Nordic Pulse

Jan 29th: Grooming took place under clear skies on Wednesday night, with no new snow over the last few days, and just trace amounts at lower elvations since the melt 2 weeks ago- a little more snow has fallen at higher elevations.

The Ski For Light event is underway, utilizing Elkwood Campground for a race course for visually impaired skiers. Skiing will take place in this area all week with race day on Friday. Race tracksetting affects Wheeler and Amos in the Elkwood area; please use caution if skiing in this area and yield to visually impaired skiers and their guides- the race course is one way and counterclockwise around the full campground.

January has had very little snow, as well a melt in the middle of the month. With minimal new snow since the melt, trails are quite firm with some ice content at the surface; less icy conditions will exist on more recent grooming and at higher elevations where there was less of a melt and a little more recent snow. High winds throughout the month have added lots of tree debris and "snow bombs" to the trails (much of it mixed into the grooming) as well as many downed trees; these have been removed during grooming but there is the possibility of more downed trees on the trails. With the abundant December snow, there is a decent base for this time of year in PLPP, especially at higher elevations, but a few hazards may exist at lower elevations, including a few uneven surfaces, and possible slush or ice (the ground and marshy areas are warmer than normal for this time of year).