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.

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.