Beautiful enough ski on Sunday morning that it convinced me to return later the same day for a second round. I stuck primarily to skate skiing on the Monarch Loop, as the rest of the classic trail system didn't seem to be holding up very well. Some bare patches next to trees or shrubs in the meadows where the ice and base has completely melted that require a few steps across bare grass, but other than those obstacles, I was able to ski along quite quickly. Portions through the woods were in great shape, and although the trails were hard-packed and firm, they weren't too thin or dangerously icy. Everything felt like I could still have control and get an edge. Thank you to the groomers for allowing us to get some skiing in at Newport!

(Erik Franze)

Newport loop was nice, although bare rock in several locations, easy to spot and lift ski over. Europe loop not as well tracked and lots of foot traffic on the trail. Great to be out though, trails softening up with warmer temperatures.

Photos:

(Barbara Boes)

Skied Monarch trail several times. If it had been groomed in the past the wind has done a number on any nice tracks. What we did ski on was tracks left by previous skiers. Thankful for those. Most snow covered, only 2 bare spots to sidestep on large loop, a few exposed rocks.

Photos:

(Barbara Boes)

We went to hike, knowing that trails were deteriorating. There were no tracks set. Trails were getting very slushy. We did encounter a group of classic skiers, then another lone skier braving the slush.

(Barbara Boes)

I went out with hopes of skate skiing. I had never skated there before. When we arrived, it was clear that nothing was groomed. I did see a classic skier making the best of it, even with no tracks cut, but a local ranger told me that there weren't any skate paths here. That seems to contradict information from other sources. Either way, while there is snow, it seemed poor going at best for a classic skier and I didn't see any skate options. For sure if they existed they hadn't been groomed. I mostly viewed the area from the parking lot to the water. Some exposed sand in that area.

(John Pollard)