Over the last couple of days we have been reevaluating the situation because of all the new snow. We had hoped to have all the tree work done by now, but the deep snow has slowed that progress and now it is on hold. We've had to coordinate with our golfing professionals, the contracted tree removers, and our grooming staff to make sure putting in a trail was safe and viable, and that it would not slow the tree work (we still have a lot of stumping and debris cleanup once the snow starts to recede). The good news is that all this late season snow should allow us to put in a trail that you can enjoy for at least a little while; once we are able to begin the tree work again we will have to close the trail.
Our plan is to put in a trail early tomorrow (Tuesday) after this soft snow sets up overnight. We might pull up a piece of debris here or there, but we think that most of that stuff should stay buried for at least a little while. Currently we do have Highland-9 groomed and we'll continue to keep that trail skiable regardless of what happens with Como in the next couple of days. We'll continue to post updates here when we reopen, close, or significantly alter trails.

(Tyler McKean, St. Paul Parks and Recreation)

Friendly Reminder: Last week we began felling 150+ mature trees around the course and closed the cross country trail to all activity for your safety. Please do not even attempt a ski as there will be significant debris, ruts, and other hazards that may be hidden under the snow. Work is progressing as planned and should be completed in two to three weeks, depending on weather. If conditions allow for the trail to reopen after the work is complete an update will be posted here. We apologize for the inconvenience.

(Tyler McKean, St. Paul Parks and Recreation)

St. Paul Parks and Rec wasn't kidding. I drove by on Saturday and there are lots of trees cut down. It looks like a tornado went through. Wow.

(Jay Wenner)

I spoke with a skier today who confirmed that Como Golf Course is indeed closed to skiers for tree trimming. [ As reported previously by park staff -- Ed. ]

(Greg Loper)

Lower loop open, groomed in the loop, just a couple icy patches, no bare pavement or major issues of grass/rocks. Beautiful sunshine on snow. Thanks to Como.

(Beth Mercer-Taylor)

We have a 1.4km loop in the lighted area that is in decent shape. There are icy spots to be sure. We will keep this section open through Wednesday, January 17 if conditions allow.
Beginning on Thursday, January 18 we will begin felling 150+ mature trees around the course and the cross country trail will be closed to all activity for your safety. Please do not even attempt a ski as there will be significant debris, ruts, and other hazards that may be hidden under the snow. This work needs to happen this winter and will take three week depending on weather. If conditions allow for the trail to reopen after the work is complete an update will be posted here. We apologize for the inconvenience.

(Tyler McKean, St. Paul Parks and Recreation)

Overall there is good snow cover on the skate deck. There are some treacherous bare spots on the course particularly at the crown of hills. Most of those are easy to see and avoid. The classic tracks are good in the south (lighted) section and fade in and out around the rest of the course. I am sure that melting in the next few days will degrade the conditions but, as of now, they are quite good all things considered.

(Greg Loper)

Como was better than advertised as of 10pm Wednesday night. Certainly worth visiting. B skis would be fine on most sections, even at night, but rock skis would be best given the exposed cart paths. The most dangerous parts are the steepest sections going both up to and down from the highest point, as well as under the bridge. Coverage was surprisingly good throughout, including what looked like a reasonably deep classic track in most places.

(Alec Steward)

Trails were groomed today, but conditions vary due to the thin base. No tracks set. We recommend that people stick to the southernmost lighted loop (the only area we've been able to properly groom). There are areas where the trail goes over cart paths or gravel areas; this is to ensure the longest and most enjoyable ski while avoiding sensitive areas of the golf course (we cannot groom over tee boxes, fairways, or greens). Please be mindful of the conditions and stay safe.

(Tyler McKean, St. Paul Parks and Recreation)

Course was groomed today. Unfortunately the groomer set the course over a golf cart path on the downhill portion that goes towards the ski hill. My skis stopped on the pavement and I fell. I now have another pair of rock skis. The recent snow couldn't make up for the fact that they groomed over pavement and gravel. Stick to the grassy areas!

(Mike Conley)