March 30th Grooming Report
The Final Edition: It’s a lovely day . . . unless you’re a Snowflake!
A fox cruises the melting fields, the robins are flying, the grass emerging from beneath the snow is turning green, just another day at the place we call Trail Creek. While there is still a bit of snow remaining, even the calendar says that it’s about time to move on to other pursuits, the end of the Nordic season is at hand; and what a season it has been.
The pandemic which gave Nordic skiing a boost, while not over, seems to be moving to the manageable. That same Nordic boost has continued to surge with record participation in our JHSC programs from Lollipopper to Master. The pursuit for perfection by our community and JHSC staff brought our new Prinoth Husky groomer to Trail Creek which has allowed for quality skiing throughout the season, climaxing in a qualifier beyond any hosted before. Skiers from the local community and across the country and world were able to experience the grand vistas and dark woods, populated with our “beloved” moose and other creatures, all while having a great Nordic ski. Thanks again to all the youth, parents, skiers, JHSC coaches and staff, property owners, and supporters that come together to pull off yet another year of the amazing phenomenon that is Nordic Skiing at Trail Creek Nordic Center!
Today’s final grooming happened last night with the Husky making its final expedition of the year throughout the trail network. While there is plenty of skiing out there to make a final venture or two worthwhile, the warm and sunny weather has made the end very near. While over 90% of the recently groomed trails were groomed last night, the upper East Fields had melted too far. There are also several gaps in the lower woods sections around Confusion Corner. The exciting thing that happened last night was that the snow bridge on the yet to be officially named new section Armin’s collapsed as the Husky passed over. While a quick thrill was had, the Husky managed to pull through without incident, just be careful if you are skiing that way.
Close Field, Lower East Field and most of the upper woods will ski nicely for some time to come. Remember except for the Forest Service trails, our trails do revert to normal private property status as of April 1st.
On November 15, 2022 may a huge dump descend upon the valley, initiating the beginning of another record Nordic year. May the snow continue to fall and be handily groomed by our trusty Husky, may new Lollipoppers discover the joy of sliding on snow, older skiers the ability to ski faster than ever before, Nordic skiers from beginners to old timers new techniques and paths to contentment, joy, and better health. May we all gather again and support this venture of Nordic skiing and Trail Creek Nordic Center.
Groomer’s Choice for today is Trail Creek.
Steve Swan
The Groomer
