Tuesday February 21, 2012
21/02/12 11:55
All the loops are groomed for skate skiing, the meadow has also groomed out nicely with both north and south entrance and exits widened. Conditions are great, come out and enjoy.
herb
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herb
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0 Comments
Saturday, February 18, 2012
18/02/12 15:06
Bear lake: Saturday Noon: 32 degrees no wind. The loop around the trail is rolled and smooth but too soft for good skating (maybe tomorrow). The trail through the woods is nice as well.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
18/02/12 11:39
The temperature is currently 26 and skies are clear with clouds moving in from the south. All loops and the logging road have been resurfaced for skate skiing.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Thursday, February 16 2012
16/02/12 15:27
Many phone calls from folks concerned with venturing out after reading the Chugach NF Avalanche updates. Awesome, thanks for checking on conditions. But also have had folks needlessly cancel trips to cabins on Seward Ranger District winter used trails in areas safe from avalanches. For more detailed information please call the following people in the categories listed:
Avalanche specific information on Seward Ranger District, primarily for Summit Lake area: ALEX MCLAIN: 288-7710
Cabins: PAT COOK: 288-7711
Winter used trails/area/cabins: MIKE FITZPATRICK: 288-7714; PAT O’LEARY; 288-7702; IRENE LINDQUIST, 288-7748;
JOHN EAVIS, 288-7701.
Snowpack has settled with the warm temps this past week, freezing at night will help make travel a little easier, though, off trail travel by snowmobile is still a chore. More areas of overflow beneath snow to watch out for, and ice/snow bridges that have collapsed making travel up creek and river bottoms a bit more difficult and challenging.
So where’s the good news? Travel with classic skis or snowshoes through the woods is very good due to the ever increasing snowpack. Lots of good exploring, especially when you can’t find the trail because of all the snow.
Exit Glacier Road to the Glacier is packed and in great condition, possible to skate ski, though grooves make it more challenging. Check out Seward Nordic Ski Club and Cooper Landing Grooming Report websites for latest groomed trails.
Safe and Happy Travels.
If you would like to add someone, or be removed from this mailing please reply to these updates, Thanks.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Avalanche specific information on Seward Ranger District, primarily for Summit Lake area: ALEX MCLAIN: 288-7710
Cabins: PAT COOK: 288-7711
Winter used trails/area/cabins: MIKE FITZPATRICK: 288-7714; PAT O’LEARY; 288-7702; IRENE LINDQUIST, 288-7748;
JOHN EAVIS, 288-7701.
Snowpack has settled with the warm temps this past week, freezing at night will help make travel a little easier, though, off trail travel by snowmobile is still a chore. More areas of overflow beneath snow to watch out for, and ice/snow bridges that have collapsed making travel up creek and river bottoms a bit more difficult and challenging.
So where’s the good news? Travel with classic skis or snowshoes through the woods is very good due to the ever increasing snowpack. Lots of good exploring, especially when you can’t find the trail because of all the snow.
Exit Glacier Road to the Glacier is packed and in great condition, possible to skate ski, though grooves make it more challenging. Check out Seward Nordic Ski Club and Cooper Landing Grooming Report websites for latest groomed trails.
Safe and Happy Travels.
If you would like to add someone, or be removed from this mailing please reply to these updates, Thanks.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Thursday, February 16 2012
16/02/12 12:11
All the loops at the divide including the meadow are now open, skate or classic skiing should be good. Dan's drop and the south entrance to the meadow are a little narrow but once you get down you should have a great ski. Enjoy
Herb
Herb
Thursday, February 16 2012
16/02/12 11:57
The temperature at Trail River is 26 and skies are currently clear. All loops and the logging road have been groomed for skate skiing. This last batch of snow laid down really nice and a lot of the moisture was chased out by the cooler temps this evening.
Also, off trail touring is great right now. The snow's surface is firm enough to support a skier's weight and a great deal of the downed trees are completely covered. You can go anywhere right now with ease.
Enjoy!
Also, off trail touring is great right now. The snow's surface is firm enough to support a skier's weight and a great deal of the downed trees are completely covered. You can go anywhere right now with ease.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
15/02/12 13:43
Wednesday noon: 32 degrees calm winds snow falling. The lake is to soft for anything but touring or snowshoes. The lakeside trail through the woods is firmer and groomed for skating -- lots of holes from moose on the trail.
Dan
Dan
Monday, February 13, 2012
13/02/12 19:58
The temperature at Trail RIver is 33.3 and moderate, wet snow is falling. I groomed all loops and the logging road this afternoon for skate skiing. Skating was so-so. It was a bit grippy and my poles sunk through when planting them. But it was fun nonetheless.
I also attempted to skate ski from the Kenai Lake work center out to Black Mountain on the lake today and encountered about 2 inches of slush just beneath the lake surface. I will try to post when lake surface conditions are better set up for travel.
Enjoy!
I also attempted to skate ski from the Kenai Lake work center out to Black Mountain on the lake today and encountered about 2 inches of slush just beneath the lake surface. I will try to post when lake surface conditions are better set up for travel.
Enjoy!
Monday, February 13, 2012
13/02/12 09:37
The parking area has not been plowed, it is not passable at this time. I'll check later today and give an update.
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Thursday, February, 9 2012
09/02/12 19:31
Recent rain and warm temps have created spring-like break-up conditions at lower elevations of the Seward District. Side roads are a combination of slush and slick ice. Snow travel is mushy except on well-packed trails. But look for a much more solid base to form as temps drop below freezing again.
Parking is very limited at Resurrection Pass north out of Hope and the Bean Creek access to Resurrection Pass south out of Cooper Landing. Plows have run out of places to put the snow.
Have lots of patience with the propane stove at Clemens Cabin. It's been taking extra long for it to fire up but hopefully we can get this problem remedied.
The trail to Meridian Lake was opened up recently. Many live hemlocks had come down in this area from heavy ice and wind storms. This is a good snowshoe with ice fishing opportunities. Watch for overflow on all lakes at this time.
Well, it's been a pleasure working with/serving you all but it's time for me to move on down the trail. I will miss this amazing place and will leave with many fond memories of all the great times spent working out on these trails. If ya'll are ever in Appalachia look me up at Mt. Rogers NRA in Virginia.
Stephen Hmurciak, Trails
Seward Ranger District
Chugach National Forest
Parking is very limited at Resurrection Pass north out of Hope and the Bean Creek access to Resurrection Pass south out of Cooper Landing. Plows have run out of places to put the snow.
Have lots of patience with the propane stove at Clemens Cabin. It's been taking extra long for it to fire up but hopefully we can get this problem remedied.
The trail to Meridian Lake was opened up recently. Many live hemlocks had come down in this area from heavy ice and wind storms. This is a good snowshoe with ice fishing opportunities. Watch for overflow on all lakes at this time.
Well, it's been a pleasure working with/serving you all but it's time for me to move on down the trail. I will miss this amazing place and will leave with many fond memories of all the great times spent working out on these trails. If ya'll are ever in Appalachia look me up at Mt. Rogers NRA in Virginia.
Stephen Hmurciak, Trails
Seward Ranger District
Chugach National Forest
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
07/02/12 07:39
The current temperature at Trail River is 26 degrees and skies are clear. All loops and the logging road have been groomed for skate skiing.
Monday February 6, 2012
06/02/12 12:19
Warm and wet Monday am.
The lake trail will be a bit soft. If you lost your snowshoes along the lake call me and identify -- 224-3848, Dan
The lake trail will be a bit soft. If you lost your snowshoes along the lake call me and identify -- 224-3848, Dan
Sunday, February 5, 2012
05/02/12 21:03
The temperature at Trail River is 37 degrees and skies are broken with light touches of rain. All loops have been rolled and the lower (lake) loops have an eight foot wide skate lane. I just got back in state and need to make a fuel run so that is about all I can do until mid-week. Expect spring surface conditions. Fast, fast, fast.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Friday, February 3, 2012
03/02/12 23:10
I was out skiing on the exit glacier road on some soft fresh snow tonight at dusk and a snow-machine with a grooming roller on the back zoomed by , so it is safe to say at least some of the road is groomed.
Thanks to the Groomer on the sled too.
Erik
Thanks to the Groomer on the sled too.
Erik
Friday, February 3, 2012
03/02/12 23:10
Andy Wilder groomed the divide tonight and said all loops except the meadow are groomed, should be good for tomorrow ... Enjoy
Herb
Herb
Friday, February 3, 2012
03/02/12 17:56
I packed the trail around the lake with just a snow machine and sled. This should make for nice touring. Watch for moose and overflow. This is a good time of year for night touring.
20 degrees no wind at 5:00 pm Friday. Two moose along the south shore and the woods trail.
Enjoy.
20 degrees no wind at 5:00 pm Friday. Two moose along the south shore and the woods trail.
Enjoy.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
31/01/12 17:04
Hello-
Hope this email posts properly and everyone gets updated. The website was acting strangely.....
Anyway, just to let you know the campground skiing is just glorious!! We spent a couple of hours there today and it was just amazing! Sunny azure blue skies, no wind and a balmy 20 degrees. We felt so very fortunate to be able to enjoy this little piece of heaven right in our own background!
And a most hearty "Thank You" to Jason our campground groomer extraordinaire.
Thank you SO much for all you do and know how much you are appreciated!!
Shelli & Randy
Hope this email posts properly and everyone gets updated. The website was acting strangely.....
Anyway, just to let you know the campground skiing is just glorious!! We spent a couple of hours there today and it was just amazing! Sunny azure blue skies, no wind and a balmy 20 degrees. We felt so very fortunate to be able to enjoy this little piece of heaven right in our own background!
And a most hearty "Thank You" to Jason our campground groomer extraordinaire.
Thank you SO much for all you do and know how much you are appreciated!!
Shelli & Randy
Monday, January 30, 2012
30/01/12 12:55
It’s a balmy 20 degrees at Bear Lake -- trail around the lake is very skatable with drifting in the usual spots. The west side (across from houses) is excellent. Island headed south is where most drifting has occurred. NW wind is about 10-15 - not bad and feels great after the past couple weeks.
Dan skiied Iditarod SUnday and it was excellent!
Enjoy the warm break! madelyn
Dan skiied Iditarod SUnday and it was excellent!
Enjoy the warm break! madelyn
Friday, January 27, 2012
27/01/12 11:41
The temperature at Trail River is -9, skies are clear. We have received another few inches of fine snow today. All loops and the logging road have been rolled. Skate skiing is possible, but given the temperatures and the nature of the snow I would recommend nordic skiing.
Today I had the pleasure of touring the Old Sterling from Tern Lake all the way through to Quartz subdivision. The trail is excellent thanks to the efforts of a Cooper Landing groomer by the name of Eric. The trail is firm, fast and relatively free of overhanging trees. We were able to ski from Tern to Quartz in less than 2 hours. The best parking options are either at the Tern Lake observation area by the wye or drive out Quartz Creek Road until it dead ends at the trail.
Enjoy!
Today I had the pleasure of touring the Old Sterling from Tern Lake all the way through to Quartz subdivision. The trail is excellent thanks to the efforts of a Cooper Landing groomer by the name of Eric. The trail is firm, fast and relatively free of overhanging trees. We were able to ski from Tern to Quartz in less than 2 hours. The best parking options are either at the Tern Lake observation area by the wye or drive out Quartz Creek Road until it dead ends at the trail.
Enjoy!
Thursday, January 26, 2012
26/01/12 13:56
Good Blustery Day to all of you.
A few folks have asked why no updates the past 2 weeks. When there is nothing much to note other than the obvious, we tend to not send an update.
This past week areas of Seward Ranger District received 6-14” of new snow. Winter used trails that were already packed are quite nice, however, all modes of travel off trail are currently more difficult.
The winter trail to Lower Russian Lake and Barber cabin is packed and in great condition.
The Old Sterling Hwy is in fabulous condition for classic skiing.
With the overabundance of snow, Classic skiing is currently a good mode of travel, many of our creeks and rivers are in good condition, and travel through the woods is possible in most areas by ski and snowshoe.
Kenai Lake in front of the USFS Work Center has 14” of ice under 10” of snow, this area has been frozen for 3 weeks now. A pressure ridge to the west originating from the Power plant opened a 15’ wide lead extending north four days ago.
Travel to Nellie Juan Lake via snowmobile is now possible, though there are the usual open water crossings, travel is good.
In an effort to not repeat others reports, particularly for skate skiing, please continue to check in with the Cooper Landing and Seward Nordic Ski Club websites for current information.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
A few folks have asked why no updates the past 2 weeks. When there is nothing much to note other than the obvious, we tend to not send an update.
This past week areas of Seward Ranger District received 6-14” of new snow. Winter used trails that were already packed are quite nice, however, all modes of travel off trail are currently more difficult.
The winter trail to Lower Russian Lake and Barber cabin is packed and in great condition.
The Old Sterling Hwy is in fabulous condition for classic skiing.
With the overabundance of snow, Classic skiing is currently a good mode of travel, many of our creeks and rivers are in good condition, and travel through the woods is possible in most areas by ski and snowshoe.
Kenai Lake in front of the USFS Work Center has 14” of ice under 10” of snow, this area has been frozen for 3 weeks now. A pressure ridge to the west originating from the Power plant opened a 15’ wide lead extending north four days ago.
Travel to Nellie Juan Lake via snowmobile is now possible, though there are the usual open water crossings, travel is good.
In an effort to not repeat others reports, particularly for skate skiing, please continue to check in with the Cooper Landing and Seward Nordic Ski Club websites for current information.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Thursday, January 26, 2012
26/01/12 12:35
Good morning. The temperature at Trail River is 8 degrees. We received roughly 8 more inches of snow out here yesterday. The lower lake loops have been rolled. I should get to the rest this evening.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
25/01/12 15:38
The trail around Bear Lake won't be packed until this weekend - equipment has been moved to the High school to prepare trails for the upcoming Middle School Ski Meet on Friday.There are plenty of snowmachine trails to follow from the public access for some fun touring - apart from that you're in to your knees. The lakeside trail is packed enough for nice touring and can follow the trail to the island and a bit beyond on snowmachine trail if you like. The alternate route to Iditarod/Little Bear from the lakeside trail has been marked with yellow tape - nice touring but not so good for your canine buddies since the moose has been using it to. Today its about 10 degrees, winds about 15 (quiet on the lakeside trail)
Volunteers still welcome for MS meet - these events are really fun and the kids are a blast - to volunteer call 224-9000 - it will be a great way to get familiar with the school trails which we haven't been able to do the last few years! Madelyn
Volunteers still welcome for MS meet - these events are really fun and the kids are a blast - to volunteer call 224-9000 - it will be a great way to get familiar with the school trails which we haven't been able to do the last few years! Madelyn
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
24/01/12 22:34
Divide was groomed this morning and is in great shape. It may still be a bit soft for skate. Watch out for moose, one was resting on the Sitzmark trail early today.
Thank you groomer Andy Wilder!
Thank you groomer Andy Wilder!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
24/01/12 19:39
The field and trails at the high school have been rolled this morning. 22 degrees no wind, one moose.
This will be the site of the middle school ski race this friday at 3pm. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. call 224-9000. for more on that.
This will be the site of the middle school ski race this friday at 3pm. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. call 224-9000. for more on that.
Monday, January 23, 2012
24/01/12 10:50
Divide and Exit Glacier Road were both rolled Monday, I imagine conditions are still quite soft at both locations.
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Monday, January 23, 2012
23/01/12 09:17
Iditarod from Nash was great today for classic skiing! Parking lot was plowed out, what great snow and temps!
Ski on!
Jenn
Ski on!
Jenn
Sunday, January 22, 2012
22/01/12 17:14
WInd is down - temperature is up - about 15 degrees at 1:00 pm. Bear lake is NOT groomed with the last snow fall but 6 inches of champagne powder and little wind make for great touring on the trail around the lake. Use the west side (shore across from houses) and you can easily find the trail. West side is doable but a foot or more in places from the wind and hard to find the trail. Trail along the lake at the end of Bear Lake Road is nice too and a lot less snow. As of 1:30 - road not plowed and very skiable - you can use this route to ski clear around lake to island, up the lakeside trail and back to your car by road. Watch for moose........madelyn
Saturday January 21, 2012
21/01/12 21:38
Exit Glacier Road is skate ski-able to the big bridge over Resurrection Rv - 6.5 miles out. It's not perfectly groomed as of late and dog pooh is abundant. If you're looking for a long ski place, try it out.
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Friday, January 20 2012
20/01/12 11:42
Morning - Tom has set tracks on Bear Lake. This morning - temperatures around zero - winds are up. To stay out of the wind, take the trail alongside the lake at the end of Bear Lake road and come back down the lake with the wind at your back. Don't forget to wax at these temperatures or the snow will feel like sandpaper. madelyn
Thrsday January 19, 2012
19/01/12 17:14
Thursday afternoon, zero for temp - light winds - maybe 10. Tom Gillespie has provided a groomed loop around the lake - great skate or classic. I was on backcountry skis and could skate so its nice!!! He's been fighting hard all week in the teeth of the gale to keep the trail - salute as you go by. lakeside trail has also been dragged and pretty nice. Feel free to cut low branches and help out groomers. Madelyn
14/01/12 11:34
The temperature at Trail River is -5, skies are clear and there is no wind. All loops as well as the logging road have been planed with the drag.
Bundle up and enjoy!
Bundle up and enjoy!
Friday, January 13, 2012
13/01/12 12:19
The current temperature at Trail River is 12 degrees and light snow is falling. All loops have been rolled as well as the logging road. I plan to drag everything tomorrow night so there should be a nice, planed surface to skate on by Saturday morning. We've kinda put the skate skis aside given the huge snowfalls as of late and have been touring around in the timber. You can go anywhere right now.
Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Monday, January 9, 2012
09/01/12 11:48
Wanna snowshoe through absolute heavenly powder? Try the Troop Lake Area (just north of Mile 12). Safest to park southbound (up hill grade) then follow the trail we set through the trees, past the weather station and beyond. Absolutely fantastic.... good workout too!
Marc Swanson
Marc Swanson
Monday, January 9, 2012
09/01/12 11:47
As of yesterday, Bear Lake had tons of overflow covered w/ tons of powder. So sadly can't be groomed until it settles up a bit. No wind, full moon :)
Friday January 6, 2012
06/01/12 11:33
The temperature at Trail River is 16 degrees and at this time there is light snow falling. All loops have been rolled.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Friday January 6, 2012
06/01/12 11:32
Exit Glacier Road WAS groomed this evening but, sadly, a red Toyota Tacoma with a topper drove through the gates and tore up the trail for quite a distance. If you know these knuckleheads, please give them a knuckle sandwich.
Thursday January 5, 2012
05/01/12 18:30
Good Snowy Day to You!
This morning Seward Ranger District received 7-14" of snow in 5 short hours.
All access points to Lost Lake remain in good condition, though deeper snow from Snug Harbor will once again make the climb to the top a challenge.
Resurrection Pass Trail from Hope is now passable by snowmachine to Fox Creek. Skiers can get around the next grouping of trees, but a snowmachine cannot. We anticipate getting the rest of these trees cut out next week.
Resurrection Pass Trail South via West Juneau Rd, or Bean Cr Trail is currently in good condition through Resurrection Pass. Don't use Resurrection Pass Trail South if you are traveling with a snowmobile or a ski pulk, though, as of yesterday we removed fallen trees from across the trail, there are steep side hills that are difficult to travel. Instead use West Juneau Rd (100' to the West of the Trailhead at mile 52.8 Sterling Hwy), or Bean Creek Trail (Bean Cr Rd to Slaughter Ridge Rd). The 9 mile loop is currently a good ski, ski up the trail, and come down the West Juneau Rd.
Russian River via the groomed road at Russian River C.G. has an active trap line. A friends dog was caught in a snare last weekend near the Grayling Lake access from the river. By themselves, most critters are not able to get out of traps.
Upper Russian Lake Trail still has down trees which may impede travel by snowmobile beyond mile 5.
Johnson South via Upper Trail Lake is currently clear of obstructions. You notice I say "currently" a lot, that's because conditions can change in a matter of hours. This is the winter for down and over hanging trees across many of our trails.
Travel to Grant Lake should be via the Portage Trail which is a mile south of the Railroad trestle. There are several down trees on the Grant Lake Mine Rd beginning at mile 2 to Grant Lake. There is an active trap line on the Grant Lake Mine Rd.
Grant Lake currently has 8-10" of water under the snow, on top of the ice. Overflow is a constant concern when traveling over any frozen bodies of water.
Open water on Kenai Lake froze (minus a 2 mile section at Quartz Cr) began to freeze Sunday night. The open area in front of the Kenai Lake Work Center froze last night. Though anticipate slow ice growth with the 12" of snow we received this morning.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
This morning Seward Ranger District received 7-14" of snow in 5 short hours.
All access points to Lost Lake remain in good condition, though deeper snow from Snug Harbor will once again make the climb to the top a challenge.
Resurrection Pass Trail from Hope is now passable by snowmachine to Fox Creek. Skiers can get around the next grouping of trees, but a snowmachine cannot. We anticipate getting the rest of these trees cut out next week.
Resurrection Pass Trail South via West Juneau Rd, or Bean Cr Trail is currently in good condition through Resurrection Pass. Don't use Resurrection Pass Trail South if you are traveling with a snowmobile or a ski pulk, though, as of yesterday we removed fallen trees from across the trail, there are steep side hills that are difficult to travel. Instead use West Juneau Rd (100' to the West of the Trailhead at mile 52.8 Sterling Hwy), or Bean Creek Trail (Bean Cr Rd to Slaughter Ridge Rd). The 9 mile loop is currently a good ski, ski up the trail, and come down the West Juneau Rd.
Russian River via the groomed road at Russian River C.G. has an active trap line. A friends dog was caught in a snare last weekend near the Grayling Lake access from the river. By themselves, most critters are not able to get out of traps.
Upper Russian Lake Trail still has down trees which may impede travel by snowmobile beyond mile 5.
Johnson South via Upper Trail Lake is currently clear of obstructions. You notice I say "currently" a lot, that's because conditions can change in a matter of hours. This is the winter for down and over hanging trees across many of our trails.
Travel to Grant Lake should be via the Portage Trail which is a mile south of the Railroad trestle. There are several down trees on the Grant Lake Mine Rd beginning at mile 2 to Grant Lake. There is an active trap line on the Grant Lake Mine Rd.
Grant Lake currently has 8-10" of water under the snow, on top of the ice. Overflow is a constant concern when traveling over any frozen bodies of water.
Open water on Kenai Lake froze (minus a 2 mile section at Quartz Cr) began to freeze Sunday night. The open area in front of the Kenai Lake Work Center froze last night. Though anticipate slow ice growth with the 12" of snow we received this morning.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Friday, December 30, 2011
30/12/11 20:13
The temperature at Trail River is -2 and skies are clear.
I would have never thought that I'd be chasing atv ruts this winter, what with all the snow and the fact that there is a forest order barring the use of atv's in Trail River campground. But what's a guy to do? After four hours of work all loops and the logging road are groomed wide for skate skiing and maybe the appearance of an elusive dog sled or two. Enjoy the last day of 2011 and we wish you all great skiing in 2012.
Jason Aigeldinger
I would have never thought that I'd be chasing atv ruts this winter, what with all the snow and the fact that there is a forest order barring the use of atv's in Trail River campground. But what's a guy to do? After four hours of work all loops and the logging road are groomed wide for skate skiing and maybe the appearance of an elusive dog sled or two. Enjoy the last day of 2011 and we wish you all great skiing in 2012.
Jason Aigeldinger
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
27/12/11 15:00
Bear Lake Tuesday 1:30 pm. The lake perimeter is rolled and ready for for skiing. Expect some icey and rough spots but definitely skate ski doable. Part of the track has diagonal set as well. 17 degrees winds calm. Falling snow
Watch for moose! three in the area one current hanging out near the public access -- not a good place for loose dogs.
Dan
Watch for moose! three in the area one current hanging out near the public access -- not a good place for loose dogs.
Dan
Sunday, December 25 2011
25/12/11 16:14
Hello All and Merry Christmas, both trails are groomed and the parking area lower meadow are also shaping up, much flatter and should be a good ski. Madeline's Meadow is still off piste. enjoy
Herb
Herb
Sunday, December 25 2011
25/12/11 16:13
Merry Christmas All!
The south end of Bear Lake has been groomed for classic and skate. Light winds but good conditions. Enjoy!
The south end of Bear Lake has been groomed for classic and skate. Light winds but good conditions. Enjoy!
Friday December 23, 2011
23/12/11 16:46
Paradise has been groomed for skate skiing, Luna is packed and tree removed. Madelyn's meadow is available for off piste touring and snowshoeing. all intime for a holiday ski.
Ski happy
Dan
Ski happy
Dan
Friday December 23, 2011
23/12/11 12:17
Good morning. The current temp is 19 degrees and we are under cloudy skies. All loops have been groomed and the logging road as well. The cow and calf are still around so please be aware.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Thursday December 22, 2011
22/12/11 16:59
Divide trail: Paradise loop rolled this morning (Thursday) lots of new snow makes this still a little soft but definitely skiable. Luna loop got one pass with the roller so this will work for you classic skiers; there is a tree down on this loop waiting to be removed.
Bear Lake: Diagonal track set and a rough pack on a wider trail from the public access along the south shore an through the woods back to the road. Watch for moose and overflow.
Dan
Bear Lake: Diagonal track set and a rough pack on a wider trail from the public access along the south shore an through the woods back to the road. Watch for moose and overflow.
Dan
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
20/12/11 11:12
The temperature at Trail River is 25 degrees and at this time light snow is falling. All loops have been milled with the drag. It should skate fine, even with the presence of the forecasted snow.
But be forewarned, I encountered a cow and calf moose in the River Terrace loop this evening. Please be careful.
But be forewarned, I encountered a cow and calf moose in the River Terrace loop this evening. Please be careful.
Monday, December 19, 2011
19/12/11 15:42
The car parking area at the divide was plowed so you may now access the trails. We are beginning to work on only the lower section of the trails at this time (parking area and swamp section) . We will be working on leveling the lower swamp area and the parking areas over the next few days. I have not had time to get to the loops yet. I did do one pass with the machine this morning so there is a narrow packed trail you can classic on but the whole area is very rough and nothing is really groomed yet. Also, there is a tree that is ready to fall at the top of Paradise it is hanging over the trail so be careful. We will try to cut it out tomorrow. The groomers will keep working on it and hopefully have all the trails up and running soon.
herb
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herb
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Saturday, December 17, 2011
17/12/11 15:22
Saturday afternoon. South end of Bear Lake now has a daigonal tracks as does the Iditarod Cutoff. 33 degrees and rain and snow mix.
Dan
Dan
Friday, December 16, 2011
16/12/11 22:48
I just got back from mile 12 and it was awesome! It's about 32° up there right now and the snow is fluffy and fun, great for classic skiing. . . It's sticky in some spots so glide wax definitely helps! Yeah for snow during winter break!
Jenn
Jenn
Friday, December 16, 2011
16/12/11 20:03
The temperature at Trail River is 30 degrees and winds are calm. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Enjoy!
Tuesday, Cecember 13, 2011
13/12/11 11:33
Don't forget, just because there's not much snow left Seward, doesn't mean there is not any snow 12 miles out of town! Mile 12 was awesome tonight! I classic skied and it was fast and fun, 30 degrees, beautiful evening - Thank you for coming down from Crown point to groom Jason!
Monday, December 12, 2011
12/12/11 20:51
The temperature at Trail River is 26 and skies are clear. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing.
The Luna and Paradise loops at mile 12 have been packed and hit with the drag this evening.
Enjoy the skiing and the season.
The Luna and Paradise loops at mile 12 have been packed and hit with the drag this evening.
Enjoy the skiing and the season.
Friday December 9, 2011
09/12/11 12:32
Friday December 9, 2011
09/12/11 11:50
Skate skiing was good at Divide at mile 12 tonight. There is about an inch of new snow over hard pack and some bumps. Probably easier to ski in the daylight.
Wednesday, November 7, 2011
08/12/11 13:55
Where is the new snow? Not on the Seward Ranger District! Let's hope this update quickly gets outdated because at the moment SRD winter used trails/areas are rock hard with lots of ruts.
Across the District last night we received 1-2" new snow. This is enough to carefully ski on if you aren't too robust with your strides.
Bear Lake has 13" of ice and is a good ski to the end of the lake, though remember to educate yourself as to where outlets, inlets, springs, currents, etc. are located on any body of water you choose to travel.
The top hard surface on the groomed trails at Divide, Russian River and Trail River C.G.'s has been churned a little by the volunteers who work so hard to provide a skiing opportunity even in the bleakest of conditions. Skate skiing is fair to good in these areas.
Snug Harbor Road has improved greatly from being solid ice to a drivable surface (50/50, ice and gravel) to our winter parking lot at mile 9.
Lost Lake Trail is not recommended for travel by snowmobile w/o a studded track. The infamous icy chutes have returned.
Lower Russian Lake ice is 14" thick, surface is rough, ice cleats for travel on the lake are recommended if you take the winter route to the Barber Cabin. One avalanche did release this past weekend depositing snow 15'w x 5' deep on the summer trai before the cabin. A caller this week asked a good question after I gave him trail/lake conditions for this area, "what trail would you take?" he asks. Hmmm, until we receive 3+ inches of new snow, I would take the summer trail if avalanche conditions are at moderate or less.
Wishing you a wonderful outing in these marginal conditions.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Across the District last night we received 1-2" new snow. This is enough to carefully ski on if you aren't too robust with your strides.
Bear Lake has 13" of ice and is a good ski to the end of the lake, though remember to educate yourself as to where outlets, inlets, springs, currents, etc. are located on any body of water you choose to travel.
The top hard surface on the groomed trails at Divide, Russian River and Trail River C.G.'s has been churned a little by the volunteers who work so hard to provide a skiing opportunity even in the bleakest of conditions. Skate skiing is fair to good in these areas.
Snug Harbor Road has improved greatly from being solid ice to a drivable surface (50/50, ice and gravel) to our winter parking lot at mile 9.
Lost Lake Trail is not recommended for travel by snowmobile w/o a studded track. The infamous icy chutes have returned.
Lower Russian Lake ice is 14" thick, surface is rough, ice cleats for travel on the lake are recommended if you take the winter route to the Barber Cabin. One avalanche did release this past weekend depositing snow 15'w x 5' deep on the summer trai before the cabin. A caller this week asked a good question after I gave him trail/lake conditions for this area, "what trail would you take?" he asks. Hmmm, until we receive 3+ inches of new snow, I would take the summer trail if avalanche conditions are at moderate or less.
Wishing you a wonderful outing in these marginal conditions.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Wednesday, November 7, 2011
07/12/11 11:39
The temperature at Trail River is 34 degrees. The trail is icy and the overflow issue has returned at the bottom of the logging road. I would hold off until conditions improve.
03/12/11 16:03
Divide (mile 12) was just groomed. Corduroy trails with a very slight drizzle. The Family Fun Ski was a blast with Christmas Eggs for all, a beautiful new snowman at the parking lots and kid power.
Saturday, Decmber 3, 2011
03/12/11 14:25
Current Advisory (Summit Lake Area)
Saturday, December 3rd 2011
Created: Dec 3rd 6:16 am
Saturday, December 3rd 2011
Created: Dec 3rd 6:16 am
| Good morning backcountry travelers, this is Alex McLain with the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center on Saturday December 3rd at 7 am. |
Saturday, Decmber 3, 2011
03/12/11 14:24
The temperature is 23 degrees and skies are cloudy at Trail River. All loops have been packed and groomed for skate skiing.
I packed the Old Sterling from Tern Lake through to Quartz Creek this afternoon/evening. Be aware that there is trapping going on off the Old Sterling. There are small snares and box traps about 60 to 80 yards off the main trail from Dave's Creek south toward Quartz. With a harnessed dog, I think it would be a great tour out there.
Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
I packed the Old Sterling from Tern Lake through to Quartz Creek this afternoon/evening. Be aware that there is trapping going on off the Old Sterling. There are small snares and box traps about 60 to 80 yards off the main trail from Dave's Creek south toward Quartz. With a harnessed dog, I think it would be a great tour out there.
Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Thursday, December 1, 2011
01/12/11 12:54
Good morning, We are opening Lost Lake and Primrose trails to motorized use today.
Enjoy,
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Enjoy,
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Thursday, December 1, 2011
01/12/11 12:53
Good morning. The temperature at Trail River is 26 degrees and rising (had a low of 20) and skies are clear with clouds building toward the south. I rolled the campground yesterday afternoon and it set up real nice over night. The surface is nice and crispy but the trails are plagued with annoying skeg marks from the sled. The increased temperature and rain yesterday afternoon turned the whole surface into mashed potatoes so I got out of there. It skated really well this morning, just watch the skeg marks. As the temperature comes up with the approach of the next low the surface quality should decrease. My advice would be to hit sooner than later. As of today, December 1, the campground is closed to ATVs.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
01/12/11 12:51
Rain, slush, standing water. Should've just skied in the swimming pool. High School Ski Team preservered however by practicing some classic-style water skiing. Some falls earned style points and soaked clothes.
Marc Swanson
Marc Swanson
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
30/11/11 13:22
Tomorrow, December 1 the Seward Ranger District motorized trails (EXCEPT for LOST LAKE AND PRIMROSE) will open for snowmobile use. Lost Lake can be accessed via the Snug Harbor Road route. We will evaluate Lost Lake and Primrose on a daily basis for snow conditions (lots of interesting weather happening as I write) and will post on the CNF website and send a msg. as soon as we open these 2 areas.
Across the District we received 3-7" of heavy wet snow through early this morning.
For information on groomed trails/roads please get the latest updates from these websites:
http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/
http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
And for avalanche information: http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php
Members of the Seward Nordic Ski Club receive up to date reports from other club members on a wide variety of winter activities and conditions on the Seward Ranger District.
For those of you that are familiar with Grant Lake, take a guess on how thick the ice was yesterday.
Reports have come in of someone trapping at various trailheads/parking areas directly off the road system, please be careful with your dogs. Anticipate more trap lines beginning tomorrow as snow machines provide easier access to the backcountry.
Meridian Lake has 6" ice.
Grant Lake Mine Trail and Grant Lake Portage trail have been cleared of fallen trees. Yesterday afternoon we drilled several holes on Grant Lake, never venturing further than 20' from shore because ice thickness was 4" and less.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Across the District we received 3-7" of heavy wet snow through early this morning.
For information on groomed trails/roads please get the latest updates from these websites:
http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/
http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
And for avalanche information: http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php
Members of the Seward Nordic Ski Club receive up to date reports from other club members on a wide variety of winter activities and conditions on the Seward Ranger District.
For those of you that are familiar with Grant Lake, take a guess on how thick the ice was yesterday.
Reports have come in of someone trapping at various trailheads/parking areas directly off the road system, please be careful with your dogs. Anticipate more trap lines beginning tomorrow as snow machines provide easier access to the backcountry.
Meridian Lake has 6" ice.
Grant Lake Mine Trail and Grant Lake Portage trail have been cleared of fallen trees. Yesterday afternoon we drilled several holes on Grant Lake, never venturing further than 20' from shore because ice thickness was 4" and less.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Monday, November 28, 2911
29/11/11 11:29
Beautiful starry night ski tonight out at mile 12! The conditions were fantastic - thank you groomers!
Monday, November 28, 2011
28/11/11 11:30
Exit Glacier Road was groomed to the overlook last night.
Monday, November 28, 2011
28/11/11 11:29
The iditarod trail from Glacier creek south to Sawmill Creek is great snow-machine packed touring trail. Glacier Creek has lots of snow but still rocks and gravel being hit below the surface; ski this area with caution.
Dan
Dan
Saturday, November 26, 2011
27/11/11 17:36
Good Morning! The temperature at Trail River 7 degrees and winds are calm. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
23/11/11 23:15
I took some time today and rolled out the Old Sterling from Tern to Quartz Creek. It is still a little thin in just a few areas and the overflow issues are passable. it would be a doable nordic ski. The only rough area is dropping into Dave's Creek from the Tern side. There are some big ruts in the roadbed and a bit of overflow. If and when we get more snow I'll be at it again out there. Enjoy the holiday!
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
23/11/11 11:21
The temperature is -1 here at Trail River. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Enjoy the holiday!
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
21/11/11 20:20
Last Wednesdays wind brought trees down across some winter used trails. If you come across trees that are a hindrance to your travel please call us with details.
Ice skating is reported to be good on Upper Trail and Bear Lake, though, areas of thinner ice was discovered by a couple unfortunate skaters who took a dunking in a seemingly safe area on Bear Lake yesterday.
Many areas/trails/roads you may travel with your dogs are also used by trappers. This is the season for trapping various furbearers. Be careful if you travel with dogs due to strong scents/meat used in traps as a lure. I hope you never encounter your dog caught in a trap, but in reality it happens more than it should. If you would like to borrow a DVD presented by the Alaska Trappers Association with information on how to recognize trap lines and release various traps please contact me.
There are many new subscribers to our Trail Condition mailing list, in the interest of saving time by not sorting out new/old members I would like to resend this information to the entire mailing list:
Please keep in mind the changing conditions that may occur after trail/area/water/ice/avalanche condition reports are sent. What one moment is good/bad may change in a matter of hours due to the extremes in weather we experience here. Many of the treks we mention as great fun may work well for one person, yet be a death trap for another. Each individual adult needs to decide for themselves if they have the knowledge, skills, equipment, and physical ability to safely venture to the various locations we give current information for the Seward Ranger District.
We like having the public call us for information on recreating and planning on the District. Please feel free to contact the following people with your questions, comments, and concerns in the following areas:
Avalanche Information and Mountain Skiing:
Alex McLain – 288-7710
Trails, Cabins, Backcountry Treks:
Irene Lindquist – 288-7748
Stephen Hmurciak – 288-7713 (Stephen returns to work the second week of January.
Pat O’Leary – 288-7702
Mike (Fitz) Fitzpatrick – 288-7714
Cabins
Pat Cook – 288-7711 (Pat will be available beginning early February)
Person in Charge of our Trails/Cabins Program
John Eavis – 288-7701
For all other topics regarding other resource areas please call our main office at 224-3374 for assistance.
Thank you,
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Ice skating is reported to be good on Upper Trail and Bear Lake, though, areas of thinner ice was discovered by a couple unfortunate skaters who took a dunking in a seemingly safe area on Bear Lake yesterday.
Many areas/trails/roads you may travel with your dogs are also used by trappers. This is the season for trapping various furbearers. Be careful if you travel with dogs due to strong scents/meat used in traps as a lure. I hope you never encounter your dog caught in a trap, but in reality it happens more than it should. If you would like to borrow a DVD presented by the Alaska Trappers Association with information on how to recognize trap lines and release various traps please contact me.
There are many new subscribers to our Trail Condition mailing list, in the interest of saving time by not sorting out new/old members I would like to resend this information to the entire mailing list:
Please keep in mind the changing conditions that may occur after trail/area/water/ice/avalanche condition reports are sent. What one moment is good/bad may change in a matter of hours due to the extremes in weather we experience here. Many of the treks we mention as great fun may work well for one person, yet be a death trap for another. Each individual adult needs to decide for themselves if they have the knowledge, skills, equipment, and physical ability to safely venture to the various locations we give current information for the Seward Ranger District.
We like having the public call us for information on recreating and planning on the District. Please feel free to contact the following people with your questions, comments, and concerns in the following areas:
Avalanche Information and Mountain Skiing:
Alex McLain – 288-7710
Trails, Cabins, Backcountry Treks:
Irene Lindquist – 288-7748
Stephen Hmurciak – 288-7713 (Stephen returns to work the second week of January.
Pat O’Leary – 288-7702
Mike (Fitz) Fitzpatrick – 288-7714
Cabins
Pat Cook – 288-7711 (Pat will be available beginning early February)
Person in Charge of our Trails/Cabins Program
John Eavis – 288-7701
For all other topics regarding other resource areas please call our main office at 224-3374 for assistance.
Thank you,
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Thursday, November 17, 2011
18/11/11 11:07
Good Chilly Morning to you.
Snow has settled to 5-8" at Trailhead locations on the Seward Ranger District this week, classic skiing is good. Local groomers have been working hard to pack and groom Trail River C.G., Russian River C.G., and Exit Glacier Road for classic and skate skiing.
Ice is forming on most of our lakes, though this is still quite early to venture on most of our road system lakes. Higher elevation lakes (minus Crescent, Trout, and Grant) have more ice. This week Carter had 10" of ice, Lower Russian was a mere 7", Lower Trail Lk froze last Thursday and added 6 1/2" of ice as of yesterday. Upper Trail Lake ice looks beautiful, but don't venture out here for a while, points to the north and west of the ball diamond 100' from shore had not frozen as of yesterday afternoon. Tern Lake has 8" of ice.
Saturday is the Seward Nordic Ski Club's Ski Swap at the Seward Elementary School from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Snow has settled to 5-8" at Trailhead locations on the Seward Ranger District this week, classic skiing is good. Local groomers have been working hard to pack and groom Trail River C.G., Russian River C.G., and Exit Glacier Road for classic and skate skiing.
Ice is forming on most of our lakes, though this is still quite early to venture on most of our road system lakes. Higher elevation lakes (minus Crescent, Trout, and Grant) have more ice. This week Carter had 10" of ice, Lower Russian was a mere 7", Lower Trail Lk froze last Thursday and added 6 1/2" of ice as of yesterday. Upper Trail Lake ice looks beautiful, but don't venture out here for a while, points to the north and west of the ball diamond 100' from shore had not frozen as of yesterday afternoon. Tern Lake has 8" of ice.
Saturday is the Seward Nordic Ski Club's Ski Swap at the Seward Elementary School from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Thursday November 17, 2011
17/11/11 21:44
The temperature at Trail River is -1 and winds are calm. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Enjoy
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Sunday November 13, 2011
13/11/11 18:34
Exit Glacier Road was groomed to the Resurrection River trailhead today. Nice fast conditions!
Friday Novemebr 11, 2011
11/11/11 14:25
EG Rd was groomed to the bridge at No Name Creek this morning. The snow has firmed up and conditions are great for skate skiing. Beyond the grooming, the road is packed well enough that skiing is still good. Enjoy!
Thursday November 10, 2011
10/11/11 11:27
From the shores of Resurrection Bay in Seward, to the shores of Turnagain Pass in Hope, and all points in between East and West on the Seward Ranger District is good for skiing from all access points with the exception of Iditarod from Bear Lake. Though not a lot of snow, it is packing well with skis.
November 12 the Chugach Avalanche Center will resume Avalanche Forecasts, check out their site, cnfaic.org for a wealth of information on Avalanches. For Seward Ranger District Avalanche/Mountain information please call Alex McLain at 288-7710 for more detailed discussion.
Winter motorized use, including Resurrection Pass Trail system, opens Dec. 1 if adequate snow is present to prevent resource damage.
Turnagain Pass West, on Glacier Ranger District (783-3242) opens November 23 if adequate snow is present to prevent resource damage.
ATV's are allowed in Trail River C.G. through November 30.
Ed has begun grooming Russian River C.G. He has added another mile of groomed trail, before the main gate, take the road to the left.
Dori/Daryl anticipate grooming on Exit Glacier Rd this weekend. This is a shared road motorized/non-motorized all winter season.
Ice on lakes is slower in forming this season, and the snowfall last weekend is slowing the growth of ice further. A week ago Tern Lake had 4" of ice, yesterday there was 5" of ice.
Enjoy your weekend and Happy Veteran's Day to all.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
November 12 the Chugach Avalanche Center will resume Avalanche Forecasts, check out their site, cnfaic.org for a wealth of information on Avalanches. For Seward Ranger District Avalanche/Mountain information please call Alex McLain at 288-7710 for more detailed discussion.
Winter motorized use, including Resurrection Pass Trail system, opens Dec. 1 if adequate snow is present to prevent resource damage.
Turnagain Pass West, on Glacier Ranger District (783-3242) opens November 23 if adequate snow is present to prevent resource damage.
ATV's are allowed in Trail River C.G. through November 30.
Ed has begun grooming Russian River C.G. He has added another mile of groomed trail, before the main gate, take the road to the left.
Dori/Daryl anticipate grooming on Exit Glacier Rd this weekend. This is a shared road motorized/non-motorized all winter season.
Ice on lakes is slower in forming this season, and the snowfall last weekend is slowing the growth of ice further. A week ago Tern Lake had 4" of ice, yesterday there was 5" of ice.
Enjoy your weekend and Happy Veteran's Day to all.
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Wednseday November 8, 2011
09/11/11 15:00
Exit Glacier Road, today. - Best early season conditions I have ever seen. A little soft for skate but very doable. Great touring. Surface is getting packed better all the time with snowmachine use. Corners held up well through the weeks wind - the first two corners are a bit icy, but very negotiable. Conditions great all the way to the Overlook (about 6 miles) and looked like good conditions all the way to the Park. WOuld be great for moonlight skiing tonite - moon should be up early and the wind is still down! madelyn
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
08/11/11 19:40
Hi all
Jason A has groomed the Trail River campground trails. This afternoon it was coldish (15) and calm (unlike Seward). The snow is fast and solid though a fourwheeler mushing team has added a few ruts and ridges on top of Jason's signature corduroy. But the surface is still great and there are no bare spots and its totally worth the drive.
Mark
Jason A has groomed the Trail River campground trails. This afternoon it was coldish (15) and calm (unlike Seward). The snow is fast and solid though a fourwheeler mushing team has added a few ruts and ridges on top of Jason's signature corduroy. But the surface is still great and there are no bare spots and its totally worth the drive.
Mark
Sunday November 6, 2011
08/11/11 10:35
| I skied the Iditarod trail tonight from Nash road. . . SPectacular evening - great ski - plenty of snow - don't let the creek at the very beginning of the trail turn you away. Happy ski season!!!! |
Sunday November 6, 2011
06/11/11 12:05
EG Rd was groomed to Forest Service Gate this morning, and then promptly used by an ATV with dog team. Will be touched up later.
Sunday November 6, 2011
06/11/11 12:04
The temperature here at Trail River is 27 degrees and skies are clearing. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. I have not seen any tracks this morning from the rather large brown bear that has been hanging around the campground this week. Currently (0940) an ATV musher is hooking up so I will get back out and clean up the surface behind him around mid-day. Late afternoon might be a good time to ski out this way. Otherwise, expect ATV ruts in the A.M. Enjoy anyhow.
November 2, 2011
02/11/11 14:08
Snow is slowly making its way down the mountains.
Classic skiing is possible (and good) at Trail River C.G. if you stay on the road. This location received about 10" of snow the last few days. The ground is not frozen, we don't have an ice layer yet, skate skiing is not possible until the snow is packed down.
All other access points to Seward Ranger District winter used trails received appx. 2" of snow.
Summit Lake parking currently 9" of snow, and quickly adding more as you climb in elevation.
This is the time of year when various road/c.g. access gates are closed. This week will see the closures of gates at Palmer Creek Road, Russian River C.G., and Trail River C.G.
Tern Lake day use area gate will remain open this winter(a first) for easier parking to access the Old Sterling Hwy. for winter activities. 1 way distance from Tern Lake to a mile beyond the Crescent CR Trailhead where plowing begins is 6 miles.
Lakes are not frozen, this has been a warm October.
Watch the weather if you dare drive beyond winter maintenance areas, you could well get snowed in: Last mile to Resurrection North Trailhead out of Hope, Last mile to Crescent Creek Trailhead on Quartz CR Rd, and beyond the winter parking lot at mile 9 of Snug Harbor Road.
Happy Travels in your quest for snow!
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Classic skiing is possible (and good) at Trail River C.G. if you stay on the road. This location received about 10" of snow the last few days. The ground is not frozen, we don't have an ice layer yet, skate skiing is not possible until the snow is packed down.
All other access points to Seward Ranger District winter used trails received appx. 2" of snow.
Summit Lake parking currently 9" of snow, and quickly adding more as you climb in elevation.
This is the time of year when various road/c.g. access gates are closed. This week will see the closures of gates at Palmer Creek Road, Russian River C.G., and Trail River C.G.
Tern Lake day use area gate will remain open this winter(a first) for easier parking to access the Old Sterling Hwy. for winter activities. 1 way distance from Tern Lake to a mile beyond the Crescent CR Trailhead where plowing begins is 6 miles.
Lakes are not frozen, this has been a warm October.
Watch the weather if you dare drive beyond winter maintenance areas, you could well get snowed in: Last mile to Resurrection North Trailhead out of Hope, Last mile to Crescent Creek Trailhead on Quartz CR Rd, and beyond the winter parking lot at mile 9 of Snug Harbor Road.
Happy Travels in your quest for snow!
Irene B. Lindquist
Forestry Technician, Trails
Chugach NF, Seward RD
907-288-7748
Monday, October 31, 2011
31/10/11 18:03
First snow! Ann and I walked out the Exit Glacier road: 3 inches of lightish snow, temperature probably 31 degrees. If it stays cold, the surface could be skiable.
Friday October 14, 2011
14/10/11 17:19
Hi all:
No snow down low but its not far off. Check back here once winter joins us and you'll be kept up to date on local conditions.
No snow down low but its not far off. Check back here once winter joins us and you'll be kept up to date on local conditions.
Thursday April 21 2011
21/04/11 14:59
Winter is on it's way out and signs of spring are appearing.
Lost Lake and Primrose Trails have been closed to motorized vehicles due to the disappearing snow on the lower parts of each of those trails. But if you're reluctant to put away that snowmachine there is still lots of snow remaining from the Snug Harbor Road access to the Lost Lake backcountry.
Carter Lake Trail is still open and has mud and standing water at the beginning and some icy spots on the hill.
South Fork Snow River remains open with some standing water, brush and bare ground at the beginning. If you take the north entrance in to the river you can avoid this but add a couple more open crossings. There are about 20 open river crossings in the first 5-6 miles but all are shallow and the banks aren't as steep as they were. Skate skiing out here has been great also.
Grooming is done for the season at Trail River and Russian River Campgrounds. Thanks to all the volunteers involved. It's been greatly appreciated by many.
Resurrection Pass Trail is still skiable though the south side is starting to melt down low. The Slaughter Ridge Road/Bean Creek Trail access has the most snow remaining. Also the trail to Russian River Falls and Barber Cabin is still skiable.
And what about early season hiking? If you don't mind mud and some ice then you could check out the first 2 miles of Resurrection Pass Trail South, the first 2 miles of Johnson Pass Trail South, and the first mile of Ptarmigan Creek Trail. Over snow hiking has been firm due to the cold nights we've been having.
Or get out that bike or those roller blades. Exit Glacier Road has been plowed and has bare pavement for about 3 miles. The gate at the USFS boundary remains closed while the remaining ice on the road surface melts.
We will be clearing the trails of fallen trees as the snow melts and posting updates as conditions change.
Friday April 15, 2011
15/04/11 11:11
Morning conditions on Bear Lake are AMAZING! Best of the year - ski anywhere on the lake! Just finished an hour skate ski - 10:45 AM and still wonderful crust. Should be a brilliant way to finish the season out through this weekend
Friday April 15, 2011
15/04/11 11:08
We are still skate skiing out here at Trail River. Barring any rain it should hold through early next week. Expect slick, corn snow conditions. If you want crispy come early in the morning and if you enjoy slick come later in the afternoon. See you next year and as always it is a pleasure to groom out here at Trail River. See ya.
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Thursday April 14, 2011
14/04/11 11:44
Same old, same old, La Di Dah as we continue to enjoy some lingering good conditions on the packed trails/areas of Seward Ranger District. Take your pick, classic, skate, snowgo, snowshoe.
Russian River C.G. and Lower Russian Lakes Trail.: Enjoy one last weekend of fun skiing in the C.G.. The first mile has been walked heavily, easier to ski from 1:P.M. on. Second mile is melting rapidly as are all loops. Trail to the Falls and Barber cabin are fabulous. Begin using the summer trail now, though winter trail is holding up well, summer trail is easier and we are not worried about too much snow coming down from the chutes, has already slid much, though, still keep heads up. This is the time of year we begin having slides down to the ground, bringing rocks and mud with.
Resurrection Pass Trail: Access via Slaughter Ridge Road and Bean Creek Trail from the south is holding up well. Don't want to use West Juneau if you're pulling a pulk as this is mostly south facing and wide open, lots of gravel beginning to show. Packed trail from Cooper Landing to Hope.
Lost Lake: Access from all points of entry this weekend still open for the coming weekend.
Lakes/Creeks/Rivers: Plan each step, ski, forward movement with caution. Though there are some fabulous conditions to be had on frozen bodies of water, enough cannot be said about going with a buddy.
Trail River C.G. Groomed by Jason, perhaps for the last time? Yesterday, regardless, this is still a wonderful ski, fast and furious in the early hours, softer and sweet noonish on.
Carter Lake: Don't let the little bit of bare ground in the beginning fool ya, lots of snow just around the bend.
Enjoy this Glorious silly weather and have another fabulous weekend out and about.
Thursday, April 7, 2010
06/04/11 09:30
Seward Ranger District Winter used trails/areas received new snow the past 2 days, and more is forecast for tonight and tomorrow, yippee!
As of this writing here these areas received generous amounts of white.
Lost Lake: good bye ice, hello 1.5' of heavy, wet snow.
Primrose: 4" of new snow make another fine trail up the first hill.
Heading north over Divide (5 new inches today) snowfall is much less.
Moose Pass to Hope: 2" new snow.
Carter Lake: Great trail conditions.
Cooper Landing: Trace. Russian River C.G. remains a great ski.
Resurrection Pass including winter access via Slaughter Ridge Road and West Juneau Road: Excellent conditions. Several parties traveling from both directions over the top.
Watch out for overflow, and thinning of ice at inlets and outlets on all lakes. Rivers and Creek ice is rapidly diminishing.
Though the new snow is tempting, this is not the time to head into areas exposing yourself to slopes that may Avalanche.
Continue to check out the following links for additional information.
http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/
http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id=
As of this writing here these areas received generous amounts of white.
Lost Lake: good bye ice, hello 1.5' of heavy, wet snow.
Primrose: 4" of new snow make another fine trail up the first hill.
Heading north over Divide (5 new inches today) snowfall is much less.
Moose Pass to Hope: 2" new snow.
Carter Lake: Great trail conditions.
Cooper Landing: Trace. Russian River C.G. remains a great ski.
Resurrection Pass including winter access via Slaughter Ridge Road and West Juneau Road: Excellent conditions. Several parties traveling from both directions over the top.
Watch out for overflow, and thinning of ice at inlets and outlets on all lakes. Rivers and Creek ice is rapidly diminishing.
Though the new snow is tempting, this is not the time to head into areas exposing yourself to slopes that may Avalanche.
Continue to check out the following links for additional information.
http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/
http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id=
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
05/04/11 18:23
The temperature at Trail River is 34 degrees and light snow is falling. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Well it looks as though winter is not finished at Trail River. We received about 3 inches of wet "cake frosting" snow this morning/afternoon. The sticky frosting laid down pretty nice and it should be crisp and fast tomorrow morning. Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
01/04/11 11:03
Happy April Fool's Day
This may seem like a joke, but Not, conditions for outings are stunningly wonderful on Seward Ranger District winter trails. Some ice here and there, fast and furious skiing in the morning, and slower in the late afternoon makes for a fabulous workout.
Recent snow levels have been at about 1500'. You don't want to wander off trail or you'll sink to the bottom, even with skis or snowshoes.
Carter Lake Trail has some difficult icy sections on the lower hill for snowmachines without studded tracks. Watch out for overflow hidden under the snow cover on Carter and Crescent Lakes.
Primrose Trail has lots of ice in the first mile. The first hill is very difficult without a studded track. Please do not ride off trail here where there is no snow cover.
Lost Lake Trail has areas of bare ground and lots of ice in the first half mile but it has softened up some in the warmer temps. A studded track is still recommended. The switchback is very slick.
Kenai Lake has a wonderful surface for skate skiing, just hit it in early morning hours, and take a buddy with.
Trail River C.G. has been groomed.
Good freeze last night will continue to help keep packed trails in decent condition through the weekend.
Have a good hour, day, week, month, year, life.
Monday, March 28, 2011
28/03/11 10:18
Yesterday, Sunday, we went to Trail River CG to skate ski and ended up on the Lake in absolute beautiful conditions - fast, smooth and sunny. There is open water at the pressure ridge and where Trail River comes into the lake so avoid that area. Both the camp ground and the lake are in great shape.
Sunday March 27, 2011
27/03/11 14:47
The temperature at Trail River is 31 degrees and light snow is falling. All loops and the logging road have been groomed for skate skiing.
Enjoy
Enjoy
Sunday March 27, 2011
27/03/11 14:46
The surface of the center of the lake is perfectly flat and topped with one half inch of snow. In the morning its hard but a ski edge can easily get a bite. In the afternoon it softens up and so even easier to get a bite. Either way it is super fast. Two mile an hour wind from the north. Stick to the center of the lake because the perimeter has ice patches and fossil ski and snowmachine tracks. Don't let the bumpy chopped-up surface of the snow at the public access at the extreme south end of the lake discourage you.
Friday March 25, 2011
25/03/11 11:00
Good skiing at Russian River campground road on Thursday. 35
degrees. Groomed snow classic tracks as well. The Russian lakes
trail was groomed and packed nice and wide to the falls. We skijored
that with ease but it might be better walking than skiing in some
sections. At the beginning of the trail, icefalls might deter you but
there are only three places like that then the trail is flat and
friendly.
Old sterling highway is also groomed for a couple of miles. A ski
and skijor rally is scheduled there at 3 pm Saturday.
degrees. Groomed snow classic tracks as well. The Russian lakes
trail was groomed and packed nice and wide to the falls. We skijored
that with ease but it might be better walking than skiing in some
sections. At the beginning of the trail, icefalls might deter you but
there are only three places like that then the trail is flat and
friendly.
Old sterling highway is also groomed for a couple of miles. A ski
and skijor rally is scheduled there at 3 pm Saturday.
Thursday March 24, 2011
24/03/11 16:36
It's currently 35 degrees and raining in Moose Pass. Freezing at night, thawing by mid afternoon. Conditions are not as bad as one would think. Set up to Mountain Bike in winter? Travel any of the areas that have a packed trail, just don't step off the packed trails, you will fall to through to the bottom.
River and Creek bottoms remain good for travel, better in the early morning and return by 3 P.M. for best conditions. If traveling up the South Fork of Snow River to Nellie Juan, snowmachiners will need an axe, or pick in addition to a shovel to chip away shelf ice in order to out of the 9+ open water crossings. Remember, the North Fork of Snow River is closed to all motorized use.
Kenai Lake skating is still Great, however, this can change quickly. And, stay away from the pressure ridge, especially with the warmer weather, it's constantly changing. I was out there on Monday and witnessed someone go through the ice, luckily his ski poles kept his head entire body from going under.
Lost Lake Trail is pure ice for the first 1/2 mile, need studded tracks, and if walking you will need ice creepers.
Have a fabulous warm/wet (hopefully snow) weekend.
Thursday March 3 2011
03/03/11 16:06
This Great weather is exhausting, there are so many places to enjoy outdoor winter activities on Seward Ranger District.
Snow River South Fork to Nellie Juan: Wonderful conditions. The first water crossing where you would need over boots is at appx. mile 4. Wide path from snow machines the whole way, which makes for fabulous skate skiing if you don't mind tracks.
Grant Lake Portage and Grant Lake Trail: The tree hindering snow machine travel to Grant via the Portage Trail has been removed. Travel is good.
Kenai Lake: In front of Kenai Lake Work Center has been wind swept of snow. Little bumpy for skating but really worth getting out to enjoy the majesty of the mountains surrounding this area.
Trail Lake: Plowed paths and rinks for ice skating.
How about putting a new hike on your list to view frozen ice/falls: Victor Creek and Primrose Creeks offer some beautiful glistening ice.
The howling winds last week have made for some challenging conditions on SRD favorite slopes for snow boarding and tele skiing.
Resurrection Pass Trail: Packed trail the entire distance. No firewood at cabins on the north, very little at cabins on the south, Devil's Pass oil stove working well.
Looking ahead to another fun weekend, Enjoy!
Snow River South Fork to Nellie Juan: Wonderful conditions. The first water crossing where you would need over boots is at appx. mile 4. Wide path from snow machines the whole way, which makes for fabulous skate skiing if you don't mind tracks.
Grant Lake Portage and Grant Lake Trail: The tree hindering snow machine travel to Grant via the Portage Trail has been removed. Travel is good.
Kenai Lake: In front of Kenai Lake Work Center has been wind swept of snow. Little bumpy for skating but really worth getting out to enjoy the majesty of the mountains surrounding this area.
Trail Lake: Plowed paths and rinks for ice skating.
How about putting a new hike on your list to view frozen ice/falls: Victor Creek and Primrose Creeks offer some beautiful glistening ice.
The howling winds last week have made for some challenging conditions on SRD favorite slopes for snow boarding and tele skiing.
Resurrection Pass Trail: Packed trail the entire distance. No firewood at cabins on the north, very little at cabins on the south, Devil's Pass oil stove working well.
Looking ahead to another fun weekend, Enjoy!
Thursday March 3 2011
03/03/11 13:53
The temperature at Trail River is 15 degrees. All loops have been scraped and should skate pretty well. Kenai Lake west of the campground is blown clear of snow all the way over to about one half mile west of Porcupine Island. Expect a smooth surface with a fair amount of cracks. Touring skates would be my choice for a long tour in order to deal with the cracks. Be sure to pack extra windproof clothing because a headwind traveling west is the norm (experienced this Sunday, Monday and Wednesday.) Expect cold winds to 10 m.p.h. out of the west throughout the day. Enjoy!
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Wednesday March 2, 2011
02/03/11 22:35
Trail River C.G. conditions are lovely. Not icy, though hard and fast, can still get good grip.
Saturday February 26 2011
26/02/11 00:08
Russian River Campground is groomed for skate and track skiing and is
in great shape. Trails to Russian Falls also in excellent shape.
Could be skated but a little narrow in places. One icy spot on first
part of trail.
Friday Feb 25
in great shape. Trails to Russian Falls also in excellent shape.
Could be skated but a little narrow in places. One icy spot on first
part of trail.
Friday Feb 25
Thursday February 24, 2011
24/02/11 21:02
Bear Lake groomed last night and track set all round the lake. Sunshine on lake until well after 4 pm. Thursday no wind - skiing great!
Thursday February 24, 2011
24/02/11 18:24
We are enjoying wonderful conditions in most areas/ trails/ on Seward Ranger District. Here are just a few areas with changes. Most other areas/trails are wonderful.
Resurrection Pass Trail: Other than the high winds that have swirled and deposited snow between mile 14 and 24 (south to north) this trail is in fabulous shape. Anticipate slow travel from top of Swan Lake grade through the pass.
Old Sterling Hwy: Has been groomed 5' wide, this is a fabulous 6 mile ski from Tern Lake Day Use area to Quartz Creek Rd.
Upper Trail Lake: Paths and rinks have been plowed for ice skating after our recent snowfall.
Devil's Creek Trailhead to Quartz Creek Substation: Here's a fun ski you should try. Less than 4 miles one way following Quartz Creek, access via mile 1/2 of Devil's Creek Trail.
North Fork Snow River: Can easily travel appx. 3 miles before thin ice crossing, that should thicken as we approach the weekend.
Next time you see any of these people please give them a Hearty Thank You for their volunteer efforts of updating the Seward and Cooper Landing Nordic Ski Club web pages, grooming trails, and plowing snow for your winter enjoyment:
Seward: Mark Luttrell, Herb Wottlin, Tom Gillespie, Dan Walker, Duane Chase, John Shank.
Moose Pass: Jason Aigeldinger, Johnny Gaule, Dave Lindquist.
Cooper Landing: Dave Story, Ed Hostein, Eric Route.
Have a Fabulous fun filled weekend.
Thursday February 24, 2011
24/02/11 18:23
All Divide trails including the meadow have been groomed and are in good shape. The debris on the trail turned over with the groomer so all the trails are surprisingly clear for now.... enjoy
Monday, February 21, 2011
21/02/11 15:02
Bear Lake has been groomed for both skate and classic. Conditions are great!! The wind was picking up a bit, but overall not bad.
A message from your local groomer -- Please keep your pets off the classic track as they can quickly destroy the quality of the track.
Enjoy :)
A message from your local groomer -- Please keep your pets off the classic track as they can quickly destroy the quality of the track.
Enjoy :)
Thursday, February 17, 2011
17/02/11 21:52
Lost Lake Trail is currently in good condition with only one icy section on the first hill that could develop into a problem spot for snowmachines.
Primrose Trail also has a difficult icy stretch on the first hill. Lots of moguls on both of these trails as usual.
Clemens Cabin has been restocked with propane.
In addition to its ongoing grooming of Russian River Campground, Cooper Landing Ski Club has recently groomed the trail to Russian River Falls.
Overall xc-skiing conditions are good throughout the district with a few inches of soft powder on untracked trails and hard packed powder on used trails. The lower parts of the trails going into the south end of Resurrection Pass are very hard and slick. The trail going over Resurrection Pass has recently been broken by skiers.
There is still ice skating to be had on parts of Kenai Lake and Upper Trail Lake though it may be harder to get to now since large areas are covered with wind blown snow.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
17/02/11 15:46
Looking for people to share in beautiful terrain
north of Mile 12. Had no wind, bright sun and perfect snow
this last Saturday, and want to snowshoe. If you would like
to join, please call me at 288-5677 (Moose Pass), because
there's no computer at the cabin. Hope to hear from you!
JJ Kaiser
north of Mile 12. Had no wind, bright sun and perfect snow
this last Saturday, and want to snowshoe. If you would like
to join, please call me at 288-5677 (Moose Pass), because
there's no computer at the cabin. Hope to hear from you!
JJ Kaiser
Thursday, February 17, 2011
17/02/11 11:50
Bear Lake was fantastic last night for skate skiing -- beautiful under the nearly full moon and the wind wasn't bad. There's a few patches of icy overflow but easy to ski around. Get out and enjoy it and BIG thanks to Tom Gillespie for grooming!
Thursday, February 17 2011
15/02/11 12:25
Bear lake -
Nice skate skiing on the loop that runs all way round the lake, thanks to Tom Gillespie. Its holding in nicely after last nights packing. Couple of overflow spots - iced over. Temperature 15 degrees winds about 20 out of NE. just figure - half the run is with the wind at your back!
Nice skate skiing on the loop that runs all way round the lake, thanks to Tom Gillespie. Its holding in nicely after last nights packing. Couple of overflow spots - iced over. Temperature 15 degrees winds about 20 out of NE. just figure - half the run is with the wind at your back!
Monday, February 14, 2011
14/02/11 13:57
Hello everyone, happy Valentines Day. I spent the morning setting up the new tracksetter that follows the ginzu groomer. I set two tracks on either side of Paradise and also one track around the meadow. I have not yet had time to work on the south exit to the meadow, it is getting better but it is still rough. The meadow continues to flatten out with each pass and it is in the best shape its been yet. It is a little narrow to accommodate both classic and skate skiing along the power line but for the most part I think we can make it work .
If you are going to bring a dog up to the divide please try to stay on Luna loop I groomed the center so it should be good for skating and soft enough for classic but I did not set tracks along that loop so it will be a good place to exercise you and the pooch.
The H.S. team is going to need the classic tracks for practice on Monday and Wednesday so I would like to keep the tracks in good shape through the week. Thanks for your help and we will see you out there. The sun was shining and it really wasn't that windy so it should be very pleasant the snow is still good...enjoy
herb
If you are going to bring a dog up to the divide please try to stay on Luna loop I groomed the center so it should be good for skating and soft enough for classic but I did not set tracks along that loop so it will be a good place to exercise you and the pooch.
The H.S. team is going to need the classic tracks for practice on Monday and Wednesday so I would like to keep the tracks in good shape through the week. Thanks for your help and we will see you out there. The sun was shining and it really wasn't that windy so it should be very pleasant the snow is still good...enjoy
herb
Sunday February 13, 2011
13/02/11 11:03
The groomers packed and drug the trail to Russian Falls yesterday. It
was very good skiing but watch a couple spots under the big trees for
ice and the last 1/4 mile has some ice. It can be skated but I would
recommend either track or metal edges. Trail is a little narrow in
spots for good skating. Don't be discouraged by the icy trail from
the parking lot to the Russian Falls trailhead, it's well worth the
effort. Russian Campground was VERY ICY. Not good skiing. Groomers
are going to hit it tomorrow afternoon so stay tuned.
PS If you go up to the Falls, take a hand saw with you or a branch
trimmer and help cut some of the alder branches that are
"tresspassing" on the trail.
Also if you go beyond the bridge there are traps. It's marked but
heads up. It is not groomed or packed beyond the bridge and there are
avalanche chutes so use the winter trail.
was very good skiing but watch a couple spots under the big trees for
ice and the last 1/4 mile has some ice. It can be skated but I would
recommend either track or metal edges. Trail is a little narrow in
spots for good skating. Don't be discouraged by the icy trail from
the parking lot to the Russian Falls trailhead, it's well worth the
effort. Russian Campground was VERY ICY. Not good skiing. Groomers
are going to hit it tomorrow afternoon so stay tuned.
PS If you go up to the Falls, take a hand saw with you or a branch
trimmer and help cut some of the alder branches that are
"tresspassing" on the trail.
Also if you go beyond the bridge there are traps. It's marked but
heads up. It is not groomed or packed beyond the bridge and there are
avalanche chutes so use the winter trail.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
10/02/11 17:16
Overall conditions on Seward Ranger District winter used trails have greatly improved from all access areas/trails, except access into Snow River due to warm temps and broken snow bridges. And one of our favorite activities, ICE SKATING is wonderful on Kenai and Upper Trail Lake. Please be aware of the several pressure ridges from Kenai Lake Work Center to Cooper Landing, these have expanded and contracted a number of times in the past few weeks, study the areas you want to cross, there is a lot of open water out there.
Resurrection Pass Trail South (use winter routes for overnight access) is in wonderful condition to Swan Lake with the addition of 2-3" new snow this week. Anticipate windblown untraveled trail above Swan Lake through the pass.
Lost Lake Trail received 6+ inches of heavy wet snow this week. Currently the icy hills are in good condition, however, we anticipate these to be back down to ice once a number of machines travel it.
Snug Harbor Road access to Lost Lake should be good for the weekend.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
08/02/11 12:06
Russian River Campground groomed this afternoon. It was very good skiing.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
05/02/11 17:09
Exit Glacier Road was groomed all the way to the Visitors Center last night. Early this morning it was crunchy, but it was getting pretty nice as the sun softened it up a bit. There are a few challenging stretches (ice, narrow trail, snowmachine bumps) but for the most part it was good for skate skiing the whole way.
Thanks to John for grooming!
Thanks to John for grooming!
Friday February 4, 2011
04/02/11 23:30
Exit Glacier Road is being groomed as I write ( evening 2/4/2011). The first stretch of road may have a few icy spots but it should be good a bit farther out. A few of us are planning to do a long ski there tomorrow morning around 9am. I'll post a trail update after we ski.
There will also be people skiing EG Road on Sunday at 1:30pm, Marylynn included. For the 40/50k skiers, you should try and aim for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or so.
There will also be people skiing EG Road on Sunday at 1:30pm, Marylynn included. For the 40/50k skiers, you should try and aim for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or so.
Friday February 4, 2011
04/02/11 23:29
Russian River was groomed this am. Should be pretty good.
Friday February 4, 2011
04/02/11 17:28
The temperature at Trail River is 22 degrees and winds are light out of the north. All loops have been resurfaced and skate really well. I spent a great deal of time yesterday working down the ATV/dog team ruts and working down the west side of the road down into the campground. I was able to push the feeble amount of snow we received out here across the surface and it set up really nice overnight. Expect wide open, crispy conditions with some icy spots on shaded corners and around tree wells. Don't forget to check out the skiing/nordic skating on Kenai Lake heading west out of the campground. Enjoy!
Friday February 4, 2011
04/02/11 17:28
Dangerous avalanche conditions exist human triggers are very likely
and naturals are likely as well.
Large destructive Natural avalanches were seen today up at Summit
that had come down recently. Some were 10 feet+ deep and
fracturelines 1 mile wide. Mile 54 and NE of Ski Hill back up Butcher
Creek. The one behind butcher creek had very large blocks of snow in
the debris at the bottom. Numerous smaller avalanches were seen at
low to mid elevation. Many of these slide were 1-2 foot fractures but
they ran several hundred yards and in some cases triggered sympathetic
avalanches. All avalanche runout zones and steep slopes should be
avoided this weekend. Failure to stay out of avalanche terrain could
be a disaster. Some of these avalanches were so large that if you
were caught in them it would be over no second chance.
Many areas across the district are seeing similar conditions so avoid
avalanche terrain this weekend.
For more info check out www.cnfaic.org. Saturday 7am or contact me at
907 288-7710
Alex McLain
CNFAIC Avalanche specialist
and naturals are likely as well.
Large destructive Natural avalanches were seen today up at Summit
that had come down recently. Some were 10 feet+ deep and
fracturelines 1 mile wide. Mile 54 and NE of Ski Hill back up Butcher
Creek. The one behind butcher creek had very large blocks of snow in
the debris at the bottom. Numerous smaller avalanches were seen at
low to mid elevation. Many of these slide were 1-2 foot fractures but
they ran several hundred yards and in some cases triggered sympathetic
avalanches. All avalanche runout zones and steep slopes should be
avoided this weekend. Failure to stay out of avalanche terrain could
be a disaster. Some of these avalanches were so large that if you
were caught in them it would be over no second chance.
Many areas across the district are seeing similar conditions so avoid
avalanche terrain this weekend.
For more info check out www.cnfaic.org. Saturday 7am or contact me at
907 288-7710
Alex McLain
CNFAIC Avalanche specialist
Thursday February 3 2011
03/02/11 16:40
Over the past few days we've gotten small amounts of snow mixed with rain at lower elevations. This has helped somewhat to improve upon the ongoing icy conditions on Lost Lake and Primrose Trails. Larger amounts of snow have fallen at higher elevations.
Kenai Lake and Trail Lakes were covered with water which is beginning to refreeze. A light coat of new snow on top has hidden this pocket of water from view. Give these lakes a couple more days of cold weather to refreeze before venturing out on them.
Some of the higher elevation lakes have experienced overflow, sometimes hidden under a layer of snow. Lower Russian Lake is one of these, making the access to Barber Cabin a tough choice right now between the winter trail leading to the overflow lake and the summer trail which passes through avalanche paths that are below recently loaded slopes that have yet to release this winter. A couple days of cold weather should help to firm up both the lake and the snowpack. The trail in received a few inches of wet snow as did the lower parts of Bean Creek, West Juneau, and Res Pass South Trails.
Kenai Lake and Trail Lakes were covered with water which is beginning to refreeze. A light coat of new snow on top has hidden this pocket of water from view. Give these lakes a couple more days of cold weather to refreeze before venturing out on them.
Some of the higher elevation lakes have experienced overflow, sometimes hidden under a layer of snow. Lower Russian Lake is one of these, making the access to Barber Cabin a tough choice right now between the winter trail leading to the overflow lake and the summer trail which passes through avalanche paths that are below recently loaded slopes that have yet to release this winter. A couple days of cold weather should help to firm up both the lake and the snowpack. The trail in received a few inches of wet snow as did the lower parts of Bean Creek, West Juneau, and Res Pass South Trails.
Thursday February 3 2011
03/02/11 14:42
After the snow last night conditions allowed me to get the roller out and roll both loops. The snow is still soft but as it settles and firms up we will run the Ginsu over the trail. Trail conditions should be great by tomorrow if the weather stays like it is. Several people were skiing the loops as i left so get out and enjoy we'll try to have everything all groomed out by Friday. Also many of you have been asking when the meadow will be groomed. With this last snow we think the snow is deep enough to begin opening it up so a few of us will try to get into the meadow on Saturday with the machines to start packing it down. If you are thinking about snow shoeing consider going around the meadow trail before Saturday. If we could get some folks to start packing the trail by snow shoe or even skis it would help us out. Trying to maneuver the skandics over untracked snow is a challenge and following a packed trail wil l help us out. As far as the route goes we will start by just opening the loop and not out the south exit trail. If you go down to run a path just follow the snow machine tracks down Dan's Drop and go between the two trees going out to the power line. follow the power line south to the turn and head back along the hillside going north past the sledding hill thanks and have fun, see you out there...
Wednesday February 2, 2011
02/02/11 11:46
The temp at the divide is hovering around 32 with mixed rain and snow.The trails have 2-3 inches of new wet snow on top and are very soft. The loops are not tracked. The warm, wet weather we have in town seems to have migrated up the hill. I attempted to groom this AM but was unsuccessful. The best I could do was to get around Luna once with the roller. The snow is at the "mash potatoes" state right now so until it gets a little colder I won't be able to groom. I will be going up from time to time and will get to the trails as soon as I can. If it gets colder tonight I might try then.
herb
herb
Thursday January 27, 2011
27/01/11 20:51
Exit Glacier Road is not skiable right now. I only walked the first half-mile or so, which was a solid ice with a light layer of snow/frost. It was fine without ice-grippers for walking. There was someone ice-skating though! She said it was a little bumpy until the first curve and then pretty nice.
Thursday january 27, 2011
27/01/11 18:16
Over flow on area lakes is slowly freezing. Currently ice skating is good on Kenai Lake (had 2" of water on top of ice that refroze). We went to measure the thickness of ice at the pressure ridge today in front of our office only to discover it has once again closed when our temps were above freezing. Probably a very good idea to stay away from this area and not approach it from the middle of the lake. Upper Trail Lake (had 4" of water) should be good skating tomorrow, and Lower Trail Lake (had 6" of water) should be frozen enough by Saturday.
Lost Lake: Access from Lost Lake T.H. icy first mile. Primrose is manageable. Rainbow Lake access (Snug Harbor Rd) is okay. New snow above 1,000'.
Carter Lake: Good trail conditions, don't let the first 500' of glaciated ice fool you, only a couple icy sections beyond this. 8" new snow at the lake.
Resurrection Pass: Access from Slaughter Ridge Rd/Bean CR Trail is extremely icy in the 1st mile, need spiked boots to get up the hills. Beyond this conditions are hard and fast improving as you gain elevation due to the new snow. Hiking would be easier than skiing until more snow at around 900' elevation. Anticipate good skiing through the pass all the way to Hope. West Juneau access has a breakable crust which is easy to ski but too sharp for a dogs paws.
Groomed trails are not very inviting, except for Divide. Don't go on Saturday unless you can volunteer to help with the ski races, contact Marylynn Barnwell at mlbarnwell@gmail.com if you are available to help with bibs, timing, parking and course management.
Have a Wonderful weekend.
Thursday January 27, 2011
27/01/11 11:51
Don't be fooled by the ice in town -- both Paradise and Luna loops were great last night, nice fast snow. Thanks groomers!
Friday, January 21, 2011
21/01/11 22:20
Exit Glacier Road has 3 - 4 inches of snow which is surprisingly well-bonded to the icy base. Conditions were decent today for skate skiing without poles. The icy base made it hard to plant poles.
Friday January 21, 2011
21/01/11 22:20
Hello skiers!
The fresh snow the past few days is a welcome sight after our dry spell. Hopefully it's getting you re-inspired for skiing.
Group training this weekend will be Sunday at 1:30pm at Trail River Campground. Come see what Coach Marylynn has in store for us. This warmer (ahem, but not TOO warm!) weather makes it a lot more pleasant to work on technique, so if you're looking for tips this would be a good time to come out. Otherwise, we hope to get some distance in -- six weeks until the Tour!
The fresh snow the past few days is a welcome sight after our dry spell. Hopefully it's getting you re-inspired for skiing.
Group training this weekend will be Sunday at 1:30pm at Trail River Campground. Come see what Coach Marylynn has in store for us. This warmer (ahem, but not TOO warm!) weather makes it a lot more pleasant to work on technique, so if you're looking for tips this would be a good time to come out. Otherwise, we hope to get some distance in -- six weeks until the Tour!
Friday January 21, 2011
21/01/11 18:08
The temperature at Trail River is 25 degrees. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. After almost three weeks of iceball conditions,we finally have a bit up here to skate on. Enjoy!
Tuesday January 19, 2011
19/01/11 12:38
Am sending this out as we have had a number of folks inquire about Kenai Lake. Open areas of water from Porcupine Island to Quartz Creek froze over last Monday evening. Adding an inch of ice a day. Thickness is now 9". Other areas of the lake that froze earlier have 16" of ice. If you choose to skate, or ski it when snow arrives check wind direction so you can decide which end to start from if you want to travel from Cooper Landing to Lawing. Parking at the parking lot off William's Road (past Quartz Creek C.G.) is a good place to start or end, this way you don't have to deal with Quartz Creek. Parking at the US Forest Service at Mile 23 1/2 is the Moose Pass end parking area.
2" of Hoar frost in the first few miles. Mix of refrozen ice chunks and smooth glassy surfaces. Best skating is the large area in the Lawing area between Victor and Meadow Creek. We had to take our skates off in one area for a few hundred feet that even our Nordic skates couldn't negotiate.
Things to watch out for now that will be difficult to see when it snows are the pressure ridge cracks that will occur as our temps warm up.
Lost Lake: Do Not travel this trail, even if you have studded tracks, treacherous, and dangerous icy, steep chutes. Even when the snow arrives, it needs time to adhere to the icy, please stay off this trail.
Happy Full Moon!
Saturday January 15, 2011
15/01/11 21:48
Bear Lake is presently all ice; good for ice skating in patches - but lots of cracks developing.
Maybe snow by mid-week :)
Maybe snow by mid-week :)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
15/01/11 17:57
Temperature this afternoon at Divide was 8 degrees, and all loops were in great shape for skate skiing. Fast, but not icy, and minimal debris.
Thank you groomers!
Thank you groomers!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
08/01/11 17:15
Temperatures up here between the lakes are in the single digits. If you enjoy ice skating check out the east side of Lower Trail Lake. The best times for good sun is between 12 and 3 p.m. On Upper, the west shore is really smooth, but be aware folks are trapping over on that side.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
06/01/11 18:19
Hey everyone -
I hate to say it but the 5-5-5 Dawn Til Dusk Ski is cancelled due to bad snow conditions. This recent bout of warm weather wreaked havoc on the snow at Trail River. The good news is that enough snow stuck around at Mile 12 so you can at least ski there this weekend!
Thanks for all your interest!!
I hate to say it but the 5-5-5 Dawn Til Dusk Ski is cancelled due to bad snow conditions. This recent bout of warm weather wreaked havoc on the snow at Trail River. The good news is that enough snow stuck around at Mile 12 so you can at least ski there this weekend!
Thanks for all your interest!!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
06/01/11 14:22
Many thanks to Herb who was out there grooming again this a.m. Skiing at the divide is the bomb right now! Conditions are quick but not icy.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
05/01/11 17:45
SNUG HARBOR Road is in a little better condition today and we anticipate conditions to improve as it gets colder. The parking lot at the end of the plowed road (9.5 miles) is in good condition.
Seward Ranger District winter used trails that have been packed are now hard as cement. We had to ditch our skis today and walk, very treacherous skiing.
Ice skating on area lakes should be quite nice by Friday/Saturday. Overflow is beginning to freeze. In most areas we were only breaking through 1-2".
Happy Clear Skies to everyone for the next several days.
Seward Ranger District winter used trails that have been packed are now hard as cement. We had to ditch our skis today and walk, very treacherous skiing.
Ice skating on area lakes should be quite nice by Friday/Saturday. Overflow is beginning to freeze. In most areas we were only breaking through 1-2".
Happy Clear Skies to everyone for the next several days.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
05/01/11 17:43
Come join us tomorrow, Thursday Jan. 6th, at 10:30am for the first Pee Wee ski outing of the season. We'll meet at Divide Ski Area at Mile 12. This group is geared towards ages 2-5 with the focus on having fun on skis with activities and games. First year skiers are welcome! A parent is required to be with their children during the sessions.
We plan to meet weekly at the same time, although location may vary based on conditions. If you would like to get on the Pee Wee Ski email list, please email me at hmq@seward.net.
We plan to meet weekly at the same time, although location may vary based on conditions. If you would like to get on the Pee Wee Ski email list, please email me at hmq@seward.net.
Monday, January 2011
03/01/11 18:26
AVALANCHE DANGER!
This from Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center
This from Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center
| Good morning backcountry travelers this is Lisa Portune with the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center on Monday, January 3rd at 7am. This will serve as a general backcountry avalanche advisory issued for Turnagain Arm with Turnagain Pass as the core advisory area (this advisory does not apply to highways, railroads, or operating ski areas). |
Monday, January 3, 2011
03/01/11 15:56
LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP, Seward Ranger District lakes are a snowmobiler's nightmare at the moment with lots of overflow.
DO NOT DRIVE ON SNUG HARBOR ROAD until the weather gets colder, or the ice melts and shows gravel. Extremely slick, pulling a trailer on this road to access Lost Lake, NOT.
Most of our trails packed by snowmachine are in pretty good condition with the exception of Lost Lake. Beginning to get quite icy heading up the hill to the junction, switchback trail is easier.
When we drop to freezing temps anticipate hard, icy, fast conditions until we get snow.
Exit Glacier Road is once again a sheet of glare ice
DO NOT DRIVE ON SNUG HARBOR ROAD until the weather gets colder, or the ice melts and shows gravel. Extremely slick, pulling a trailer on this road to access Lost Lake, NOT.
Most of our trails packed by snowmachine are in pretty good condition with the exception of Lost Lake. Beginning to get quite icy heading up the hill to the junction, switchback trail is easier.
When we drop to freezing temps anticipate hard, icy, fast conditions until we get snow.
Exit Glacier Road is once again a sheet of glare ice
Friday, Decmeber 31,2010
31/12/10 16:43
So much for being an optimist. Conditions are rough at Trail River and I cannot recommend skiing out here. I actually posted a sign at the trailhead asking folks to stay off the trails until temperatures drop. On a positive not, I've been able to increase the thin base out here and all in all the trail LOOKS awesome. If you SKIED it right now you would be wallowing in two inches of wet, slushy snow. So please stay off until I post again. Thank-you.
Jason Aigeldinger
Jason Aigeldinger
Friday, Decmber 31, 2010
31/12/10 11:40
The temperature at Trail River is 32.5 and in the last six hours we have had light rain. We were touring up in Resurrection Pass for the past five days and returned this evening to roughly 4 inches of wet snow and drizzle? All loops have been packed and groomed for skate skiing. I also put a skate lane up the logging road. It all should skate really well tomorrow, rain or shine. Have a great New Year!
Thursday December 30, 2010
30/12/10 19:42
Hey folks just a reminder the link to access the avalanche website for current advisories will be on Saturday for Summit Lake and 7 days a week for Turnagain. You can access the advisories by going to the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center's website at www.cnfaic.org. For specific questions I can be reached by email at amclain@fs.fed.us or by phone at 907 288-7710 Wed-Sat.
Thanks!
Alex McLain
Chugach National Forest
Seward Ranger District
Lead Forestry Technician (Dev. Recreation/ Snow Ranger Summit Lake Area)
W(907) 288-7710
C(907) 362-5015
amclain@fs.fed.us
Thanks!
Alex McLain
Chugach National Forest
Seward Ranger District
Lead Forestry Technician (Dev. Recreation/ Snow Ranger Summit Lake Area)
W(907) 288-7710
C(907) 362-5015
amclain@fs.fed.us
Thursday December 30, 2010
30/12/10 11:00
Big changes Swirling in the air.
All areas of Seward Ranger District received between 6-12" of new snow Tuesday night. Anticipate another few inches today and probably more as we enter the new year. If you are venturing into back-country areas that pose avalanche hazards please continue to check the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center for advisories: http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id= better yet, give the new snow a couple days to settle.
I'm not sure why, but we are unable to update our trail conditions on the CNF Website, sorry but hopefully these links below will help you decide what areas to visit over the New Years Weekend.
Areas that are groomed may or may not be groomed due to the amounts of snowfall that continues to blanket our lovely trails. For reports on latest conditions please visit these links:
Cooper Landing Trails: http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/ Seward Trails: http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
Resurrection Pass Trail has finally been broken in by skiers between Caribou Creek and the top of Swan Lake grade in the past few days. No firewood at Caribou, Fox, East, and Swan cabins, very little at Trout Lake.
Happy New Year to you and continue to be safe.
All areas of Seward Ranger District received between 6-12" of new snow Tuesday night. Anticipate another few inches today and probably more as we enter the new year. If you are venturing into back-country areas that pose avalanche hazards please continue to check the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center for advisories: http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id= better yet, give the new snow a couple days to settle.
I'm not sure why, but we are unable to update our trail conditions on the CNF Website, sorry but hopefully these links below will help you decide what areas to visit over the New Years Weekend.
Areas that are groomed may or may not be groomed due to the amounts of snowfall that continues to blanket our lovely trails. For reports on latest conditions please visit these links:
Cooper Landing Trails: http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org/ Seward Trails: http://www.sewardnordicskiclub.org/page5/index.html
Resurrection Pass Trail has finally been broken in by skiers between Caribou Creek and the top of Swan Lake grade in the past few days. No firewood at Caribou, Fox, East, and Swan cabins, very little at Trout Lake.
Happy New Year to you and continue to be safe.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
29/12/10 13:13
Wed am: classical track set in six inches fresh snow. Partly cloudy 10-15 degrees no wind. Will roll skate ski track this evening should be set nice for tomorrow. Watch for over flow at Northwest corner, in the cove by the island and along south shore.
Monday December 27, 2010
27/12/10 20:06
Bear Lake got 3 inches of nice snow Sunday. Rolled Sunday night to
make a nice skate track around the lake. Good touring snow over
most of the lake. The south portion is blown in and/or has icy spots.
The rest is pretty good. A diagonal track is set around the lake as
well with the same story. Best skiing will be on the west side
along to the north end.
Divide was groomed last night (Sunday) so it should be excellent
skiing today.
Monday, December 27, 2010
27/12/10 16:43
The glorious winter fun continues.
Grant Lake Portage Trail and Mine Road now have a packed snowmobile trail, 9" of ice on the lake in the one spot I measured.
Crescent Lake has 9" of ice. Though we measure ice thickness before we travel on it, we pay particular care on the larger, deeper lakes. Ice thickness is measured well away from any in or out flowing streams. We have noticed a few ski and snowmobile tracks traveling quite close to open or just frozen sections of water, yikes!
Exit Glacier Road/area received a few inches of wet snow making for a good hard pack instead of ice for the first few miles. Travel to Exit Glacier (8 miles one way) currently is good and though not groomed it is an easy skate ski.
Bear Lake groomed around the lake.
Happy New Year!
Grant Lake Portage Trail and Mine Road now have a packed snowmobile trail, 9" of ice on the lake in the one spot I measured.
Crescent Lake has 9" of ice. Though we measure ice thickness before we travel on it, we pay particular care on the larger, deeper lakes. Ice thickness is measured well away from any in or out flowing streams. We have noticed a few ski and snowmobile tracks traveling quite close to open or just frozen sections of water, yikes!
Exit Glacier Road/area received a few inches of wet snow making for a good hard pack instead of ice for the first few miles. Travel to Exit Glacier (8 miles one way) currently is good and though not groomed it is an easy skate ski.
Bear Lake groomed around the lake.
Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
26/12/10 17:45
Morning snowfall of 2 inches provided soft and forgiving snow on top of a firm well groomed surface. Temperature was 21 degrees in the afternoon. Luna and Paradise Loops are in fabulous shape. Sledders were cruising on the parking lot hill as well as Dan's Drop.
Mark
Here's a photo from the Paradise Loop
Mark
Here's a photo from the Paradise Loop
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
22/12/10 17:13
It is now possible to access Johnson Pass from the south side via Upper Trail Lake and Trail Creek. The winter trail begins 1 mile up the creek beyond the railroad trestle. Watch for areas of thinner ice and overflow. The trail has been packed by snowmobiles and cleared of fallen trees.
The hill going up to Carter Lake is still in good shape. The valley between Carter and Crescent Lakes is now heavily tracked by snowmobiles. Crescent Lake is frozen and snowmobiles have been travelling across it. Crescent Creek Trail (not recommended for snowmobiles) has been broken in by snowshoes and skis.
Lost Lake Trail is also holding up well so far on the hills. There is 12" of snow at the trailhead and 36" at Clemens Cabin. The cabin has been restocked with propane for the heater.
The hill going up to Carter Lake is still in good shape. The valley between Carter and Crescent Lakes is now heavily tracked by snowmobiles. Crescent Lake is frozen and snowmobiles have been travelling across it. Crescent Creek Trail (not recommended for snowmobiles) has been broken in by snowshoes and skis.
Lost Lake Trail is also holding up well so far on the hills. There is 12" of snow at the trailhead and 36" at Clemens Cabin. The cabin has been restocked with propane for the heater.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
22/12/10 17:11
The temperature at Trail River is 4 degrees and skies are clear. We received about 2 inches of dry powder yesterday morning and conditions, ungroomed, are really great for both classic and skate skiing. I'll groom again when temperatures come up or the trail is just too hammered to make for a good ride.
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of touring Bean Creek Trail to Resurrection Pass (south) and then on up through the West Juneau winter route and back down to the Sterling highway via the West Juneau logging road. Conditions were excellent, with about 2 inches of fresh, dry powder over a snow machine track. To find the West Juneau winter route, hang the right after you cross the large wooden bridge 1/4 mile south of the junction of Bean Creek and Resurrection South. Follow the orange winter route reflectors until you hit the logging road. Then it is all downhill from there. Don't forget to stop and check out the Juneau Falls overlook just south (1/10 mile) of the wooden bridge on the main Resurrection South Trail.
It is a non-motor year out in Resurrection Pass and if you like touring, conditions and temperatures are prime for easily covering a lot of ground. Please run your dog in harness and line because there is always the possibility of trapping off that trail. Our trip time was three and a half hours to go about seven or eightish miles. Enjoy the great conditions, celestial wonders, and the holiday season.
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of touring Bean Creek Trail to Resurrection Pass (south) and then on up through the West Juneau winter route and back down to the Sterling highway via the West Juneau logging road. Conditions were excellent, with about 2 inches of fresh, dry powder over a snow machine track. To find the West Juneau winter route, hang the right after you cross the large wooden bridge 1/4 mile south of the junction of Bean Creek and Resurrection South. Follow the orange winter route reflectors until you hit the logging road. Then it is all downhill from there. Don't forget to stop and check out the Juneau Falls overlook just south (1/10 mile) of the wooden bridge on the main Resurrection South Trail.
It is a non-motor year out in Resurrection Pass and if you like touring, conditions and temperatures are prime for easily covering a lot of ground. Please run your dog in harness and line because there is always the possibility of trapping off that trail. Our trip time was three and a half hours to go about seven or eightish miles. Enjoy the great conditions, celestial wonders, and the holiday season.
Monday December 20, 2010
20/12/10 16:07
Monday afternoon - 18 degrees light winds, 2 inches of champagne powder on wind pack. Not groomed but lovely skate or classic skiing all around the lake. Did the entire perimeter - no overflow found but please, always exercise caution especially around creeks.
Monday December 20, 2010
20/12/10 16:05
CHUGACH NATIONAL FOREST UPDATE
Seward area received 1-4" of new snow last night.
Resurrection North has a packed ski trail to Caribou Creek. Travel between Swan Lake and Caribou Creek will be a bear for the first few people to break trail.
Here's a fun back-country ski to add to your list, is currently fabulous: Take Resurrection Pass Trail South up to the West Juneau Road Winter trail (200' before the bridge over Juneau Creek). Juneau Falls is a frozen masterpiece. Total trip is 9 miles and the best part is you don't have to move a rig, begin and end in the same place, mile 52.8 of Sterling Hwy. Current conditions allow for use of classic skis on this trek. Don't do it opposite of what is recommended here, skiing 4 miles downhill is excellent on the road but would be difficult on the narrow tree lined trail.
Vagt Lake winter route (one bay north of Portage trail, across from the Island) has been broken in by snowmobile.
Happy Lunar Eclipse!
Seward area received 1-4" of new snow last night.
Resurrection North has a packed ski trail to Caribou Creek. Travel between Swan Lake and Caribou Creek will be a bear for the first few people to break trail.
Here's a fun back-country ski to add to your list, is currently fabulous: Take Resurrection Pass Trail South up to the West Juneau Road Winter trail (200' before the bridge over Juneau Creek). Juneau Falls is a frozen masterpiece. Total trip is 9 miles and the best part is you don't have to move a rig, begin and end in the same place, mile 52.8 of Sterling Hwy. Current conditions allow for use of classic skis on this trek. Don't do it opposite of what is recommended here, skiing 4 miles downhill is excellent on the road but would be difficult on the narrow tree lined trail.
Vagt Lake winter route (one bay north of Portage trail, across from the Island) has been broken in by snowmobile.
Happy Lunar Eclipse!
Saturday December 18, 2010
18/12/10 18:18
Russian River Campground at Cooper Landing was groomed today for track
and skating. Pretty much a WOW! as the snow is perfect! Restoom at
end of loop (Grayling) is open.....
and skating. Pretty much a WOW! as the snow is perfect! Restoom at
end of loop (Grayling) is open.....
Tuesday December 14, 2010
14/12/10 18:44
Divide ski area is still very good. Luna Loop and Paradise Loop are groomed, solid, moderately fast, and not icy. Summer trail work improved a few tight corners and opened up the trail to more snowfall.
Tuesday December 14, 2010
14/12/10 18:42
Upper Russian Lake trail has been broken open to Upper Russian Lake cabin, and travel is good via the winter route which begins at the southern end of Cooper Lake or from the trailhead. There is an active trap line on this trail.
Resurrection Pass Trail North has not been traveled beyond mile 2.25 since the end of November. Expect to break trail and negotiate many down trees. Anticipate travel of 1 mile/hour or less negotiating down trees and breaking trail over the pass to Swan Lake cabin on the southern portion of the trail.
Resurrection Pass Trail South to Swan Lake cabin via Slaughter Ridge Rd/Bean Creek, or West Juneau is a good trail.
Lost Lake and Primrose trails will open to Snowmobiles Wednesday, December 15.
Wear plenty of layers, check for overflow, stay away from inlets and outlets, carry emergency gear, keep well hydrated with water, and have a wonderful time enjoying the winter fun.
Sunday December 12, 2010
12/12/10 16:21
The temperature at Trail River is currently 9 degrees and we have been capped by an inversion for the past 24 hours. All loops have been groomed for skate skiing. Jason has done a wonderful job keeping the surface smooth and fast.
Saturday December 11, 2010
11/12/10 18:14
Grooming at the Divide continues; by Friday evening the parking lot area had been widened and substatially improved. Luna has also been touched up and is in good shape. Paradise is open but the inbetween meadow area and Sitzmark need more work, hopefully today with more snow. Definitely worth your time.
Friday December 10, 2010
10/12/10 10:18
The temperature at Trail River is 15 degrees. The uneven surface at the beginning of the trail has been cut down and all loops have been resurfaced and widened. Also, the logging road has been groomed up to the landing.
Enjoy
Enjoy
Thursday December 9, 2010
09/12/10 11:22
-Divide Ski area has many loops groomed now.
-Old Sterling Highway has a packed snowmobile trail. From end of
parking on Quartz Creek Road to Tern Lake is a fabulous classic ski of
6 miles one-way.
-Grant Lake Portage trail is broken in by ski. Grant Lake froze over
Saturday/Sunday.
-Upper Trail Lake has plowed rinks and pathways allow for continued
ice skating.
-If you are a mountain traveler going further into the back-country
please continue to update yourself with the latest information on
Avalanche conditions by visiting this site:
http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id=
-Old Sterling Highway has a packed snowmobile trail. From end of
parking on Quartz Creek Road to Tern Lake is a fabulous classic ski of
6 miles one-way.
-Grant Lake Portage trail is broken in by ski. Grant Lake froze over
Saturday/Sunday.
-Upper Trail Lake has plowed rinks and pathways allow for continued
ice skating.
-If you are a mountain traveler going further into the back-country
please continue to update yourself with the latest information on
Avalanche conditions by visiting this site:
http://www.cnfaic.org/advisories/current.php?id=
Tuesday December 7, 2010
07/12/10 14:56
Luna loop at Divide is groomed and good for skating. Thanks to Jason for the help yesterday, we smoothed it down and I finished it up this morning. Enjoy the new improved widened trail! The parking area loop is too wet yet and doesn't have good snow coverage. You can ski it around but you might encounter some water which might ball up your skis. Coming down Sitzmark to the parking area just south of the new gate has not been knocked down proceed carefully back to the parking area.
Paradise is still rough. I did knock down most of the big stuff so it is pretty flat. It will need to settle for a day but should be in good shape next time we groom it.
The meadow has been packed with the showmachines and has not been groomed. You can do a classic loop around it but please be aware that the south end of the meadow where it meets up with the new exit trail has water over a large section. It is in very bad condition and I would avoid it unless you want to get wet. You can still go safely around the traditional loop along the back to the north. I hope everyone enjoys the new snow and the improved widened trails.
enjoy...herb
Paradise is still rough. I did knock down most of the big stuff so it is pretty flat. It will need to settle for a day but should be in good shape next time we groom it.
The meadow has been packed with the showmachines and has not been groomed. You can do a classic loop around it but please be aware that the south end of the meadow where it meets up with the new exit trail has water over a large section. It is in very bad condition and I would avoid it unless you want to get wet. You can still go safely around the traditional loop along the back to the north. I hope everyone enjoys the new snow and the improved widened trails.
enjoy...herb
Saturday December 4, 2010
04/12/10 11:26
Summit has 6 inches of new snow at 1400 foot elevation
Saturday December 4, 2010
04/12/10 11:22
The temperature at Trail River is 27 degrees, skies are clear. We received about 4 inches of wet snow over the past 24 hours. I rolled all loops last night and I am now halfway through combing them. It should skate really well in three or four hours. Enjoy
Wednesday December 1, 2010
01/12/10 18:36
Trail Up date for Devil's Pass. On a scale between "lousy" and
"nirvana" it rates "heavenly". Half foot of relatively new snow on
top of a 1 or more of crust-- Lovely. Cold though. Temperature
started a bit below zero and didn't climb too much during the day.
Some down fall on trail however only in a few cases and nothing that
isn't difficult to get around.
"nirvana" it rates "heavenly". Half foot of relatively new snow on
top of a 1 or more of crust-- Lovely. Cold though. Temperature
started a bit below zero and didn't climb too much during the day.
Some down fall on trail however only in a few cases and nothing that
isn't difficult to get around.
Monday November 29, 2010
29/11/10 22:39
Conditions at Trail River today, Monday - EXCELLENT! Temperature about 19 - and LIGHT wind. Thank you, Jason
Monday November 29, 2010
29/11/10 12:31
Russian River Campground is groomed for skating. Some grooves still exist from early truck tracks but snow is excellent. Watch out for moose!
Sunday November 28, 2020
29/11/10 12:30
The temperature at Trail River is 19 degrees. All loops and the road
approach have been compacted. We have a very thin (2 inch) surface.
Be advised that there are some spots (4) where gravel is exposed on
some of the loops. All in all it should skate pretty well Monday.
Enjoy
approach have been compacted. We have a very thin (2 inch) surface.
Be advised that there are some spots (4) where gravel is exposed on
some of the loops. All in all it should skate pretty well Monday.
Enjoy
Sunday November 21, 2010
23/11/10 22:40
The ice at Lower Trail Lake is exceptional. Colder temperatures have produced thick ice even at the outlet of the lake near the car park. Lots of families enjoying the ice this weekend.
Sunday November 21, 2010
21/11/10 11:42
We went to Russian River Campground yesterday to skate ski, followed by stopping at Tern Lake to ice skate. Russian River Campground is groomed from the pay booth to the end of the road. It is wide, has a gentle hill, a few curves and a loop at the end. Off the main road are narrower loops through the campgrounds. From the parking lot to the end, including all the loops, took about 25 minutes at a steady pace. The snow is cold packed but not icy. Tern Lake is awesome for ice skating. Sections are a bit bumpy but nothing that keeps you off. There where several Moose Pass and Seward families on the ice enjoying the weekend.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
18/11/10 14:53
We had a fine time skating today.
The ice at Second Lake is in great shape, we knocked off the rocks that kids always spin out from the north end, there is no apparent wind.
Whether the pole lights are working for night skating, we don't know.
Come catch some skating before the next snow!
The ice at Second Lake is in great shape, we knocked off the rocks that kids always spin out from the north end, there is no apparent wind.
Whether the pole lights are working for night skating, we don't know.
Come catch some skating before the next snow!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
16/11/10 15:31
Rumor has it that Tern Lake at the Seward Highway wye has 5 inches of ice and is skatable
Sunday November 14, 2010
14/11/10 17:05
For a few days, snow conditions in the Seward area were cold and skiable. That has changed. We've lost snow to warm temperatures. Exit Glacier road is ice and asphalt. No reports on other areas.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
24/10/10 15:10
No snow yet but fall is definitely here. Won't be long until we get some ice skating