SKI TRAIL REPORT #1, DEC. 13, 2024

So far this season, there has been very little snow in the Sawtooth Valley. Sagebrush still towers above the 6 inches of snow covering open meadows.  However, years of pruning vegetation from the 10 foot wide meandering ski trails at Alturas and Park Creek has resulted in a a pretty good skiable surface. We have been laying down corduroy over the last couple of weeks which has been good for skating and flat tracking, however classic tracks are still in need of more snow to properly impress. Perhaps predicted snow over this weekend will make some classic grooves possible. At Park Creek, the forest service did a great job of clearing over 200 burnt fallen trees from the trails. We can’t thank them enough for their help in making the ski trails useable this season. So here we go again, get your kicks in, glide down memory lane and be thankful were all still here for another season of fun, giggles and rapturous awe.

Sawtooth trails still excellent

Generally gorgeous sunny weather and nicely groomed trails continue to make the Alturas and Park Creek ski areas a first class destination for cross country enthusiasts. Although mechanical difficulties have been a pain to deal with as our 2 quad tracks and a snowmobile all broke down at the same time, grooming has continued non stop with our back up gear with no real drop in quality. The Quad track is now back in service at Alturas where the oldest snowmobile in our fleet proved to be a quirky but dependable replacement. Warm weather with highs in the 50’s means that the trails have been going through a 3 bears’ soup cycle of too cold, just right, too hot. Temperatures are predicted to be falling later in week with more snow on Friday. For almost real time ski grooming reports for the Sawtooth trails you can check out the BCRD’s on line nordic pulse maps.

Grooming resumes at Alturas

As you may have heard, three of our four grooming machines broke down last week in some kind of cosmic coincidence. On Friday we headed to the boneyard and resurrected the oldest snowmobile in our fleet of groomers – the old yellew Skidoo, hoping that it could once again work its magic at Alturas Lake while we wait on repairs to our newer machines. Remarkably it started right up and was able to pull the roller around all trails on the highway side of the creek. Yellow and red flashing lights on the dashboard came and went and siren alarms bleeped loudly on occasion, but it did keep on truckin’, laying down some respectable but slightly rough corduroy. On Saturday, Davinius will attempt the trail from the bridge to the lake. No classic tracks right now but real progress nonetheless. At Park Creek, Adam, our first man of grooming, is still laying down some great trails with the last running snowmobile there.

EQUIPMENT BREAKDOWN

After a successful Ski Festival weekend we have experienced equipment problems at both ski areas resulting in a temporary grooming halt at the Alturas Lake Ski Area. Park Creek grooming will continue with a back-up snowmobile pulling the grooming equipment there. Both of our quad tracks and one backup snowmobile all experienced issues that will require new parts to arrive and some work to install. And all the new snow fall means that Alturas trails will be deep going for a bit. Thanks for your support at the Ski Fest events and for your patience while waiting on repairs.

Alturas Soup Kitchen Today! ALL SYSTEMS GO!!!

The annual Alturas Lake Soup Kitchen will take place today at its traditional site on top of the Over The Hill Trail from 11 to 3. After a successful Park Creek Event yesterday, the weather looks to be more cooperative today and the soup lineup is going to be steamingly delicious as always. Be there or be square,

Alturas trails dig out after last storm

After 6+ inches of new snow fell during the day on Monday, the 26th, our most excellent groomer Chadeus took to the trails at Alturas Lake for an afternoon grooming to knock down some of the accumulating snow. All trails on the highway side of the creek were rolled. Davinius is heading back out on Tuesday to roll the Lake and North Cabin trails. One might expect all trails to be a bit soft as we continue to roll through the deep drifts. Meanwhile… Adam, the first man of Park Creek grooming, was out early on Tuesday morning beating down accumulated snow on his trails in preparation for our ski festival events this coming weekend. His snow grooming efforts at Park Creek are getting rave reviews this year. Check it out!
On Saturday from 11 to 2, Park Creek’s annual chili feed and poker ski fun run event will take place. Prizes for the best poker hand collected along the trail will be awarded! At Alturas the next day, the legendary soup kitchen will once again grace the hilltop festival site from 11 to 3, featuring soup, bread and baked goods.

Trails emerge from week of storms…

WARNING! ARTIFICIA INTELIGENTIA HAS TAKEN CONTROL OF THIS REPORT…. Discover the exhilaration of traversing our impeccably groomed trails after a captivating snowstorm and meticulous morning grooming. Our dedicated team has poured their heart and soul into ensuring that every trail is in pristine condition. At Alturas Lake, all trails were expertly groomed on Thursday, with another grooming session scheduled for Friday. But the ultimate winter wonderland awaits you at Park Creek, where the trails have reached their pinnacle this year. Our team was hard at work on Friday morning, meticulously grooming every inch of those trails to perfection. Stay one step ahead by visiting the BCRD’s winter trail site for live coverage of our grooming endeavors. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring experience!

snow + grooming = let the good times roll

Oh, what could be better than some brand new snow and the most expert grooming you could ever dream of? Seriously, we’ve got it all up here in the majestic Sawtooths. Need a jaw-dropping Air Force Super duper fly over? Yep, we’ve got that too. Don’t you dare miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience. Trust us, you won’t regret it!

all trails groomed…

All trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake are groomed and rated very good to excellent with moments of ecstasy scattered about.

Trails nicely groomed but snow warm and mushy at times…

Adam, the first man of Park Creek, Davinius and Chadeus at Alturas Lake, and now, Nathan, God’s gift to the Stanley City Park, have all been busy over the last two weeks, laying down tracks and skate lanes for your skiing pleasure. We have received a good dose of rather wet, warm snow over those weeks, which has been helpful in terms of trail coverage, but alas, the trails can get as bit mushy at times with temperatures often above freezing.

All the latest

Adam, Park Creeks first man sent this report on Sunday…. I got Lupine, camas, shooting star and skyrocket opened. I was also able to get classic and skate lanes down on Lupine and Camas. A couple trees fell, and the drifting was pretty bad in the usual spots. I was able to get the trees cut out this afternoon. I’ll be heading back out tomorrow to get things leveled out better and maybe get sego and Larkspur rolled out.
Davinius at Alturas… I rolled all trails except Wapiti and cut out a bunch of downed trees. I’ll be heading back out on Monday and I hope to add classic tracks to the trails to the east of the creek… to the west of the creek, the snow is still not solid enough to pull the ginzu for classic tracks.

Grooming wind blown and snow bound trails…

At Alturas and Park Creek, grooming took place on Saturday, the 13th… Adam and Chadeus rescued trails from winters grip, rolling and compacting. More grooming scheduled for each area on Sunday, the 14th. Heavy snowfall and high winds means trails may be soft, rough and littered with pine needles and twigs. At Alturas some small downed trees were cut out on Saturday and more chain sawing is planned to remove larger trees on Sunday.

TRAILS ROLLED

On Wednesday at Park Creek, Adam, our excellent groomer and first man, got everything rolled out and was able to get some skate lanes and classic tracks on lupine, camas, and shooting star. He’s headed back out this morning to touch some things up and run the compaction drag around before this next dump. At Alturas on Wednesday, Chadeus Maximus also rolled all trails and more grooming is scheduled for Thursday. Expect somewhat soft snow conditions.

FIRST BIG WINTER STORM SLAMS SAWTOOTHS

On Tuesday, January 9th, National Static Electricity Day, we wish you could shuffle along our ski trails, catching a buzz and charging your batteries, but the weather outside is frightful, so we recommend you stay by your fire delightful.
The trails at Alturas and Park Creek were last groomed on Sunday and were looking really good… like really really good.

Merry Christmas from the Orthodox!

Original short and sweet report: On Sunday, January 7th, ski trail grooming is in progress at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. The sun is peaking through at around noon knocking the edge off a chill morning.

Robot suggested artificially intelligent version:
Are you ready for an extraordinary skiing adventure? Join us on Sunday, January 7th, as our dedicated team is hard at work grooming the ski trails at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. As the sun peeks through the clouds around noon, it’s the perfect time to hit the slopes and shake off the morning chill. Experience the thrill of carving your way down our freshly groomed trails, surrounded by breathtaking views and invigorating mountain air. Whether you’re a seasoned skier seeking an adrenaline rush or a beginner looking for an unforgettable winter getaway, our expertly maintained slopes offer the ideal conditions for an exhilarating skiing experience. Embrace the magic of the mountains this winter and create unforgettable memories with us!

You decide. Say No to Robots!

Alturas Trails Buffed And Beauteous

On January fifth, National Birds Day, all trails at Alturas Lake were groomed and looking very good. Don’t ask for the meaning of the song of a bird or the rising of the sun on a misty morning. There they are, and they are beautiful.

Sawtooth valley trails groomed

Another report generated by artificial intelligence for your enjoyment…
On December 27th all trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake were groomed. More grooming is scheduled for Friday the 29th at Alturas. The trails look good the weather is clear and sunny. Looking to spend a day outdoors? Come and explore the beautiful trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake. With the recent grooming, the trails are in excellent condition, ready for you to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure. Take in the breathtaking scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of nature. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and recharge your soul. Visit us today and discover the wonders of Park Creek and Alturas Lake trails.
More grooming scheduled for Friday afternoon at Alturas.

Alturas Trails groomed

 

The following report was generated by artificial intelligence…
“Hit the slopes this winter and experience the exhilarating feeling of skiing on freshly groomed trails at Alturas Lake! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find the perfect skate lane and classic tracks to glide on. From the bridge to the lake, you’ll be greeted with pristine conditions, while the skate lane from the highway to the bridge offers a thrilling adventure. Despite the amount of snow on the ground, the conditions are surprisingly good, providing an unforgettable skiing experience. Don’t miss out on this winter wonderland!”

WOW!, that sounds way more cheerful than anything Old Davinius could come up with. He is currently researching ways to turn down the positivity knob on his computer… in the meantime, the skiing is actually pretty good to just fine. Look out for rocks and stumps.

I

Extreme cold, minimal snow Christmas Eve

Trail conditions remain pretty much the same on Sawtooth Valley cross country ski trails. Extremely low snow levels (a few inches) and extremely low temperatures (minus 17 this morning) make it extremely hard to recommend the trails to anyone who is not a real extremist. On the positive side, it is a sunny, extremely beautiful day. Stumps, sage brush and rocks should be expected and appropriate care must be taken.

LOW SNOW

All trails at Alturas Lake have been compacted and some trails at Park Creek. However, snow levels are very low and trails that follow roads would be your best bet for a cross country tour. This is difficult at Park Creek because most trails are accessed across open sage brush areas. Skating is not recommended and trails with steep hills, like Wapiti and North Cabin at Alturas should be avoided! No appreciable snow is forecast for the next week or so. The Alturas Lake trail and the road to Alturas are navigable. Your prayers to El Niño or his mother would be appreciated.

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

On December 8th, the 2031st birthday of Horace, the Roman lyric poet, take heed of his advice…”Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.”
At Alturas Lake, all ski trails have now been compacted with two full days of grooming. Although skate skiing cannot be recommended, flat trackers with low expectations should be delighted. Rocks and sagebrush still exposed,,,,

On April 17th, National Cheese Ball Day, we are saddened to announce the total and almost complete end of grooming at the Sawtooth cross-country ski areas. Except for dragging one ginzu groomer into the woods and retrieving the ever popular picnic tables, it really is over. Thank you’s go out to the Forest Service, the City of Stanley, Blaine County Rec., the Sawtooth Ski Club, the Sawtooth Society, and of course to our wonderful cheesy grooming crew. Thanks for the memories

SKI TRAIL REPORT #1, DEC. 13, 2024

So far this season, there has been very little snow in the Sawtooth Valley. Sagebrush still towers above the 6 inches of snow covering open meadows.  However, years of pruning vegetation from the 10 foot wide meandering ski trails at Alturas and Park Creek has resulted in a a pretty good skiable surface. We have been laying down corduroy over the last couple of weeks which has been good for skating and flat tracking, however classic tracks are still in need of more snow to properly impress. Perhaps predicted snow over this weekend will make some classic grooves possible. At Park Creek, the forest service did a great job of clearing over 200 burnt fallen trees from the trails. We can’t thank them enough for their help in making the ski trails useable this season. So here we go again, get your kicks in, glide down memory lane and be thankful were all still here for another season of fun, giggles and rapturous awe.

Sawtooth trails still excellent

Generally gorgeous sunny weather and nicely groomed trails continue to make the Alturas and Park Creek ski areas a first class destination for cross country enthusiasts. Although mechanical difficulties have been a pain to deal with as our 2 quad tracks and a snowmobile all broke down at the same time, grooming has continued non stop with our back up gear with no real drop in quality. The Quad track is now back in service at Alturas where the oldest snowmobile in our fleet proved to be a quirky but dependable replacement. Warm weather with highs in the 50’s means that the trails have been going through a 3 bears’ soup cycle of too cold, just right, too hot. Temperatures are predicted to be falling later in week with more snow on Friday. For almost real time ski grooming reports for the Sawtooth trails you can check out the BCRD’s on line nordic pulse maps.

Grooming resumes at Alturas

As you may have heard, three of our four grooming machines broke down last week in some kind of cosmic coincidence. On Friday we headed to the boneyard and resurrected the oldest snowmobile in our fleet of groomers – the old yellew Skidoo, hoping that it could once again work its magic at Alturas Lake while we wait on repairs to our newer machines. Remarkably it started right up and was able to pull the roller around all trails on the highway side of the creek. Yellow and red flashing lights on the dashboard came and went and siren alarms bleeped loudly on occasion, but it did keep on truckin’, laying down some respectable but slightly rough corduroy. On Saturday, Davinius will attempt the trail from the bridge to the lake. No classic tracks right now but real progress nonetheless. At Park Creek, Adam, our first man of grooming, is still laying down some great trails with the last running snowmobile there.

EQUIPMENT BREAKDOWN

After a successful Ski Festival weekend we have experienced equipment problems at both ski areas resulting in a temporary grooming halt at the Alturas Lake Ski Area. Park Creek grooming will continue with a back-up snowmobile pulling the grooming equipment there. Both of our quad tracks and one backup snowmobile all experienced issues that will require new parts to arrive and some work to install. And all the new snow fall means that Alturas trails will be deep going for a bit. Thanks for your support at the Ski Fest events and for your patience while waiting on repairs.

Alturas Soup Kitchen Today! ALL SYSTEMS GO!!!

The annual Alturas Lake Soup Kitchen will take place today at its traditional site on top of the Over The Hill Trail from 11 to 3. After a successful Park Creek Event yesterday, the weather looks to be more cooperative today and the soup lineup is going to be steamingly delicious as always. Be there or be square,

Alturas trails dig out after last storm

After 6+ inches of new snow fell during the day on Monday, the 26th, our most excellent groomer Chadeus took to the trails at Alturas Lake for an afternoon grooming to knock down some of the accumulating snow. All trails on the highway side of the creek were rolled. Davinius is heading back out on Tuesday to roll the Lake and North Cabin trails. One might expect all trails to be a bit soft as we continue to roll through the deep drifts. Meanwhile… Adam, the first man of Park Creek grooming, was out early on Tuesday morning beating down accumulated snow on his trails in preparation for our ski festival events this coming weekend. His snow grooming efforts at Park Creek are getting rave reviews this year. Check it out!
On Saturday from 11 to 2, Park Creek’s annual chili feed and poker ski fun run event will take place. Prizes for the best poker hand collected along the trail will be awarded! At Alturas the next day, the legendary soup kitchen will once again grace the hilltop festival site from 11 to 3, featuring soup, bread and baked goods.

Trails emerge from week of storms…

WARNING! ARTIFICIA INTELIGENTIA HAS TAKEN CONTROL OF THIS REPORT…. Discover the exhilaration of traversing our impeccably groomed trails after a captivating snowstorm and meticulous morning grooming. Our dedicated team has poured their heart and soul into ensuring that every trail is in pristine condition. At Alturas Lake, all trails were expertly groomed on Thursday, with another grooming session scheduled for Friday. But the ultimate winter wonderland awaits you at Park Creek, where the trails have reached their pinnacle this year. Our team was hard at work on Friday morning, meticulously grooming every inch of those trails to perfection. Stay one step ahead by visiting the BCRD’s winter trail site for live coverage of our grooming endeavors. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring experience!

snow + grooming = let the good times roll

Oh, what could be better than some brand new snow and the most expert grooming you could ever dream of? Seriously, we’ve got it all up here in the majestic Sawtooths. Need a jaw-dropping Air Force Super duper fly over? Yep, we’ve got that too. Don’t you dare miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience. Trust us, you won’t regret it!

all trails groomed…

All trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake are groomed and rated very good to excellent with moments of ecstasy scattered about.

Trails nicely groomed but snow warm and mushy at times…

Adam, the first man of Park Creek, Davinius and Chadeus at Alturas Lake, and now, Nathan, God’s gift to the Stanley City Park, have all been busy over the last two weeks, laying down tracks and skate lanes for your skiing pleasure. We have received a good dose of rather wet, warm snow over those weeks, which has been helpful in terms of trail coverage, but alas, the trails can get as bit mushy at times with temperatures often above freezing.

All the latest

Adam, Park Creeks first man sent this report on Sunday…. I got Lupine, camas, shooting star and skyrocket opened. I was also able to get classic and skate lanes down on Lupine and Camas. A couple trees fell, and the drifting was pretty bad in the usual spots. I was able to get the trees cut out this afternoon. I’ll be heading back out tomorrow to get things leveled out better and maybe get sego and Larkspur rolled out.
Davinius at Alturas… I rolled all trails except Wapiti and cut out a bunch of downed trees. I’ll be heading back out on Monday and I hope to add classic tracks to the trails to the east of the creek… to the west of the creek, the snow is still not solid enough to pull the ginzu for classic tracks.

Grooming wind blown and snow bound trails…

At Alturas and Park Creek, grooming took place on Saturday, the 13th… Adam and Chadeus rescued trails from winters grip, rolling and compacting. More grooming scheduled for each area on Sunday, the 14th. Heavy snowfall and high winds means trails may be soft, rough and littered with pine needles and twigs. At Alturas some small downed trees were cut out on Saturday and more chain sawing is planned to remove larger trees on Sunday.

TRAILS ROLLED

On Wednesday at Park Creek, Adam, our excellent groomer and first man, got everything rolled out and was able to get some skate lanes and classic tracks on lupine, camas, and shooting star. He’s headed back out this morning to touch some things up and run the compaction drag around before this next dump. At Alturas on Wednesday, Chadeus Maximus also rolled all trails and more grooming is scheduled for Thursday. Expect somewhat soft snow conditions.

FIRST BIG WINTER STORM SLAMS SAWTOOTHS

On Tuesday, January 9th, National Static Electricity Day, we wish you could shuffle along our ski trails, catching a buzz and charging your batteries, but the weather outside is frightful, so we recommend you stay by your fire delightful.
The trails at Alturas and Park Creek were last groomed on Sunday and were looking really good… like really really good.

Merry Christmas from the Orthodox!

Original short and sweet report: On Sunday, January 7th, ski trail grooming is in progress at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. The sun is peaking through at around noon knocking the edge off a chill morning.

Robot suggested artificially intelligent version:
Are you ready for an extraordinary skiing adventure? Join us on Sunday, January 7th, as our dedicated team is hard at work grooming the ski trails at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. As the sun peeks through the clouds around noon, it’s the perfect time to hit the slopes and shake off the morning chill. Experience the thrill of carving your way down our freshly groomed trails, surrounded by breathtaking views and invigorating mountain air. Whether you’re a seasoned skier seeking an adrenaline rush or a beginner looking for an unforgettable winter getaway, our expertly maintained slopes offer the ideal conditions for an exhilarating skiing experience. Embrace the magic of the mountains this winter and create unforgettable memories with us!

You decide. Say No to Robots!

Alturas Trails Buffed And Beauteous

On January fifth, National Birds Day, all trails at Alturas Lake were groomed and looking very good. Don’t ask for the meaning of the song of a bird or the rising of the sun on a misty morning. There they are, and they are beautiful.

Sawtooth valley trails groomed

Another report generated by artificial intelligence for your enjoyment…
On December 27th all trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake were groomed. More grooming is scheduled for Friday the 29th at Alturas. The trails look good the weather is clear and sunny. Looking to spend a day outdoors? Come and explore the beautiful trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake. With the recent grooming, the trails are in excellent condition, ready for you to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure. Take in the breathtaking scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of nature. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and recharge your soul. Visit us today and discover the wonders of Park Creek and Alturas Lake trails.
More grooming scheduled for Friday afternoon at Alturas.

Alturas Trails groomed

 

The following report was generated by artificial intelligence…
“Hit the slopes this winter and experience the exhilarating feeling of skiing on freshly groomed trails at Alturas Lake! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find the perfect skate lane and classic tracks to glide on. From the bridge to the lake, you’ll be greeted with pristine conditions, while the skate lane from the highway to the bridge offers a thrilling adventure. Despite the amount of snow on the ground, the conditions are surprisingly good, providing an unforgettable skiing experience. Don’t miss out on this winter wonderland!”

WOW!, that sounds way more cheerful than anything Old Davinius could come up with. He is currently researching ways to turn down the positivity knob on his computer… in the meantime, the skiing is actually pretty good to just fine. Look out for rocks and stumps.

I

Extreme cold, minimal snow Christmas Eve

Trail conditions remain pretty much the same on Sawtooth Valley cross country ski trails. Extremely low snow levels (a few inches) and extremely low temperatures (minus 17 this morning) make it extremely hard to recommend the trails to anyone who is not a real extremist. On the positive side, it is a sunny, extremely beautiful day. Stumps, sage brush and rocks should be expected and appropriate care must be taken.

LOW SNOW

All trails at Alturas Lake have been compacted and some trails at Park Creek. However, snow levels are very low and trails that follow roads would be your best bet for a cross country tour. This is difficult at Park Creek because most trails are accessed across open sage brush areas. Skating is not recommended and trails with steep hills, like Wapiti and North Cabin at Alturas should be avoided! No appreciable snow is forecast for the next week or so. The Alturas Lake trail and the road to Alturas are navigable. Your prayers to El Niño or his mother would be appreciated.

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

On December 8th, the 2031st birthday of Horace, the Roman lyric poet, take heed of his advice…”Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.”
At Alturas Lake, all ski trails have now been compacted with two full days of grooming. Although skate skiing cannot be recommended, flat trackers with low expectations should be delighted. Rocks and sagebrush still exposed,,,,

On April 17th, National Cheese Ball Day, we are saddened to announce the total and almost complete end of grooming at the Sawtooth cross-country ski areas. Except for dragging one ginzu groomer into the woods and retrieving the ever popular picnic tables, it really is over. Thank you’s go out to the Forest Service, the City of Stanley, Blaine County Rec., the Sawtooth Ski Club, the Sawtooth Society, and of course to our wonderful cheesy grooming crew. Thanks for the memories

SKI TRAIL REPORT #1, DEC. 13, 2024

So far this season, there has been very little snow in the Sawtooth Valley. Sagebrush still towers above the 6 inches of snow covering open meadows.  However, years of pruning vegetation from the 10 foot wide meandering ski trails at Alturas and Park Creek has resulted in a a pretty good skiable surface. We have been laying down corduroy over the last couple of weeks which has been good for skating and flat tracking, however classic tracks are still in need of more snow to properly impress. Perhaps predicted snow over this weekend will make some classic grooves possible. At Park Creek, the forest service did a great job of clearing over 200 burnt fallen trees from the trails. We can’t thank them enough for their help in making the ski trails useable this season. So here we go again, get your kicks in, glide down memory lane and be thankful were all still here for another season of fun, giggles and rapturous awe.

Sawtooth trails still excellent

Generally gorgeous sunny weather and nicely groomed trails continue to make the Alturas and Park Creek ski areas a first class destination for cross country enthusiasts. Although mechanical difficulties have been a pain to deal with as our 2 quad tracks and a snowmobile all broke down at the same time, grooming has continued non stop with our back up gear with no real drop in quality. The Quad track is now back in service at Alturas where the oldest snowmobile in our fleet proved to be a quirky but dependable replacement. Warm weather with highs in the 50’s means that the trails have been going through a 3 bears’ soup cycle of too cold, just right, too hot. Temperatures are predicted to be falling later in week with more snow on Friday. For almost real time ski grooming reports for the Sawtooth trails you can check out the BCRD’s on line nordic pulse maps.

Grooming resumes at Alturas

As you may have heard, three of our four grooming machines broke down last week in some kind of cosmic coincidence. On Friday we headed to the boneyard and resurrected the oldest snowmobile in our fleet of groomers – the old yellew Skidoo, hoping that it could once again work its magic at Alturas Lake while we wait on repairs to our newer machines. Remarkably it started right up and was able to pull the roller around all trails on the highway side of the creek. Yellow and red flashing lights on the dashboard came and went and siren alarms bleeped loudly on occasion, but it did keep on truckin’, laying down some respectable but slightly rough corduroy. On Saturday, Davinius will attempt the trail from the bridge to the lake. No classic tracks right now but real progress nonetheless. At Park Creek, Adam, our first man of grooming, is still laying down some great trails with the last running snowmobile there.

EQUIPMENT BREAKDOWN

After a successful Ski Festival weekend we have experienced equipment problems at both ski areas resulting in a temporary grooming halt at the Alturas Lake Ski Area. Park Creek grooming will continue with a back-up snowmobile pulling the grooming equipment there. Both of our quad tracks and one backup snowmobile all experienced issues that will require new parts to arrive and some work to install. And all the new snow fall means that Alturas trails will be deep going for a bit. Thanks for your support at the Ski Fest events and for your patience while waiting on repairs.

Alturas Soup Kitchen Today! ALL SYSTEMS GO!!!

The annual Alturas Lake Soup Kitchen will take place today at its traditional site on top of the Over The Hill Trail from 11 to 3. After a successful Park Creek Event yesterday, the weather looks to be more cooperative today and the soup lineup is going to be steamingly delicious as always. Be there or be square,

Alturas trails dig out after last storm

After 6+ inches of new snow fell during the day on Monday, the 26th, our most excellent groomer Chadeus took to the trails at Alturas Lake for an afternoon grooming to knock down some of the accumulating snow. All trails on the highway side of the creek were rolled. Davinius is heading back out on Tuesday to roll the Lake and North Cabin trails. One might expect all trails to be a bit soft as we continue to roll through the deep drifts. Meanwhile… Adam, the first man of Park Creek grooming, was out early on Tuesday morning beating down accumulated snow on his trails in preparation for our ski festival events this coming weekend. His snow grooming efforts at Park Creek are getting rave reviews this year. Check it out!
On Saturday from 11 to 2, Park Creek’s annual chili feed and poker ski fun run event will take place. Prizes for the best poker hand collected along the trail will be awarded! At Alturas the next day, the legendary soup kitchen will once again grace the hilltop festival site from 11 to 3, featuring soup, bread and baked goods.

Trails emerge from week of storms…

WARNING! ARTIFICIA INTELIGENTIA HAS TAKEN CONTROL OF THIS REPORT…. Discover the exhilaration of traversing our impeccably groomed trails after a captivating snowstorm and meticulous morning grooming. Our dedicated team has poured their heart and soul into ensuring that every trail is in pristine condition. At Alturas Lake, all trails were expertly groomed on Thursday, with another grooming session scheduled for Friday. But the ultimate winter wonderland awaits you at Park Creek, where the trails have reached their pinnacle this year. Our team was hard at work on Friday morning, meticulously grooming every inch of those trails to perfection. Stay one step ahead by visiting the BCRD’s winter trail site for live coverage of our grooming endeavors. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring experience!

snow + grooming = let the good times roll

Oh, what could be better than some brand new snow and the most expert grooming you could ever dream of? Seriously, we’ve got it all up here in the majestic Sawtooths. Need a jaw-dropping Air Force Super duper fly over? Yep, we’ve got that too. Don’t you dare miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience. Trust us, you won’t regret it!

all trails groomed…

All trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake are groomed and rated very good to excellent with moments of ecstasy scattered about.

Trails nicely groomed but snow warm and mushy at times…

Adam, the first man of Park Creek, Davinius and Chadeus at Alturas Lake, and now, Nathan, God’s gift to the Stanley City Park, have all been busy over the last two weeks, laying down tracks and skate lanes for your skiing pleasure. We have received a good dose of rather wet, warm snow over those weeks, which has been helpful in terms of trail coverage, but alas, the trails can get as bit mushy at times with temperatures often above freezing.

All the latest

Adam, Park Creeks first man sent this report on Sunday…. I got Lupine, camas, shooting star and skyrocket opened. I was also able to get classic and skate lanes down on Lupine and Camas. A couple trees fell, and the drifting was pretty bad in the usual spots. I was able to get the trees cut out this afternoon. I’ll be heading back out tomorrow to get things leveled out better and maybe get sego and Larkspur rolled out.
Davinius at Alturas… I rolled all trails except Wapiti and cut out a bunch of downed trees. I’ll be heading back out on Monday and I hope to add classic tracks to the trails to the east of the creek… to the west of the creek, the snow is still not solid enough to pull the ginzu for classic tracks.

Grooming wind blown and snow bound trails…

At Alturas and Park Creek, grooming took place on Saturday, the 13th… Adam and Chadeus rescued trails from winters grip, rolling and compacting. More grooming scheduled for each area on Sunday, the 14th. Heavy snowfall and high winds means trails may be soft, rough and littered with pine needles and twigs. At Alturas some small downed trees were cut out on Saturday and more chain sawing is planned to remove larger trees on Sunday.

TRAILS ROLLED

On Wednesday at Park Creek, Adam, our excellent groomer and first man, got everything rolled out and was able to get some skate lanes and classic tracks on lupine, camas, and shooting star. He’s headed back out this morning to touch some things up and run the compaction drag around before this next dump. At Alturas on Wednesday, Chadeus Maximus also rolled all trails and more grooming is scheduled for Thursday. Expect somewhat soft snow conditions.

FIRST BIG WINTER STORM SLAMS SAWTOOTHS

On Tuesday, January 9th, National Static Electricity Day, we wish you could shuffle along our ski trails, catching a buzz and charging your batteries, but the weather outside is frightful, so we recommend you stay by your fire delightful.
The trails at Alturas and Park Creek were last groomed on Sunday and were looking really good… like really really good.

Merry Christmas from the Orthodox!

Original short and sweet report: On Sunday, January 7th, ski trail grooming is in progress at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. The sun is peaking through at around noon knocking the edge off a chill morning.

Robot suggested artificially intelligent version:
Are you ready for an extraordinary skiing adventure? Join us on Sunday, January 7th, as our dedicated team is hard at work grooming the ski trails at both Park Creek and Alturas Laker ski areas. As the sun peeks through the clouds around noon, it’s the perfect time to hit the slopes and shake off the morning chill. Experience the thrill of carving your way down our freshly groomed trails, surrounded by breathtaking views and invigorating mountain air. Whether you’re a seasoned skier seeking an adrenaline rush or a beginner looking for an unforgettable winter getaway, our expertly maintained slopes offer the ideal conditions for an exhilarating skiing experience. Embrace the magic of the mountains this winter and create unforgettable memories with us!

You decide. Say No to Robots!

Alturas Trails Buffed And Beauteous

On January fifth, National Birds Day, all trails at Alturas Lake were groomed and looking very good. Don’t ask for the meaning of the song of a bird or the rising of the sun on a misty morning. There they are, and they are beautiful.

Sawtooth valley trails groomed

Another report generated by artificial intelligence for your enjoyment…
On December 27th all trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake were groomed. More grooming is scheduled for Friday the 29th at Alturas. The trails look good the weather is clear and sunny. Looking to spend a day outdoors? Come and explore the beautiful trails at Park Creek and Alturas Lake. With the recent grooming, the trails are in excellent condition, ready for you to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure. Take in the breathtaking scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of nature. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and recharge your soul. Visit us today and discover the wonders of Park Creek and Alturas Lake trails.
More grooming scheduled for Friday afternoon at Alturas.

Alturas Trails groomed

 

The following report was generated by artificial intelligence…
“Hit the slopes this winter and experience the exhilarating feeling of skiing on freshly groomed trails at Alturas Lake! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find the perfect skate lane and classic tracks to glide on. From the bridge to the lake, you’ll be greeted with pristine conditions, while the skate lane from the highway to the bridge offers a thrilling adventure. Despite the amount of snow on the ground, the conditions are surprisingly good, providing an unforgettable skiing experience. Don’t miss out on this winter wonderland!”

WOW!, that sounds way more cheerful than anything Old Davinius could come up with. He is currently researching ways to turn down the positivity knob on his computer… in the meantime, the skiing is actually pretty good to just fine. Look out for rocks and stumps.

I

Extreme cold, minimal snow Christmas Eve

Trail conditions remain pretty much the same on Sawtooth Valley cross country ski trails. Extremely low snow levels (a few inches) and extremely low temperatures (minus 17 this morning) make it extremely hard to recommend the trails to anyone who is not a real extremist. On the positive side, it is a sunny, extremely beautiful day. Stumps, sage brush and rocks should be expected and appropriate care must be taken.

LOW SNOW

All trails at Alturas Lake have been compacted and some trails at Park Creek. However, snow levels are very low and trails that follow roads would be your best bet for a cross country tour. This is difficult at Park Creek because most trails are accessed across open sage brush areas. Skating is not recommended and trails with steep hills, like Wapiti and North Cabin at Alturas should be avoided! No appreciable snow is forecast for the next week or so. The Alturas Lake trail and the road to Alturas are navigable. Your prayers to El Niño or his mother would be appreciated.

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

CARPE DIEM AND SKI ‘EM!!!!

On December 8th, the 2031st birthday of Horace, the Roman lyric poet, take heed of his advice…”Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.”
At Alturas Lake, all ski trails have now been compacted with two full days of grooming. Although skate skiing cannot be recommended, flat trackers with low expectations should be delighted. Rocks and sagebrush still exposed,,,,

On April 17th, National Cheese Ball Day, we are saddened to announce the total and almost complete end of grooming at the Sawtooth cross-country ski areas. Except for dragging one ginzu groomer into the woods and retrieving the ever popular picnic tables, it really is over. Thank you’s go out to the Forest Service, the City of Stanley, Blaine County Rec., the Sawtooth Ski Club, the Sawtooth Society, and of course to our wonderful cheesy grooming crew. Thanks for the memories