Winter has been teasing us. Early snow was followed by a melt, but snow has returned and cross country ski trails are being groomed and “skinny skiers” are once again traversing through the woods.
. Bally Creek Trails As of Friday Dec. 15, the Bally Creek trails received 6 inches of new snow for a total of 17 inches on the ground, reports Cathi Williams. Here is a list of the trails at Bally Creek that have been groomed and are open: Skijoring Trail, Wildlife Pond Loop, Rabbit Run, Eagle Man. Overlook, Bally Creek Loops, and skating Lane on USFS 158. Please note that USFS 158 is now closed to vehicle traffic north of Bally Creek Cabins and the road is groomed for classic and skate skiing. Also, note that dogs are only allowed on the 1K-skijoring trail, and people should watch their dogs carefully as there is a lot of wolf activity on the trails. USFS Road 158A has been groomed and is the site of a recent logging sale route with lots of clear cuts and nice vistas. A Minnesota Ski Pass is required and is available at all gas stations.
. Banadad Trail Banadad was last tracked on Wednesday, December 20. There are 16 to 17 kilometers groomed at this point, but as more snow falls, more of the trail will be opened for skiers. Skiing should be excellent except in a few open areas along the trail where drifting snow might have covered the trail. More info at: banadad.blogspot.com/ or call 218-388-4487
. Central Gunflint Ski Trails Plenty of snow and cold have set the trails up a with good base. Skiers are reporting good skiing still, wax-less or red wax for the best results for classic. The classic track is also holding together well. The trails have three to four inches of base and were groomed on December 18. There are 49 km of ski trails groomed. This includes all trails except Moose Ridge, West End Logging Camp, Poplar Creek, BWCA Logging Camp, and North-South Link. Groomed trails are in good shape with plenty of snow for skiing. The remaining trails are snowmobile packed. Lakes are safe to cross, but have not been groomed or packed yet. That job is planned for this week. For the most up to date grooming information, as well as specific trail conditions, contact Golden Eagle Lodge (1-800-346-2203) or Bearskin Lodge (1-800-338-4170). Central Gunflint Ski Pass required.
. Sugarbush Trail System Groomers were rolling and packing new snow that fell on Dec. 14. The Onion River Road was groomed for skate and classical skiing. Below freezing temps will help firm things up the next few days, but be aware that trails are a bit icy. Check the website for more detailed information: sugarbushtrail.org/ski_ trails.php. Minnesota Ski Pass required.
. Norpine-Cascade River Area These trails are groomed and tracked. With the colder weather we’ve received lately, trails should be firm and fast. Temps will be below freezing the next couple evenings, which should keep the tracks in good shape. More information: norpinetrails.org/
. Oberg Mountain Trails Trails were last groomed on December 13. Tracks are well formed and the skiing is top shelf. Below freezing temps will keep the track firm. sugarbushtrail.org/ ski_ trails.php. MN Ski Pass required.
. George Washington Pines George Washington Pines was groomed mid-December. Additional SNF info at: www.fs.usda.gov/superior Multiple use silent sports trail 6.5 miles from Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail.
. Pincushion Mountain With the new snow and cool temperatures that we’ve experienced lately, the trails on Pincushion are in good shape. Lots of skiers have taken advantage of the snow. On a nice day, expect to see other skiers on the trails.
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