Trails just groomed for both skate and classic. Excellent condition. Classic trail very soft, my waxless skis sank into the snow on kicks. I'm sure it will be packed in as it is used.

(Ken Henry)

Trails are mostly ice. conditions are ungroomable and unskiable.

(Andy Wood)

Essex renovated groomed for skate skiing. No new classic tracks (icy). Should be fast til noon Saturday.

(Mike Trantow)

Icy, but softening up with the morning sun by the end of my lauf. Grooming gurus were just setting out as I finished, so it's only going to get better. Thanks to our awesome volunteers!

(Joey Furst)

Essex Park was groomed this morning. Classic tracks were in good shape so they were only touched up in a couple places. Skate deck was groomed on all trails.

(Robb Welch)

It has been a few days since grooming, thus it is hard packed, with tree debris on the trails in the woods. But overall great conditions. While the hard packed snow means the footprints aren't deep, it could make it difficult for new skiers who are still learning balance and good weight transfer, otherwise consider it fast and fun. Didn't ski the classic tracks but they looked great too.

(Sarah Johnson)

Groomed Essex park this morning for both classic and skate. Reset the classic track, first grooming over with ginzu knives, then laying down fresh track. Should be in good shape for the weekend.

(Wayne Sadecki)

Great skiing for both skate and classic. Classic tracks are firm on the whole course. Good skate deck but getting a little soft with the new snow falling. Wonderful day of classic skiing!!

(Andy Wood)

Essex was freshly groomed and tracks set this morning. All trails are open. Some soft spots where there were drifts and deep snow. Should be excellent skiing for both skate and classic.

(Andy Wood)

Skate deck was refreshed this morning and is in excellent shape. Tracks are solid but thin with some icy spots. Should be great skiing.

(Andy Wood)