Classic skied again in some light touring skis, which worked much better on the somewhat shallow tracks on Eagle/Lillie's. Lake is rolled, and otherwise in good shape except for one grassy spot under the balsams. Trail also looks generally good for skaters, untracked but skiable classic. Photos are just outside the lodge, on Eagle trail and also the new snowshoe trail that has been blazed through a red pine plantation. There are more tracks of snowshoe hares than of snowshoe humans, though.

Photos:

(Deane Johnson)

Soaring Eagle trails are all packed and rolled, 2" base with 6-8" snow depth in the area. Lillie's Loop (beginner) and Eagle (inter.) are fair to good, and tracked for classic/skate. Troll and Lake are still untracked, as base is marginal. Classic tracks are good on Lillie's but a little shallow on Eagle. There are some areas of debris, twigs, or grass poking through, but most of the trail is well-covered. Could use B skis in most areas with care. Open house will begin Sunday, January 7 at 1 PM, with free classic ski rentals available. MN Ski pass is required, though, and is available online or wherever fishing/hunting licenses are sold.

(Deane Johnson)

Skied today at 2pm. There was fresh snow from the night before, but groomers hadn't been out since Dec 22 (according to their log). The snow was light and fluffy, but brush was sticking up through the snow throughout the trail. Both classic and skate were difficult because of the non-groomed trail, but it was a gorgeous day to be out! With fresh snow on all of the trees, and sun shining, it was lovely to be in Soaring Eagle's backwoods trails.

(Kyle Thomas)