Over all conditions are good and large segments of the east side from 4 to 7 to13 and beyond to the west are excellent, covered with a short inch of powder over a firm base and mostly protected from the sun, but not the bliss. With that said the short section back to the east lot from 8 had been thoroughly trashed by a frenzied deer herd and would benefit from a very short resumption of grooming as well a short portion of trail from the main road where a snow mobile got lost going counter clockwise towards 4 but cut off the ski trail at the powerline. Anyone wanting to extend their ski season would be well served here if you can get past these small inconveniences. I used an old fish scale ski and had a very extraordinary three and half hour ski under blue skies, bright sun, and at times in conditions that would rival the best this winter and these groomers had to offer.

Photos:

(Michael Wilke)

Get out while the getting is good! 4+ inches of fresh snow yesterday and a cold morning made fore ideal grooming conditions. All sections of trail have new tracks and are in great condition. Very little debris. This could be our last chance to groom this winter with the limitations of our equipment after the trail firms up. With temps on the rise in the near future its looking pretty melty unless late march brings us a surprise snow storm. Its been a pleasure grooming (and skiing) the trail this winter. Please reach out to the USFS in Aurora or Cook MN if there are any questions or concerns about the trail system.

(David Poppema, US Forest Service)

Skied with my wife and talked to a couple of other skiers we all agreed they were very nice. Could use a new grooming.

(Joe Vaida)

Only second time on skis this year. Sunday 10:30 AM, sunny and 35 degrees. Did the East trails from 1 to 5 to 4 and back. Stayed in the woods to avoid the sun. Very little debris as the winds picked up it is well sheltered. Some glazing in tracks in spots but the sun had not become an issue yet as it was just starting to hit sections at 11. and I was out by 11:30 just as it was softening a bit. Only one couple when I came there and no one when I left. Good timing!

(Ron Kutsi)

Great conditions for any time, but extraordinary given the warm temperatures. Most of the trails are primarily in the shadows of dense trees. Cold crystals still on the tracks on the lesser used trails on the north and west end of the system. Trail debris almost non existent. Very little grab and go down warm snow and the slightly glazed tracks on the way back made the long gradual downhills exhilarating. Groomers have provided extra wide flat trail for the the steep sections in north west black trails making snow plowing much more reliable for this old man. Thank you and blessings. Coming back tomorrow. A perfect day!

Photos:

(Michael Wilke)

Trails are once again in pristine condition. After a few more inches of fresh snow we groomed and set new track on all segments of the trail. With lots of sun in the forecast its going to be one of the best weeks/weekends of the winter to be out on the trail enjoying the scenery and wildlife.

(David Poppema, US Forest Service)

Skied the old back yard today. Fresh 4" made the going slow but gorgeous. Big Aspen will always be one of my favorites.

Photos:

(Mick Dodds, Ski Hut)

Debris from trees made trails tricky. Could be better with more snow. Groomed. Great weather lately, cloudy and calm.

(Tracy Cesari)

All trails are excellent, well groomed, little to no debris. This place is gorgeous, serene, and worth the trip. Snow here has fabulous base.

(Tracy Cesari)

Had a great day grooming yesterday, the hoar frost was spectacular! Met some skiers out there too - thanks for all the positive feedback. I really enjoy grooming and I'm glad you're having a great time skiing!

(Connie Rasmussen)