Nordic Pulse

Saturday, January 18th. 7:40am

 

A rosy sunrise marked the start of the Martin Luter King Jr long weekend. A few wispy clouds in an otherwise clear sky glowed pink as first light revealed a bright moon still shining above a calm, clear day in the mountains. With a base snowpack of 98" and a forecast that calls for mostly sunny weather for many days to come, we've settled into a steady pattern of storm-free sliding and gliding around our favorite firm packed powder loops. Today's trail conditions remain firm and cold with a styrofoamy texture that will give way to more glide as the temps warm up during the course of the morning. We are starting off with an air temp reading of 14*F and a snow temp of -4F / -20C. The projected high for this afternoon is 30*

 

Given the hard, cold snow, grooming proceeds very slowly in these conditions. The snowcat has to till the solid surface into a workable powder product that can be shaped into corduroy and parallel tracks. Today the skate and classic groom is refreshed throughout the Upper (green) and Middle (blue) Trails as well as Lower Devecka's. Yesterday's groom remains skiable on the remainder of the Lower Trails (black trails). 

 

This is the last call to sign up for a special Sunset Snowshoe Tour, offered this evening and Sunday evening. Join local author and historian Glenn Voelz for a guided snowshoe tour of Mt Bachelor's Nordic trails. The hour-and-half interpretive tour begins at the Nordic Lodge and covers a two-mile route through snowy forests, ending with hot chocolate around a bonfire and breathtaking views of the Three Sisters Wilderness. On the tour, Glenn will discuss Mount Bachelor's natural and cultural history while guests enjoy the spectacular scenery of North America's seventh-largest ski resort. The weather looks promising for crisp, clear sunsets, which can be quite spectacular this time of year.

Planning details: The tour leaves promptly at 4:00 PM from the Nordic Lodge. Guests should bring a headlamp with fresh batteries and proper clothing layers for outdoor activity. Snowshoes, a trail pass, hot drinks, and a post-hike snack spread are included in the $59 tour price. The planned route covers approximately two miles of beginner to intermediate-level snowshoe trails with some hills and uneven terrain. Registration can be completed online: https://www.mtbachelor.com/the-mountain/nordic/events/sunset-snowshoe-tour-4-2025 or by calling the Nordic Lodge: 541-693-0999. Additional Sunset Snowshoe Tour dates are planned for the President's Weekend in February.