Decent? I thought the new snow would yield perfection. In fact, I was the first skier after someone walked the whole Pike Island loop, doing more damage in some spots than others. Skiing it fixed much of the damage so the second loop was better. There is a fair amount of leaf debris, and some twigs. My skis caught a few times. I'm glad I went, I'd do it again, but I'll appreciate the next grooming.

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(David Glaser)

Tracks were newly set this morning, being completed as I skied, so overall conditions are excellent. There were a few short segments I skied without tracks. I skied Pike Island and trail along the Minnesota River. You can hear the ice forming today on the Mississippi. Great day to be out!

(Lyndon Torstenson)

I skied laps around Pike Island. Though trails have not been re-set in a while, they are holding up pretty well, and conditions are still quite good. A few short icy exposures can are inconsequential or can be avoided. Enjoyment bonus points for sightings of: numerous deer (best observed on weekday mornings), beaver gnawed trees, cute gnome-like snow people hiding along the trail, and an albino squirrel.

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(Lyndon Torstenson)

The trails were very well groomed. The tracks were intact but were icy in many places and there was quite a bit of debris and leaves on small parts of the tracks.

(Alex Van Dyke)

Third week in a row at Ft. Snelling. Better than last weekend but not as good as two weeks ago. We are beginners but the trail appeared to be recently groomed. Watch for rocks on trail under Mendota Bridge.

(Tom Clasen)

First time at the Fort was okay. DNR website says conditions were "fair" and I can attest. Met up with a buddy from cooking class and we classic skied from our parking spot at Picnic Island to the Pike Island loop. Beware, the Picnic Island loop had shifty tracks and some chunky sections of ice. Once we got to Pike Island, the classic tracks all around were better set and there wasn't ice. To our chagrin, we did see a couple of winter hikers walking on the trails marked for skiing only. Next time, I'll come to Fort Snelling after fresh grooming before the tracks are besieged by boot walkers.

(Bob White)

All classic, double tracks. Great grooming on Pike Island loop. Snow conditions good. Very little ice.

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(Ann Cohen)

Trails are about average for Pike Island, which is not great. It always feels like a lost opportunity with such a beautiful Island but infrequent grooming and lots of traffic. Twigs and leaves in places. Some of the turns have washed out. Otherwise, it's holding up. Note that Park Ranger was checking ski passes. [ Trail fee/pass information can be found in our FAQ --Ed. ]

(Steve Young)

The tracks at Fort Snelling are holding up well despite heavy use over the past week, keeping the skiing in the very good category. The trails are fast and a bit hard, bordering on icy, but there is no debris and no noticeable damage from deer or walkers. Get out to enjoy Pike Island before warm weather arrives.

(Mark Strobel)

Skied Pike Island loop, along with many other skiers. Tracks are holding up amazingly well for the traffic. Some of the best conditions I've experienced. Everyone from small kids to fellow seniors out enjoying a beautiful day on the trails.

(Dee Hein)