9K of the 11K loop at the trail center are open; snow is being spread on the rest...quite an operation, BTW. The trails are firm, but not icy. The classic tracks are hard pack, a mixture of new snow and man made...aggressive. Oslo Blue worked until it wore off (no binder...oops). Skied with Tim Nelson, he used 1814 one loop and grip tape the next.

(Ralph Schwartz)

Went to Mora to see what the trails were like after the snowfall Saturday (about 2 inches) and in advance of the race this coming Saturday. With temps around 10-15 degrees, skied around a 9 K loop twice from the Nordic center, all of which are part of the 17K race course loop. Track was firm and glazed, Some dirt to be avoided and oak leaf debris. Both sets of skis, one with grip tape and one with Rex 1814 picked up enough debris to make for some jerking gliding especially when double poling. Otherwise both wax combinations worked well. Skate deck was very firm and fast. with enough loose snow to get a bite on the uphills. The 3k northwestern loop of the race course was still being developed. I did not ski the lake loops or the trails that lead to the Nordic center from the lake.

(Tim Nelson)

Skated laps on a 3.5 mile loop following the main trail, presumably the Vasaloppet course without the north end pines and the pasture NW of the center. Best conditions of the year up to now, groomed "corn" snow layer on top of a firm base. A pickup with tracks on the wheels was doing additional grooming that turned the corn into sugar, which was a little looser but still fast. A few small stones turned up here and there, and a few areas with dirt. Mini muffins and popcorn at the center, gotta love that Mora hospitality! Thank you groomers and all involved with a top notch operation!

(Bryan Lueth)

Trails were groomed with >5km of classic tracks set on Eastern trails, other trails have natural snow and are in fair condition.

(Jon Larson)

The entire time I was skiing the snow was piling up on the trails. No, they did not get one flake from the storm but the manufacturing, moving and spreading of snow continued the entire time I was there. They are building the base for the Vasaloppet, creating a 17K loop. Conditions were firm and fast. Stayed on the newly groomed trails and had a wonderful ski. Even with no more snow there should be great conditions for the Vasaloppet.

Photos:

(Jim Smith)

Surprisingly firm and fast given the warm temps, some dirt here and there, especially in the classic track. Confusing layout on the north end, but you can find a loop easy enough.

(Bryan Lueth)

Over 7km of superb skiing on manufactured snow at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center. Great classic tracks. Additional tracks were being set late afternoon in skate lane in preparation for Northwest Suburban Conference meet but they will be tilled out Wednesday night. Additional distance continues to be added as course buildout continues in preparation for Vasaloppet Ski Race Feb 10th.

Photos:

(Wade Weber, Vasaloppet USA)

Actively grooming for Saturday race on a designated course, good skate deck but a little uneven with intermittent classic tracks and ruts. Older courderay definitely firmer and faster, but the newly groomed swath should set up well with the cold night ahead.

(Bryan Lueth)

A southern trip today to experience the hospitality of the Vasaloppet folks. Hadn't been to Mora since lasts year's incredible race! There's some really good skiing at the center - nice long flat and smooth trails. I was also guided, by several of the regulars, to the northeastern trails. There are constant efforts underway to cover all the trails with snow using several "snow spreaders" being pulled by very large farm tractors. I got to witness the spreading firsthand. I think the complex is just days away from being fully groomed. They also mentioned that the ABC relays are scheduled there for Saturday so with 650 skiers coming you may want to avoid that day.

(Paul Haberle)

The Nordic Center trails currently have nearly 7km of ski trail that is open and groomed. Over 5km consists of manufactured snow that also has classic tracks. A good part of the newly added trail section to the northeast which includes some nice hills and plenty of winding trail has natural snow that is skiing really great right now. Snow hauling out to more trail sections continues daily and heavy equipment at times must cross or use short sections of groomed trail for access so be careful when encountering tis machinery.

Photos:

(Wade Weber, Vasaloppet USA)