Sunday, January 2, 2022

2021 X-Country Ski Update - West Bragg Trails

I managed to get out twice in December before the cold weather and end of year came around.  Despite a relatively small amount of base snow, the trails were in pretty good condition.  It felt so good to be back outside on the skis!!

December 18, 2021:

Amanda and I got out for our first ski of the season on December 18.  We beat the sun to the trail and were the first ones in the south west parking lot.  It was a little cold, and so the glide factor was not great (or maybe it was the fact that I am really out of ski shape), but we were both very happy to be out on the trails again!!  We followed the West Crystal - Loggers - Sundog East - East Crystal Line loop.

We Beat The Sun To The Trail

Happy Skiers

First Downhill Of The Year! 😀

December 22, 2021:

I got a second opportunity to get out when a new co-worker of mine asked me if I would join him for a late afternoon ski.  Mandy was in town helping out with friends, I had all of my chores done, so of course I was game!  We met at the trailhead at ~3:30 and headed out.  We saw lots of skiers headed back to the parking lot for the first 15-20 minutes, and then we pretty much had it all to ourselves.  The atmosphere was very special - setting sun, mixed clouds, and cool, brisk air.  We followed the Mountain Road - Mountain View - West Crystal Line - Loggers - Sundog East - East Crystal Line loop.  The last kilometer was getting pretty dark, but we made it back to the parking lot without having to get our head lamps out.  It was a great pre-Christmas outing, and I look forward to connecting with Rene for some more trips before the end of the winter!!

Beautiful, Moody Sky

Last Few Minutes Of Daylight

Chasing Rene Down The Hill!