Classic tracks were deep and slightly fast. Trails were groomed this morning and in excellent condition. Maple Grove, Roger's and Elk River high schoolers were there, some getting lessons and others getting in some practice. Great to see all the youth skiing and learning. They ski in waves, then nothing, then another wave of young skiers.

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(Earl Stabenow)

Happy New Year's Day to everyone. Celebrated with a classic ski around Elm Creek's man-made snow. Was the first time using the classic trails this season. A bit icy, but tracks held up very well.

(Jim Cloutier)

Lots of sugar everywhere. As an experienced skier I didn't feel it very much. My dad, however, is a beginner slightly older skier and was done after one lap due to the heavy sugar, especially on the up and downhills. Glide was still good and some parts were better than others.

(Caleb Osterberg)

With most trails closed, the manmade snow loop at the park was very busy. By 9 a.m., the skate deck was deep and sugary but still had good glide. The park folks have done a commendable job keeping the trail not only open but in good condition.

(Jason Goepfert)

Things were getting pretty soft and deep later in the day throughout the man-made loop, but happy that some areas were still firmer and faster than anticipated. A few uphill sections were showing underlying dirt, but there were no true obstacles to avoid throughout the course. Well worth the visit- many thanks to the groomers!

(Pieter DeHart)

The grooming crew did a great job considering all the rain lately. Skate deck was hard and fast.

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(Bob Maki)

Did loops around the man-made course. Reasonably firm and "glidy". Didn't jump into the classic tracks, but those look pretty good also.

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(Jim Cloutier)

Started skiing at 7:15 am. Trails were super fast and solid. The groomers did a great job of utilizing the short freeze overnight. Skied 15k, and as I got towards the end the skate deck started to get soft. Poles are sinking in, but skis were mostly still just gliding along.

(Caleb Osterberg)

The snowmaking loop was soft but very skiable this morning, between 10:30 and noon. I was shocked at the lack of people. We were one of maybe a dozen or so cars in the overflow lot. Uphills were getting challenging due to moist, sugary snow. I skated, but wife and son did classic. The tracks looked nice and seemed quick with only a little degradation in kick quality. Soft snow made for gentle landings when the kid (and adults) fell. It seems all other Elm Creek trails are closed at the moment. Thanks to the groomers and snowmakers for keeping it thriving where possible.

(Charlie Blasky)

Skied man made loop. Conditions were pleasantly very good, better than expected; tracks neither ice nor slush. The skate deck looked like it was getting soft (1-1:30 pm). No leaf debris. Good job groomers, thank you.

(Karen Peters)