Grooming Report

March 31, 2012

Red Lodge Nordic Center has had another great season despite low snowfall. Thanks for your support and hope you enjoyed.  With spring meltdown in full swing, we are closed and will no longer groom.  If it snows (and it will), feel free to come out and ski, but trails will not be groomed, as heat and sun will ruin any grooming in a hurry.

GwB

Sunday March 24  10:30 am

The new snow has now been rolled and groomed for skating, however classic skiers reported that it was nice skiing even without tracks being set.  It is currently 21 degrees, calm, and beautiful out there. Some of the best skiing of the year on both the near side and the far side.

mj ct

 

Sat. March 23

8 inches of new snow last night.  The near side has been rolled, hope to get the far side later today.  Currently 17 degrees, calm, and gorgeous.  Enjoy.

rj lh

Thur. 21 March 10:30 am.

Trails on the Near Side have been groomed.  Temperatures the next few days will be cool with some snow so get out and enjoy the end of the Nordic season!

Thur. 21 March

About an inch of new snow fell this morning.  We plan to groom some of the Near Side trails this morning to smooth out the drifting from Monday and pack the new snow.

rj/rm

 

Tues.  March 19

An inch of new snow was groomed this morning.  No tracks were set, however where the new snow was not windblown it should be good skiing.  Watch for coyote, fox, marten, and rabbit tracks.  There is some snow predicted for Thursday, and then cool temps. so this coming weekend might be a good last hurrah.

rj rm

Monday 18 March

We will groom tomorrow morning if conditions permit.

Tues. March 12

5 in. of new snow was tracked and groomed today on the near side.  Warm weather is in the forecast but mornings should be good for a bit.

Sat. March 9

All trails were groomed this morning and as yet, there are very few bare spots.  From now on expect spring conditions.  It is icy in the mornings, then softens up as the day warms.  We will try and let you know if there will be some morning grooming ahead of time,so you can come out early.  At least some trails will be groomed tomorrow morning.

rj

Friday  March 8   noon

We groomed the Far Side this morning, set some tracks over there, and the snow is very good.( Tracks are hard to set in the morning when the snow is icey, so don’t expect excellence). Crust cruising is great in the morning everywhere. Temps are cooler today but predicted to warm up for the weekend, so by 10 or 11:00 it will be softening.  Plans are to groom all the Near Side trails Sat. morning for the Slide For Pride event at the Nordic Center…public invited.  Have fun out there!

gb, lh

Tuesday 5 March 10:00 AM

All trails on the Near Side groomed for classic and skate skiing.  Tracking was problemmatic due to hard packed, dense, icy snow. The base will be hard and fast so use caution particularly on the hills. A pretty day with temperature hovering in the 20′s should be a particularly good day for skate skiing.

ehw/rm

Tuesday 5 March

 

We will groom this morning starting shortly after 8am.  Wind has died down and grooming conditions should be good.

ew/rm

 

Monday 4 March 9:30am

A few of the sheltered trails were groomed and some track set for the school class to use this morning.  We will groom again when the wind dies down.  We received about 1″ of new snow. Skiing is actually good in leeward and sheltered areas but tough in the open.

gb/rm

 

Friday 1 March 10am.

All near side trails were groomed and track set where needed.  All Far Side trails were groomed and some track set.  Good conditions so get out and enjoy! Warm temps this afternoon and all weekend predicted.   See you at the Backcountry Film Festival TONIGHT at the Roman Theater.

gb/rm

Monday 25 February, 9:30am

All Near Side trails were groomed this morning.  Track set yesterday was OK.  All Far Side trails were groomed but no track set.

Nice day no wind, go out and enjoy! The best snow of the year is out there now!

gb/rm

 

Sunday, February 24, 11:30 am

All Near Side trails were groomed today. Conditions are a season best. Perfect Set Tracks, smooth Skate Lanes, blue sky, bright sun, get out there! More grooming is planned for tomorrow.

Ski Tip: “Classic” or “diagonal-stride” skiers are encouraged to ski in the “Set Tracks” at the side of the Skating Lane. You will find easier going with the track guiding your skis. As well, as a point of etiquette, by using the Set Tracks, you leave the Skate Lane free for our skate skiers, who have the right of way, and need a clear Skate Lane to perform their technique. If you find yourself in the Skate Lane, please move to the Set Track to allow the Skaters to ski past.

If Skating looks like fun (it is!), lessons are available, see notices at the sign-in Kiosk.

lh/ew

Saturday, February 23 11AM

All trails on the Near Side tracked and groomed for skate and classic skiing. Currently cloudy with temperature of 27 degrees F, intermittent snow flurries, wind about 4 mph out of the North – wind chill 23 degrees F. The light is very “flat”. We had difficulty identifying the margins of the trails while grooming so ski cautiously. Currently we plan to groom again tomorrow morning.

ehw/lh

Friday, Feb. 22    noon

Excellent weather – 27F with no wind chill – trails are in great shape for classic and skate. Far Side not groomed recently so has and inch of snow on it.  Plans are to groom Saturday morning.   Plan to join everyone for MOONLIGHT SKIING tomorrow evening, with Jon Trapp talking on wolves around the camp fire.

GwB

21 February Noon

We got about one inch of new powder down at the Nordic center last night. All trails on the Near Side were groomed for skating and classic skiing this morning. Keep an eye out for “sitzmarks” here and there where we temporarily got stuck. Skiing should be very good – particularly classic skiing. Currently sunny, temperature 25 degrees F, winds 2.2 mph out of the North with no wind chill. Enjoy.

Plans are to groom again Saturday morning. Should be great skiing tomorrow.

whw/rm

18 February – President’s Day 9:00 AM updated 11:00

We are currently grooming the Near Side for both classic and skate skiing with the Ginzu groomers, tracks set. TheFar Sid e trails are groomed.  Skiing is very good.  At 11:00, 22 degrees F – no wind chill. sun is trying to shine. (county roads are plowed)

Don’t forget, the West Fork is groomed and track set to Cascade.

gb/rm

17 February, 2013, 11 am & 5 pm

All trails were groomed and tracks set on the Near Side. But, by the time you get there, the gusting winds will have covered it all up. A light snow was also falling. The Far Side was groomed yesterday, no tracks there yet. Current temp: 28 degrees, “variable” winds with possible snow flurries. We will try to do some follow up grooming early in the week. (County roads are drifting in this afternoon, so they could be trouble until the wind stops and the plows get out).   Update:  The West Fork was groomed this afternoon, with tracks set to Cascade!  Should be your best bet for groomed skiing until we get the Nordic Center back in shape.

lh/lh

 

16 February 2013, 5pm

With a bright sun and lots of snow, the NC was gorgeous today. The Near Side and Far Side trails were groomed today. The groomers have been working hard the past two days to beat down the recent heavy snowfall. Some tracks were removed today in order to realign some trails. There are also some very soft as well as bumpy areas, so keep an eye out.

Plans are to groom again tomorrow, including setting classic tracks. The Far Side does not have tracks set, but has been groomed and is very skiable. The forecast for tomorrow is: temp-35 degrees, wind 12-22 mph, 70% chance of 1″ new snow. Conditions should be the best that we’ve had this season.

lh/bj

15 Feb. 3:30pm

All Near Side trails have been groomed and most track set.  All Far Side trails have been rolled.  Ski early tomorrow as winds may pick up. The snow is soft and treacherous off the groomed trails.  Plans are to groom the Far Side and add some tracks on the Near Side early Sat.

ew/gb/rm

15 Feb.

We plan on grooming and track set on the Near Side this morning and working on packing trails on the Far Side in the afternoon.  Some new snow last night.  Good day to be out there!

rm

14 Feb. 3:30pm

All Near Side trails were rolled except the one nearest the horse barns which was snowmobiled only.  Nothing has been done on the Far Side yet.  Skiers are reporting good conditions!

rm

14 Feb. 12:30pm

About 10″ or more snow fell.  It seems to have stopped now so we will run snowmobiles and possibly roll trails this afternoon.

rm

Thursday 14 Feb. 7:30 am

Good news!  We received 6-8″ of new snow and it’s still snowing.  Stay tuned!

rm

Wednesday 13 Feb. 12:30pm

Most trails on the Near Side were touched up late this morning.  Nice warm day, windy.  Trails in the sheltered areas should be good skiing.

rm

Monday 11 Feb. 11:45am

All Near Side trails were groomed and most track set.  Some trails are a bit narrow, so skaters take care not to run over the tracks.  All Far Side Trails were rolled.  Some light wind and drifting in spots, but a nice day.  Enjoy!

rm

 

 

Sunday 10 Feb. and Monday 11 Feb.

After the snowfall, the Near Side trails were groomed by roller and the Far Side trails were snowmobiled Sunday.   We plan to ginzu the Near Side and set track on the Near Side Monday and roll trails on the Far Side.

rm

Saturday February 9 10:00 AM

All trails on the Near and Far Side as well as the play hill, skating oval and “cutthroughs” groomed double wide this morning. Skiing should be good but there are still some “thin” areas so use appropriate caution. Currently cloudy, temperature 27 F, wind at 6mph from the NW with a resultant wind chill of 18 F.

bj/mj/ct/ehw

Thursday 7 February 10:45am

All trails on the near side were groomed and most track set.  Most trails on the Far Side were groomed one width.

rm/bj

Thursday, February 7 10:30 am

Our main BRTA website, therefore our grooming report page has been disabled due to gremlins at the host’s server. Grooming will be done today. It will be mostly sunny, with a high of 40.

lh

Sunday, February 3, 11 am

All Near and Far Side trails were groomed today. Temperature is 36 degrees with sunny skies. Conditions are the best we have had all season-get out there and enjoy!

bj/ew

Sunday, February 3, 7 am

Plans are to groom today. Skiing should be excellent.

lh

Saturday February 2 7:15 AM

Good morning nordic skiers and all ground hogs.  It looks like it’s going to be a beautiful  day at the Nordic Center. The weather service is calling for temps around 40 degrees with light winds, and more of the same for several days.  Today we groomed  the Near Side and the main trails on the Far Side.  Track setting was done where needed. Conditions are excellent for classic and very good for skat. Have a great weekend!

lgh gb

Thursday January 31 1:30 PM

Both the Near and Far Sides groomed this AM. In view of snow conditions grooming was “eclectic”. We used the Ginzu on some trails and rolled others. We also did some limited tracking on the Near Side. It should  ski well but is likely to be soft and slow overall.  A very nice intermittently sunny day: Temperature 32 degrees F, wind 6mph from the SE with a resultant wind chill of 26 degrees F. Enjoy yourselves.  [The PLAN is to groom Saturday morning...Kids Learn to Ski Program starts at 1:00]

ehw/rm

Thursday January 31 9AM

About three inches of new fluffy snow overnight which was pushed around by high winds. Will evaluate and do appropriate grooming this morning. Hopefully the area will be skiable by this afternoon. Stay tuned.

rm/bz/ew

Wednesday January 30 12noon

Both the Near Side and the Far side were tracked and groomed for Classic and Skate skiing this morning. Temperature is currently 30 degrees with the wind 6mph from the North yielding a wind chill of 25 degrees.Skiing should be good.

rm/ct

 

Tuesday January 29

In view of intermittent snow and 10 to 15 mph winds we have elected to hold off  on tracking and regrooming the trails today. All the trails were rolled yesterday and should remain skiable. We will reassess the situation tomorrow morning and plan to groom weather permitting.

ehw/rm

Monday, Jan. 28

All Near and Far side trails were rolled this morning.  The new snow will set up, then be groomed and tracked tomorrow morning.  There is 4 in. of new snow, 24 degrees, with calm winds.  Very pretty out there.

Monday, Jan. 28

Grooming is planned for today.

lh

Sunday, Jan.27

As of 10:00 am most of the Near Side had been groomed but further grooming operations were suspended due to an invasion of small white crystaline objects falling from the sky.  These objects were starting to blanket the Nordic center.   Stay tuned for more developments as it happens.   Skiing is still in good shape after weekend of classes, moonlight skiing and warm weather.  Some thin areas but all are avoidable and anticipating a good blanketing by the small white crystaline objects on Sunday and Sunday night.

lgh sf

Saturday, Jan. 26

We groomed the Far Side trails and touched up some Near Side in anticipation of the Kids Program this afternoon and the Moonlight Ski tonight. Considering all the warm days & nights and the lack of snowfall, the trails are skiing very well. Some bare spots, mostly avoidable.

We plan to groom the Near Side again tomorrow (Sun.)

gwb  rj

Friday, Jan 25

All Near Side trails were groomed and most of the tracks were reset today. Snow level is low enough that the groomers are moving snow by shovel to cover bare spots. A new skating oval in the center meadow was packed down as well today. It might be a bit soft.

NOTE: In order to better help the public plan their ski days, in addition to posting reports AFTER we groom, we will now post BEFORE we groom if we plan to groom the next day. If the situation requires that we do so, we reserve the right to change our mind.

So, the NC is planned to be groomed on both Saturday and Sunday.

Moonlight Ski: Saturday, Jan. 26, 6-8 pm.  Saturday, Jan. 26, Kids Ski Lessons: , 1-2:30 pm.

Remember: everyone is required to sign in, even if you have a Season Pass.

lh/rm

Sunday, Jan. 20

All Near Side and Far Side trails were groomed for skating. Tracks are still good from yesterday. Skating is very good today with temps in the low 20′s, no wind and overcast. Watch for some very thin areas.

lh/rm/bj/mj

Saturday, Jan. 19

All near side trails were groomed for skating, and some track was set in areas with enough snow.  Yesterday was over 50 degrees so we lost some snow, but conditions remain very good.  Large numbers of adults and children are taking lessons today, so we will groom all trails again tomorrow morning.  There is a cooling trend, so skiing should be excellent.  It is currently 42 degrees,sunny, with calm winds.

rj ew

Friday, Jan., 18

The West Fork Road was groomed this morning on nice snow with warm temperatures. Everything set up very well with skate lanes on soft snow to Cascade (5 miles) and tracks set beautifully over 3 miles in.  If it freezes, all will be superb skiing! (It is supposed to cool down and stay windy this weekend).  Note, this area is multiple use for winter recreation so expect all types of activity, including snowmobiles.

gwb

Thursday, Jan. 17

All Near Side trails were groomed today with the Ginzus. Conditions soften as the day progresses, ski early for the best snow. Snow coverage remains good with only a few thin areas. The tracks are in ok shape, so were not re-set.

Saturday morning is Adult Ski Lesson day, the afternoon is Kids Ski Lessons. We have 60 kids, their parents and instructors: 1:00-2:30, so parking will be very tight. Remember, no parking on the county road!

And, we plan to groom the West Fork Road tomorrow morning.

lh/ew

Wednesday, Jan. 16

We rolled most of the Near Side and some of the Far Side to touch up the skate lanes.  We left the tracks that were set earlier, as they are in good shape. Expect warm temps after about 10:00 in the next few days.  Very good skiing on new snow. Most everything is covered.

gb  ct

Monday, Jan. 14

The WEST FORK Road has been rolled about 4 miles in, and tracks set past Basin Campground. Nice snow.

rj  sf

Sunday, Jan. 13   11:00  AM

Currently 10 degrees, sunny, and calm winds.  The near side has been groomed for skating and tracked for classic skiing.  The far side has been groomed for skating, no track set yet.  Conditions are very good, and you classic skiers now have some tracks.

rj  lh

Saturday, Jan. 12   12:00 noon

It is currently 5 degrees with a light breeze, giving a wind chill of 1 below.  The nordic center received around 6 inches of new snow over the last two days, however strong winds blew the snow off some areas, and drifted it into others, so there are still plenty of thin spots.  Most near and far side trails were rolled this morning.  When the snow sets up a bit it will be groomed and tracked where possible.

rm  tj

Saturday, Jan. 5th

All near side trails were groomed this morning.  No track was set due to thin snow, however some of the old track still looked good. Skaters reported fast smooth conditions, but you need to watch for thin spots.

rj and ew

Thursday, January 3 1PM

All the Near Side trails were regroomed for skating and some track reset this morning. Trails were blown and drifted in open areas. Now that the wind has died down we should have good skiing for the next couple of days. There are still some “thin” areas so use caution. Currently temperature is 47 degrees F, wind 6.4 mph from the SSE with a resultant wind chill of 42.8F so wax for warm conditions.

ehw/rm

Wednesday January 2 2013  1PM

Trails on Near Side groomed for skating and some track set in areas where there appeared to be enough snow.  Selected Far Side trails groomed for skating. Unfortunately is there is a bit of wind so exposed trails are likely to quickly drift over – skiing should be pretty good in sheltered areas. Currently temperature is 28 degrees F, wind 14 mph from the NNW resulting in a wind chill of 9 degrees F.  Stay warm.

ehw/rm

Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013!

All is groomed and all is good.   Happy New Year.

Sunday, Dec. 30

The near side has been groomed, and a few experimental tracks were set.  Snow is thin, but skaters are saying it is fast and fun.

rj and ct

Saturday, Dec. 29:  MOONLIGHT SKI…

…at the Nordic Center about 6:00 (moonrise is 6:25).  Bring your headlamp, warm clothes, skis, and treats to share, plus your own drinks.

The Near Side was groomed this morning. No tracks set due to shallow snow depth. Skiing is good to excellent.

gwb  rj

Friday,   Dec. 28   am

The West Fork road was rolled this morning.  Conditions:  heavy use and about 2″ base the first 2 miles; then the snow gets a little deeper and a couple miles of great snow and better grooming;  about 4 miles in (past the second bridge) the snow thins out and the road becomes gravel.  Should be real nice skate skiing out there with cold temps continuing. No tracks set to to thin cover.

(See yesterday’s Nordic Center report below).

gwb

Thursday December 27   1230

The Red Lodge Nordic Center recieved 3 inches of snow overnight. All trails on the Near Side and the majority on the Far Side have been rolled . Still not quite enough snow to set tracks. Looks like a beautiful afternoon with highs in the 20s and light wind. So come on out and enjoy .

bz/rm

Christmas Day

8 degrees, sunny, light breeze.  An inch of snow has been rolled on all trails at the nordic center.  Cover is thin, but even an inch makes a difference.  Skiers are out and are saying conditions are quite good.

rj

Saturday, Dec. 22

Things haven’t changed much since the last grooming report…no new snow. So it is difficult to improve the conditions. Snow is holding but patches of brown are getting a little more frequent in the sun, warm and wind. ( Some snow is predicted for Sunday or Monday, and it wouldn’t take much to vastly improve conditions here). This afternoon we have low 30′s, wind, and good coverage. Watch for hazards, like ditch crossings, bumps and bridges that are not covered.

Come out and enjoy your vacation at RL Nordic. And plan to join the crowd Saturday, Dec. 29,  for the first moonlight ski of the season…at sundown. Bring a treat to share and your own drinks.

gwb   ct   rj

 

 

Tuesday, Dec. 18    PM

With about 2 new inches of snow and mid twenties temps, the Nordic Center improved again today. Still not enough snow to set tracks (some shallow spots). We groomed the Near Side and some of the Far Side this afternoon and it reportedly improved the glide a lot. Very good mid-December skiing.  Be cautious:  some bridges are almost bare and have a little dirt, even gravel hiding under the snow cover; also edges of bridges may trick you; and there are ditches and bumps here and there to slow down for. The forecast is for colder plus dry this week.

Eighteen skiers signed in today, and they were all smiling!

gwb    ew

Saturday, Dec. 15 10:30

A dusting of snow can change this place.  It’s beautiful.  Morning skaters say it is skiing great.  We rolled all trails on the near side, and some on the far side.  Keep in mind that current grooming is geared to building up a base and keeping snow from blowing away.  Any skiing is a bit of a bonus.  Currently 31 degrees, sunny and calm.

Monday, Dec. 10  noon

The horses are gone, so the gates are open, and the snow is thin.  But it is ski-able. We rolled more this morning to get the snow packed down and less susceptible to wind and warm. Grass is poking out and there are some brown spots but mostly good skiing. The temp today has ranged from 18 to 30 and was back down to 23 with a north wind at 10 mph at noon.

gwb & rm

Sunday, 9 December 12:00 Noon

All trails on Near Side and Far Side rolled this morning. The Nordic Center got about 4 to 6 inches of snow over the last couple of days. Enough to pack down with the rollers but will need another 6 inches or more for definitive grooming for skating and classic skiing. We closed off the Far Side after rolling because of very irregular and in some spots dangerous terrain particularly on the hills. The Near side also has some rough spots but is generally skiable. As always use caution. Beautiful day with sun shining, no wind and temperature in the teens. Enjoy.

ehw/bj

Saturday, 8 December 2012, 3 pm

NC conditions: 19 degrees, snowing with high winds. I made a lap around and as I passed the horses, the phrase “not fit for man or beast” came to mind. While there is not enough snow to groom (grass tops are still poking through a bit), there is enough snow for some trail skiing. Wax your BC trail skis and pencil in some time at the Nordic Center for tomorrow.

The forecast states that for Sunday morning, we should see 3″ of new snow, sunny skies; with a high temp of 17 degrees. We’ll groom if we can.

lh

Wednesday, 5 December 2012, 5pm

All the downed trees have been removed from the ski trails. The snow fence is holding in calm winds, the horse apples have been harrowed smooth and the forecast is for 4″ of fresh snow tonight and another 5″ by Saturday night. Temperatures look to be cold for awhile, so we may have some skiing coming up! Our grooming team is standing by.

lh

Monday, 3 December 2012, 1 pm

As you can imagine, what little snow we had previously has melted. Furthermore, yesterday’s wind storm has blown our snow fence down – again, along with a bunch of trees. So, until Mother Nature remembers that this is Winter and blesses us with some snow, consider reverting to summer-fall activities. Pahaska reports the same miserable conditions. If we have even a minimum amount of snowfall, we will at least roll some trails, so keep an eye on this report for updates.

You are welcome to walk the trails. Bring a hockey stick/golf clubs to knock horse apple piles from the ski trails and kindly remove branches. Remember that there still are 22 horses wandering the pastures. It’s OK to enter the parking lot, just CLOSE THE GATE BEHIND YOU. Thanks,

lh

Monday, Nov. 26,  1:00 pm

The Nordic Center has about 6″ of nice snow this morning and temp. in the mid twenties.  A south breeze.  Temps are expected to rise throughout the week.

Les and I rolled most of the Near Side trails and they are ski-able!  Don’t expect much and you’ll be happy.

Horses are still in the pastures, so you MUST CLOSE THE GATE AFTER YOU while you are skiing and when you leave…until further notice.  Thanks.

gwb, lh

Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012, 2 pm

There was an inch of real snow at the NC this morning, but it melted before our eyes in a 45 degree day.

Last Wednesday, high winds blew down most of our snow fence. The ground has yet to freeze, which would’ve supported the fence. And the 22+ horses currently using the pasture have been creating “horse apple cairns” all over. So today, a hardy group of volunteers formed two teams: snow fence repair and a horse poop patrol. The poop patrol, armed with their weapon of choice, such as: hockey sticks, golf clubs and rakes, walked all the ski trails and spread out the “cairns”, so our snowmobiles and grooming equipment will not have these frozen obstacles to deal with, if it ever snows.

Except for the lack of snow, the NC is ready to go. Toilets were delivered today. Since we can’t ski now anyway, our arrangement with AAR is that until in snows sufficiently to groom and ski, the horses can use the entire ranch. We will call the ranch when the time comes, the horses can be immediately re-located and normal winter NC operations will begin. This year, the electric fence has been removed and we have regained the use of the SW pasture.

There is a “keep gate closed at all times” sign on the parking lot gate. Please comply. We will remove the sign and open the gate when the horses are gone.

Someone, please make it snow!

lh

Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, 10 am

The Nordic Center is ready to go. Hard-working volunteers installed snowfence and signs, cleared trails and hauled firewood for our Moonlight Skis. Our grooming equipment is standing by ready to go. Best of all, our skilled, dedicated grooming team is back. Check back here for the latest conditions and status of the NC. Don’t forget to wax your skis-you have time.

Sunday, March 18, 8am

The Nordic Center is in a limited operation mode. Grooming operations have ceased and the toilets and kiosk will be removed soon. If there is significant snow and cold weather, we may groom and skiers can still use the trails. Please sign in, but you don’t need to pay the fee.  The actual trails themselves still have a minimal amount of snow on them, and are quite skiable, especially in the trees. We had a great year. Thanks for your support.

lh

Wednesday March 14   11:00am

After last nights wind storm both the Near and Far sides were cleaned up of downed trees and branches, however smaller twigs are still on the trails. Only the Near Side trails were groomed and track was set where possible. Forecast calls for high around 50 today with winds out of the SSW at 10-20 mph. Spring Conditions.

bz/rm/lh

Friday

GROOMING IN MARCH: With very warm, dry & windy weather forecast for the next 7 days, we cannot imagine grooming conditions anywhere as good as poor. However, there is a good base at the Nordic Center (and mountain trails), so skiing can be good… just springy. If it freezes at night, crust cruising the meadows is a treat in the mornings.

We are grooming the West Fork Road today, should be delightful for Saturday’s moonlight ski out there.

And St. Patrick’s day will be the Slide for Pride ski & fun day at the Nordic Center, put on by TAP 365.

GwB

Wednesday, March 7   4:00 pm

Lots of new snow, cool temps and sunny all day today. The Nordic Center is beautiful! We rolled and tracked all Near Side trails, and rolled one lane on the Far Side. Conditions are soft. Weather is predicted to be warm the rest of the week and weekend, so it is hard to guess what our grooming opportunities will be.

(And the roads are plowed).

GwB/RM

Saturday morning, March 3, 10:00 am

Skiing is excellent at Red Lodge Nordic Center and all trails have been groomed for skate and classic. Look for moose tracks on the Far Side and fox tracks everywhere. Temp’s are predicted to rise for a couple of days with a possibility of snow showers. With cloud cover today, the soft snow should remain sweet for a Nordic experience.

And remember, the West Fork Road was groomed this week.

GwB/RM

Friday morning, March 2

And the West Fork Road was groomed yesterday afternoon about 3 miles in; tracks were laid to Basin Campground AND back. Enjoy, it is great out there!

sf/gb

Thursday March 1 10:30 am

All trails on both Near and Far side were groomed and fresh tracks were set. It should be a Great day with the weather forecast calling for temperature around 30 with 10-15 mph winds out of the west.So come on out and enjoy that mountain fresh air at the Red Lodge Nordic Center.

bz/rm

Wednesday, Feb. 29, 5:00 pm

Leap Day had great snow at the Nordic Center but the s.e. wind blew it into the new tracks in the open. Temps were in the mid to upper 20′s so skiing was pleasant on trails out of the wind but kinda brutal in the wide open. All trails were groomed for skate and track today, and the Far Side is beautiful, including fresh moose tracks by Sage Creek. We’ll groom again when we feel the wind is done.

(Plan to join us for the Backcountry Film Festival Friday night, 7:00 at the Elks Lodge, downtown Red Lodge, Winter Carnival time!)

gwb & rjm

Sunday  Feb. 26  10:00 AM

All Near and Far Side trails have been groomed for skate skiing and tracked for classic.  Conditions vary due to yesterdays high winds, so watch for icy spots, especially on hills.  Skate skiing should be fast, and classic tracks are good in most places.

rj  lh

Friday February 24 10:00 AM

All trails on the Near and Far Side groomed for skate skiing and tracked for classic.  Snow conditions were very “uneven” due to high winds over the last couple of days. In the meadows conditions were generally excellent resulting in good tracks and a nice skating surface. On the ridges where the wind blew the snow away and sintered the surface there are hard icy spots which were hard to scarify – use caution in these areas. All in all it should be a great day for skiing. Currently bright sunshine, temperature 28.6 degrees, wind at 5.8 mph giving us a wind chill of 23.9 degrees. Get out and have some fun.

ehw/rj

Sunday  Feb. 19

All Near and Far Side trails have been groomed for skating, some track has been set where wind driven snow filled old track, however most of the old track is still good.  A half inch of snow fell last night,it’s 30 degrees with calm winds, so conditions are great.

rj lh

Saturday  Feb. 18

Today was nordic kids day at the nordic center.  Over 100 kids were classic skiing, skate skiing, and generally having a ball.  Big thanks to those who put this on.

We are expecting a couple of inches of snow tonight, so all trails will be groomed early tomorrow morning.  Should be a good day for skiing tomorrow.

rj

Wednesday February 15 11AM

All trails on both the Near and Far Side were groomed for skating and tracked for classic skiing this morning. We had about 2 inches of new snow yesterday which allowed us to set down some good track.  If it doesn’t get too warm, skiing today should be excellent and even better tommorow. Currently a day filled with sunshine, temperature 23.4, wind at 6mph, giving us a wind chill of 15.3 (it seems warmer). Have fun.

ehw/sf

 

 

Monday February 13 11AM

All skating lanes on the Near Side “touched up” with the Ginzu groomer. The tracks look to be in good shape and should continue to firm up overnight. Currently cloudy, almost no wind and 33 degrees. Enjoy.

ehw

Sunday February 12 11:00 AM

All trails, the skating oval and practice hill on the Near Side groomed for skating and tracked for classic skiing this morning. The Far Side was rolled. The trails and tracks are likely to be “soft” in view of the new snow and warm weather but should set up nicely overnight. Currently mostly cloudy, temperature 38 degrees, no wind = no wind chill. Nice day to go out and cruise….

ehw/rm

Saturday February 11 9:ooAM

8 to 12 inches of new, light, fluffy powder overnight. We are currently rolling the trails on the Near Side. The parking lot has not been plowed but could probably be managed by” all wheel” or four wheel drive vehicles. As of now Fox has not been plowed. Please do not park along Fox as the Sheriff will likely ticket you should you do so. Currently light snow, no wind about 7 degrees. Skiing particularly classic likely to be enjoyable but snow will be soft. Wide classic or “off trail” skis likely to give the best results. A little bit cold and “soft” for you skaters – if nothing else you will get a good workout .

rm/lh/ehw

 

Wednesday February 8 12Noon

About an inch and a half of new snow overnight.   All trails on the Near Side groomed. Conditions not good for tracking but some track set – here and there where there was enough snow the tracker worked well. Ski around and you will find some good spots. A beautiful sunny day. Currently temperature is 29 degrees, wind 5 mph, wind chill 27 degrees, Should be really good skiing this afternoon.

 

ehw

Saturday, February 4

All trails on the Near Side and Far Side have been groomed double wide for skating. Skiing in general should be excellent but we were unable to set more track due to lack of snow and icy conditions. Currently beautiful out there with temperature of 31 degrees and wind at 8mph with a wind chill of 20 degrees. As it warms the trails are likely to get faster.

ehw/rm

Friday, Feb. 3

 

The Near Side AND the Far Side were groomed today. But the couple of inches of fresh snow weren’t enough to help the tracking situation, so don’t expect much improvement finding set tracks (icey under the fresh).  Skating is great…yeah, fast.  Saturday, expect some more grooming on the Near Side…getting ready for 3 events: Tracking Workshop at 9, the last Kids Day at 1, and Moonlight Ski at 6.  Great skiing on minimal snow and temp’s predicted to be mild.

BONUS: we groomed the WEST FORK Road this afternoon, and conditions there are typical… pocked and firm the first mile or so, then deeper and softer snow the farther you go. No tracks set (too firm the first mile and a half). Great skiing past Basin.

ew, rj, rm, gb

 

Tuesday, Jan. 31  12:30 pm

Again, most of the Near Side was touched up and is skating well this morning. No tracks set. Same pattern with warm hours midday, freezing at night. Same forecast. Very little skiing going on this morning so conditions should remain good:   mostly FAST & Furious.

gb

Monday, January 30  2:oo pm

Most of the Near Side was “scratched” with the Ginzu this morning. We hope it helps to break up the ice. Tracks cannot be improved without new snow. Forecast temps from 40-49 this week with no new snow predicted. Skiing is still fairly good. Pray for snow.

lh/gb

Saturday, January 28  1:00

The temp is about 32 F and the icey conditions are improving after we groomed the entire area this morning. Trails are skating fast. No tracks set due to the hard snow and ice.

Still no new snow this month, and some areas are dirty from blowing road dust. Good skiing considering all that! (Note trails in the mountains are HARD PACKED and extremely fast).

RJ & GwB

 

Friday January 27 12:00 Noon

All trails on the “ Near Side” tracked and groomed. Trails are hard, slippery, and icy particularly in open areas so be careful out there. It is difficult to groom and set track in these conditions. Best skiing - both skating and classic is likely to be in and around the trees where the snow is softer and not as compacted. Currently bright and sunny with temperature of 22 degrees F, winds from the NW at 20 mph with wind chill around -10. Bundle up!

ehw/rm

Tuesday Jan. 24  11:00am

All skating lanes have been groomed on the Near Side  and various skating  lanes on the Far Side have also been groomed. Forecast calls for partly cloudy  with temperatures in the mid 30′s and winds WSW 10-15 mph. So come on out and enjoy another bluebird day at the Red Lodge Nordic Center.

bz/rm

Sunday, Jan. 22

All Near Side and Far Side trails were groomed today, including the skating oval and cut through trails. Conditions are awesome, especially for skate skiing. Weather should be pleasant in the next few days.

lh/bj

Thursday Jan 19 12:00

Track has been set on all trails on the Near Side. Please be careful for icy spots on wind blown areas. Forecast calls for a good chance of snow today and tonight. Currrently the temperature is in the low 30′s with light and variable winds. So come on out as skiing should be good for both classic and skating.

bz

Wednesday, Jan 18, 1:30

We found some drifts and some icey spots at the NC today but the wind hadn’t done much damage. We groomed most of the Near Side trails to smooth out the drifts and the snow is great for skating. We set no tracks, as we expect snowfall tonight and tomorrow. Temperature after noon is in the single digits and the wind is light out of the north.

GwB  RJ

 

Monday, Jan. 16  high noon

In +3F temps, we rolled all trails (including the Far Side) on about 6 inches of new snow. The snow is beautiful and soft,  the wind is light but very cold.  Beware of an impending berm when the county plows Smith Road…it may block the parking lot entrance…so bring a shovel.

In anticipation of more snow fall mid week, we may not set tracks nor groom until after that happens. Then look forward to some great conditions!

GwB & RM

 

Thursday Jan. 12 10:30 am

All trails on the Near Side and Far Side were groomed and track set. Please be careful and watch out for icy spots on top of  the hill leading to the Far Side. Classic skiing should be very good. Forecast for today calls for temperature around 30 and winds out of the WNW at 5-15 mph. So come on out and enjoy.

bz/ew

Wed.  Jan.  11  5:00 pm

Six inches of new snow has been rolled on all Near Side and Far Side trails.  Some track has been set in the Near Side meadows, and this process will continue tomorrow morning.  Colder weather should make for great classic skiing in a firm track.

rj  rm  sf

Friday, Jan. 6  11:00 am

All skate lanes, Near Side and Far Side, were groomed this morning.  It should be good fast skating.  The old track is visible in most places, but is icy.  Our old melted then frozen snow will not hold a track, but the groomed skate lane could be used as a classic lane as well.  Currently it is sunny, calm, and 30 degrees.

rj bz

Wednesday, Jan. 4  11:00 am

Groomed the skate lanes on the Near Side this morning; tracks remain good but icey early. Temps were around 32 F early, predicted warm again today (50+ F!)

Skating is in soft snow but good skiing.

We’ll probably groom everything again on Friday when it is predicted to be cooler and chance of snow.

GwB

Sunday January 1 2012 11AM

All the skating lanes on the Meadow (Near Side) trails were groomed this morning. Tracks were set yesterday and with last nights’ temperatures in the teens should be firm and ski well. Currently temp is 23 degrees. Wind from the SE at 3mph yielding a wind chill of 9 degrees. Enjoy.

ehw/ct

Sat. Dec. 31  1:00 pm

Five inches of new snow last night so it’s very pretty at the Nordic Center.  All trails have been rolled, and track will be set as soon as possible.  Currently it is 30 degrees and sunny, with very light winds.

rj rm ew

Thurs. Dec. 29 2:00 pm

Three inches of new snow was rolled out on all trails, however gusty winds are drifting the snow in open areas.  Currently it is 38 degrees, sunny, with gusty winds.

rj rm

Friday  Dec. 23  1:00 pm

All Near Side meadows have been tracked for classic and groomed for skate skiing.  Some Far Side trails have been tracked, and all have been groomed for skating.  It’s a bright sunny day, currently 38 degrees.  Have fun.

rj  rm

Thursday 22 December 1pm.

We rolled the Far Side today also.  Some trails were combed as well.  Nice day…enjoy.

rm

Thursday December 22 Noon

We rolled and combed all the Near Side trails, the skating oval , and the practice hll this morning. Looks like we got about a foot of snow over the last 24 hours.  There was some drifting in open areas and along the snow fences. Snow will likely remain “ soft”  for the next day or so. Classic skiing especially with wider backcountry type skis should be excellent. Currently the sun is shining brightly, temperature in the low 20′s with 5mph winds out of the SSE creating wind chills in the mid teens. The parking lot is plowed..so come on down.

ehw/bz

Wednesday December 21 Noon

During a break in the snowfall we went down and rolled and combed the Near Side (meadow) trails. There was about 8 inches of new snow at that time and it has continued to snow intermittently since. If you decide to go skiing this afternoon please note that the parking lot is not plowed and that despite our grooming the trails may be drifted over and difficult to find with blowing and drifting snow. Currently wind is out of the NW at 15mph, temperature 23 degrees with a wind chill of about 3 degrees. A good day to sit in front of the fire with your beverage of choice.

ehw/bz

Tuesday, Dec. 20  10:00 am

We groomed and set new track on the entire Near Side this morning . The snow and temperature were excellent (about 25 F) and it was calm.  It’s now in the 30′s with a forecast of wind this afternoon and snow tonight and tomorrow.  We’ll groom again right after the storm.

Great skiing, classic and track!

gb & sf

 

Saturday December 17 12 Noon

We groomed all the trails in the meadow as well as the “Far Side” this morning. In view of the warm weather we left the tracks alone. They are firm and sking well. Should be good skiing today but the skating lanes likely to soften up with rising temperatures  in the afternoon. Currently temperature is 48 degrees, brilliant sunshine, wind from the SE at 5 to 10 mph.

ehw/bj/bz

Friday, Dec. 16   3:00 pm

We hit the West Fork Road again today, rolling about 4 miles in and setting track two miles in. As usual, the first mile is rough, but things smooth out and the snow gets deeper the farther in you go.  Still soft and temp in the 20′s this afternoon.

And, the last half mile of driving in to the gate is now PLOWED! (We have an agreement with the plow contractor to continue to the gate the rest of the season.)

GwB & SF

Thurs. Dec. 15   11:00 AM

The Near Side meadows and trails have been groomed for skating and tracked for classic skiing.  Conditions are great, with an inch of new snow to add beauty, and a touch of softness.  Skaters, try out the practice oval in the east meadow.  It is currently 28 degrees, with overcast skies, and no wind.  Weather permitting, we are hoping to groom this coming Sat. and Sun. mornings.

rj  rm

Tues. Dec. 13

Today the West Fork Rd. was rolled from the gate to around 3 miles in.  As you go farther in, the snow gets better and softer.

Monday Dec. 12  9:00 AM

Yesterday afternoon all far side trails were groomed, and some track was set.  This area is beautiful, and has lots of up and down.  Conditions are excellent.

Sunday December 11 11AM

All trails in the meadow regroomed and retracked. A beautiful day. Temperature currently 40 degrees, wind out of the NW at 2.5 mph. Sking should be good but snow likely to soften up this afternoon.

ehw/bf

Friday December 9 11AM

All the trails in the meadow have been groomed and tracked for skating and classic skiing.  Sunny, no wind, temperature 35 degrees. Snow is a little “soft”. Classic skiing should be very good.

gb

Wednesday December 7 –  2pm

All trails in the meadow rerolled and combed this AM. Trails a little soft but skiing should be good. Will track and groom again tomorrow if our snowmobiles are working and the weather allows. Currently sunny, no wind, temperature 35 degrees.

ehw

Saturday December 3 2:00PM

All trails in the meadow regroomed and retracked for skating and classical skiing.  Another beautiful day. Currently temperature of 2o degrees, wind out of the SE at 5mph yielding a wind chill of 16 degrees. Enjoy.

ehw/tj

Friday Dec. 2nd 1:00 pm

Friday Dec. 2nd 1:00 PM

All trails on the near side meadows have been groomed for skating and tracked for classic skiing.  There are some wind blown thin spots, but for this time of year conditions are very good.  The Far Side has been rolled but not tracked.  Currently, there is a light wind with a chance of snow showers.

rj

Thursday December 1 2:00PM

Beautiful day! We were able to get out and roll and comb all the trails in the meadow. Lots of snow in some places particularly along the North side of the trees and  the snow fences. Lots of drifting along the snow fences making the trail bumpy so be careful there. Currently 21 degrees with  the wind picking up to 10 to 15  mph yielding a wind chill of  2 degrees.

ehw/bz

 

 

Sunday Nov. 27, 2011  11AM

 

We were able to get out early while it was still cool and groom all the meadow trails for skating. We were also able to set a little track along the north side of the wooded areas where the NW wind had set up some drifting - other areas still too “thin” to track. Current temperature is 43 degrees, wind speed 5mph out of the south with a wind chill of 40 degrees. Think snow!

ehw/bz

Sat. Nov. 26, 2011 – 12 Noon

All trails in the meadow have been groomed. Conditions not suitable for tracking at this time but trails should be good for skiing particularly skating. Current temperature: 28 degrees F with winds out of the SSE at 10mph. Forecast is for significantly warmer weather. Will groom again when conditions permit.

ehw/bf

Sat.  Nov. 19, 2011 – 2PM

The Far Side trails have now been rolled, and and logs removed. Be careful, there is some beautiful snow out there, but it’s still early season conditions.  Some track has been set on the Near Side, however sifting snow may fill them in.

Friday, Nov. 18, 2011 – 5 PM

All trails on the Near Side have been rolled. There is about 12″ of snow. We will attempt to roll the Far Side tomorrow after we move some cut logs off the trail. Conditions are OK for skiing, but grooming with the Ginzu and track setting have not been done yet.

lh

November 17, 2011 – 8 AM

We’re still not officially open, but the NC is available to anyone wanting to use it-no fee. There is minimal, but sufficient snow cover to have a good ski. Part of the Near Side meadows were rolled yesterday. Today’s conditions are very windy. Today’s forecast is: 30% chance of 1″ of new snow, high temp is 42, currently 37. Forecast by Friday AM: 4″ new, by Saturday AM: 8″ more new snow. Note that there is a new electric fence running N-S through the west meadow. If there are horses in the field, the fence is hot, don’t touch. Get your skis waxed, buy your season pass and get ready!

lh

 

November 12, 2011

While grooming operations have not begun, the Nordic Center is open for pre-season wandering. There is a minimal layer of snow. The parking lot gate is open, toilets should be in place, the kiosk is installed and the grooming team is poised for action.

lh

October 17, 2011…2:30 pm

Awaiting snow!!