The second annual Red Bull Winter Triathlon was held at 9 mile today. Last year I was part of a relay team and really missed not participating this year. Looked like another very successful and well run event. I did get out on the trails and found the 1 1/2 inches of fresh snow we got overnight made for an opportunity to ski on a firm base with powder on-top. Actually prefer to get out before the groomers when there is less than 2” of new snow . Didn’t make it out on the trails until early afternoon but wasn’t disappointed. Light skier traffic once out on the 20 k ( bushwhacker ridge ) and the alps hadn’t even been visited at all. The fresh snow on the firm 2”- 3” of maintained base evened things out and the downhill decent’s were very enjoyable, like backcountry skiing. Great hill work training for this year’s Birkie event.

Photos:

(Mark Timken)

Considering still not much snow to work with the groomers did an excellent job. There are plenty of spots however where you can see the ground through the snow and occasional gravel. B skis might be OK and you’ll be dodging a lot of dark spots but rocks skis might be a good choice as well. Enjoy.

(Jeff Schnelle)

With the snow over the weekend, conditions have improved at Nine Mile. Today, we were able to bring out the Tidd Tech and begin to comb trails and set some classic track. All trails except the 20k and Alps have been rolled. Main Street, Lighted Loop and Y at this point have a comb for skate skiing and classic tracks. The classic tracks are in pretty good conditions but beware of areas of less snow along with debris. Conditions are improving! With a few more inches of base, we're hopeful of the PistenBully making it's debut voyage!

(Bradley Mroczenski)

Rolled but not tracked, 3-4 inches new fluffy snow.

(Barb Maguire)

Fair to good. Trails have been rolled only, yet mostly very even and firm. Surprised with what little snow we have how good the base has been maintained. Skied the 20 k loop basically and did not hit any rocks and saw almost no debris on the trail system. Had a very good training ski and very thankful for the great grooming that has been accomplished with so little to work with. No tracks set for classic skiing.

Photos:

(Mark Timken)

Snow is thin but coverage is much better than it was last Thursday. Skate deck was hard and fast but not granular. No track set or skied in. I skied both lit loops and did not see any debris. Chalet is open and rentals available. New skiers having a good time.

(Barb Maguire)

Trail conditions are ok at best. We've survived the rain from last week and began rolling out trails yesterday. They are setting up in relatively good condition given the circumstances. Some areas have very little base, such as beneath the pine trees but overall the trails are ok. Some debris can be seen poking through the snow. Rock skis or a pair you don't mind damage to are recommended. Trails are rolled only as there is not enough base to comb or set classic track at this time.

(Bradley Mroczenski)

Due to the weather overnight, Nine Mile County Forest is closed until further notice. The 5 inches of forecasted snow has come in the form of rain and slush. We need everyone to please stay off the trails to prevent further damage.

(Bradley Mroczenski)

Less than 1.5 inch rolled base. There is snow under pines too. Perfect for rock skis. No tracks. Chalet is open where mask and social distancing is required. Trail fees payable at chalet.

Photos:

(David Kuphal)

Some grass poking out and avoidable gravel. No classic tracks yet but good to be out skiing. Just skied the cookie trail.

(Mark Bushinski)