lake)
Friday, February 26, 2010
The snow is so perfect that when classical skiing or skating your glide seems to last for a very long time. Excellent X-C conditions. Groomer Greg started grooming this morning at 6:00 am.
SKIING & SNOW CONDITIONS:
Freshly snowcombed skating lanes and freshly deep set classic tracks on the Rolling Hills, Adventure, Mackinac Cut, Wild Turkey, Trapper's Cabin, Tall Pines, Blizzard and the Manitou trails. Excellent freshly groomed conditions.
GENERAL SNOW & WEATHER CONDITIONS:
Today February 26
Windy with snow showers this morning evolving to a steady snow for the afternoon. High 29F. Winds NNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 70%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
Tonight February 26
Occasional snow showers. Low 22F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 50%. About one inch of snow expected.
Tomorrow February 27
Intermittent snow showers, especially early. High 34F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
Sunday February 28
Mostly Cloudy. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the low 20s.
SNOW DEPTH IN WOODS, UNPACKED: 9 - 11
SNOW DEPTH PACKED ON SKI TRAILS: 5 - 8
BARE SPOTS, CRUSTED, GLAZED, ETC.: No icy or bare spots
EVENTS:
The Midwinter Sale continues!
Tuna paninis are today's lunch special.
Get your "fill at the grill" returns by populsr demand tomorrow.
The Junior Muffin Race takes place this Sunday! Registration starts at 10am.
Lynne, Bob, Fran, Caterina & Crew
- Bob Frye
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Michigan: Upper Peninsula
Michigan: Upper Peninsula |
Thu, Mar 11: Noquemanon Trail-Forestville (Marquette)
*Noquemanon: All trails open, but expect dirt to start showing as temperatures remain warm, especially on south facing slopes like Boozhoo and by the ponds @ Tourist Park.
Expect the road to be rough, some deep puddles and pot holes. We will work on the condition and keep you updated.
G=Groomed T=Tracked or Comments
TRAIL - First Priority
Noque FV to 14K T Saturday, Sk8 lanes freshened on Tuesday
Animoosh T Saturday, Sk8 lanes freshened on Tuesday
Wabaan T Saturday, Sk8 lanes freshened on Tuesday
Mukwa T Saturday, Sk8 lanes freshened on Tuesday
Migizi G & T Saturday
Gookookoo G & T Saturday
Papasay G & T Saturday
Boozhoo T Saturday, Sk8 lanes freshened on Tuesday
Zhing G & T Saturday
Bagwagi G & T Sunday
Chiwagi G & T Sunday
Stadium G & T Saturday
Connectors G & T Saturday
TRAIL - Second Priority
Noque from 14K to 510 G & T Wednesday
TRAIL - Third Priority
Noque - FV to Tourist Park G & T Wednesday, Possible dirt on south slopes
*Blueberry Ridge: Set to be groomed and tracked on this afternoon, use caution on the down hills if it freezes. Note: Wildcat was not tracked. Grooming done at Blueberry Ridge is under contract with the DNR and the schedule is controlled accordingly.
*Saux Head: Groomed and tracked last Friday. No groomed set for the week. Stay tuned as the weekend approaches. Saux Head is groomed weekly on Fridays unless otherwise stated.
*Valley Spur: Groomed and tracked Tuesday. Next track set for Friday. Groom set for Saturday morning. Please note that trails E, F, G & Z are closed. For more information visit the Valley Spur Website at www.valleyspur.org or call 906.387.4918.
*Fit Strip: Groomed weekly on Mondays
*Big Bay Pathway: Big Bay trails are classic only and groomed each Friday evening or Saturday morning. Big Bay, MI, 25 miles north of Marquette.
*Al Quaal: Groomed and tracks set on most Mondays.
- NTN
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Thu, Mar 11: ABR Trails (Ironwood)
We have had some warm temps this week, like other Midwest Ski areas. We even had 2 hours of rain today. What we have had is 165 inches of snow and almost daily grooming with a Pisten Bully so our base is packed and can survive warm temps and some rain. We are still grooming daily, today we groomed 31 km of skate and classic trails. We may not last until the end of March if the warm temps and or rain continues on a daily basis. My guess is we will make it through this weekend and then take a look at the trail and weather forecast to decide the plan.
- ABR Trails
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Thu, Mar 4: Valley Spur (Munising)
22F in a.m. and 33F by 3pm; Low today(friday a.m. is 8F) Good snow coverage and cold temps allow groomer to get out early.
Skating was great in a.m. In afternoon full sun came out and some places in the sun slowed a little. Classic tracks are good. Classic skiers use hard wax in a.m. and no-wax in afternoon. George swears by green klister base and universal klister on top.
Majority of system slopes north and is heavily wooded so sun does not hit trails directly.
Taste & Glide this Sat. Three tables of catered food, proceeds to cover our non-profits grooming expenses. www.valleyspur.org
- john Gierke
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Wed, Mar 3: John Gierke (Appleton)
35"+ in the woods; 14"+ base; New snow from last week has not transformed. Do not think of bringing your rock skis. No ice, no leaves, no pine needles, and no dirt. Great spring skiing. Best in a.m. and later in afternoon.
Still able to use VR40-45 on lower trails. Skier using Start Universal Grip Tape had great results despite rising temps from teens early a.m. to mid 30's by afternoon.
Do not miss Taste & Glide Saturday which is trail grooming fundraiser. Three tables of catered food along the trail. The Birkie is over so you can back it down a notch.
- John Gierke
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Ontario, Canada
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Wed, Mar 10: Hiawatha Highlands (Sault Ste. Marie)
This is likely the last report of the season up here at Hiawatha. Our base levels have been losing the battle of the sunshine with mild temperatures. We are getting one more pass on our Pinder system this morning as well as the Kinsmen Loop. These two areas will have a decent track set with a very good skate lane.Today we have our last school programme out on the trails. Overall we had a fantastic season of skiing and Hiawatha would like to thank all our visitors and hope to see you again next year!!
- Gil Edwards
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Mon, Mar 8: Stokely Creek (Goulais River)
Around the trails just up from the lodge the snow cover is plenty. No bare spots to run into and well groomed trails with perfect tracks for cruising along. Generally sunny with low wind conditions.
Classic style from trail marker 1-6, then 7 to 11-13 and up to the warming hut for a view of Walker Lake. On the way back to the lodge we took trails 16-18 and then 8-1.
Overall a great few days even though the weather is warming up. Happy Trails!
- Annabelle Peters
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Mon, Mar 8: Hardwood Hills (Barrie)
Fantastic conditions for the Fischer Loppet on Saturday! They had impeccable grooming on wonderful snow and the the weather was perfect! They still have plenty of snow in the area, very interesting hills and beautiful scenery! If you want a new place to ski, this would be one to try!
- Linda S. Weeks
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Sun, Mar 7: Stokely Creek (Goulais River)
Great skiing on freshly groomed/tilled tracks. Majority of system groomed yesterday and again this morning. Walker and Evans Lakes are very skiable with warm wax/waxless. Zero open spots on trails. Wabos Loppet is this morning. 200 folks taking the SnowTrain from the Soo to a drop-off point near Searcmont for a 30k ski back to the warming room for a BBQ and fiddler band. Next weekend is the final weekend for the "Ski The Lakes" which incldes a BBQ on Walker Lake.
- Joe Drouillard
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Wed, Mar 3: Hiawatha Highlands (Sault Ste. Marie)
The trails at Hiawatha Highlands are in fantastic shape thanks to our new renovator fitted on our PB 100! Classic and skate conditions are mid season form even with so little snowfall over the last two months. Plenty of base to work with allowing all trails to be maintained in great shape with spring like temps.make for some excellent skiing!!
- Gil Edwards
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Sun, Feb 28: Stokely Creek (Goulais River)
Three inches of snow fri morning. Entire system regroomed fri. Fast and firm trails fresh corduroy. Warm wax or waxless.
- Joe
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Indiana
Indiana |
Tue, Mar 2: Elbel Golf Course ()
Ok..... I told it "Elbel Golf Course" for the above post, but it new better I guess, so it posted nothing.
- Shawn
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Tue, Mar 2: ()
Fantastic crust skiing! The course is completely covered with about 4-6" of frozen white. Should still be great for a couple days - the forecast is for mid 20's overnight.
- Shawn O'Brien
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Elsewhere
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Thu, Mar 4: Mt. Marcy and High Peaks Region (Lake Placid, NY)
5' of snow plus. That's actual depth on the ground. Ridiculous quantity of snow. Bring your back country skis, old bamboo poles that can take a nasty fall and have big baskets, and snow shoes in case of emergency. Use the Buddy System.
Skied the Mt. Marcy area over the weekend and camped at the Phelps Brook sites. Highlights included summitting Marcy, snowshowing off-trail back down to Phelps Brook, and skiing down to the LOJ with full sleds.
- Sean Kelly
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Ohio
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No reports for this region
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States East of Ohio
Includes New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia |
No reports for this region
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