For the most part classical tracks are looking good and skiing nicely. The drier snow doesn't set up as firm as snow with more moisture content, but I'm enjoying the best skiing of the season despite the cold temps. I saw many trumpeter swans in the backwaters of Deer Creek today. Skiing should be great through the weekend.

Photos:

(Kris Backlund)

Fresh tracks on the Mitigwaki Loop were a welcome contrast to the crusty snow prior to this week's snow. The tracks were a little bit soft which was a little surprising with the cold temperatures. I'm sure they'll firm up with additional subzero weather and more traffic. A couple trumpeter swans were located on the St. Croix River north of Spring Creek, with a larger group located in the open waters just south of the Nevers Overlook.

Photos:

(Kris Backlund)

Skated Pioneer, Deer Creek loop, and Dry Creek, decent base but lots of debris, a few rocks and exposed dirt. Hopefully a little snow this week will cover things up. Swans and geese in the open water in the middle of the Deer Creek loop.

(Bryan Lueth)

Old Logging Trail and Mitigwaki groomed with set track. Lots of debris but skiable, very little ice and no bare spots. Groomers have done a remarkable job with little snow. Sunrise River Trail ungroomed, people walking on Sunrise River Loop, but possible to classic from Sunrise landing into the main area of the park. Amador Loop has many bare areas. Aspen Nob closed due to ice.

(Linda Christianson)

Fair, with sticks, ice and ruts, but better than I expected with the light coating. Decent coverage, a couple of inches of snow could make a big difference.

(Bryan Lueth)

I skied portions of the trail that had not been packed as well as a few sections that have been packed. There is not enough snow for tracks yet. Conditions were fair to poor, and best on the portion with the paved bike trail underneath, if you're willing to put up with short pole plants. The ridges on the roller are about the right width to use as makeshift tracks. The unpacked snow was decent, except for portions underneath pine trees or other heavily wooded areas. I hit a few rocks on the horse trail portion on my way to the Mitigwaki Trail. Hoping for more snow in the next couple days, which should improve conditions. Either way, it was nice to be out earlier in the season.

Photos:

(Kris Backlund)