Nordic skiers will sometimes dream of escaping to the north country, to find themselves quietly gliding through the forest on a well groomed yet out of the way trail, with hardly no one else in sight. Today was such a day to classic ski the Nordic Ridge Trails. A perfect day for father and son to share. Skating lanes were soft and needing to pack down some, but the classic tracks were beautifully set in the recent fresh foot of snow. If you've yet to discover this 22K gem of a trail network, now is the time!

Photos:

(Monte Miller)

Lots of snow has fallen in Crosslake. The Nordic Ridge trail has been rolled and partially tracked. As of early in the week the top layer was pretty soft and the skis sunk in at times. Even though its rolled wide enough to skate, the track grooming was done right down the middle of the trail. Hopefully they'll fix that as the winter continues. For the past 2 winters, the trail could be used for classic or skate.
If you haven't tried this trail before, its a gem. Its hidden behind the Crosslake community center. Its more than 9k, with varying terrain and great views of the woods and wetlands. With so much snow around, the walkers may be on the trail but there are signs to direct them off the ski trail.

Photos:

(Gary Simons)