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Whether you have been following the developments surrounding the proposed use of Moose Mountain in Lutsen, or you are just wondering what this “backcountry ski” thing is, Superior Highland Backcountry (SHB) has something for you. In its fourth year of growing the awareness of backcountry ski opportunities on the North Shore, the organization has released its dates for Moose Mountain Tours and Intro to Backcountry classes.
Including two tours described as “Prior Skiing Experience Required” and one with “No Experience Necessary”, the goal of the Moose Mountain tours is to get people out to see the landscape, biodiversity, and skiing potential of the portion of Moose Mountain that is on public land. This area is currently under environmental review in response to a Special Use Permit submitted by Lutsen Mountain Ski Resort for an extensive expansion of resort operations.
“We want to give people a chance to see the area under consideration” says Elli King, chair of the board of SHB. “We think it is an important part of the public process to have citizens’ feet on the ground, to see the nature of the land that this proposed project would impact.”
“Not to mention”, she adds, “that the skiing is phenomenal this year.” Equipment is available as part of the tour, on a first come, first-serve basis.
For the curious, uninitiated, or those wishing to try backcountry skiing without committing to the purchase of equipment, look no further than SHB’s Intro to Backcountry classes. Participants will be provided with wide, light skis with metal edges and fishscales, with a three-pin binding and a hard-shell boot.
“The wide fishscale ski with the three-pin is our go-to for versatility in the backcountry of the North Shore”, says Rory Scoles, instructor and founder of SHB. “They are comfortable and fast on the approach and traverse, the telemark turn is perfect for the deep light snow that dominates our winters, and the hardshell boot gives you plenty of control on the down.”
Participants are treated to small group instruction on terrain ranging from a flat, groomed cross country trail to a mellow slope offpiste.
There is a suggested donation of $60 for each event, with proceeds going to support the projects of Superior Highland Backcountry, whose mission is to “preserve and expand backcountry ski opportunities along the highlands of Lake Superior”.
For more information on upcoming events please know that registration is required. RSVP at superiorhighlandbc@gmail.com, or call 218-663-7863.
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