More grooming last night and this morning plus the cold means the trails have firmed up and are skiing for skating really nicely now. I skied Birches and the hilly parts of Maples. There seems to have been both more work on downed trees and flik-a-stik by skiers, it was much clearer today. Skied in tracks on Birches looked OK in places. There was a rolled place to ski classic left on Maples but there had been no takers yet.

(Philip Nelson, Bay Nordic)

All trail trails nearer the lodge, the inner 4k lit loop, are in great condition for skating. Not deep enough for tracks though skied in tracks are happening already. Further out, the trails didn't get as much rolling or skiing from backcountry skis over the last week so there are more soft sections, especially on uphills. As the official report states, there are still some downed or overhanging trees in places, still some sticks in the snow, and some icy spots to double pole over. Very skiable and great for this early in the year.

(Philip Nelson, Bay Nordic)

Opening day at THE RFC! Skated the Birches and Maples which rated in good, early season condition. The center portion of the trail was recently combed and was reasonably firm for skaters, the sides of the trail were rolled for striders (no tracks set). With our early snow, it's looks to be a great season to maximize your annual pass! Be sure to pick up an annual pass or please pay the daily fee, you "don't want to be that guy". Carpe Skiem!

Photos:

(Bob Warpinski)

The RFC received 6-7 inches of very wet snow during Sunday's storm. I spoke with the Park Ranger who shared that even though there is plenty of snow to groom, grooming will be put off "a couple of days" as they clear trails of fallen limbs. Looking forward to a great ski season at The RFC! Carpe Skiem!

Photos:

(Bob Warpinski)