Skate skied 11k while my friend skied classic. Both were great! Tracks were firm for classic and there was nice corduroy. A couple dozen skiers were out, and some kids taking lessons. The skiable loop seemed roughly 2k.

(Paul Larson)

Was out skiing at 5:10 am and basically had first tracks - two others were out a minute or two ahead of me. Perfect conditions. What is there not to like about Minnesota in the winter? Get out and ski.

(Lee Goldstein)

Skied the 2 1/2 K of man made snow 3 times. Classic trails mostly excellent except for a small stretch a little icy. I had blue wax, should of had a little stickier wax. Skate lane looked excellent with several skiers enjoying themselves. Man made base is deep with snow guns concentrating on the sledding hill.

(Earl Stabenow)

My worries that the rain would cause problems were unwarranted. A little firm, but par for the course for manufactured. Nice skiing.

(Luke Smith)

Soft conditions, mashed potatoes, many of the corners the classic tracks are gone. Leaves and dirt in some locations.

Photos:

(Anika Sjoquist)

Warm and a bit icy - a great multigrade klister day in the classic track. Finished up before the crowds came but folks were streaming in.

(Jim Smith)

The full 2.5 km man made loop is now open. The Wall bypass is not open yet. Classic skiing on waxless skis was great this morning. No herringbone all day.

(Lou Chouinard)

Another beautiful morning skiing at 5 am. The 2K loop is open and all guns blowing. I can't imagine the full 2.5K loop won't be open this weekend -- there is tons of snow at Elm. Kudos to the groomers and the snowmakers.

(Lee Goldstein)

Was out on trail at 5 am-perfect conditions. 2K of the 2.5K open. All guns blowing snow. Full 2.5 could open this weekend (this is me saying) even with the warm weather-Tons of snow at Elm. Signed-the guy in the red hat.

(Lee Goldstein)

The next segment of the Valley Trail was completed overnight. The trail is now approximately 2.0 kilometers. Thank you to those who came to Elm Creek this weekend. It is good to be open before Thanksgiving!

(Bruce Bolduan, Three Rivers Park District)