Classic skied from the power lines to North end trails on the 4 inches of snow. Once we got a track set it was fun going back and forth. Skating was not as good as you never knew if you would skate out on a rock. Still all in all great to be on skis after the long wait.

(Dick Roeber)

10:30AM update: Our first grooming report of the season! We have a single roller pass from Hwy OO north to the Powerlines on both the Birkie Skate and Classic trails (a second pass from OO to Boedecker), as well as all the loops at OO trail head. We will continue rolling with the goal of getting the entire system rolled by tomorrow. After that sits a bit, we will be able to determine if we have enough snow to do a little combing/leveling. More snow in the forecast, so keep checking back for updates!

Photos:

(Ben Popp, American Birkebeiner)

Got the rollers out on the Birkie Trail last night to see how the coverage looked. We assess how it turned out this morning under the light of day - but looked promising. Got only approx 2-3 inches of total snow, but with the good trail surface, looking good. Will report back later today with more info.

Photos:

(Ben Popp, American Birkebeiner)

Did a little tour of the new Birkie start area - wow! Amazing amount of work done, really is impressive. The start area now has some protection from the winds, and plenty of room for big tents at the back of the corrals, as well as a big event building for things like the State Meet and JNQs. The timing/trailhead building looks nice. The start itself runs slightly uphill for the first 100-150 meters, then rolls flat to downhill, and is quite wide. The classic trail breaks off after 1-2K, with the skate trail connecting straight into the old system. They already got the busing routes laid out, and parking for other large spectator events. Watch for more official news coming out next month!

Photos:

(Bruce Adelsman)