The fresh layer of snow was groomed today and I was surprised by how wonderful the trail conditions were. The new snow mostly covers the downed debris, so you can use your good skis if you watch out for sticks and take it slow in a couple patches. The back loop is in the best condition, with no debris problems. Classic tracks are set and pretty firm. Late winter skiing at its best!

Photos:

(Kari Hedin)

Get out your warm wax and have fun! The Pine Valley trails were groomed yesterday and today, so the base is pretty firm with a few soft areas. The classic tracks were set today. There's finally enough snow to cover the ice-covered valley where Otter Creek flooded earlier this winter.

Photos:

(Kari Hedin)

As of 11:00 a.m. the trail was packed, not groomed or tracked. Soft snow, not many skiers.

(Tim Blais)

5 degrees with recently groomed trails made for a near perfect setting on the trails in cloquet. 99 percent of the trail was free of pine needles and cones. There is a caution sign up at about the 1k mark because of creek ice. The classic track was old but in great shape. The trail should be near perfect tomorrow as the CEC team was heading out just as I was finishing so that should pack the grooming down and ice it up. If you've never skied Pine Valley be prepared for some great downhills and heart pounding climbs.

(Paul Haberle)

Ah, refreshing! The main trail has an adequate base, is firm and fast. The track is there but somewhat shallow and it wouldn't hurt to have some more snow in general. There is a little debris and an icy area early on from flooding. The White Pine loop across Spring Lake Road is a very flat course (the opposite of the main loop), a bit narrow as usual, and could use more snow as there are still some brown areas. The track isn't too good there and I wouldn't use your best skis. You are probably safe using good skis on the main loop. People are really missing out on one of the best outdoor activities. I never feel better than when I've been skiing for a while. I did both loops for just under 10k's.

(Shammah Parks)

The trail is freshly groomed and fast! Classic tracks are set. There's enough debris and dirt spots that B skis are recommended, but overall the skate deck is great - not too soft but not hardpan either. Pine Valley regulars know to watch for the ice field where Otter Creek flooded the trail. With the warm weather there may be standing water in that valley.

(Kari Jacobson Hedin)

Skied the lighted loop after dark. First time on these trails so I cautiously used my b skis, but could have easily gone good skis. Awesome trails and good grooming. Fairly close to the freeway too if you are looking for a quick pit stop on your way north.

(John Leaf)

Cold crisp morning with trails to myself. Base is good throughout. Lots of debris on trail near start but better as you get out on the trails. A few thin spots easily avoided. No tracks.

(John Jereczek)

The ski deck is wide, firm and has full snow coverage. Corduroy is still available on the outer edges but the main channel has been well skied. No classic tracks have been set.

(Kyle Gill)

Had a beautiful ski on the bike 5.5k loop, with the pines and firs full of a fresh 3-4 inch snowfall. They had rolled it and high schoolers had firmed it up. No classic tracks.

(Paul Andre)