I was taking a chance by going to Lake Louise. Parks Canada was experiencing equipment problems and there was no guarantee
that we’d see any grooming on Moraine Lake road today.
Christian was the first skier I met. I was at 2.7K, just past the creek, and preparing to climb the big hill.
It was my lucky day, and a few other fortunate souls got to join in on the fun. Andrew was roll-packing today, and will be back again tomorrow to work it a little more. The jury’s still out on whether we’ll have tracks for this weekend.
Almost at the top of the big hill, about 4k along
The overall coverage is what I’d consider to be good early season conditions. The usual suspect, a bit of ice under thin snow occurs at the Paradise creek turn at 2.6K, and the curve at 6.8K, but nowhere near as bad as it was last year.
In the photos you may notice boot prints along one side. Wouldn’t you know it, first day of grooming and hikers were on the trail. I hope the work which is done tomorrow will smooth that out.
More lucky people
I started at the top of Tramline at the Chateau parking lot so I could tell everyone that’s an option for parking this weekend. Tramline is packed and I didn’t see any hazards whatsoever. Come Saturday, I expect the MLR parking lot will be overflowing and vehicles will be lined up as far as the eye can see on Lake Louise Drive. The ski trip down Tramline is 1.6K at which time you’ll reach MLR.
Roll-packing on Moraine Lake road
When I checked the Great Divide at 1:30 pm nothing had been done, and I forgot to ask Andrew if that was on the agenda. Tonight I received an email from Parks Canada tracksetter Jeff, saying it was also packed.
Good early season conditions on Moraine Lake road
The weather forecast for Lake Louise on Saturday is a bit concerning. I’ve checked three forecasts and the predicted highs are +4, +1, and 0. The lows on Friday night -7, -4, and -3. To be on the safe side, bring waxless skis, skate, or get there early. Sunday’s weather looks better, and there’s snow predicted, so we might escape without too much damage.
Why not make a weekend of it and stay overnight? Readers of this blog have been offered a special rate at the Mountaineer Lodge and you can access it by clicking the Mountaineer ads on this site, or here.
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