I went for a pleasure cruise at the nordic centre this afternoon. No racing the clock today, just the cold. I skied in colder weather yesterday, but it seemed more bone-chilling today.
Skiers were enjoying the excellent conditions on the natural snow
Lack of sunshine and a breeze was the difference today. The afternoon sun is hidden behind Rundle mountain at this time of year. As usual, the wind disappeared upon leaving the stadium area.
There are still a few detours in effect but the snowcat was busy pushing and smoothing the man-made snow on the lower section of Banff trail loop, so I expect more terrain will be opening soon.
Natural snow on Bow trail was in excellent condition with new tracksetting
I didn’t see any snow guns in operation except a couple in the stadium, so there must be enough snow to get the required depth on the trails.
The air temperature was -12°C and I think the snow must have been at least that cold because my VR30(-10/-30) gripped well.
The view of Rundle Mountain from Cold shoulder at Canmore Nordic Centre
I skied to the end of Banff trail and returned on Bow. At the Grey Wolf intersection I had to take Grey Wolf back up to Banff trail because Bow was closed due to snowmaking. I think at this point it’s closed due to “snow pushing and smoothing.”
In a nutshell I’d have to say conditions are excellent on the natural snow. The trails I skied were groomed and trackset this morning. For being so cold, I thought the tracks were quite fast. The only glitch is occasional tree debris(mostly spruce cones), but I would consider it insignificant. The tracks were good everywhere that I skied.
The view from Cold shoulder at Canmore Nordic Centre
If you have never skied the trail known as Cold Shoulder, make a point of doing it this winter. It’s a “spur” off Bow trail and has spectacular views. The trail is a short, but delightful out-and-back with small hills and curves.
The plan is to head there tomorrow.