Despite not having the track set for two weeks, the tracks are holding up remarkably well. Skied the west loop, and found it in fair-good condition. The snow that has fallen is fluffy and is not providing much in terms of having to regroom. Beneath the fluff is a brick like deck, and I know our equipment would not make much of a dent. The trail has been active, and skiers are working this new snow into the tracks. With that said, the glide is satisfactory. You won't be flying out of control, nor will you feel stuck in the mud. The winds this afternoon were picking up and those segments of the trail in the open were starting to drift over. Not much vegetation is poking through the track. Be aware the area under the pines does have some thin spots, but nothing terrible. If the cold doesn't turn you away, the skiing should be decent.

(Dennis Zielinski)

Nose Lake trails are great for intermediate skiers and set for classic skiing only. There are two loops which make up 7 miles of trails. Today I skied the west loop which is my favorite because of the magnificent old white pines and I believe hemlock which tower adjacent to the trails. Dogs are allowed, my two love to run with me as I ski. If you come with dogs, please remember to clean up their mess if they defecate on the tracked trail. Conditions were fabulous today thanks to grooming efforts from RASTA, Rhinelander Area Silent Trails. Oneida County Trail pass is required to ski these trails and please remember to support RASTA with a donation!

Photos:

(Heather Pelock Hjelle)

Both east and west loops were tracked today -- finally got enough snow. With the cold temperatures the tracks should firm up nicely. There are a few thin spots in pine areas(west side). On the east loop, there are some bumpy spots near the logged areas.

(Dennis Zielinski)

Received about 2" on snow yesterday, with about .5" of rain. Not the best situation for grooming or skiing, but the trail got rolled and compacted this morning. Still not enough snow for tracking. Deck depth varies from about 2" to less than an inch. The trail is skiable, but only with rock skis. Keep the new ones in the closet for a while. Don't expect mid season conditions.

(Dennis Zielinski)