Yes, the Chicken knows everyone is anxious to ski the fresh pow. Yes, the Chicken knows it's been an abysmal year for skiing. Yes, the Chicken knows that the community turned out in an awesome fashion to help purchase new grooming equipment.
BUT
As of this afternoon (Sunday) there was only about 5 inches of fresh snow at the base. This blogger went up to ski the snow and I did a little damage to my new skis. That's OK, since skis are meant to be used. It is only fair to let you all know, however, that conditions are less than stellar, and for at least two reasons there will be no grooming at this time.
First and foremost, there is simply not enough snow to groom; at least not at the base. I would estimate there is about 10+ inches at the top of the Rush Loop, which would be adequate. But getting there is problematic, at least in part because of problem number two.
Second problem: All the Forest Service gates within the ski area are closed and locked, which means the groomer cannot get around the track. Additionally, the Chicken Creek Road gate is still open, and of course someone drove up there through the snow, probably late last night as the tracks were pretty well snowed in.
To say the least this has been a frustrating year for Chicken Creek Nordic, and the forecast for this week does not offer the promise of any new snow. Additionally, with the Federal Government shutdown, who knows when we will be able to swing all the gates that need swung in order to make grooming a possibility.
Keep checking back on the blog, and I will do my best to keep everyone abreast of developments.
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2 comments:
Hi there - I have a group of families coming to Chicken Creek this Saturday (Feb. 17) for a Junior Snow Ranger program. I'm wondering what the snow looks like there now - trying to decide whether or not to bring snowshoes for everyone. Thanks for any info!
Is Chicken Creek Nordic center open yet. I am hopeful w/ the recent snows.
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