The dog-friendly section south of Downsville was not groomed - good 3-7" snow cover, enjoyable time breaking trail on about 5k, the 1st 2k had been tracked and snowshoed. Three downed trees across the trail, easy to get over. The trail going north from Downsville was groomed for skating - looked good.

(Karl Dewahl)

Solid groomed for skate. 4-5 in base. Enough classic skiers have been out for decent classic grooming. Beautiful trail along the river the entire trip.

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(John Whittington)

Unlike the Cities, there was plenty of snow. Estimate 8 inches. Probably 29 to 32 degrees, overcast with a north wind. Had to break trail. I used Blue extra. Over an hour drive in not the greatest conditions and $5 trail fee to break trail on my own but I found snow. In fact virgin, untracked snow. Obviously, it was slow - took me 45 minutes to do about 2 miles but I went 50% faster on my return in my own tracks. The aqua ice curtain that usually drapes a portion of the bluffs was largely melted. However, skiing fresh snow along the river that was running fast and high made for a nice ski.

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(Keith Carlson)

Very good skating here around noon. Trail is flat and smooth. Noonday sun was making the hardpack glisten and lane was softening quickly where there was direct sun. Still was plenty fast at the end of the trip back in Menomonie. The coverage was perfect except under the County D bridge. The classic tracks were deep, with little debris. This gem is within an hour of St. Paul. There will certainly be melt and refreeze this weekend but if you time it for the sweet spot of 31-35 degrees it should be very nice.

(Mark Orlowski)

One of the best trails that I've skied all year. I skated about five miles out from the trailhead (near Lucette Brewing) and then returned. The trail was in great condition, especially compared to most trails in the area. Snow was quick and groomers did a fabulous job...thank you! Highly recommend this trail if you are seeking a very flat stretch to ski, learn technique and/or just enjoy the river and surrounding scenery.

(Gary Simon)

We rolled the Red Cedar yesterday and set track today after it had set up. Skate lane is very good from Menomonie to Downsville. Tracks are very good from Menomonie to Irvington and good from Irvington to Downsville as that stretch had a little less snow to work with.

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(Bill Kryshak)

We groomed the trail from Menomonie to Downsville after getting a couple of inches of new snow. Skate lane turned out well especially from Irvington to Downsville. Tracks are a little icy in a few spots but overall not bad. The candlelight ski is on for tonight from 6:00 - 9:00.

(Bill Kryshak)

Skied from the trailhead south for 20 mins and back. Tracks were starting to get soft at about 10 am and with the additional drizzle and warm temps it may be softer on Saturday. Go very early if you go so as to not sink too far into the base. Skate deck looked good but was also very soft. Some minor debris to ski around in a few spots, and walkers got into the tracks in numerous spots but could ski over them.

(Bob Little)

The tracks for classic were in good condition. Their base was hard packed and made for good kick and glide. This trail is absolutely nothing but scenic. Great for skaters!

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(Kurt Zuppke)

Beautiful conditions! Thanks so much for getting the trail groomed so quickly after the fresh snow. Skied to the 2-mile mark and back, saw lots of other skiers this evening.

(Paul Verdon)