The skate deck was very good this afternoon: firm but soft enough to get an edge. It looked like it was probably groomed earlier today, since a little corduroy was showing. The only challenging places were north of the chalet, where the trail crosses a sand trap and a little marshy area, but other than that it was good enough for good skis. Classic tracks were also good, according to my significant other. We had to keep on our toes to avoid competitive sliders, but their joy made it worthwhile.

(Lois Braun)

Como was in good shape, with a good number of skiers, sledders and snowboarders enjoying the day. Classic tracks appeared to be pretty good throughout although thin in some sections with grass beginning to show. The skate deck was also mostly very good, with some nice, fast corduroy still to be found on the trail edges every so often. The groomer had dug down a bit on some sections where the ground dips and makes it easy to scrape down to grass, but these areas are quite few and easily avoided. The snow is still pliable on tight corners, and the flat sections were really fun and easy to get an edge. Keep your eyes open for sledders along many sections of the course.

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(Margaret Adelsman)

Happy New Years from Como! Skate deck softened up nice after this mornings groom and is in great shape. A few areas are thinning but have held up well. Classic track also was done and has also held well.
A great start to 2023!

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(James Bezanson)

Conditions were suprême this afternoon with a wide even firm skate deck and good classic tracks throughout. Adding to the good feeling were a multitude of children participating in various ski classes. Only a couple of easily avoidable ice and turf patches. The groomers have done a great job of setting up a great ski deck base.

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(George Wawro)

With the recent warm temps and re-freeze the trail survived pretty good and groomed up nice! There are a few small spots where the trail is thin but overall great shape! Get out and enjoy the Bold North!

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(James Bezanson)

Ski trail was groomed this morning. A new classic track was set. Lots of people are enjoying the warmer temps. Enjoy.

(James Bezanson)

Trail was groomed today. The skate deck is soft but should firm up. A classic track was set. Enjoy.

Photos:

(James Bezanson)

Como park was nicely groomed today with classic tracks and a fairly wide skate deck. The classic tracks were holding up despite the soft snow. The skate deck was also a bit soft but many people were out enjoying it. Great coverage throughout the course. Thank you to the groomers.

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(George Wawro)

A pretty morning but challenging ski conditions. There are a few places windblown down to the old base; a few places with soft powder that is fun to break trail thru; and lots of crusty drifts - some of which supports weight, some cracks, and some collapses under you - a very variable and unreliable surface. In the area going through the pine above the steep descent is very thin, but with complete coverage over the asphalt. One third of the way down the descent is a big drift that would make a straight descent very difficult.

(Karl Dewahl)

Due to the extreme temperatures and the holiday weekend the cross country ski trail will not be groomed until Monday afternoon. The following reasons were taken into consideration. Blizzard/winter weather advisory. Wind chills below threshold for any outdoor rec activities. Anything that is done will be blown over. Other park districts are also waiting for the storms to pass before any additional grooming. Enjoy your holiday and stay warm.

(James Bezanson, St. Paul Parks and Recreation)