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821 reports & 891 comments are available from this ski season
1 report(s) & 3 comment(s) recently
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: Spring in PLPP
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 22, 2023 at 16:27
Haha thanks dad! Wish you were there too!
Ray Yong replied to Ray Yong's post: Lake O'Hara - Lovely
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 22, 2023 at 10:38
I like early morning starts - depending on where I am, it can be three or four hours before I see anyone. Alone on the trails, especially after a fresh snowfall, is my happy place.
Chuck replied to Ray Yong's post: Lake O'Hara - Lovely
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 22, 2023 at 08:38
Glad you had such a lovely day Ray.
Just surprised you headed up so early!
Yes, it takes a while for the morning sun to turn the corner.
MaSid replied to yode's post: W to E Elk Pass traverse
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 22:26
So glad you made it, despite the direction. Hopefully you got the views. And a good visit at the table. Thank you.
JeffG replied to Helen Read's post: Potpourri of favourite circuit starting at Great Divide
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 18:58
So jealous!
JeffG replied to ErinP's post: Spring in PLPP
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 18:54
ErinP wins the award for the most Lookout ascents this season! Tough girl!
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Dog Day Afternoon
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 18:08
Thanks for the heads-up aqua toque!
She has the video all fixed now.
aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: Dog Day Afternoon
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 14:05
Hi JoLynn,
When I click the link youtube tells me:
"Video unavailable
This video is private
GO HOME"
JoLynn replied to SkierRoger's post: Dog Day Afternoon
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 09:48
Sled dogs video
Alaskan Husky sled dogs
JoLynn replied to SkierRoger's post: Dog Day Afternoon
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 21, 2023 at 09:06
There was so much barking when they stopped, we didn’t even try to talk to them! Got some great photos and videos though-it was a highlight of my day!!!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: More Elk Pass meadow touring
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 22:07
Did the owner get reunited with their skis? Somebody could also have taken them to the VIC or pocaterra hut.
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Dog Day Afternoon
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 21:07
Hey JoLynn,
I hope you met Rob, the owner of the Alaskan dog team... they are the best!
aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's in the Land of the Pharaohs!
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 19:00
Wow. The two of you are even more amazing than I imagined!
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's in the Land of the Pharaohs!
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 18:38
aqua toque - We take turns. Sometimes parallel; sometimes tele.
aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's in the Land of the Pharaohs!
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 18:22
Hi Little B's. Thanks for the informative report and great photos!
Just on question--there's 2 of you right? So who does all the talking?
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's in the Land of the Pharaohs!
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 17:14
More photos!
aqua toque replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA - Squeezed in a Final Treat
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 11:31
Another mouth-watering report. Thanks!
Thinking ahead to next season... would you happen to know what brand and style of mustard they serve at the lodge?
Diana Piggott replied to MaSid's post: More Elk Pass meadow touring
Delivered: Monday Mar 20, 2023 at 08:50
What happened to those skis? Someone is asking about them this morning, on the Facebook page!
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: More Elk Pass meadow touring
Delivered: Sunday Mar 19, 2023 at 19:26
Nice playing leapfrog with you. Great spring picnic weather at the top! Heading home on our waxables, we encountered some sudden accelerations in refrozen spots, but very little grabbiness. VR 45 worked "well enough" through to the finish.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: GIBBON PASS (from REDEARTH CREEK) - Excellent Tour, but I'll be back for Turns
Delivered: Saturday Mar 18, 2023 at 22:27
Enticing trip report. Must have been a long day breaking trail to Gibbon Pass. Great snow up there.
MaSid replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Mar 18, 2023 at 14:04
Well damn! The cats out of the bag now. I’ve avoided drawing a line on a map till now (other than in the snow itself) so as to preserve the sense of exploration, all the positive benefits that come from that (including learning how to navigate beyond the grooming, the surprise of discovering the pure beauty of the area and the incredible destinations, feeling like you achieved something, gaining the endurance necessary for trail breaking, and learning and understanding the terrain, etc.), as well as to ensure that those with an adequately developed skill set are the main users (with self reliance being the key, including decision making skills to not get into trouble and how to get yourself out of it if you do or when to give up and turn around). There is a high probability of not seeing anyone at all while on these routes or not having a broken trail to follow. I didn’t see anybody all day Thursday until back at the blueberry junction, which is the case 90% of the time. Following a line on a map because of instagram worthy photos is a recipe for potential issues, the least of which will be lots of random off-route trails leading to further problems. It’s not such a problem for the west elk meadow or lower blueberry meadows. But the traverse from east to west elk pass is more problematic. It is possible to get into dangerous terrain (avalanche risk, tree wells, etc.) if off route unless you know how to recognize and avoid it, or just wear yourself out enough in bad snow (such as this year) that further problems ensue. It’s a long crawl back to the grooming. Prior to a “map” with lines, it was naturally self limiting. So, now it’s likely time for a slightly more accurate map (Steve still gets an A in cartography) with appropriate warnings or difficulty ratings, plus all the additional routes and options not included, plus some that I haven’t finished fully exploring yet. This will not include GPS data as it is easy (and more important) to just read the landscape, if you keep your head up. Not sure when such a thing would be complete (probably not this season), but I would appreciate if people could leave it in my hands until then. Thanks. MaSid
SkierRoger replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Mar 18, 2023 at 12:38
Hey Steve
What a fantastic piece of information! Makes me want to drop everything and go for an adventure.
I’m guessing the answer to aqua toque‘s question is mmNo.
aqua toque replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Mar 18, 2023 at 11:58
Would the traihead for any of these routes be within a 15 min drive of a nice town or hamlet?
MaSid replied to ulrikeski's post: Elk Lakes on a special day
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 22:44
Mmmmm……chocolate sandwiches! I prefer that type without crust. Thanks for adding more bodies to the west elk track, twice! Good to go for all skis now.
MaSid replied to SteveR's post: The Skier Martin Special- West Elk to East Elk
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 22:17
Fantastic Steve! A good alternative to facilitate a lighter gear day. Likewise with the condiment choice. Thanks for helping compact the track as well as creating other options. I’m guessing that the west elk party was Ulrike and crew. Looking forward to her ski/condiment report.
SteveR replied to SteveR's post: The Skier Martin Special- West Elk to East Elk
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 21:34
Addendum:
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East Elk to West Elk Pass traverse
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 21:01
Thanks Henry. The meadows are calling though. No need to do the full traverse to get the goods. Check them out.
Gord F replied to Carole's post: Successful PLPP Circuit
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 18:34
Hi Carole, nice to see you too. We skied half of what you did and were still tuckered. I guess we've got some conditioning to do ;-)
Carole replied to RainerA's post: Winter triathlon!
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 17:38
Fun post; thanks for sharing your special day!
HenryL replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI - A Wonderful Spring Skiing Destination
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 11:07
What a day you had Chuck!
Magnificent.
I love the photos as usual.
HenryL replied to MaSid's post: East Elk to West Elk Pass traverse
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 11:06
MaSid, I enjoyed your report of what was a glorious trip in super weather.
Wonderful photo towards great divide.
MaSid replied to RainerA's post: Winter triathlon!
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 08:02
Very nice way to round out a sunny ski day, and the opportunity for Smoked trout on the next ski trip. Awesome!
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI - A Wonderful Spring Skiing Destination
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 07:52
Hi Diana,
The good news is that the ski out (to the Fish Creek parking lot) is now groomed and open to all skiers, but I would say that the trail up to Boulder Pass from the resort is too hard packed and narrow for an enjoyable descent on narrow track skis. That being said, there were two gals yesterday who went all the way to Deception Pass on just waxable track skis, and they handled it admirably!
RainerA replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY - Where is our one and only Tracksetter?
Delivered: Friday Mar 17, 2023 at 07:30
Visitor experience? Track skiing may not be a priority for Parks. But bring your hotdogs and enjoy the bonfires!
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI - A Wonderful Spring Skiing Destination
Delivered: Thursday Mar 16, 2023 at 22:45
That looks wonderful!
Does the trail to Boulder Pass seem reasonable for skinny skis?
Thank you,
Diana
Germsy replied to KeithB's post: Spring Skiing in PLPP
Delivered: Thursday Mar 16, 2023 at 22:41
It was lovely to meet Keith and Ray at the trailhead today! We had a fantastic ski to Blueberry Hill! Snow was a bit slower than I like but conditions were perfect otherwise.
- Katherine and Nicola -
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East Elk to West Elk Pass traverse
Delivered: Thursday Mar 16, 2023 at 22:34
Probably crusty in the morning on the south facing descent. Use west elk pass and avoid some of it, up and down. There was at least some travel under the hydroline today, but not a lot. It’s a bit of a boiler coming back up the hill in the afternoon sun this time of year. Almost time for sun hats if no wind. Go early. It was draining me this aft in the initial flats of west elk, so was happy for the north winds in the larger meadow.
ulrikeski replied to MaSid's post: East Elk to West Elk Pass traverse
Delivered: Thursday Mar 16, 2023 at 22:11
Wow, what an awesome trip report and photos! Will be skiing to Elk Lakes tomorrow with LT gear, so hoping for still dry snow and not too much sun crust.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: BANFF GROOMING REPORT
Delivered: Thursday Mar 16, 2023 at 17:52
Thank you for investigating, Chuck.
That is very disappointing, especially given how long it has been since most trails were groomed at all. I can't help feeling that there is more to this story :-(
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Freshly Trackset
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 15, 2023 at 21:11
That looks absolutely wonderful!
Did you ever find out what happened to the Banff groomer??
Dave P replied to Dave P's post: Wapta traverse
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 15, 2023 at 17:17
I've added a photo on my original post of the moraine to Peyto. It was skintrack on the lower half and bootpack over loose rock and light snow at the top. The Sherbrooke lake trail was hard pack snow verging on icy.
The crevasses were easy to navigate on the high col with solid snow bridges. I may not have been so confident in a white out.
ulrikeski replied to Dave P's post: Wapta traverse
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 15, 2023 at 17:13
Good info how snow conditions are up there. Was there some boot packing involved on the moraine to get on to Peyto Glacier? Where there open crevasses up Balfour High Col? And was the Sherbrooke trail icy coming out?
Dave P replied to Dave P's post: Wapta traverse
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 15, 2023 at 17:09
The guy in front of me is roped to 2 others. He is the last in the group so you can't see the rope. We unroped for all the descents. To access Peyto you must follow the moraine (climbers right) steep but not too difficult. After that it is straight forward. The only place crevasses seemed concerning was the pass between Balfour and Scott Duncan
Gord F replied to Dave P's post: Wapta traverse
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 15, 2023 at 15:59
Great photos and a good time of year to get the traverse done. I heard reports that it's been quite difficult to access the glacier from the Peyto route this year. Did you experience any difficulty? It also appears you didn't feel the need to rope up while on the glacier? Just curious about how you felt about crevasse bridging.
Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY - Where is our one and only Tracksetter?
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 21:49
I was wondering the same thing Chuck: if Don was OK, but perhaps it has to do with the Firesmart burning they are doing?
Mike W replied to Mike W's post: Tour de WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 17:07
I didn't have any snow sticking to my skins. The problem was the film of water that forms between the gliding surface of the skis and the smooth track when the snow is wet. It creates what's commonly called a suction or vacuum effect that slows you down. Similar to trying to separate 2 plates of wet glass. The same thing happens with downhill skis.
It can be reduced by using high-fluoro wax that repels the water (not environmentally friendly), or applying an aggressive structure to the ski base (not practical unless you have a pair of skis just for those conditions). Skiing over the rough surface of the walking trail has the same effect as an aggressive base structure. Either one breaks up the suction/vacuum between the 2 surfaces. Glop Stopper on the glide surface of the skis might also work if you leave the surface rough instead of smoothing it out.
Snow sticking to the skins is a different problem, at its worst when skiing during a wet snowfall. The grip zone of fishscale and waxable skis have the same problem. Sometimes the entire ski surface if it hasn't been properly glide waxed.
Glop Stopper and similar products applied to the skins will help in those conditions. Unfortunately none of them work well if the skins are already wet. It's best to treat them ahead of time. Even if snow sticking to the skin isn't an issue, these products improve skin glide during the glide phase of your stride. The best product I've tried so far is Vauhti Skin Ski Care Blue (link below), available at Norseman. But for my Alpine Touring skins I use Nikwax Ski Skin Proof (link below), available at Abom Ski & Board. It's a lot cheaper and I'm not concerned about getting maximum glide.
Vauhti Skin Ski Care Blue
Nikwax Ski Skin Proof
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE and LOWER TELEMARK - Dusting of snow on older trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 16:59
Yes JoLynn, the sled dogs are basically always there.
MaSid replied to Mike W's post: Tour de WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 15:31
Somebody posted a comment a week or so ago about a specific product for waterproofing skinny skin skis. If they are the same basic nylon hair construction as AT skins, should work fine.
aqua toque replied to Mike W's post: Tour de WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 12:57
JoLynn replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE and LOWER TELEMARK - Dusting of snow on older trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 10:01
I'm hoping we can get out to the Lake Louise area next week and the conditions are still good! I would love to see those sled dogs -do you often see them on Great Divide?
SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: WBC: A quick refresh of snow
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 09:30
It’s best to be prepared.
Going out to buy ham…
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC: A quick refresh of snow
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 06:29
It's hard to tell from that b&w image...and I don't want to cause alarm...but those streaks could in fact be millions of tiny Mustard Men!
Ray Yong replied to Ray Yong's post: Mt Shark - All trails but Watridge
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 14, 2023 at 01:23
Thanks Helen - Ya, I have to admit that a couple of those hills on Ursa Major were a bit of a rude shock.
Good for you for doing Telephone. And surviving! I haven't done it for a while, and seem to keep finding excuses to go elsewhere...
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Met MIKE W for a fleeting moment as we both headed up Telephone Loop CCW
Delivered: Monday Mar 13, 2023 at 19:31
Helen, I always find telephone easiest/safest immediately following a good cold snowfall over top of a decent base, giving lots of control and smooth descents while still relatively easy trail breaking (if nobody ahead of you).
Helen Read replied to Ray Yong's post: Mt Shark - All trails but Watridge
Delivered: Monday Mar 13, 2023 at 18:44
Ray, you are brave to even tackle Ursa Major. I tend to ignore that one and do all the others. Got a chuckle about your being "just terrified". I confess to sharing that emotion today on Telephone Loop (was really glad I had hubby's InReach in my pack going down some of those hills!)
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: Met MIKE W for a fleeting moment as we both headed up Telephone Loop CCW
Delivered: Monday Mar 13, 2023 at 18:37
Jolynn and I were Moose Looping it today. So sorry to have missed both Helen, Mike and Steve R. Next time I hope.
Some spotted a moose or two, not us though.
Here are a few more pictures of WBC
SteveR replied to Helen Read's post: Met MIKE W for a fleeting moment as we both headed up Telephone Loop CCW
Delivered: Monday Mar 13, 2023 at 16:41
Skied and talked with Mike for a while, as well as two other Skier Bob/Roger reporters ,but missed you! We must have started at about the same time.
Kinga replied to Deb & Rory's post: Beautiful day at WBC
Delivered: Sunday Mar 12, 2023 at 22:14
Indeed, very lovely and not that busy, a perfect day! I skied telephone loop and moose loop, both ccw, for about 21k. Tely was in great shape, I was so happy it was tracked this morning (thank you). Lots of soft snow for swiftly and confidently maneuvering on the downhills. Well, we know why they call it moose loop, but why do they call it telephone loop?
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: Aqua Toque’s Big Blue Beanie (Via elbow river gate)
Delivered: Sunday Mar 12, 2023 at 20:20
Thanks for the good company, the help with trail-breaking and the deep thoughts.
HenryL replied to ulrikeski's post: Blueberry/Elk Pass funtastic
Delivered: Sunday Mar 12, 2023 at 10:42
Fantastic action photo of the turn being cranked on straight boards.
The entire corps of silver haired contributors on this site are behaving like 18 year olds what with the athletic tele turns and record breaking trail times, orgasmic bird sightings, and enjoying pizza and beer. Bravo!
SteveR replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SKIING BIRD WATCHERS TAKE NOTE- The Thursday Cascade Trip
Delivered: Sunday Mar 12, 2023 at 09:46
On our week at Campbell Icefield recently, there were large flocks of crossbills hanging around near treeline feasting on spruce cones. I also noted some with a yellow coloration, and thought they were grosbeaks until a birder in our group ID'd them. Despite them being quite unconcerned about our presence, I failed in getting a decent picture.
Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Blueberry/Elk Pass funtastic
Delivered: Sunday Mar 12, 2023 at 08:59
Great photo of Gary telemarking, Ulrike.
Or was it the legendary Buck Millions?
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SKIING BIRD WATCHERS TAKE NOTE- The Thursday Cascade Trip
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 20:43
Skier Roger and Pizza Eating Skier Chuck,
I think you guys might be right about the birds that I sighted being White winged Crossbills rather than Pine Grosbeaks. The males look similar. There is not a lot of genetic difference in term of looks. Thanks for your bird knowledge or shall I say bird brain knowledge. It is hard to identify these critters when one lacks the knowledge about these dissidents of the dinosaurs.
This website shows the Crossbills:
https://ebird.org/species/whwcro
The male in the website photos seems pretty much bang on from my memory. The female photo however still lacks the intense deep gold color but the photo does not show the chest area. I was really impressed with the golden female. She had a golden luster.
I am not sure why they are called White Wing Crossbills because they only have that strip of white on the wings as shown in the above website picture.
I also saw some birds that had no colors. Perhaps these were immature Crossbills.
The following website says the females breed at any time of the year as long as there is enough food. You can hear what they sound like on this website: https://ebird.org/species/whwcro
Better yet, ski to Stoney Warden Cabin and listen to them on a nice day. Bring some pizza. MMMM pizza. Coco Brooks makes a pretty good Spinach Grande pizza.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: REDEARTH CREEK to SHADOW LAKE RED CHAIRS - Fast, but not so fast!
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 20:07
Howdy Chuck,
If you spent less time eating pizza you probably could have blown into Haiduk Lake in 60 minutes or less judging by your GPS speed. The trail was fat ski tracked to Haiduk before last Monday. Coming out of Haiduk is fast to Shadow Lake Lodge.
An innovative way to get more time to ski would be to make a pizza beer smoothie well blended and put it into a water bottle with a drinking tube so you get the food calories you need while skiing. This will enable your numbers on the GPS to get ratcheted up higher. I know quality beer on pizza is tasty.
The first time I ever ate pizza was in high school. I put some beer on top as I figured it would improve the taste. Everyone at the table freaked out until they tried it. Then it became a culinary addition. That was a classic moment in life.
Different craft beers give a different taste on pizza. Go lightly on the beer for an initial taste. Don't forget to add it to your dough batter as well. It will give good calories for skiing long days and help pump up those GPS numbers.
Carole replied to Chuck's post: REDEARTH CREEK to SHADOW LAKE RED CHAIRS - Fast, but not so fast!
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 18:13
Glorious day up to the Red Chairs past Shadow Lake Lodge and another fun conversation with Chuck.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: REDEARTH CREEK to SHADOW LAKE RED CHAIRS - Fast, but not so fast!
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 17:19
Fast skiing, Chuck. Considering time well spent chatting in the lodge and lounging in the red chair w. beer and pizza. Well done!
Chuck replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SKIING BIRD WATCHERS TAKE NOTE- The Thursday Cascade Trip
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 17:07
Most likely they are Red Crossbills. They are in abundance now. Males are Red. Females are Yellow.
SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: Sour Gas Moose (WBC)
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 16:56
Great video Aqua.
Good guitar pickin’ too!
SkierRoger replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SKIING BIRD WATCHERS TAKE NOTE- The Thursday Cascade Trip
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 16:51
Good post Mr Democracy.
I had an interesting chat with Todd this week at PLPP. He said he saw a whole group of crossbills near the Pocaterra hut on Wednesday. Just fascinating.
I wish I knew more about that stuff…
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: Sour Gas Moose (WBC)
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 16:21
MUSTARD MEN ON MOOSE!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Sour Gas Moose (WBC)
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 13:56
Likewise! And oddly enough, you were the first person we saw all day. FYI, in the photo above, moose meadow is just left of centre.
Arie replied to ErinP's post: White out but great snow at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Mar 11, 2023 at 10:39
Sounds like there was a wide variety of weather conditions yesterday. I started at 7:15 am and finished at 10:45. It was -23C at both start and finish. Brrr. Very good skiing on Telephone Loop on green wax.
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: White out but great snow at WBC
Delivered: Friday Mar 10, 2023 at 21:32
Beautiful puppy is really enjoying the new snow as well!
SteveR replied to ErinP's post: White out but great snow at WBC
Delivered: Friday Mar 10, 2023 at 20:41
At 17:00 it was minus 12 and snowing at about .5 cm per hour, with about 3 cm accumulation, making for smooth and sedate skiing on the WBC core trails.
ErinP replied to MaSid's post: Sour Gas Moose (WBC)
Delivered: Friday Mar 10, 2023 at 20:21
It was nice running into you today…thanks for saying hi at the end of your ski!
MaSid replied to NotDeadYet's post: Sunshine Meadows
Delivered: Friday Mar 10, 2023 at 08:19
Alive and well apparently! Been a while since I have been in there. So thanks for the memories and the reminder of how good it is on a sunny perfect day.
gh replied to Chuck's post: PARADISE VALLEY - Following the Wolverine
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 21:28
It was good to meet you as well Chuck. It was a really nice day out there. Carole took some fine pictures of the Wolverine tracks too.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: PARADISE VALLEY - Following the Wolverine
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 20:59
Oops, forgot to mention meeting Carole and Jamie, along with their impressive counterpart... the infamous GH.
Looking forward to our next chat!
Helen Read replied to Buck Millions's post: Smooth Striding on Redearth
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 20:34
Agree with your assessment Ulrike:
his skis must be named REDSTREAK!
ulrikeski replied to Buck Millions's post: Smooth Striding on Redearth
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 19:30
Buck Million: just over 2 hrs. to the red chairs and return - you definitely set a new record there! Awesome!
TSellers replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TO BALL PASS CAMPGROUND
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 13:10
Yes, it can be difficult to judge which pollutants give the moon a 'harvest' color.
- SO2 absorbs some blue and violet wavelengths of light, which can make objects appear more yellow or orange in color. (The name 'Blue Moon' supposedly came into existence after the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa. The atmosphere was filled with dust particles which gave a bluish color to the Moon.)
- NO2 can absorb some blue and green wavelengths of light, which can make objects appear more red or brown in color.
- smoke particles can scatter and absorb blue and green wavelengths of light, leaving more of the longer red and orange wavelengths to reach the observer's eye.
But those are general seat of the pants guidelines. To complicate it further, it would seem both SO2 and fire smoke could make the moon appear the same. Wikipedia says this about a 'Blue Moon', "if volcanic eruptions or fires release particles in the atmosphere of just the right size to preferentially scatter red light."
Sources: ChatGPT and Wikipedia.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: PARADISE VALLEY via FAIRVIEW - Don't forget your sun cream!
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 13:09
Perfect! Thanks Chuck. Now you can claim your seat as an official field maintenance team member. Any complaints, they can contact Snowfaland head office.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: PARADISE VALLEY via FAIRVIEW - Don't forget your sun cream!
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 09:27
Consider it done!
Actually, I noticed the fallen block lying on the ground as we left, so did pop it back into place.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: PARADISE VALLEY via FAIRVIEW - Don't forget your sun cream!
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 08:35
The Snowfaland maintenance fleet is currently detained and humbly requests that somebody pop that one block back into place (it’s an odd shape and isn’t very cooperative and why it’s lying on the ground behind the snowfa). Jam it in there good so it sinters well for a more permanent fit. The bonus is Snowfaland field maintenance assistants get automatic reserve status.
Helen Read replied to Ray Yong's post: Emerald Lake - Alluvial Fan
Delivered: Thursday Mar 09, 2023 at 08:25
Denise, who runs the store said that they usually groom all the trails there on a Friday. We lucked out last Friday; by the time we'd emerged from the Lodge's excellent breakfast, they had groomed the Fan and by the time we'd skied Tally Ho to the old ski hill, they were starting on Kicking Horse. Glad to read so many reports of people enjoying this unique, special place. Take advantage of being able to drive down the road to the lake! Joe and Bruce from Field, and their small team of helpers deserve huge thanks for grooming those trails for the past several years. We all know how many fallen trees the Yoho Blow can create! Parks is doing a terrific job!
Diana Piggott replied to gh's post: WBC network except Telephone
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 22:27
I did ski the south loop today, and it has been a while since it was groomed (Elbow/Iron Springs). I would say conditions are very good there, and pretty good to Snagmore, but hard packed from there to the Fullerton trailhead, with some ice on the last downhill.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TO BALL PASS CAMPGROUND
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 20:22
Howdy T,
Windy.com is showing an unusual amount of SO2 over western Canada and the northern hemisphere. For some reason a lot more is being released by industry judging by the windy.com air flow map. Hence the funny moon light color out on my ski trip.
The SO2 is not likely coming from forest fire burning. Industry is likely where the majority is coming from.
There is significant NO2 being produced by Calgary as of Wednesday evening which is pushing into the mountains. The NO2 is from burning of hydrocarbons, particularly in vehicles.
The particulate level is rated 1.3 times above WHO safe limits as per the air quality website
https://www.iqair.com/ca/canada/alberta/calgary
I find the particulate in Calgary really irritates my lungs skiing city trails. If I see a pollution cloud or smog over Calgary, I won't ski as I know it is smarter to keep the heart rate down during such events.
The pollution forecast calls for an improvement on Thursday March 9 as the winds shift from the east to south east which should make for a little better air quality skiing in the mountains. Where to ski?
Frances Dances replied to gh's post: WBC network except Telephone
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 20:07
The reason why the Telephone Loop is not any good is because they allow everybody and their cat on it. I appreciate the democracy of this but they sure wrecked one of the premier trails in Alberta for the skiers.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to TURTLE TOM'S CABIN - No Normal Trapper's Cabin!
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 19:44
Howdy Chuck,
I am glad you gently rebroke my old ski trail up to the old trappers cabin. That will make it faster for the next person to ski.
I hope the next trip up that way will have you skiing into Sundance Warden Cabin. That would be a good excuse to reward yourself with a nice tasty craft brewski after a moderate difficulty skiing work out like that.
I think you may enjoy Ball Pass campground and beyond now for a future metal edge ski. The ski trail and scenery awaits your presence and photo captions via the Haiduk Creek delta into Shadow Lake.
Ski ya later
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Bill Richardson's post: Red Earth Rumble
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 12:02
Howdy Bill,
Sorry to hear you folks did not have a good day of skiing yesterday. The 2 skiers I met on Monday were greatly enjoying the skiing and it was my best day skiing Redearth this year.
On Monday, there was not much for tracksets going up the hills. This is normal on the steeper hills but some of the less steep hills could have used them.
Where the trail is overgrown, eroded and narrow as a result, there were no tracksets. There is a serious problem with Parks Canada not maintaining ski trails which is affecting the quality of skiing.
On my ski down at night, on one or two of the big hills, I noticed some typical small snowmobile bumps or washboards. They made the skiing slightly more challenging at high speeds even with the headlamp on but I thought they were not much worse than normal. I did have to adjust my speed a little on part of one of the hills as a result of the bumps.
I always use metal edge skis. Metal edges have an advantage for better control on the hills and even in tracks that get "washed out".
The Shadow Lake and Sundance Lodge operators do not groom the trails like Parks Canada usually does. The none trackset portion of these trails are usually snowmobile packed only by the Lodge operators. If the snow sinters up or hardens, the snowmobile tracks will be somewhat to extremely rough depending on various factors. On Monday the snow was not well sintered and the snow was generally cold winter like and fairly soft which made the small snowmobile ruts that existed, not very noticeable to me on metal edge skis.
If the lodge operators put some sort of grooming device on the back of their hauling sleds that they pull, they could greatly reduce the ruts they make which would be nice. Either that, or they could groomer the snowmobile tracks to eliminate the ruts for the most part which would make skiers happier. This would require another snowmobile pass with a groomer attachment and they probably do not want to spend the time or money doing that, even though it was done in the good 'ol ski days some years back.
TSellers replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TO BALL PASS CAMPGROUND
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 08, 2023 at 11:32
A combination of upslope flow and inversions affecting the Redearth and Shadow Lake areas this week is most likely the culprit for the air quality that you experienced due to the burning that is ongoing at Protection Mountain. While sulfur-containing materials can produce SO2 when burned, it is not typically a major component of fire smoke.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to TURTLE TOM'S CABIN - No Normal Trapper's Cabin!
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 07, 2023 at 21:04
Great report, Chuck. Nice to see what is up the valley beyond Sundance Lodge, and some interesting history. Beautiful sunshine too (which I didn't have there last Friday)
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TO BALL PASS CAMPGROUND
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 07, 2023 at 17:41
After looking at Windy.com to investigate why the air was significantly polluted while skiing yesterday, Windy.com showed that the atmosphere over western Canada is covered in SO2 or sulphur dioxide which reduces sunlight back into space and cools the temperatures.
SO2 in our skies comes from three primary sources, Volcanoes, industrial pollution and geoengineering.
For an interesting Nature of Things program on geoengineering see:
https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/episodes/apocalypse-plan-b
SO2 certainly affects the quality of air we breathe into our skiing lungs particularly while chugging up hills. The air quality has certainly been decreasing in the last several years due to pollution and the future does not look good for for skiers lungs.
See windy.com punch in SO2 on the right menu to see what is going on with world pollution. Check it often as conditions change.
Mary-Ann replied to NotDeadYet's post: Confederation Park in Calgary
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 07, 2023 at 09:12
Enjoyable ski if a bit cool. I would add the conditions were absolutely excellent. Thank you groomers!
MaSid replied to aqua toque's post: TC2T Recon -- Elbow River
Delivered: Tuesday Mar 07, 2023 at 00:35
Never en route, near the end, with a view, just before the turns.
aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: TC2T Recon -- Elbow River
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 21:26
OK, but we're not stopping to build snowfas!
timbester telusdotnet
MaSid replied to aqua toque's post: TC2T Recon -- Elbow River
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 18:17
That’s and easy one AT: yes! I’m in, even have a different colour hat and everything.
SteveR replied to SteveR's post: Calling Long Distance!
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 17:33
Aqua- what happens in the backcountry, stays in the backcountry...
Sky.high replied to ErinP's post: WBC fab-u-lous
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 16:31
Totally, a beautiful day! Jip and I covered the same trails plus Moose, very few folks out there to enjoy great tracks and stunning scenery under blue skies
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Grooming Equipment for the Upper Lake Louise Ski Trails is Up and Running!
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 14:25
Hello Cathryn.
I made a quick search and found the Upper Lake Louise trails were last groomed on March 29th last season.
aqua toque replied to SteveR's post: Calling Long Distance!
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 13:05
So if your skis have bikini skins were you in your Speedo?
crowley replied to SkierRoger's post: Grooming Equipment for the Upper Lake Louise Ski Trails is Up and Running!
Delivered: Monday Mar 06, 2023 at 11:59
Hello all,
Do we know, approximately, when the last week of grooming typically is for Lake Louise?
Thanks,
Cathryn
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: EMERALD LAKE'S ALLUVIAL FAN - The only thing better than doing it Twice, is doing it Thrice!
Delivered: Sunday Mar 05, 2023 at 19:59
Well, not as much fun as doing the Alluvial Fan thrice... but if you want an extension, check out Sara M's trip report:
https://skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski&id=1940&rownum=1721
Frances Dances replied to Chuck's post: EMERALD LAKE'S ALLUVIAL FAN - The only thing better than doing it Twice, is doing it Thrice!
Delivered: Sunday Mar 05, 2023 at 18:43
Chuck, do you know what the trail from Field to Emerald Lake is like?
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ulrikeski's post: No sun at Sundance, but nice snow
Delivered: Saturday Mar 04, 2023 at 23:54
Howdy Ulrikeski,
Thankfully skiers do not have to ski up Fatigue Pass to Sundance Warden Cabin or Halfway Lodge. That would be killer! I have backpacked Fatigue Pass several times which was not bad but on skis it would be deadly.
The trail to Sundance Warden cabin turns left at the Fatigue Pass Junction which is roughly 2 km up valley from Sundance Lodge. There is a sign at the junction which is not too far from the Brewster Creek campsite which is on the Fatigue Pass trail. Both trails were recently snowshoe packed making for good skiing travel. The poles will sink a couple of feet or so in a few locations particularly in open areas.
The Brewster Creek Trail beyond Sundance Lodge is a fun technical trail to ski which I would rate as a mid-high to high intermediate level ski trail. As long as a skier is competent enough to control their skiing speed in any type of terrain they should be able to ski this trail with a smile on their face.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Louise and the race ready snowfa
Delivered: Saturday Mar 04, 2023 at 18:41
Finished down tramline and did the bow river loop CCW. River loop was mostly shallow walked in tracks, except the campground loops. Enjoyable sun on the north side on return to the car.
Sky.high replied to SkierRoger's post: Bowness Park Trails
Delivered: Saturday Mar 04, 2023 at 16:32
Jip and I regularly walk the Bow River pathway loop between Stony bridge and Silver Spring Island with our loaded backpacks (training for summer backpacking), we did today and agree the tracks looked great but no skiers or even a sign of one !
ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: No sun at Sundance, but nice snow
Delivered: Saturday Mar 04, 2023 at 12:02
Hi Mr. Democracy, thanks for the inspiring beta about the great scenery beyond. I did see the narrow trail filled in with snow at the edge of the creek. Agree, snow base is not consolidated enough yet. You need quite some determination and strength to work your way up valley. You might run out of steam before reaching fatigue pass.
Alf Skrastins replied to gh's post: WBC Telephone was freshly groomed
Delivered: Saturday Mar 04, 2023 at 10:18
Just to be clear... all of Iron Creek is a multi-user trail, South Elbow is a multi-user trail from Fullerton Parking Lot to the Iron Springs junction and all of Telephone Loop is a multi-user trail.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ulrikeski's post: No sun at Sundance, but nice snow
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 23:25
Howdy Ulrikeski,
Actually there is a well broken trail from Sundance Lodge to within about 1 kilometer of the beautiful scenic location of Sundance Warden Cabin where only a few skiers, like Sara M, are mentally and physically tough enough to get to in a single day. There is just likely a couple of centimeters of snow on the trail. I can certainly see the well defined trail in your photo along the creek. On Monday afternoon/evening I had skied up to within about 1 km of the Sundance Warden Cabin.
I am surprised people that stay at Sundance Lodge do not ski to Sundance Warden Cabin as it is only about a 10 km ski one way. They just don't know what they are missing I guess. The Brewster Valley only gets nicer the further one travels up it and it is pretty spectacular by the Half Way Lodge beyond the Sundance Warden Cabin.
It would be a great treat to to stay at Sundance Lodge for $259/night and then Ski about 14 km to Halfway Lodge for a day in the spring when there is a good firm snow base to ski on.
Diana Piggott replied to CMS's post: Ribbon Creek trails in great shape
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 22:00
I also skied the Coal Mine trail this morning, and found it in superb shape with recent grooming. The only thing missing was a few cm of fresh powder for the descent :-)
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: With good friends to dine with at Emerald Lake Lodge: starting with a gargantuan breakfast
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 20:30
Sounds like a fantastic day, Helen.
I remember chatting with Denise who runs that quaint little shop at the edge of Emerald Lake. She mentioned that’s where you buy your birds.
I attached the picture you emailed me.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: FAIRVIEW - Trackset so nicely, that we had to do it Twice!
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 15:46
Good timing Chuck. Was contemplating a visit there tomorrow given their equipment is up and running again. Now I will bring the right gear for appropriate loppet cheering construction.
Clive Cordery replied to SkierRoger's post: Grooming Equipment for the Upper Lake Louise Ski Trails is Up and Running!
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 09:27
We skied a quick loop on MLR - Fairview - Tramline yesterday. Fairview was in pretty rough shape we were just following a snowmobile track.
Dj replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: LIKELY 2 DEAD IN AVALANCHE
Delivered: Friday Mar 03, 2023 at 08:49
Thanks for taking the time to post that information.
You are the avalanche whisperer.
The mountains aren't going anywhere.
Wait for good conditions.
aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 16:09
Thanks for pointing that out Roger. Knowing this will save me copious keystrokes down the road and help avoid confusion here.
NotDeadYet replied to NotDeadYet's post: Skoki Lodge Day Trip
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 11:03
Reply re trail width.
No, it is not that wide all the way to Skoki Lodge. There are sections below Boulder Pass and between Deception Pass and the lodge that are narrower: maybe 5 feet wide, but I didn't measure. In both these locations, one could safely descend off trail in the powder between the trees with suitable gear. But ascent would be tricky without good wax, possibly fish scales, or skins. I side stepped a few short (5 metre) distances both up and down.
JackB managed fine with V30 on Feb 03, 2023, but he's a much better skier than me. I'm not a skate skier. Hope this helps.
SkierRoger replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 09:12
Great post, aqua toque. Keep those turns coming...
By the way, I looked at my Acronyms page (under Resources). https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=acronyms
Indeed TC2T is there. Your eye must have missed it. However, I did notice one problem that has since been corrected:
TSJ- Tracksetter Jeff(Ribbon Creek) has now been converted to
TSA- Tracksetter Alex(Ribbon Creek)
aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 08:46
Helen, that's an aqua tack used by whoever put up those little plastic arrows on the summer trail. They probably stole it from me! I better go count my tacks.
Helen Read replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 08:35
Well thank your daughter for leaving her GoPro behind; that video made my morning and the music was even in tune with my "aqua tooth" hearing aids. Was the aqua circle on the sign something you left for the rest of us to follow? As for the acronyms, well......perhaps leave us just being challenged with WORDLE.
aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 08:20
Hey, it's what I do!
SteveR replied to aqua toque's post: Rainy Day with a little TC2T
Delivered: Thursday Mar 02, 2023 at 07:33
The secret's out, now EVERYBODY is going to go there!
Alf Skrastins replied to Sky.high's post: Hanging on the Telephone!
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 22:25
You can always try Moose Singletrack, Tom Snow North and the north end of Kestrel, on light touring skis.
SteveR replied to Bob Truman's post: Excellent conditions on the SkierBob Special
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 21:48
Great to see you back at it, Bob! We skied Blueberry from Boulton today and I agree-conditions on Moraine and Fox were great, as was everything else. And yes-we noticed the lack of tracksetting on that sometimes troublesome corner (when the tracks are fast) on Elk Pass, which as you say makes sense as the track is often washed out there anyway. I took Boulton on the way back and it was in unusually good shape as well.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to NotDeadYet's post: Skoki Lodge Day Trip
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 19:32
Howdy Not dead yet,
You must be far off from being dead if you can ski to Skoki and back in a day. A 9.5 hour day is pretty good when you are skiing over 8000 feet above sea level and climbing well over 3000 feet on cold winter snow, not to mention hanging out in the Lodge like skiing Royalty.
I personally feel the thin air way up on Deception Pass when I ski it unless I have being doing a lot of downhill on the Summit Lift at Lake Louise.
The picture showing the big wide snowmobile track in the Pika Meadow by Halfway Hut/Corral Creek looks real tempting for those skate skiers with iron legs. Is the trail that wide all the way to Skoki Lodge?
Mike W replied to Bob Truman's post: Excellent conditions on the SkierBob Special
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 19:30
Bob, glad to hear you're recovered and back at it!
MaSid replied to Sky.high's post: Hanging on the Telephone!
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 19:09
Good info martin, thanks. Was considering it for tomorrow, but will now pass for regular grooming giving not enough new overtop.
SkierRoger replied to Vittorio's post: Maple Ridge
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 18:28
Looks like a lovely day of skiing, Vittorio
Thanks for your report!
SkierRoger replied to JeffG's post: Goat Creek Rocks!
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 16:58
Those are some stunning pictures, Jeff.
Thanks!
ulrikeski replied to NotDeadYet's post: Skoki Lodge Day Trip
Delivered: Wednesday Mar 01, 2023 at 16:45
Great report and photos. Glad to find out that snow conditions have improved there from the hard packed wind blasted conditions in January/early February.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to SUNDANCE LODGE - Trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 22:33
That is great news, thank you!
Also I love your grouse picture :-)
My first time up that trail (I was alone), I took the "short-cut" down out of curiosity. That was an adventure not to be repeated!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to SUNDANCE LODGE - Trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 22:04
Hi Chuck,
Regarding the nice wide Brewster Creek trail:
I would vote for the Sundance Lodge operators as having the best improved groomed trails this year.
They have taken my advice and widened the trails up greatly. The Alpine Club of Canada Shadow Lake Cabin operation has a lot to learn from these folks on how to make nice wide trails which allow for easier skiing down hills along with iron leg skate skiing.
Wider trails are also important in low snow years like this year. It allows for skiers to ski around thin areas that get scraped off by skiers. This can extend the ski season on such trails.
Less experienced skiers have a better skiing experience on wider trails as well. There is more room on the hills to snowplow or pick lines and wide runs are less intimating than narrow trails for those that can't ski as well. The wider the trail on hills, the faster one can ski in daylight or at night.
I spent a lot of time snapping off branches overhanging the trackset trail yesterday as I did not want to get wacked by branches on my night ski out to diffused moonlight. This cut into my trail breaking time to Sundance Warden Cabin.
We need some serious guerilla trail maintainers to do some serious brush removal on most of the ski trails in Banff as the Government does not appear interested in keeping these legacy trails in good condition.
The shortcut horse/ backpacking trail is a hard working fun trail for advanced skiers when it is in perfect condition. Some people use it as a loop route. It is only suitable for climbing up rather than skiing down. All sorts of experienced skiers take the route when it is in great condition. However, as it is another abused Parks Canada trail in a long list of such trails, it takes a lot of skier sidestep grooming work to make it suitable for skiing up so one does not hit rocks.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to SUNDANCE LODGE - Trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 20:17
Track skis are the best choice, assuming you are happy to stay on trail!
Please ignore Mike's useless report on behalf of his pink metal edged skis, which does nothing to help users of this website get useful ski planning information.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to SUNDANCE LODGE - Trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 19:52
Hi Chuck: how were the downhills with the track skis, fine? or do you recommend LT skis with metal edges?
Cheers
Little Bs replied to Chuck's post: BREWSTER CREEK to SUNDANCE LODGE - Trackset
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 17:43
Chuck, re your photo caption "Only Mr. Democracy could be responsible for taking this shortcut...": We LOVE this shortcut! Hurray for DAB for packing it down. FYI, the torn-off portion of the sign under the pink horizontal stripe said "Highly Recommended for Pink Skis!"
MaSid replied to Septuagenarians's post: Elk Pass Area Update
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 17:03
Regarding the remnant snow blocks, perhaps best repurposed in a wind wall protecting the nearby picnic table, if they haven’t been groomed back into the trail already. Easy, other than maybe detaching them from their frozen mooring.
pickleballrocks replied to gerdro's post: Like New Skate Ski Set
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 10:53
i am interested and would like to contact you
Arie replied to Ray Yong's post: Sandy McNabb - Macabee Loop - Pine Ridge Loop
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 28, 2023 at 09:09
I also skied Sandy McNabb on Monday. It was a beautiful sunny day, but the skiing conditions were challenging, as Ray explained. The refrozen snow was abrasive and I had to reapply wax every few km. I did walk a few of the steeper downhills on Pine Ridge.
I broke trail for a short ways up Sheep, going west in the meadows below the paved road. The snow there was still mostly powderdy.
Chuck replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC - RCMP finest
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 20:44
Thank you Jean-Francois for informing us of this vile incident.
I have always thought that all cross-country skiers were the best of people.
Stay Cool out there.
Diana Piggott replied to Ray Yong's post: Sandy McNabb - Macabee Loop - Pine Ridge Loop
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 18:07
Thank you for the report, Ray. I was thinking about going there today, but after the warm sun yesterday I feared it might be a bit icy. Finding good conditions there is a rare delight!
Odinpulls replied to SteveR's post: Skiing from home in NW Calgary
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 17:38
Skied Confederation Park Saturday afternoon and the conditions were ideal. As always koodos to the amazing groomers and all the hard work they do.
MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC - RCMP finest
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 17:36
Brutal! Thanks JF
Jean-Francois replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC - RCMP finest
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 17:00
Hi MaSid,
There was an “incident” between 2 skiers (it was Saturday and not Sunday), here is an extract from a post on Facebook: “The Cross Country Skiing YYC Facebook group was contacted regarding a West Bragg Creek Altercation. This occurred on Saturday Feb 25th; approx. 2-3pm, on Mountain Road near “the gate” as shown in following comment.
Required: if anyone witnessed or knows of the physical altercation between two male skiers on the Moose road near the gate around 2-3pm Saturday, witnesses are kindly requested to contact the RCMP.
The victim was assaulted resulting in concussion, jaw fracture, multiple bruises and contusions that required emergency room treatment. The assailant skiid off after the physical and verbal assault. The victim and their partner believe there were several witnesses, including possibly acquaintances of the assailant. A report was made to the WBC Trails, the CO and the Cochrane RCMP with a file being opened.
MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC - RCMP finest
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 16:37
What happened yesterday JF?
Diana Piggott replied to Diana Piggott's post: 31 km Birkie achieved!!
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 09:33
Thank you Helen, you have always been an inspiration to me! I have also been slowing down with age, but hope to reverse that a little bit now.
Congratulations on your 60th ski!
Aqua toque: 🤭 🔥
aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Undertake a Daring Rescue!
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 06:25
Vørt dår færk?!!!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Undertake a Daring Rescue!
Delivered: Monday Feb 27, 2023 at 00:49
Little B's,
I figured the Waterton covert ops skiing would be appealing to the Little B's. It was like the Little B's wrote the article themselves.
There is plenty of safe terrain in Waterton that will not leave the Little B's buried until summer. However a Chalet at the Campbell Icefield sounds quite appealing and is highly recommended skiing by many.
Ski long and prosper.
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Undertake a Daring Rescue!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 22:27
Thanks for the suggestions DAB, in particular the covert op link. We had considered Waterton, but decided against it due to the avalanche risk alert - https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/waterton/bulletins/6EA2E99E-4E15-4227-839F-AB5BE3DBD454 . Instead we plan to take him to Campbell Icefield Chalet next week.
SkierRoger replied to SteveR's post: Skiing from home in NW Calgary
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 22:03
Fantastic Steve!
Hope to see you around the neighborhood.
I would have loved to see some trip reports on Confederation Golf Course and other areas around town too.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD (To and from Banff) - It's the Voyage, Not the Destination!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 21:54
Thank you Jean-Francois for your valuable analysis.
I believe you are right, and look forward to your future reports here.
By the way, I also had the pleasure of meeting Dave today... a friend of Normand... whom I am also looking forward to hearing from (and/or skiing with).
A demain (in english: to the future)
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Undertake a Daring Rescue!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 21:24
Wow!
Sorry to hear what the Collective put your Dad and Carl through!
I suggest you release them from the secure safe house and have them go through their intensive deprogramming and rehabilitation down in Waterton at the Prince of Whales or at the Alpine Club Cabin during the nights and undergoing daytime treatment consuming white powder in these mind altering locations:
https://www.backcountryskiingcanada.com/Waterton-Routes
https://mysticmountainadventures.com/blogs/news/best-backcountry-ski-town-in-alberta
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/waterton/activ/experiences/hiver-winter
https://hikingwithpar.com/2022/03/20/forum-ridge/
Skiing Waterton covertly:
https://www.freshskis.com/blogs/fresh-skis/a-waterton-covert-op
Prescribed daily white powder amounts seen here:
https://www.avalanche.ca/weather/stations/126
If the mind is not fully deprogrammed then use this website for foreign programmed figures:
https://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/snow/snowplot.cgi?AKAQ1
Good luck with the deprogramming and rehabilitation. If all else fails see: lrdp.ca
Jean-Francois replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD (To and from Banff) - It's the Voyage, Not the Destination!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 21:06
Howdy Chuck,
I did the exact ski yesterday in approximately the same time but I had no one to chat with (except Mike W I had the pleasure to meet for the 1st time)
Regarding the comment by Ken, I don’t think SkierRoger is more technical, it’s just that the facebook group has a larger audience with a lot of new /novice skiers mostly on waxless / skin skis, hence less interested by the type of wax used, etc..SkierRoger has been a great improvement over original SkierBob website with the ease to post photos, to comment and to search for specific area / trail and SkierRoger trip report is my daily go to in the evening.
I have been lazy and just reporting on the facebook group and for my next trip I will report here as well.
Bonne soirée,
Jean-Francois
skierdylan replied to SkierRoger's post: More Novice skiers. This time at WBC
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 18:01
Very nice day out at WBC! SkierRoger and JoLynn were nice enough to show us the ropes of XC skiing with tips about wax types and stride technique. I felt as if I'd known them my entire life!
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD (To and from Banff) - It's the Voyage, Not the Destination!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 17:58
Thanks for your interest Roger,
I was using VR45 wax, which matched perfectly with today's temperature range (-2 to -8 on old snow).
And from the inquiries I received along the trail, I think there will be a few converts!
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD (To and from Banff) - It's the Voyage, Not the Destination!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 17:48
Thanks for the great trip report, Chuck.
By the way, what wax did you use ?
Helen Read replied to Diana Piggott's post: 31 km Birkie achieved!!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 16:17
Hearty Congratulations to Diana and her "supportive coach" Matthew. He had a great teacher to learn the passions for XC from you, Diana!!! As Mr Democracy said, this might be the first time, but subsequent times you ski this route, the easier it will feel. I remember meeting you on early season Tyrwhitt by the Back Door many moons ago. Glad you are upping your game.......mine is somewhat decreasing with age, but yesterday on Goat Creek was my 60th outing.
aqua toque replied to Diana Piggott's post: 31 km Birkie achieved!!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 15:09
Congrats on the achievement!
But just think, one day you'll do it in the dark, blind-folded, at -42 C with wolverines nipping at your heels in a true democracy.
Diana Piggott replied to Diana Piggott's post: 31 km Birkie achieved!!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 12:51
Thank you, Mr. Democracy. Excelsior, as they say!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Diana Piggott's post: 31 km Birkie achieved!!
Delivered: Sunday Feb 26, 2023 at 11:44
Howdy Diana,
Once you ski it once, then you can do it again as you have the experience and know you can do it.
Once you have ski it once, you can likely explore further the next time, particularly if the trail is broken beyond the trackset. The scenery only gets better the further you go.
Knowing a trail enables a skier to know where and how to use energy to gain skiing "efficiencies" in order to save energy. The more energy a skier can save and more efficient a skier is at skiing, the faster and further the skier can go.
The more knowledge of a trail stored in the mind, the easier it is to ski or backpack that trail.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: STONEY CREEK CABIN - A Grand Social Occasion and No Wind!
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 22:52
It was delightful to meet you on the trail again Chuck!
Matthew and I went to the Stoney Creek bridge first, so sorry to miss the gang at the cabin.
I surprised myself actually finishing the 31 km Birkie, many thanks to all who encouraged me (including Dave). :-)
Little Bs replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 22:10
MaSid and aqua toque - Sorry, but due last-minute evening plans we won't have time to post our report until tomorrow. But it will be worth the wait - international human smuggling, cults, and the dark web!
BonnyTasky replied to Chuck's post: STONEY CREEK CABIN - A Grand Social Occasion and No Wind!
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 20:08
Yes, the four of us had a great ski too. I recognize all of you from the pictures! Lots of fun :) 'Best day ever'
walterh replied to Chuck's post: STONEY CREEK CABIN - A Grand Social Occasion and No Wind!
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 18:04
The Cascade Valley was a truly amazing surprise today. After the winds on the highway, it was amazing to have none on the trial. Apart from a few small sections of wobbly tracks, it couldn’t be better.
It was great to meet you Chuck, and put a face to your name.
EPK replied to Septuagenarians's post: WBC was perfect - Thank you Groomers
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 17:53
We arrived at 9:30 - not alot of cars there yet and off we went MTN Road-Moose-MTN Road West-Crystaline
all in magnificent track set Thanks to the Groomers
Also as noted $$$$ makes WBC the jewel it is - we did add some cookies to the cause prior to launch and topped the donation up after completion we were so happy and grateful.
MaSid replied to Sara M's post: Reasonably warm at Sandy McNabb!
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 15:40
Fully in agreement with Ray. Great photo. Tried creating same while on telephone with no good results (other than getting dusted lots), so glad you made it work. Be a good screen saver as one of those “live” photos.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Saturday Feb 25, 2023 at 04:02
Excellent! Seems like prime little B conditions these days.
Little Bs replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 22:38
MaSid and aqua toque - Thanks for your concern about us. We hope to have a shocking report posted tomorrow evening.
Sky.high replied to MaSid's post: Skunked on telephone
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 22:37
Hey MaSid, sure was nice to visit, thanks for your tracks till the maintenance crew past, they promised Telephone would be roller packed by tomorrow and a glorious ski, think you and I (and one other) had the best of it already.
Ray Yong replied to Sara M's post: Reasonably warm at Sandy McNabb!
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 22:21
That sun beams picture is gorgeous! Nice job!
Kinga replied to Sara M's post: Reasonably warm at Sandy McNabb!
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 21:58
The scenery was superb at Sandy today and the temp felt good. Caught about a km of track at the end of the day. Still a bit soft, hopefully they set overnight and should be wonderful tomorrow. Wind portending a chinook began to blow by late afternoon.
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: While Erin was checking out the Biathletes at CNC, her father, Jeff G was at Skogan Pass
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 20:21
Thanks for emailing me this great picture, Helen.
Glad you folks had fun!
ErinP replied to Helen Read's post: While Erin was checking out the Biathletes at CNC, her father, Jeff G was at Skogan Pass
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 19:05
😂 Looks like you had a great ski!
Mike Nozdryn-Pl replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 15:58
Here here, I am happy to second that.
I will try to remember to carry lots of cookies with me next time I am there.
EPK replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Friday Feb 24, 2023 at 12:04
To Groomer Bill: You and the crew at WBC are Hero's to the XC community and I am consistently amazed by your efforts and support WBC with contributions regularly.
Groomer Bill replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Thursday Feb 23, 2023 at 21:33
We currently avoid grooming below -25C not to save our asses but to save our equipment. We currently have about $30-40k in outstanding repairs. Trying to keep on top of all these repairs is expensive and very time consuming. Working our equipment in all temperatures is dangerous, time consuming and expensive. If someone out there has deep pockets we would love to hear from you. If you would like to work on our equipment at all hours of the day and night we would also like to hear from you. Please support your local volunteer with kind words and hard earned cash (a few cookies goes a long way :) )
Groomer Bill
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Thursday Feb 23, 2023 at 19:02
Hey Sid,
The Banff Federal tracksetters on snowmobiles are a lot tougher than those tracksetting with enclosed cabin Provincial snow cats. The Federal Banff tracksetters have been working like tough mountain people in this cold spell which I greatly appreciate.
When I was a major sled or snowmobile skier, we would be out in as cold as -42C temperatures pounding trails up mountains for deep powder ski access. The same thing when I worked up in the northern part of Alberta. I did not even have hand warmers on the sled in those days, but the heat of the air cooled engine would keep me plenty warm along with my well chosen clothing.
Bravo to the tougher Federal snowmobile tracksetters working in the cold.
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC update
Delivered: Thursday Feb 23, 2023 at 15:40
Yeah. Hope all is well in The Land of Pink.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - So Nice that I had to Ski it Twice!
Delivered: Thursday Feb 23, 2023 at 11:02
The proof is in the pudding. The eye opener inspired a few of the Hardy’s. But I think you got the better day out of it with sun and no wind. No need for the nose toque.
ChrisL replied to ChrisL's post: Syncline South & Allison-Chinook - Castle Prov Park & Crowsnest Pass
Delivered: Thursday Feb 23, 2023 at 08:06
I agree Jeff, we love it there too. We did several scrambles in Castle-Crowsnest, some great challenges, rock colours are incredible and it's pretty quiet.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - So Nice that I had to Ski it Twice!
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 20:48
Looks beautiful! And no wind!
Great tracks at CNC on the night loop this afternoon with slow glide. And a very nasty wind from the East.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Lake Louise Upper Trails Grooming Update
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 18:13
Good news:
I received an update today from Leah, Resort Activities Director at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. She provides this information on their grooming machine:
"We have been in the process of replacing the very specialized equipment required for the trails grooming and track setting, good news is that we are almost there and hope to be back on track this week. We are really excited to be able to have the trails back in great shape for all to enjoy and it is a top priority."
aqua toque replied to Chuck's post: A Good Ski Report on CBC... if I have to say so myself!
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 12:20
My connection was breaking up near the end. Did he mention anyone we know?
;)
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: A Good Ski Report on CBC... if I have to say so myself!
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 11:05
Thanks Chuck.
I like to toss a good interview in there every once in a while, just for a change. 😉
Peter N replied to Helen Read's post: Reverse Skier Bob Special adding West Elk and Patterson Meadows.
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 09:50
Glad you had a fine ski. Would prefer skiers going up Whiskey Jack rather than descending. Skier Bob explained reasons several times years ago: First, on several sections you're scraping a lot of snow downhill by strong snowplowing. Secondly, there's a sharp turn at base of steepest section. One often sees sitzmarks there, and uphill skiers cannot see the out of control downhillers. Several folks have been injured there. Best to ski Bob's special in original clockwise direction. Just my $ 0.05.
SkierRoger replied to Eyesopen's post: Castle Junction Trails-Maintenance suspended?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 08:16
Hi Eyesopen
The report that you refer to goes on to say: “ Thin snow cover over uneven surface. More snow is needed to cover rocks, roots and creeks; Icy sections.”
Note the last report was generated Feb 18th, prior to a recent snowfall seen in many areas.
Helen Read replied to Eyesopen's post: Castle Junction Trails-Maintenance suspended?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 22, 2023 at 08:11
Rhonda, I think it just refers to those #1, #2, #3 trails right at Castle Junction. They are very busy with burning maintenance in Protection area and one skis right by crews when on Baker Creek to Castle L/O trail. Chuck might have more info, but my best guess. Also, they are so rarely skied, and more heavily walked. Groomers are a precious commodity these days.
Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Hwy 742 Smith Dorrien closure Feb. 22
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 22:57
Great Intel Ulli... Thanks.
Best advice for those wanting to enjoy the incredible tracksetting on Goat Creek, is to start and return via Banff.
MaSid replied to ulrikeski's post: Hwy 742 Smith Dorrien closure Feb. 22
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 20:34
And might be closed for a while if significant debri on the road needing clean up.
JeffG replied to ChrisL's post: Syncline South & Allison-Chinook - Castle Prov Park & Crowsnest Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 18:29
We used to xc ski Syncline, Chinook and Fernie when down in the Crowsnest Pass for some winter fishing and R&R. Wonderful skiing when conditions are good. I’m so glad to see a report on nordic skiing in the Crowsnest Pass, one of my favourite spots on earth!
ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: Winter is back on Goat Creek
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 12:27
Hi Helen: the Goat Creek parking lot was open yesterday, we parked there. Should be lots of more snow today. Enjoy.
SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: Cookie race this weekend
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 11:32
Thanks for the reminder, MaSid.
Here is the link: https://foothillsnordic.ca/races/cookie-race/
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Telephone Loop (has anyone seen my ski tips?)
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 08:26
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Reverse Skier Bob Special adding West Elk and Patterson Meadows.
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 08:23
Thanks as always for helping keep the meadow tracks alive and flowing, and of course to a large group of ACC staffers for doing same. P.S. that was dianna p who was on skogan and spotted the lynx.
Helen Read replied to ulrikeski's post: Winter is back on Goat Creek
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 07:16
511AB saying Goat Creek parking lot is still temporarily closed. Did you start at the lower parking space, just beyond the main lot and ski up boundary that back way? Thanks. We might not even be able to see the new tracks today.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 21, 2023 at 00:18
Hi Diana,
Chuck answered the question correctly.
The top of the trail is where the B20 Pipestone trail comes close to the Pipestone River. Sometimes there is a snow couch by the river at this location.
They only decent way to get to Point Camp meadows this year is by the Pipestone River Horse/Backpacking trail as no trail has been broken on the river and it would take days to do so due to the cold affected faceted deep sugar snow. It is thigh deep in places except where the ice froze more recently.
I did a fair bit of trail work on the hills and on bridges to make it faster to get up them and to ensure shallow poling rather than deep poling in the sugary snow. It was a fast trail going in and out due to the trail work.
My ski trail will likely be buried with new snow now. However it should still be slightly visible except in wind blown areas. There are a couple of places where my trail goes onto the river ice for very short distances maybe 20 meters roughly at most.
If the trail is not visible, you will have to look for trail blazes carefully and or feel for the ski trail with your ski tips under the new snow.
With the new snow the Point Camp Meadows should be in excellent skiing shape for the most part, perhaps excluding the very north end which may still have some willows. I personally would wait for the winds to move the new snow around in the meadows and add a chinook to create a crusty base to ski on for ease of skiing. The first 200 meters of the meadow will be somewhat difficult trail breaking if my ski trail is not visible as the snow is highly faceted cold rotten Rockies style sugary snow until one skis out to the wind/sun affected areas.
Be very careful out in the meadows looking at the 360 degree views as you may end up with a neck injury moving your neck around like a Snowy Owl taking in the great views.
aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Mixed reviews of Goat Creek-SRW
Delivered: Monday Feb 20, 2023 at 19:36
It bears an uncanny resemblance to my barber's floor after the haircut I had last week.
ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: Winter is back on Goat Creek
Delivered: Monday Feb 20, 2023 at 19:34
Hi Chuck:
When we started out from the Goat Creek parking I said to Gary that I'm sure we would run into you breaking trail from the Banff end.
Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Winter is back on Goat Creek
Delivered: Monday Feb 20, 2023 at 18:47
Well chosen Ulli... Thanks for the intel
BonnyTasky replied to ulrikeski's post: Winter is back on Goat Creek
Delivered: Monday Feb 20, 2023 at 17:17
It was indeed a fun ski! We passed you I think having just performed an impressive snow angel :)
ChrisL replied to ChrisL's post: Cascade Valley, Banff - Decent conditions, fast, icy tracks to start -
Delivered: Monday Feb 20, 2023 at 09:00
Thanks Aqua!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ErinP's post: Mixed reviews of Goat Creek-SRW
Delivered: Sunday Feb 19, 2023 at 23:51
Howdy Erin,
I can't say what animal that fur came from in your photo for sure, but it may be from a major animal itch. I don't see a blood bath in your picture so I would assume an animal was not killed by a hit and run xc skier or predator. It is possible the hair was pulled off a part of an animal by a scavenger chewing on a frozen leg but I would expect little bits of other animal material such as frozen blood bits or hide.
I am surprised I do not see good visible tracks in the snow but the photo is not covering much area. Next time take some extra photos to show tracks if possible.
I used to tie flies at one time and the hair kind of looks like deer hair. It is hard for me to tell with the photo due to scaling difficulties though. I don't see any good tracks in the photo but it almost looks like some type of paw tracks visible but I can't say for sure. If paw prints were visible, it could be wolf hair but I would be surprised if it was due to the clumpiness of the hair.
Keep on skiing, even over animal hair, and enjoy Mother Earth's Naturehood.
Democratize AB.
Diana Piggott replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Sunday Feb 19, 2023 at 22:16
Thank you, Chuck, much appreciated!
Chuck replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Sunday Feb 19, 2023 at 16:45
Hi Diana,
As it is not likely that James will notice your question, I will answer it for him:
He always takes the horse trail... I understand that he has had some bad experiences with river ice!
Attached is a photo from our February trip last year that shows the route.
BonnyTasky replied to SkierRoger's post: Jolynn Makes it to the Top
Delivered: Sunday Feb 19, 2023 at 06:59
As Finn said just yesterday 'Best Day Ever'
Chuck replied to Helen Read's post: Meanderthals had perfect conditions to ski up to the Lodge for lunch.
Delivered: Saturday Feb 18, 2023 at 21:21
Thank you for the detailed report Helen.
Glad everything turned out great.
Helen Read replied to SkierRoger's post: Jolynn Makes it to the Top
Delivered: Saturday Feb 18, 2023 at 20:44
Bravo Jolynn on making it up to Lookout Summit. Now you can ski anything!!!
Diana Piggott replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Saturday Feb 18, 2023 at 15:54
Dear Mr. Democracy,
Your trail breaking is greatly appreciated! I have never been beyond the groomed trails at Pipestone before, but I am intrigued. Do you go straight up the river, or do you follow the trail through the trees from the far end of the groomed loop?
Thank you,
Diana
Sam replied to ErinP's post: Sunny WBC
Delivered: Saturday Feb 18, 2023 at 09:40
Hey Erin - We missed you at Pipestone - it was fantabulous!!
Diana Piggott replied to MaSid's post: Blueberries and cream
Delivered: Friday Feb 17, 2023 at 21:59
Sweet!!
I must get back there soon......
Diana Piggott replied to Chris S's post: A Trip to Jasper
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 22:38
Beautiful! I haven't been there for a few years, looks like there have been some changes.
Chuck replied to Mary's post: Both Sides Now - at O'Hara
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 19:03
As Tim's dog says every day - best day ever :)
BonnyTasky replied to Mary's post: Both Sides Now - at O'Hara
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 17:25
Mary. Clive and I passed you I think. The sled was WAY too fast and nearly took my buddy Clive out on a corner. We loved the ski, and did not really have a grip issue with our skin skis. Great to be back on proper snow!
Herb K. replied to Jeff P's post: Chester Lake
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 17:18
Ha! Lo and behold, I'm on the internet! It was a GDO (Grand Day Out). Hopefully another day with the skins will happen this year, but who knows...
I'm stoked about Emerald Lake this weekend. It's been a LONG time since I was there.
Vittorio replied to Chris S's post: A Trip to Jasper
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 16:59
I see you had some great skiing, and it doesn't look like you encountered any bears.
ulrikeski replied to Mary's post: Both Sides Now - at O'Hara
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 16:43
Hi Mary, your report really shows how fast conditions change in this dry and wacky winter. No guarantees anymore from one day to next what to find - either ice and melting temperatures or blasting winds and freezing cold. Sadly, climate change shows it's grip. Let's hope we still get a "real snowfall" for the rest of the season.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA and the ELIZABETH PARKER HUT - The word got out!
Delivered: Thursday Feb 16, 2023 at 07:14
Great photos, Chuck. Looks like perfect timing for the tracksetting and sunshine on the lake.
aqua toque replied to Crusty bun boys's post: Nipika North Ascent
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 15, 2023 at 19:10
Not sure what North Nipika is but an ascent of it sounds like a noble accomplishment.
Congratulations!
Diana Piggott replied to MaSid's post: WBC (cruising the grooming)
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 15, 2023 at 18:21
Thank you MaSid, it was a glorious day of skiing, and meeting you was the icing on the cake :-)
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC (cruising the grooming)
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 15, 2023 at 17:39
We signed up for a later sailing of the Moose-Mountainviews cruise. Truly an outstanding day out there!
gh replied to gh's post: WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 22:59
Yes I missed you by a little bit. When I skied by the picnic table and saw the tracks on Tom Snow I figured that it had probably been you.
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Reverse Skier Bob Circuit and the lure of "refreshing" Patterson Meadows
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 22:09
Thanks for resetting the patterson meadows track helen after this latest snow. How much new back there?
MaSid replied to gh's post: WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 19:04
Sorry I missed you on south moose, probably not by much. Things should be really good tomorrow at WBC on groomed trails after a cool night. Snow will dry out and set up for fast skiing with high temps staying near zero? Warmer Thursday.
Ray Yong replied to Ray Yong's post: Pocaterra - Finally! - Pocaterra, Come along, Pocaterra, Lynx, Amos, Wheeler, Whiskey, Pocaterra
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 14:11
Septuagenarians - Thanks for the suggestion. I was wary about putting glide on the skins, worried it would remove a good amount of grip, but I'll give it a shot.
DAB - Thanks for the compliment and the suggestion. Hopefully I'll hit the right conditions next time I'm there.
Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: West Bragg Creek snow (-:
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 14:03
I measured 12-15cm of new snow at West Bragg Creek. Some grooming is under way.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: West Bragg Creek snow (-:
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 08:24
Looking good!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Ray Yong's post: Pocaterra - Finally! - Pocaterra, Come along, Pocaterra, Lynx, Amos, Wheeler, Whiskey, Pocaterra
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 14, 2023 at 00:28
Hey Ray,
Your photo #5 at the bottom of your report is pretty killer. Well framed and there are some cool lines which move the eyes through the pic. Very nice terrain. Cool sun trying to peak through the trees adds a nice effect. Lots to see in this shot. The dead wood at the bottom of the pic seems to point down hill suggesting to point the skis down and ski all that white stuff below. If it was not baseless, that would be sweet turns on my 200 cm Rossi slalom downhill boards.
If you ever ski to that spot again, try taking another pic closer to the ground to see if you can get a shot without the branches from the deciduous tree obscuring the mountain in the distance while trying to keep the dead wood in the pic at the bottom of the shot. That may or may not be possible but it may be worth it.
Septuagenarians replied to Ray Yong's post: Pocaterra - Finally! - Pocaterra, Come along, Pocaterra, Lynx, Amos, Wheeler, Whiskey, Pocaterra
Delivered: Monday Feb 13, 2023 at 18:56
Ray,
We have been using skin skis all winter and have never had clumping, or even incipient clumping. We apply a rub-on Glide and Skin wax made by STAR. In the glide zone we rub on as much as we want and cork it in thoroughly. On the skin, we just make a single one way pass with the wax, and single one way pass with the cork, in the direction of the ski glide. We keep the cork very clean. Today we used yellow which is for +5 to -5.
MaSid replied to Ray Yong's post: Pocaterra - Finally! - Pocaterra, Come along, Pocaterra, Lynx, Amos, Wheeler, Whiskey, Pocaterra
Delivered: Monday Feb 13, 2023 at 18:53
And more good news…….snowfall warning in affect:
https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/report_e.html?ab4
Helen Read replied to Ray Yong's post: Pocaterra - Finally! - Pocaterra, Come along, Pocaterra, Lynx, Amos, Wheeler, Whiskey, Pocaterra
Delivered: Monday Feb 13, 2023 at 18:22
Terrific report Ray and somehow I also experienced clumping in the sun today on Baker Creek to Lookout. Somehow I have forgotten to hit SUBMIT and no time to rewrite. You might lure me there.......like you I have not done any of the north trails as yet.
aqua toque replied to ChrisL's post: Cascade Valley, Banff - Decent conditions, fast, icy tracks to start -
Delivered: Sunday Feb 12, 2023 at 22:09
Beautiful photo!
The composition, the light, everything.
SkierRoger replied to Crusty bun boys's post: The Goat
Delivered: Sunday Feb 12, 2023 at 18:48
Good to have you back, boys!
The Boys Are Back in Town
ChrisL replied to ChrisL's post: Healy Creek to Cave and Basin - Banff - Spring Conditions
Delivered: Sunday Feb 12, 2023 at 16:53
Thanks! I wish I had a good camera but I use my iPhone 12 and "improve" them with Microsoft Photo Editor. I love photography but I don't want to sacrifice time and energy when we ski or hike.
Thanks MaSid, this is where I go but I think they used to have additional notes about most recent grooming and conditions at the top of these pages, I can't find them anymore.
aqua toque replied to Crusty bun boys's post: Canmore after the flight from the Jets home
Delivered: Sunday Feb 12, 2023 at 15:28
Welcome back Crusties!
Thanks for the thorough report.
However, you failed to touch on the state of democracy in Manitoba.
HenryL replied to Ray Yong's post: Lovely conditions at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 08:36
They look a bit like nacreus clouds in your great photo.
MtnGoat replied to Chuck's post: ALLUVIAL FAN at EMERALD LAKE - Trackset Today
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 08:16
It was Emerald Lake elation to hit the trails once again after my foot saga!
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: ALLUVIAL FAN at EMERALD LAKE - Trackset Today
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 07:53
Wow Diana, so sorry to have missed you too! We also obviously missed Skier Roger and JoLynn. The Skrastins Club were also out in various places. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the conditions.
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: In the snow globe at elk pass
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 06:53
"...stories that can't be retold"?
Oh c'mon, are you not aware that the raison d'être of this site is the sharing of information?
Besides, we can keep a secret.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TRAIL
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 00:29
Howdy CMS,
I seem to break a lot of pole baskets on the Pipestone River Trail. I actually skied up there the other day with basketless poles as I have broken several this year. That takes some special foot "loose" moves to do that with this year's rotten Rockies snowpack. Not to long ago I broke a ski pole tip off in front of the wildlife camera up the Pipestone. There would be a 3 minute lesson on how to repair one on that camera. I have also broken pole straps and pole strap adjusters which I have fixed by cramming in slithers of spruce.
I went shopping for new poles but I was choked by the prices for well balanced poles. In the original MEC days, I could buy reasonably well balanced poles for $29 to $55 but no more. The manufacturers today make poorly balanced lead weight poles for that price now. I like to buy cheap poles because I smack a lot of willows and trees with them and I hate breaking expensive poles when clearing overhanging brush on trails.
Thanks for breaking trail as far as you did. I went a couple of klicks further and if you wanted to finish the trail breaking job to Point Camp Meadow, that would be appreciated by those that like their Pipestone. You will be well rewarded in the Meadows on a nice day. Careful not to cause a neck injury spinning your head around while looking at the great 360 degree views that you will be rewarded with.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TRAIL
Delivered: Saturday Feb 11, 2023 at 00:01
Howdy Roger,
Perhaps the answer to your question might be - my leg?
I should say that if anyone finds about 190cm of white Madshus ski base as narrow as 48 mm, please return it too me. Thanks.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: ALLUVIAL FAN at EMERALD LAKE - Trackset Today
Delivered: Friday Feb 10, 2023 at 22:04
How did I miss you?? We also did two loops of the Alluvial Fan!
The weather was almost the exact opposite of what Environment Canada predicted too!
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: ALLUVIAL FAN at EMERALD LAKE - Trackset Today
Delivered: Friday Feb 10, 2023 at 20:01
I like that they have the shovels in yoho at the benches. Always good seating options.
SkierRoger replied to Bob Milko's post: Emerald Lake Trails Sparkle today
Delivered: Friday Feb 10, 2023 at 17:51
Thanks Bob. We happened to be at Emerald Lake today also. A great day was had by all.
JoLynn's feet were suffering from our ski yesterday. The Alluvial fan was a great choice to give em' a break.
Here are some more pictures
CMS replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TRAIL
Delivered: Friday Feb 10, 2023 at 17:30
There must be a Pipestone River gremlin. I was the one who re-broke your trail yesterday, and as I started my return run one of my baskets disengaged and would "float" up and down the pole, resulting in the tip going to the ground every time I had to use it. Not as serious as your gear failure, just annoying until I got back to the groomed trail. I considered crossing the river and returning on that old track, but didn't want to break trail both directions.
SkierRoger replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TRAIL
Delivered: Friday Feb 10, 2023 at 15:24
Sorry to hear about the busted ski. Last time it was a pole I think.
What next?
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA - Let the Party Begin
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 21:46
That's what they told me today... but also "No Guarantees"!
Margot&Seth replied to SkierRoger's post: Awesome Lake Louise
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 21:09
We loved meeting you two today, Roger and JoLynn! Your website’s been so helpful to us on our visit. Ski on!
Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA - Let the Party Begin
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 19:08
Chuck, very interesting reading that the Lodge is offering lunch to XC skiers on a booked basis. I spoke with them this past Monday, Feb 6th and they said a definite NO to offering lunch? Was Le Relais actually open today? Thanks for the great photos. Planning a ski there next Saturday.
SteveR replied to gh's post: WBC grooming
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 18:11
I was wondering why they hadn't used the smaller machines while the snow rabbit was down. It didn't matter much to us today as we really enjoyed the silky smooth ungroomed new snow, with the old tracksetting still evident in most places.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Awesome Lake Louise
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 17:30
I've received a couple of emails lately from folks who've had troubles posting reports. Please send me a note if this sounds familiar. Trying to understand how many are having such problems.
I've made a few "upgrades" to the system lately and wonder if that's what's causing the problem.
The site seems to be operating fine from my end so it's a bit confusing.
Sky.high replied to Ray Yong's post: Lovely conditions at WBC
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 17:16
Jip and I classic skied Elbow/Iron Springs loop this morning, the south portion had been groomed, presumable by parks, VR45 provided reasonable grip but rapidly changing temps also provided some icing. In the afternoon we skate skied Moose loop, glide steadily improved as temps fell away mid afternoon and we enjoyed relatively effortless return to the parking lot, payback!!
Amazing what a difference a small layer of fresh snow makes, hope WBC's Rabbit is back online soon
NotDeadYet replied to JackB's post: Skoki Lodge - Day Trip
Delivered: Thursday Feb 09, 2023 at 16:55
On Feb 08, I skied to Deception Pass as a day trip. For many years I have skied perhaps once/year into Skoki as a day trip but cut this one short as time was running out possibly due to the slow conditions.
Lake Louise resort reports 23cm new snow in past 4 days with the ski-out still closed to resort skiers (but open at the trail head). Using half skins I "broke trail" on about 8cms new over a faint track up to the Larch run, where the old skier set track was more visible. I presume lodge guests can use the lifts for access as there were also negligible down tracks on the ski-out as JackB points out. This enabled me to ski down it without the usual continuous snow plough.
On the narrow steeper sections below Boulder Pass there were quite a few footprints, but they did not hinder ski progress. However, I found the narrow trail width (maybe 1 metre only) to be tricky on descent with 30 year old 210cms Karhru XCD's. A couple on AT gear enjoyed this section and the vehicle side of Deception Pass in good style. Ptarmigan Lake was as pretty as Jack's photo suggests. Overall, a scenic 7 hour day for 22km and 800m elevation gain. Until the ski-out is opened to the resort skiers, this favourite tour should remain in good condition despite a general lack of snow.
Of note, while the area near Fossil Mtn has the potential for avalanches, it is generally considered safe on the trail. Not guaranteed though.
Chris S replied to gh's post: WBC surprise snow event
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 21:25
WBC won the snow lottery today!
Mahaffey replied to ErinP's post: Velvet snow at PLPP
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 20:50
I guess you were the folks whom my group followed up to the top of the Lookout! You got the virgin snow! We had better luck with extra blue wax and were able to herringbone much less than you.
Our route after that was down Pocaterra to the Visitor Centre. The new snow got increasingly scanty but still managed to cover up most of the needles.
The new snow is not thick and is on top of concrete snow, so it won’t last — everyone should get out to PLOPP asap before it gets all scraped off on the downhill runs!
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: Velvet snow at PLPP
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 19:30
Haha thanks aqua toque, although I can’t take credit for mother nature’s magnificence!!
And Helen, I wouldn’t say we were non stop but we made it! 😅
MaSid replied to gh's post: WBC surprise snow event
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 19:26
Good timely info GH, just as this site was intended. Thanks.
Helen Read replied to ErinP's post: Velvet snow at PLPP
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 18:32
Truly an EPIC climb for you guys!!! NON stop from parking lot to top of L/O!! That's at least one well-earned Magnum Ice Cream bar. Congrats to you both and perfect conditions to boot.
aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Velvet snow at PLPP
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 18:05
Yes. That's what I'm talkin' about!
Those. Are. Stunning.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - New Snow Last Night & Newly Trackset This Morning!
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 17:46
Looks like you had a fantastic day, Chuck!
Makes me feel sorry for those that fly south for the winter 😃
aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Snowy slog up MLR
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 08, 2023 at 08:16
Well, OK.
Just try not to let it happen again.
;)
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: Snowy slog up MLR
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 07, 2023 at 22:43
Haha I thought about pictures today but the white sky and lack of much view didn’t inspire me to take out my phone. Yesterday at WBC was beautiful and sunny with blue skies all around, but I must have been enjoying the skiing too much to stop! 😃
Old L.E. Phant replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 07, 2023 at 21:10
Please add my voice to other comments regarding "Democratize Ab." posts. I STRONGLY agree with most comments made by Bob Mlko on Feb.5th. I feel that this website is totally the wrong place for political propaganda by any one. I find the inclusion of those comments to be arrogant, rude, obnoxious and unwelcome. A parallel would be if I was going for a walk in the city and happened upon a big pile of something most unappealing smack in the middle the sidewalk. True, I don't have to step in it. I can (as suggested) detour around it. BUT- the stench and the sight and the unpleasant memory lingers on...Who needs that? Not me!! I feel I should be allowed to navigate this awesome website without having to sidestep a bunch of crap.
My defense is; these days, whenever I see the word "democratize" in a title ,to skip right past it.
Here is a thought about "democracy"....Maybe all participants on this site should be invited to vote on whether or not to ban all political comments ???
aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Snowy slog up MLR
Delivered: Tuesday Feb 07, 2023 at 17:21
No pics on your last couple reports. What gives?
You always post pics.
Cooper replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Monday Feb 06, 2023 at 20:21
I read that Goat Creek trailhead is closed on Canmore side? Can you still ski from Canmore to Banff Springs using Goat Creek? Planning on getting dropped at the trail head in Canmore this weekend, and want to make sure I can ski to the Banff Springs.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ChrisL's post: Healy Creek to Cave and Basin - Banff - Spring Conditions
Delivered: Monday Feb 06, 2023 at 17:00
Howdy Chris,
Love your pictures.
The top 3 pics look like a quasi fish eye wide angle lens which were taken with some good positioning effort. There are some pretty nice converging lines as well. They eyes sure move through the photos or pics following lines and curves. The bottom picture shows some nice winter colors in the creek shot. Well done.
This is a great ski trail to get some Bow Valley views and the railway is not very close which is nice.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Sara M's post: Pretty Pipestone
Delivered: Monday Feb 06, 2023 at 16:43
Howdy Sara,
Good to see you are starting to rack up some skiing miles again.
If you want to ski far up the Pipestone River, look for my old ski trail on the horse/backpacking trail. It is likely buried somewhat but should still be visible all the way up to the northern portion of Point Camp Meadows.
MaSid replied to Sara M's post: Pretty Pipestone
Delivered: Monday Feb 06, 2023 at 07:59
Thanks for checking out the river route. Doesn’t sound good for a snowfa in the near future, unless Tuesday brings a big dump of the white stuff. Regardless, should fix the needle and ice issues throughout the region.
Chuck replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 21:14
Bob,
Actually, I totally agree with you, but we all have our side interests.
Thankfully, Skier Roger deletes anything totally beyond the pale.
But we all know that we need reporters...
Looking forward to your report.
bob milko replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 19:48
for sure Chuck but I don’t think this is the place for political commentary
Chuck replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 19:17
Hey Bob,
If you don't want to read someone's report,
Don't read it.
That is your choice... Easy!
Bob Milko replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SPRAY RIVER FROM BANFF TO GOAT CREEK PARKING LOT AND BACK
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 18:28
Hello MR. Demonize Alberta
I do appreciate your reports on ski and trail conditions. I DO NOT appreciate your hyperbolic political whining. It does nothing to further the positive aspects of this fantastic website or your reports. I would prefer not to have your reports if you continue your nonsensical blathering as if you have all the right answers to everything. And recently you criticized Parks for changing slightly their URL to grooming conditions saying perhaps they don't want us to know what is real":)" .. What utter nonsense - you should be thankful they groom trails at all. Speaking of afraid to be real .. Who are you hiding behind a pseudonym?
Janice P replied to Janice P's post: Glorious day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 18:08
Love your story in rhyme Old L. E. Phant
MaSid replied to ChrisL's post: Healy Creek to Cave and Basin - Banff - Spring Conditions
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 17:53
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonnee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions
Old L.E. Phant replied to Janice P's post: Glorious day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 15:55
To Janice and Charlie and all others:
It had been agreed ~ today would be the day
We were now overdue ~ to go out and play
The sky looked a bit hazy ~ but the temp seemed OK
So we'll load up the women ~ and be on our way
Now where do we head for? We want something quite
flat
Bragg Creek was mentioned ~ as the answer to that
The trip out was fine ~ we need not a map
Didn't even get caught ~ in that awful speed trap
The wind felt quite bitter ~ as we unloaded skis
We were not prepared ~ for such a cold breeze
Some noses were running ~ some hands got too cold
We better get moving ~ before we're too old
So over the bridge now ~ took Crystal line East
Got clear of the dogs ~ that was better at least
Our route then changed ~ from green line to blue
We surprised ourselves ~ at what we could do
The cold hands warmed up ~ our spirits got better
We happy to be there ~ no more talk about weather
And then someone said ~ so where will we eat?
Lets go back to the shack ~ and dine in the heat
Too soon it was over ~ We headed back home
We talked about "next time" ~ and where we might roam
February first ~ it was really not bad
Others have posted ~ what good fun they had
The wind had been chilly ~ more than expected
Next time for sure ~ we'll be better protected !
Participants: Old LE, wife Gazelle, and two other women.
Distance travelled: -not much but very good for us!
Old L.E. Phant replied to Janice P's post: Glorious day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 14:23
Judy M replied to DvD's post: Atomic 183cm classic skis, bindings and boots (size 39)
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 10:32
Deanna in buy and sell, I may be interested in the boots but can't reach you via your text number. Could you please text me at 403 863 1012?
Chuck replied to Janice P's post: Glorious day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 08:22
So glad that you too Janice have brought your poetic skills over to SkierRoger.
Readers can reacquaint themselves by clicking in the "renowned poet" highlight in this article when SkierBob retired:
http://skierbob.ca/2021/02/covid-compliant-selfies-on-the-bill-milne-trail/
And glad that you also had a Glorious day at Lake Louise yesterday!
SkierRoger replied to Janice P's post: Glorious day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 07:45
Heck, and it rhymes too!
Thanks Janice
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Go for a ski > make/ENJOY furniture > repeat
Delivered: Sunday Feb 05, 2023 at 07:33
Diana, only H2O used in back country winter locations. But always making furniture, skiing/hiking in between. It’s a lifestyle. We are well researched in the perfect angle of repose here at Snowfaland. (-;
Sorry AT, only 3/4” fittings
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: Go for a ski > make/ENJOY furniture > repeat
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 23:32
Sweet lookin' table!
Do you have any extra fittings? I need a couple 1/2" 90s for the gas line to the sauna.
Diana Piggott replied to Diana Piggott's post: PLPP Needlemania
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 22:55
MaSid, it was a beautiful day out in the mountains, and we all had a pretty good time :-)
Diana Piggott replied to MaSid's post: Go for a ski > make/ENJOY furniture > repeat
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 22:51
Oh!!
Are you reinforcing your backcountry furniture now?? Or is this a different project?
I'm glad to hear about the flurries; the warm, dry, windy weather gets a bit depressing.
MaSid replied to Diana Piggott's post: PLPP Needlemania
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 19:09
Everyone must have read your report this morning, very few folks about on the trails today. Saw only 4 skiers and two snow shoers on my return to the main trails in the afternoon. But glad to see you were out skiing, despite the conditions. Probably some on and off flurries next while based on weather pattern, so maybe things might get covered enough.
JackB replied to ulrikeski's post: Shadow Lake blast
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 10:42
You were right on the money Ulrikeski about your prediction of some hard packed, wind blown snow on the way into Skoki, so your choice of Shadow Lake instead was definitely the right one in terms of more forgiving snow conditions.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to JackB's post: Skoki Lodge - Day Trip
Delivered: Saturday Feb 04, 2023 at 00:18
Howdy Jack,
I love your picture of Ptarmigan Lake. That is a great shot of Fossil Mountain and it reminds me of when I skied down the drift in the picture at midnight to a full moon way back in the last century. It was a howling great midnight ride in July. I use to pack Rossignol slalom skis and Hanson ski boots up into that country to get summer time skiing thrills on various mountains. It was stunning what I could carry on my back with my Jansport D-2 backpack which was/is the best and biggest backpack for hauling heavy weights.
The valuable day light was used for pulling 8 lb Brook Trout out of Baker Lake and watching wolverines, that sometimes would steal the fish. The wolverines would either dig them out of 6 feet of cold snow storage, along with bacon and T-bones, or pull them up like a human with hands on the 20'line in which they were attached to for storing in the lake.
Democratize AB
Legalize Real Democracy Party (ca.)
ulrikeski replied to JackB's post: Skoki Lodge - Day Trip
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 22:19
Hi Jack: nice bluebird day for your trip. It must have been fast on the hard packed snow. I definitely appreciated having fast tracks and a bit softer snow on the ski out from Shadow Lake.
Helen Read replied to Barry G's post: Kananaskis Village needlemania
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 22:16
Great to meet you Barry G in the Terrace parking lot! My girlfriend and I had a short ski on Terrace/Aspen Blue/Green to Kovach and conditions improved as we descended Kovach. I must admit, including me, that alot of skiers were fooled by the new grooming the was shown on Nordic Pulse, having NO IDEA of the extent of damage the wind did to it following. I skied the exact same route yesterday and it was 150% better. I feel badly for the groomers who did such a fabulous job of these trails last night.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: MOUNTAIN MADNESS - Banff Style
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 20:38
Thanks for the great photos, Chuck.
Those Banff folks sure know how to party!
SteveR replied to ErinP's post: Epic warm day at West Bragg
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 19:43
We skied the core trails at days end. Plus 6 to start, zero at 5:30. Still in great shape with slightly glazed tracks in a couple of spots, and almost no debris. A paper thin layer of universal klister gave excellent grip and glide.
ErinP replied to JeffG's post: Great Divide fantastic as usual!
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 18:53
Sounds great! Wish I was there, or that you were with me at WBC!
SkierRoger replied to Golden Nordic's post: 25th Huckleberry Loppet in Golden BC
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 13:40
This sounds like a fun event.
Thanks Sanne
aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Little Stash on the Prairie...
Delivered: Friday Feb 03, 2023 at 08:20
Thanks Alf. I look forward to exploring the many old and new clear cuts...er...pardon me, ski runs that dot my designated area.
MaSid, yes, I find the touch of grey lends an air of distinction (not to be confused with extinction).
MaSid replied to aqua toque's post: Little Stash on the Prairie...
Delivered: Thursday Feb 02, 2023 at 22:50
Happy to see a real AT creative trip report location for the season finally. Not bad for the 15 minute condition and limited stashes. Timing looked good. But the aqua seems a bit more grey these days (not a negative).
Alf Skrastins replied to aqua toque's post: Little Stash on the Prairie...
Delivered: Thursday Feb 02, 2023 at 22:30
Looks like you used the "Pistolero" bike trail to access that little stash. It can be good, when it's good.
There is a track from West Meadow/Tom Snow at WBC to a NE facing cut block. The snow was supportive enough on Wednesday.
Chuck replied to Mary's post: Hokey Pokey on Cascade
Delivered: Thursday Feb 02, 2023 at 19:59
Great... more poets in our midst
Sky.high replied to Gord F's post: Under the Chinook Arch
Delivered: Thursday Feb 02, 2023 at 19:53
Yes another perfect day at WBC, Jip and I skied Elbow/Iron Springs loop including a side trip down towards Fullerton to the Snagmnore junction. Then after a sunny lunch skied Moose/Mountain View loop, every trail was in great condition :)
aqua toque replied to Mary's post: Hokey Pokey on Cascade
Delivered: Thursday Feb 02, 2023 at 17:56
The Hokey Pokey you say?
Thanks! I was wondering what it's all about.
Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: ELK PASS, TYRWHITT and LOOKOUT - Where is everyone?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 01, 2023 at 22:37
Sorry to miss you two on Lookout! I started from Upper Boulton around 10:30 and climbed W-J to Lookout. Agree, skiing down towards Hydroline was curvy fun until it wasn't. Sidestepped down one big steep hill about halfway down and put more VR 40 on before final exit onto Hydroline. Met a fellow named Craig who climbed much more efficiently than me. Fox was greatly improved from the refresh it got compared to day before. Moraine had its share of needles to complete my circuit.
aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: Would You like Ice With That?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 01, 2023 at 12:25
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Would You like Ice With That?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 01, 2023 at 11:56
Probably too expensive for use on the acreage 😉
MaSid replied to SkierRoger's post: Would You like Ice With That?
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 01, 2023 at 11:52
Apparently 7 G’s for a brand new snow dog, with 1 cylinder 4 stroke engine, not including accessories. But it does have heated handles!
SkierRoger replied to gh's post: WBC all the way to Fullerton parking
Delivered: Wednesday Feb 01, 2023 at 10:59
Thanks very much for pointing that out, Alf. I found it interesting to hear that Iron Creek is part of the Trans-Canada Trail.
A quick Google search indicates that to date, nearly 27,000 kilometers of the Trail are operational. Four out of five Canadians live within 30 minutes of the Trail.
If anyone wishes to learn more, click the link provided below.
And to follow-up on an earlier comment by Mr. Democracy about women achieving great feats, I've also included a link about Dianne Whelan, who became the first person to complete the TC trail.
Link to further information on the Trans-Canada Trail
Dianne Whelan first person to complete the TC trail.
Alf Skrastins replied to gh's post: WBC all the way to Fullerton parking
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 31, 2023 at 21:36
"Dead End" is not the name of the trail that extends west from the sharp corner on Iron Springs. The name of the trail is Iron Creek and it is part of the Trans-Canada Trail. The trails are correctly named on the junction trail maps.
SkierRoger replied to Deb & Rory's post: Allison-Chinook trails good
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 31, 2023 at 17:28
Thanks very much Deb & Rory for your report on the Allison-Chinook trails in the Crowsnest Pass. I must get down there sometime!
SteveR replied to ErinP's post: Great snow at WBC
Delivered: Monday Jan 30, 2023 at 20:44
Yes, it really was a perfect day for skiing! We added on Mountain View, Loggers and East Sundog to Moose-Mountainview West and conditions were great on those as well.
Peter N replied to Peter N's post: Banff Springs to Goat Creek
Delivered: Monday Jan 30, 2023 at 10:28
Thanks Chuck! Hadn't been here in years, had funny feeling that got name wrong. Would like to have skied to the real Goat Creek bridge, but given the Trumanesque late start 1:30 pm, decided it was time to head home.
Chuck replied to Peter N's post: Banff Springs to Goat Creek
Delivered: Monday Jan 30, 2023 at 07:51
Peter, that is NOT the Goat Creek Bridge!
That is another bridge over the SPRAY RIVER (10 kms from Banff).
One has to go another few kms east to get to the Goat Creek bridge which very beautiful and particularly tricky as approached from the east.
Goat Creek Bridge photo attached from my December 1st report.
MaSid replied to JimB's post: In search of the West Elk Meadows Snofa
Delivered: Monday Jan 30, 2023 at 06:53
A wise move Jim. Once past the first wide open meadow, it does get a bit more wind protected (smaller meadows).
JimB replied to JimB's post: In search of the West Elk Meadows Snofa
Delivered: Monday Jan 30, 2023 at 06:09
Only as far as the snofa on this trip. Saw the blown in tracks continuing south through the meadow but with the brisk headwind away from the trees, we decided to turn around at that point. Good luck with your knees
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to The 13th Troll's post: Weaslehead Ski
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 22:31
Yo 13th Troll,
There can be some nice high speed skiing on the old river bed in your photo. I use to pull a lot of trout out of there at one time on the fly rod. Most of the time they just snapped my 8lb test line like it did not exist.
Don't be fooled by discriminating term of Black Bear Escarpment. Grizzlies roam there once in a blue moon too.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Peter N's post: Banff Springs to Goat Creek
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 22:10
Howdy Peter,
I like a few of your pics, particularly the first one of the confounded Goat Creek trail bridge that sends shivers down to my skis. The lines on the bridge and fence really move the eyes around through the picture horizontally fast. That reminds me of how fast I come down the hill and onto the confounded bridge where there have been many skiers crashing into it, including a friend of mine who almost looked like he was going to fall into the "drink."
I love carving those corners, along all that wood, with my 205 cm metal edge skis- the sharp edged ones anyways. There is no room for error skiing down the hill fast on this section of the trail.
The photo technique of convergence of lines (well almost in the bridge photo) is where the people have a good bridge "convergence" crash. Those who don't crash ski into "sunny ways" as shown in your photo.
A++, particularly for the angle of the photo. Good pic.
Democratize AB
Legalize Real Democracy Party (.ca)
MaSid replied to JimB's post: In search of the West Elk Meadows Snofa
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 21:44
Glad you made it there and enjoyed some sun and views. Wanted to be there myself today, but having some knee issues and a lack of desire for -20 and lower. Hopefully you made it all the way through the meadows to the hydroline and back given the sunny weather. It’s a worthwhile tour, even with a little bit of trail breaking, mostly because of the efficient cruising on return on The track you broke.
Helene replied to Helene's post: Moraine Lake Rd - Fairview - Tramline
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 18:53
Hi MaSid,
Your poor snofa was in sorry state but my Seattle friends were still impressed. A fine lunch stop. ,-) We were there before Thursday night's snowfall. Wish I had taken a photo... will try to be more diligent with recording.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: SKIJOR - Spot the Skier
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 17:26
Did you give it a try Chuck?
Looks bloody dangerous!
Helen Read replied to ulrikeski's post: CNC - a superb classic day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 17:12
Ditto to Ulrike. It is pretty unusual for me to ski two days in a row at CNC but Sat/Sun both magnificent. Rundle/Meadowview/Bow/Grey Wolf/King of Sweden/ending on Banff. Rarely do I get to enjoy waxing on CNC trails but green (-10 to -15) did the trick. Off to William Watson this week: the ski and weather Gods are with us.
Diana Piggott replied to Bob Truman's post: Snow farming on Elk Pass
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 12:59
That is very interesting! I have seen those scrapings alongside the trail before, but had no idea they were some sort of snow farming.
Thank you :-)
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Back to Bragg (2 G’s)
Delivered: Sunday Jan 29, 2023 at 09:29
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SKIJOR - Spot the Skier
Delivered: Saturday Jan 28, 2023 at 20:17
Even on the title photo, did you notice that the rope is looped around her left foot (make sure to zoom in for details)... no wonder she is holding on for dear life!
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: SKIJOR - Spot the Skier
Delivered: Saturday Jan 28, 2023 at 15:08
That’s great! Hard to tell who’s having more fun.
SteveR replied to SkierRoger's post: Snow, Snow, Snow at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Friday Jan 27, 2023 at 20:18
Silky smooth blue wax skiing on the core trails late this afternoon, with 4-5 cm of powder snow overlaying the roller packing of earlier in the day. Although I had been marvelling at how well the grooming team had kept Bragg skiable throughout the drought- it's great to see the return of winter conditions!
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Snow, Snow, Snow at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Friday Jan 27, 2023 at 19:04
Looks like Peter and Jeremy have their work cut out for them!
Check out:
https://braggcreektrails.org/xc-ski-team/
to recognize the 2022/2023 Team.
Gord F replied to SkierRoger's post: Snow, Snow, Snow at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Friday Jan 27, 2023 at 17:05
Great to meet you today Roger. True, no conclusions about which skis are best. I'm thinking maybe all 3 would be the ticket. Nancy and I have been skiing on waxable Rossignol BC 65 metal edged skis in pretty much every condition. They are wider than standard track skis, but they fit the track without any significant drag on the sides. The only condition that gives us real problems is hardpacked trails on warm days so waxless skis would be good for that. And, I'm an admitted klisterphobe.
I'll second the conditions report for today. Beautiful skiing on soft roller-packed trails. Blue wax was the ticket for us.
MaSid replied to Helene's post: Moraine Lake Rd - Fairview - Tramline
Delivered: Thursday Jan 26, 2023 at 17:03
Is the snowfa still in decent shape? Doesn’t sound like there has been much new snow.
MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: PLPP Lookout-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 26, 2023 at 10:48
Thanks gents for the good info!
Alf Skrastins replied to Alf Skrastins's post: PLPP Lookout-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 26, 2023 at 09:49
R.M. (Raymond) Patterson was a great author of books about the Canadian west. He bought the Buffalo Head ranch in the Highwood Valley from George Pocaterra and you can read about his adventures in the Highwood and Kananaskis in his book "Buffalo Head".
Unlike all of the British military figures, whose names appear all over the Kananaskis Valley, R.M. Patterson and George Pocaterra actually spent considerable time exploring and enjoying this area.
Chris S replied to Alf Skrastins's post: PLPP Lookout-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 26, 2023 at 09:31
Raymond Murray Patterson
MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: PLPP Lookout-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 26, 2023 at 09:16
Here’s one for the encyclopedia Alf: who was the Patterson Trail named after, assuming it’s a person? I’ve been calling the meadow “Patterson” merely because it ends up there, but would be good to know what the reference is.
Alf Skrastins replied to Bob Truman's post: Snow farming on Elk Pass
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 22:32
Great to see you on the SkierBob Special today! When I saw that camera on the trail, I knew exactly who it belonged to. I'm so happy that you were able to get it back in time for this report!
Carole replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Response to Chuck's Limerick
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 21:02
I love that you are back for everyone to read and be entertained! Encouraging others to continue the fun!
Helen Read replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Response to Chuck's Limerick
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 19:33
Old L.E. Phant: we all LOVE you on Skier Bob and now Skier Roger. We appreciate what you have to offer; what you have to bring to ALL THE REST of us on this site. Your poetry is heartfelt and tender and NOT ONE OF US is getting any younger. While 75 perhaps sounds young to you; perhaps it sounds old to me/us. I can only speak for myself on this website: I love your and your wife's presence on this website. We ARE a community to which you are an integral part. Thanks to Chuck andCarole, and this old and new website, you are back within the fold!! Thank You, Helen
Chuck replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Response to Chuck's Limerick
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 16:23
Well Thank You, Mr. Old L.E. Phant.
My Dad loved Limericks, so it's high time I tried one.
I will use this opportunity to reveal another magnificent poem of yours, so that it can be found later under your name.
It was originally posted on the SkierBob website on February 28, 2020, and Bob Truman helped me find it recently.
Besides pasting it below, I will also attach the direct link. It starts with your introduction:
I haven’t been on my skis for more than a week so I’ve been entertaining myself with other people’s stories and pictures plus reliving memories of one of our trips this winter:
I lie there a while feeling some low,
“Get up” called my wife “You promised you’d go”.
I tried to think fast what excuse could I make,
I didn’t dare try an illness to fake.
She’s down in the kitchen making breakfast and lunch,
My job-load the ski gear we take quite a bunch.
We meet with the “Keeners” at the usual place,
We know they’re excited by the smile on their face.
The drive to the mountains is really quite fun
With joking and laughter and now risen sun.
I’m happier now its great to get out,
So dumb it would be to stay home and pout
Then at the trailhead some doubt had returned,
I’m now loosing back the points I had earned.
The Keeners are pumped we know they’ll ski far
As soon as they start out I get back in the car.
My wife doesn’t buy it her glare I can see,
“Get your ass in the saddle-You’re coming with me!”
My wife is still able to ski fairly well
She’s faster than me now so I call her “Gazelle”
The uphills were brutal both my pumps went red line
I wish I was home so I could recline
Downhills are deadly frightening things
Both skis start flailing like broken bird wings
Then it was over both of my legs sore
But I wouldn’t have missed it I wished we’d done more
In spite of myself I flash a big smile
The happiest feeling I’ve had for a while
We blast off to Canmore for munchies and beer
“Just one for you” “You’re driving my dear”
Me and Gazelle still best of friends
Nothing else matters when the day ends!
Direct Link to the poem
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: CASTLE JUNCTION TRAIL #3 - Another Trackset Trail to Enjoy
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 15:22
A shorty. Thanks Chuck.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: CASTLE JUNCTION TRAIL #3 - Another Trackset Trail to Enjoy
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 15:18
Closer to 3 Km MaSid.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: CASTLE JUNCTION TRAIL #3 - Another Trackset Trail to Enjoy
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 25, 2023 at 08:30
Couldn’t find my map for bow valley cross country. About 8k Chuck?
SkierRoger replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: CANADA'S TOUGHEST XC SKIER IS A WOMAN
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 20:19
Tough lady!
Chuck replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Thanks for asking
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 17:54
There was an old man called L.E. Phant
Whose poetry does us enchant!
And while we might try
It doesn’t come nigh,
So we look forward to more from Old L.E. Phant.
Donna B replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Thanks for asking
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 10:54
Heartwarming! Thank you for “appearing” Mr. L.E.Phant, a gentleman and a gem, I’m sure.
aqua toque replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Thanks for asking
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 09:07
Well done!
Humourous with a hint of melancholy.
Gets ya right in the feels.
Jolynn replied to Helen Read's post: Doesn't take much more than 1/2 cm. of fresh snow to make XC skiers happy
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 08:55
You've inspired me to ski the full length of MLR, which isn't far for most of you skiers, but is a good challenge for me...might set a record for the slowest!
SkierRoger replied to Old L.E. Phant's post: Thanks for asking
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 08:13
Thanks for the lovely poem, Old L.E. Phant.
I think you brightened everyone’s morning!
Karl B replied to Karl B's post: Wolves at Elk lakes Cabin
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 24, 2023 at 07:23
Don't know who made the mini couch. We really appreciated the large couch on the way in and out.
ulrikeski replied to Helen Read's post: Cascade Fire Road to Warden's Cabin
Delivered: Monday Jan 23, 2023 at 17:53
Hi Helen: I meant the big hill on the fireroad back down to the meadow and road w. Junction to Bank head. (the big hill you climb going up)
Helen Read replied to Helen Read's post: Cascade Fire Road to Warden's Cabin
Delivered: Monday Jan 23, 2023 at 16:10
Ulrike, the Loppeteer: you are the intrepid skier, not me. I ONLY ski on light touring metal edge skis c back country bindings. Not sure which hill you were referring to, but the one that goes most directly down to the cabin, I never choose, but rather always enter by trail closest to end of grooming. I ski up that hill only.
ulrikeski replied to Helen Read's post: Cascade Fire Road to Warden's Cabin
Delivered: Monday Jan 23, 2023 at 12:23
Great report, Helen. You're an intrepid skier. Did you use metal edged LT gear? How was the big downhill?
MaSid replied to Karl B's post: Wolves at Elk lakes Cabin
Delivered: Monday Jan 23, 2023 at 10:55
Was that your group who made the mini-couch?
P.s. looks like maybe the pole replacement work is complete now, on the B.C. side anyway. Not sure if the wood ones on the alberta side will also be getting replaced in the future. That’ll mess up the grooming quite a bit, or perhaps it will be confined to summer months.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: In the mist at elk pass
Delivered: Monday Jan 23, 2023 at 07:12
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to The 13th Troll's post: Snow in the City!
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 20:03
Hey Roger,
I think the weather is more nuts than the computer weather forecast model you referred to. I was way out on my forecast last week as well. The jet stream went way up north suddenly before it hit the coast which was odd- at least by old time weather prediction standards. This seems to be a more common feature which makes weather prediction more difficult. Sometimes it seems like there is a weather shield off the BC coast which deflects many storms northward instead of allowing the westerly flows to go east, like they traditionally would.
SkierRoger replied to The 13th Troll's post: Snow in the City!
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 14:50
Thanks Mr. Troll
We too experienced a fair amount of snow in NW Calgary this morning. For a minute, it had me wondering if the SpotWx predictions that I sent out last Sunday were correct. https://skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski&id=1636&rownum=1448
As it turns out, the forecast Sunday snowfall was only correct for the eastern areas. Darn computers!
I now see SpotWx projects a dump of the white stuff on Friday/Saturday for many areas. Let’s hope it’s got things right this time!
HenryL replied to MaSid's post: In the mist at elk pass
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 09:24
MaSid, I suspect that "Finding SnowfaLand" will be a hit movie one day.
BonnyTasky replied to Chuck's post: 2023 LAKE LOUISE to(wards) BANFF LOPPET
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 08:56
What great pics, thanks Chuck. So it was you as Mr Happy at Baker Creek?! Thanks for your great words of encouragement. As my dog says every day - best day ever :)
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: 2023 LAKE LOUISE to(wards) BANFF LOPPET
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 08:38
Thanks for the great photos and cheering, Chuck. Tramline and Bow River Trail were absolutely beautiful. Morant's Curve was a walk (for me). The willows between the tracks slowed me down and the last section was survival skiing at its best.
Bob Truman replied to Chuck's post: 2023 LAKE LOUISE to(wards) BANFF LOPPET
Delivered: Sunday Jan 22, 2023 at 08:31
I enjoyed seeing your photos, thanks Chuck. Looking at the results, I was surprised at 23 no-shows. Did the poor conditions on legs three and four scare them away? The times were incredibly fast so I'm guessing there were some slick tracks. Results https://zone4.ca/event/2023/3D4E8FE6/
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE +
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 19:47
Howdy HenryL,
Thanks a million for the comet notice. That would be really cool to see out skiing. I have never seen a comet skiing before. Too bad I left my binoculars at the farm. Hopefully I can borrow some binoculars to spot this once in 50,000 year opportunity because the way the body feels, I may not make it to the next sighting opportunity.
I will have to plan out a ski to see this comet. If the snow was decent enough, Dinosaur Provincial Park would be a great place to see it with the big starlit sky. A stop at the Patricia Hotel Water Hole for a bison burger or preferably a bison steak after the comet watching would be a real Prairie ski treat to remember.
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Breakfast at Emerald Lake Lodge (ELL) in Burgess Dining Rm absolutely a 10/10. Thanks to Louis our server!
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 19:24
Looks like an extra 5k sausage, for an even 20.
Silver replied to SkierRoger's post: Trail Update For Upper Lake Louise
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 16:11
On Friday, I saw the corduroy grooming machine laying there by itself on my way up Fairview, and it was being dragged out by the groomer via snowmobile on my way back down…
Not sure about the tracksetting, hopefully it got done on Saturday
HenryL replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE +
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 09:56
Hey Dem, if you are out in the hills in the next few clear nights, consider taking a small pair of binoculars and enjoy Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF.
Presently it's down between the northern horizon and handle of the Big Dipper. Over the next 10 days it will go way up towards Polaris and the Little Dipper and so will be visible earlier in the evening. Right now you'll need to wait until after 10 or 11 pm.
It should also be brightening for the next 10 days or so. Make your friends in Australia jealous, because they lose the view soon.
Have fun on your night ski trips.
Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF, Sky and Telescope
aqua toque replied to Helen Read's post: Breakfast at Emerald Lake Lodge (ELL) in Burgess Dining Rm absolutely a 10/10. Thanks to Louis our server!
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 08:27
Mmmm...bison I presume?
Normand replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE +
Delivered: Saturday Jan 21, 2023 at 05:49
I can testify that if you don’t slow down in fast ski conditions, one could easily lose control after that second/lowermost narrow bridge, after the right angle turn. Thirty years, I coming down REC for the very first time with LT gears, at full speed with a heavy backpack from Egypt Lake. The fellow that was ahead of me had a big wipeout; I followed with the same scenario immediately after that narrow bridge. Good shoulder dislocation for me with a minor concussion. Bottom line, adjust your speed around that right angle turn, according to the snow conditions and type of skis. Obviously I wasn’t at the time or felt invincible, although I didn’t know the subtilties of the trail. Ski safe.
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: Breakfast at Emerald Lake Lodge (ELL) in Burgess Dining Rm absolutely a 10/10. Thanks to Louis our server!
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 22:51
Thanks for the nice report Helen. I’ve attached the pictures you sent.
Please email me with a time for us to go over the basics of posting pictures. I know you take many photos and we’d love to see ‘em!
Rsakatch@gmail.com
Normand replied to Normand's post: Red Earth Creek to Red Chairs by Shadow Lake
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 21:37
Thanks MaSid. Wow and Re-wow about such stunning, but also inspiring winter scenery. Won’t be able to ski for a good 3 weeks, but hopefully after we can catch each other on the trails.
MaSid replied to Normand's post: Red Earth Creek to Red Chairs by Shadow Lake
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 20:36
Some winter ski days are just so great. Looks like you had one normand. Well done and earned. Thanks for taking us there with the photos. Probably a few more windows before the next “vortex”. See you on the trails soon.
CMS replied to SkierRoger's post: Trail Update For Upper Lake Louise
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 20:31
Unfortunately, about noon today we encountered the grooming machine broken down on Fairview. The groomer (Berke?) was attempting to fix it, but wasn't hopeful. He was on his second grooming run and had not done any track setting yet. The machine is easily seen and not a hazard. He wasn't sure when they could get another machine to tow it out.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE +
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 12:18
I forgot to add a suggestion to my Shadow Lake trip report. When skiing down the Redearth trail and approaching one of the narrow little bridges lower down on the trail, slow down more than normal if the snow is fast like last night.
I believe it was the last narrow small bridge that had a much bigger ramp than normal, due to the low snow fall. I thought I slowed down enough to handle the ramp as per normal but obviously not. I hit the ramp and flew through the air and crashed well past the confounded bridge. I landed on my side and my toque and headlamp flew off as my head smashed into the snowmobile trail. When I came to a stop, the first thing I checked for was a concussion. Luckily the body came through the crash fine with just a slightly sore head. I gathered my toque and headlamp and skied on with lightening fast acceleration on the fast snow.
This is the first time ever a big ramp on a bridge has caught me off guard resulting in a crash in many decades of skiing. All the bridges on the trail up to Shadow Lake have bigger than normal ramps this year. I do recall Chuck making a recommendation to "adjust" the ramp that I hit in a report in a previous season.
Skiers beware of the confounded bridge ramps, particularly when the snow is lightening fast and the snowpack is below normal.
Ray Yong replied to Normand's post: Red Earth Creek to Red Chairs by Shadow Lake
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 09:58
Beautiful pictures! Yup, winter's my favourite season in the Rockies.
Normand replied to Normand's post: Red Earth Creek to Red Chairs by Shadow Lake
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 09:31
Thanks Chuck. It was your pictures of the nice ski conditions you recently described for REC, which encouraged me to get up there soon.
Chuck replied to Normand's post: Red Earth Creek to Red Chairs by Shadow Lake
Delivered: Friday Jan 20, 2023 at 08:08
Awesome picture with the Red Chairs Normand, and thanks also for the valuable report.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ErinP's post: Twiggy tracks in the Castle area
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 18, 2023 at 23:43
Howdy aqua toque,
That joke about hooking up snow guns to hydrogen trains emitting water vapour had me laughing on the floor. You could sell that classic joke to Ron James as that type of humour is up his environmental alley. He would have to stop laughing before he pays you.
aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Twiggy tracks in the Castle area
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 18, 2023 at 09:07
Now if CP would just rig up snow guns on those hydrogen trains for that water vapour...
tmalaher replied to ErinP's post: Twiggy tracks in the Castle area
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 18, 2023 at 07:25
Can confirm the "twiggyness". And there was a bit of mayhem when first joining the railway right of way (westbound): very thin uneven snow for a few hundred metres because they (CPR) had plowed. Tracksetters managed to make the most of it so we were able to avoid the mud and rocks. But altogether a good ski day. No wind, temperature -5 to -2, and short glimpses of the sun. About 1 cm of new snow overnight in the parking lot at Castle Lookout.
Five (or was it six?) trains went by. But only one while we were beside the tracks.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: East Elk-West Elk traverse
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 18, 2023 at 01:01
Hey Sid,
Real nice shot of the fog on Elk Pass. I like the elogongated pic effect. It reminds me of some old scenic spaghetti western movie effect. Nice lines with the meadow, trees, clouds and contours that draw the eyes around the pic. Interesting contrasts with white and green trees as well.
Surprising the cat did not have deeper snow penetration in your one pic and that your skis do not look like they have much for penetration as well. There must be some nice base in them thar hills to travel. I have been depending on tracks from predictors to keep me afloat in the rotten Rockies snowpack this year in some areas while breaking trail. Mind you I don't ski on big fatties for flotation. Those would be nice boards for Akamina Pass to take you into great burnt out ski turn photo country.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to ErinP's post: Twiggy tracks in the Castle area
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 18, 2023 at 00:41
Hi Erin,
Your photo displays the vanishing point or linear convergence photography technique with the skier trackset disappearing in the distance extremely well and it is a great shot particularly with the lighting.
Linear convergence also shows up with the train car sides in the distance but it is harder to see with the lighting. It must of been noise hell when the train went by.
I don't like to ski near trains as the toxic diesel particulate emissions laced with benzene are brutal on the lungs. This will change in the future when they switch to hydrogen powered trains. You actually may be able to see some of these new CP hydrogen test engines screaming down the tracks on a future day of skiing along the tracks as they are rumbling on the rails now. Instead of sucking up toxic diesel particulate with laced with cancerous benzene, you will be sucking up water vapour and that is a good thing although it could make the trackset slightly icy with the passing of a number of hydrogen train engines. Not a bad trade off though. That may make for a better ski base as well.
The trees cut on either side of the railway right of way also give a bit but incomplete linear convergence effect which draws the eyes further into the picture. Great lines in the pic drawing the eyes in deeper. Those clouds are well lit and look great.
The linear convergence photography technique draws the eyes up the picture and makes the mind wonder what you will find there.
Taking shots lower to the ground can make linear convergence look more intense or more noticeable.
I think my old photo journalism instructor would give you an A or higher for this linear convergence photo.
Keep on shooting.
Cheers
Democratize AB
Legalize Real Democracy Party (.ca)
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: 2023 LAKE LOUISE TO BANFF LOPPET Course - 72 Km Version
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 17, 2023 at 20:19
Thanks for the updates on the loppet course. Tracks don't look too icy. Wow, you covered 72km today! That gives me hope that I can complete the 36km distance.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East Elk-West Elk traverse
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 17, 2023 at 19:54
I’m hoping that by early to mid-febuary enough snow has fallen and some buried sun/wind crusts in the west facing cut blocks to make the route doable on LT gear. Last year my first trip through it on LT was mid-January and the Snowfa H2.0 was already built. No construction happened today. No amount of stomping made for good blocks. There was maybe a cm of new snow in the old track today, which ain’t much. It is a fantastic tour on a good weather day for sure. Highly recommended.
ulrikeski replied to MaSid's post: East Elk-West Elk traverse
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 17, 2023 at 19:33
What an awesome day!
Looking forward to skiing there this winter.
Great photos.
ErinP replied to Helen Read's post: First tracks on the sleeping camel with two humps: Baker Creek to Castle Lookout
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 17, 2023 at 16:12
It was great running into you Helen! Thanks for the report!
SkierRoger replied to walterh's post: Whiskeyjack great, Fox Creek disastrous
Delivered: Monday Jan 16, 2023 at 19:53
Thanks very much for your report Walter. Taking the “kids” to PLPP tomorrow and will pay much attention to your report.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: LAKE LOUISE AREA (PEYTO, UPPER & LOWER TELEMARK) - Skier Roger Sighting!
Delivered: Monday Jan 16, 2023 at 19:28
It was really great seeing you again Chuck. The snow conditions were lovely & the company was even better!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: REDEARTH CREEK to the "CHAPEL IN THE WOODS" - First Trackset on January 12
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 23:01
Howdy Chuck,
I can always count on you to get out on the freshly laid xc ski tracksets.
Thanks for your report. Hopefully skiers have broken the trail to the Ball Pass campground and beyond as well. This will be my next ski trip when I get a day off from collecting 9000 registration signatures to start the new Legalize Real Democracy Party.
I encouraged the ACC in an email to snowmobile pack the hills wider where I had ski sidestepped the trail earlier in the season to make it easier for less experienced skiers to have a more enjoyable ski down. By the sounds of your report they did and this should benefit the ACC with more skier visits in the future. What goes around comes around and this is good ski karma.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: 10 Day Snow Forecast
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 22:42
Hi Roger,
Looking at the Pacific Satellite map on the Environment Canada Banff Weather office site, it looks like we could get hit with a jet stream by Wednesday. Normally this south westerly flow would hit us but with climate nutiness these days anything could happen. I have been following satellite maps for probably 40 years now for deep powder, backpacking, and farming purposes, and the weather is getting trickier to predict every year. If the jet stream does hit us, we will get some snow, potentially an upslope system, but the jet looks like it will sag below us giving colder winter like temperatures late in the week. This will require a shift back to green wax.
Snow sweepstakes are a challenge to predict and win!
ErinP replied to Chuck's post: POEMS - To Describe the Day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 15:32
I love it! I hadn’t seen that post the first time around…thanks for posting!
ulrikeski replied to Bob Truman's post: Lake Louise to Banff Loppet - 2023 will be the shortest ever
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 10:15
The race start was delayed until 9am at the lake and racers were stopped at Johnston Canyon. I had to check my old notes for clarification.
Bob, you definitely have experienced this loppet with all it's fun, grit and glory.
Bob Truman replied to Bob Truman's post: Lake Louise to Banff Loppet - 2023 will be the shortest ever
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 09:24
ulrikeski, thanks for the history. That was before my time. In fact, I never had a pair of skis on my feet until 1997 and I didn't participate in the loppet until 2002.
When I was skiing into the teeth of a biting cold wind between Castle Junction and Johnston Canyon(about 40K along) in 2004, I was wishing that it had stopped at Castle Junction!
ulrikeski replied to Bob Truman's post: Lake Louise to Banff Loppet - 2023 will be the shortest ever
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 09:17
A bit of old loppet history: in 1996 the race started at the lake in -28C. A cold front was moving in from the East. The loppet organizers decided to stop all racers at Castle Junction because of the cold and frost bite concerns. That was a cold event.
Carole replied to Chuck's post: POEMS - To Describe the Day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 15, 2023 at 06:25
I'll send a nudge to the author...
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: POEMS - To Describe the Day
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 21:02
Definitely good brilliant stuff. Remember that from way back. And then never a new poem ensued. Sure would be nice to read some more of that talent. Where is Old L.E. Phant?
gh replied to gh's post: WBC most of the Bragg Creek Trails network
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 20:23
Yes, waxless is the way to go when it is this warm, at least for me.
Gord F replied to gh's post: WBC most of the Bragg Creek Trails network
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 19:59
Thanks for the update. Were you using waxless skis? I'm thinking it would be tough to wax for these conditions.
Willie replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TRAIL IS TRACKSET
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 19:41
DEMOCRATIZE AB
I think the government is targeting you and tracking your activities. They don't want you to see the "real" conditions.
In my opinion. :)
ulrikeski replied to MaSid's post: Graupel (no rain) at Lake Louise
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 17:24
Thanks for the encouraging report, MaSid. Nice that you enjoyed some sun rays at your couch.
MaSid replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 17:18
No new snofa’s today Helen. Pipestone needs more snow based on ErinP photos the other day. Unless someone sticks a pole in and can confirm depth and consistency of snow. Needs 2ft above the ice of none-faceted snow to make it work in a day.
MaSid replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 16:06
Sorry AT, didn’t pick any up for you. Went straight to Peyto Bills for my pre-ski nourishment.
SkierRoger replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK TRAIL IS TRACKSET
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 12:32
I noticed a couple of days ago that the Banff trail conditions reports had changed location. The new link is as follows.
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonnee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions
Ray Yong replied to Ray Yong's post: Elk Pass - Elk Pass,Hydroline, Lookout South, Lookout North, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 09:12
Carole & Jamie - Nice to have met you. You also went up Blueberry! Wow, you guys are amazing. I had to knock it off because my arms were cramping.
JeffG - Thanks!
Helen Read replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 08:58
Peyto Bill's has a great breakfast and opens at 7am!!! Ate there two days ago, then skied Pipestone. I can almost smell a new "Snowfa" happening?
aqua toque replied to 's post:
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 08:06
Are the scones out at Laggans?
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: A ski nerd’s tale of PLPP
Delivered: Saturday Jan 14, 2023 at 00:00
Thanks Helen! I think your autocorrect switched Jeff to Greg, but I got the very sweet gist of your message. ☺️ It sounds like you also had a nice ski next door!
Helen Read replied to ErinP's post: A ski nerd’s tale of PLPP
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 20:06
You might consider yourself a "ski nerd" but you are our best poster and representative of father Greg-daughter Erin "ski nerds". I know you both treasure every opportunity.
JeffG replied to Ray Yong's post: Elk Pass - Elk Pass,Hydroline, Lookout South, Lookout North, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 18:27
Nice to see you at the Tyrwhitt-Lookout junction on such a great day! Up and over Lookout is always a significant feat. Congrats!
MaSid replied to ulrikeski's post: Finding Snowfa on Fairview
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 17:52
Aluminum picnic table? Tough with snow only.
SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Finding Snowfa on Fairview
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 17:00
True AT,
But I think the next generation of snow couches will have tiny openings where you can slide your skis through.
Can I patent that?
MaSid replied to ulrikeski's post: Finding Snowfa on Fairview
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 16:50
So much more comfortable with the skis off. (-:
Carole replied to Ray Yong's post: Elk Pass - Elk Pass,Hydroline, Lookout South, Lookout North, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 16:50
Glad you enjoyed it, Ray!
You met Carole & Jamie this morning.
We also skied up to Blueberry Hill where more snow bombs were plentiful!
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: A ski nerd’s tale of PLPP
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 16:11
Bahahaha! And thanks! I thought I’d spice it up a bit, so I didn’t post the same type of report that I always do. (And hello again Ray!)
Ωman replied to ErinP's post: A ski nerd’s tale of PLPP
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 15:40
ooooh <i>I'm</i> inspired now...
ChatGPT: Write a recklessly ignorant epic poem combining nordic skiing conditions with government policies in DEMOCRATIZE AB style
Seriously: Erin, great work!
Ray Yong replied to ErinP's post: A ski nerd’s tale of PLPP
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 15:40
Nicely done! Ran into you guys at the Tyrwhitt/Lookout junction.
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Delightful Day on Pipestone, especially great after breakfast at Peyto Bill's
Delivered: Friday Jan 13, 2023 at 15:39
Thanks for the reminder of this pre-ski breakfast option Helen. Haven’t eaten there in a long while. Next time.
Frances Dances replied to Chuck's post: HEALY PASS - Getting High gets the Reward... Powder Turns
Delivered: Thursday Jan 12, 2023 at 19:45
Thanks, Chuck. It brings back memories.
Helen Read replied to Mary's post: A dream and a scream! - Blueberry, Elk Pass and Hydroline
Delivered: Thursday Jan 12, 2023 at 19:05
Mary, Hydroline will never be the same to me after reading your incredible imagery:
"Most of the way down, it felt like I was on a moving sidewalk at the airport." Your English teachers must have loved to have you in their classes, and likely at the head of the class.
gh replied to gh's post: Pipestone (entire network 26 km) plus night skiing at CNC
Delivered: Thursday Jan 12, 2023 at 18:44
I like to get in a good distance and Canmore is on the way back anyway. This year I am trying hold my average in the low 30s.
SkierRoger replied to gh's post: Pipestone (entire network 26 km) plus night skiing at CNC
Delivered: Thursday Jan 12, 2023 at 08:18
Thanks for the report, gh. That's a heck of a ski. Skiing Pipestone in the day and then CNC at night.
Eyesopen replied to Bob Truman's post: Bow River Loop
Delivered: Thursday Jan 12, 2023 at 07:21
Thanks for the report and the pics of your pooch. She's adorable. So glad to see the snow on the trees to. I'm heading there this weekend.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: There’s a new snowfa in louise-town
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 23:28
Probably won’t need any packing tomorrow Helene. Should be in pristine ready to use shape. But maybe not as sunny as today. Pack in the back, foamy in the front. Couch depth and back wall is designed for this configuration. Maximum comfort and lounging/reclining without contacting snow and enjoying the view. Enjoy! You might even see Bob there.
Helene replied to MaSid's post: There’s a new snowfa in louise-town
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 20:01
THANK YOU MaSid! Your snofas are the best!! Will pack it down if I make it to Fairview tomorrow. Thanks again... having a sunny spot to lunch and enjoy the scenery is a real treat. My visitor friends are always blown away whenever I take them to one of your works of art. Cheers!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Helen Read's post: Anyone heading to Sundance Lodge might prefer hiking boots and grippers!
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 19:23
Hi Helen,
That is too bad the snow was not great up Brewster Creek. I guess the snow became to faceted/ cold affected to make a good base when the snowmobiles finally made their way up the trail recently. If the snowmobiles would have gone in earlier in the season when the snow had some good moisture before the extreme cold, the snowmobiles would have made much better base and the skiing would likely be better.
The skiing on the Brewster trail before the snowmobiles packed it was very good. I knew the conditions would worsen somewhat when they snowmobile packed the trail due to the cold sugary snow.
Timing is important when packing snow to make a good base. Sticky wet snow will adhere to rocks were faceted cold sugary snow will not. The extreme cold will even affect the skiers tracks that existed on the trail, weakening them, then the snowmobiles can break through such trails easier. I would imagine the snowmobiles pulled some rock up to the surface, through the cold sugary snow as well, when they hit the ground.
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: Anyone heading to Sundance Lodge might prefer hiking boots and grippers!
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 19:13
Sorry to hear about the bad trip, Helen. I take some responsibility for not being more critical in my recent reporting of this area.
That first part is certainly not great. We too had to walk over the dirty snow that paralleled the highway.
Beag replied to SkierRoger's post: Deleted Post, FYI
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 18:32
Thanks Roger. I’m a staunch supporter of democracy, but am slightly annoyed at the self-serving and unnecessary name “Democratize Alberta” frankly. Can’t we just ski and socialize without bringing the divisive nature of politics into our little space? (If not, I may change my handle to something more in line with my beliefs…! Like “semper ubi sub ubi”!)
Mike Nozdryn-Pl replied to SkierRoger's post: Deleted Post, FYI
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 18:00
Ditto from me too.... The whole point of skiing is to get away from the less serious stuff in life 😀
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: HEALY PASS - Getting High gets the Reward... Powder Turns
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 17:29
The ski out was fast, but there was plenty of snow to control your speed. AT skis are essential with full metal edges.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: HEALY PASS - Getting High gets the Reward... Powder Turns
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 17:23
Nice turns on a blue sky day. How was the ski out on the trail? Hopefully not a hard, icy luge run?
Sophie replied to SkierRoger's post: Deleted Post, FYI
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 16:10
Thank you very much Roger!
I’m sure it’s not easy as an admin.
I appreciate this platform being about skiing and not lobbying for personal views.
Thank you for your work and time you put into this blog.
Sophie
Arie replied to Anna's post: Beautiful Grooming at Mount Shark
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 14:30
Wow omega-man. That is an awesome image!
Alf Skrastins replied to SkierRoger's post: Deleted Post, FYI
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 11, 2023 at 00:42
Thank you!
This site is about snow and skiing.
Let's just keep it that way.
Beag replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 10, 2023 at 20:29
Not having read your report, I only noticed you misspelled population. (What wax did you use?)
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: Healy and Sundance Splendor
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 10, 2023 at 20:00
Yipeeeee!
Finally Brewster Creek Trail is groomed. With another 7 cm of new snow it should be trackset providing very good to excellent skiing potentially.
I have sidestepped the hills well this season so there should be good base. I would expect the snowmobiles to drag up the odd rock and tree branch though.
Ski it up before the crowds come when Sundance Lodge opens for the winter.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: Be careful not to misread the Parks Canada Trail Condition report
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 23:31
Howdy All Ye Skiers,
Redearth Creek is "supposed" to be trackset by January 13 by the Alpine Club of Canada which is awfully late in the season and pretty shabby public service by this corporation.
If the trail does not have some loose snow on it at the time of tracksetting, the tracksetting will be chunky and basically suck.
Pray for snow at your nearest favorite church or if you are more into praying to snow gods like Ullr (pronounced ooo-lar) or Khione the Greek goddess of snow, daughter of Boreas, god of the North Wind and Winter, and sister of Zethes and Calais although you may prefer some sort of god of the west wind or upslope wind to dump warmer snow. Perhaps there is some Hawaiian god that will bring in a Pineapple express which would really give a good dump of snow laced with ash and hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4) from the Kīlauea volcano. That might be a little sticky on the ski bases though.
Get your skis waxed up for that day and fill your pack up with water and food to enjoy a great long day up at Shadow Lake and ideally ski beyond and challenge yourself. Don't forget the headlamp.
Helen Read replied to ErinP's post: Silky Pipestone snow
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 19:49
No sweeter a father-daughter duo! Wonderful photo you captured of your "Hector hero" at Mud Lake.
MaSid replied to ErinP's post: Silky Pipestone snow
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 17:44
Probably needs more snow is my guess (based on prior ski reports and the coverage of the logs), unless you know it’s 2 ft or more above the ice and it’s not mostly facets.
Beag replied to ErinP's post: Silky Pipestone snow
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 16:31
Thanks for that! Looks amazing. (We're going tomorrow...!)
Ωman replied to Anna's post: Beautiful Grooming at Mount Shark
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 13:07
Two of us skied to heaven on that day too.
We concur on conditions of both tracks and road, and have just a viddy frame to add: An elusive cat and her kit who'd nonchalantly crossed the road near Commonwealth Pk.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Searching for sunshine......
Delivered: Monday Jan 09, 2023 at 11:00
The link to the on-line topo maps for the Kananaskis trail guides. The lines are summer hiking trails, not winter ski routes, but have all the basic topo info that one needs.
http://kananaskistrails.com/maps/
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: CANMORE NORDIC CENTRE - Why Race when you can Volunteer!
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 19:52
Must have been a great day for the AB Cup race, fast tracks. Thanks for volunteering, Chuck!
SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 19:46
It's great to have you back, ulrikeski. Now we get to see more of those fantastic pictures!
ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 19:43
Hi Roger: thanks for the feedback. My photos are jpg format. The problem appears when trying to type something in the comment boxes, i.e. distance skied, caption for a photo... then it fail's to submit. Cheers,
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Picture Posting Perfection (perhaps)
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 19:23
And It Worked... a great new feature.
Thanks
SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 14:09
Hi ulrikeski
I just increased the website's max picture size to 40 MB for a single image. Hopefully that helps with your uploading problem. Acceptable file formats are: jpeg, jpg, png, gif, heif, heic, wmf and tif.
Not sure what file format you're using but jpeg or jpg are most common amongst other users.
MaSid replied to Karl B's post: PLPP Quiet Day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 12:54
Treed areas back there currently provide some mankier travel opportunities compared to open areas. The fat skis might be best, which would also make descending the hydroline away from the plowed road easier. The Elkan drainage route heading north toward west elk pass pops out to the current skier set track through west elk at the fork in the meadow, about a km from the border.
ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 08:40
The Smith Dorrien Road was mostly fine, some icy and bumpy parts and thin snow cover.
For some unknown reason I haven't been able to post a report on this site for a while. I tried this report with minimal entry. I didn't take many photos at Mt. Shark as I was trying hard to keep up with my husband and daughter. They fly down the hills and step around the corners at high speed.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Sunday Jan 08, 2023 at 06:28
Yes Dave. You can reach me by email: martin at calgaryclimbing dot com
Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 21:35
Glad to hear from you Ulrike, but how was the road, and how about some of you usual wonderful pictures?
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Searching for sunshine......
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 18:23
The tracks are in, visible and in good shape right now (although wind may fill some of them in, but should be still visible). Go and explore them now, have an adventure. If you find you don’t know where you are and might be lost, turn around and return the way you came. Prepare for your trip with a quality topographic map, compass and satellite imagery along with the cross country grooming map. East and west elk passes are clearly marked on topo maps, along with drainages and contour lines, roads, power lines, open/meadow areas, etc. Know how to read them. Satellite images also show the open meadow areas that provide easy travel. Study the maps and put it into practice by exploring the terrain. These are some of the skills and tools necessary for back country travel and all it’s attendant risks.
C&WMacN replied to MaSid's post: Searching for sunshine......
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 17:44
Would love to try some of this off trail stuff in PLPP with our LT gear. Can anyone post a map of how to access these meadows and travel from one to another or recommend a good source?
SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Shark fast, fun, popular
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 16:16
Thanks ulrikeski.
It's great to see Mount Shark is finally seeing some traffic.
Chris12x replied to Chris12x's post: Ski recommendations for Shadow Lake?
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 14:44
Thanks to all for the great advice! We have sourced some light touring skis to rent, so all systems green!
Gord F replied to Karl B's post: PLPP Quiet Day
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 08:37
I haven't been down to Elk Cabin this season but it looks like it might be tough skiing down the hydroline. Although it isn't great for the downhill ski in to the cabin, I recommend returning up through the trees following Elkan Creek, (generally). You do need skins for this but it's a much more aesthetic way out from Elk Cabin. You come out in the meadows just east of MaSid's couch. There is an old trail in there, but in the past we have just followed a gps map. I suppose the other consideration is the shallow snowpack this year. Could make for extra bushwhacking.
Mike W replied to SkierRoger's post: Picture Posting Perfection (perhaps)
Delivered: Saturday Jan 07, 2023 at 00:24
Great idea; thanks Roger!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Searching for sunshine......
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 21:52
Super cool. Beauty pics. And thanks for keeping the track open.
Arie replied to MaSid's post: Searching for sunshine......
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 21:36
That was me skiing through west Elk Pass to the hydro line. The Elk Pass Cloud was thick and I didn't get any views.
But - I saw a fox. Along upper Fox Creek! I only managed a few distant shots. And then it was gone.
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: FAIRVIEW and the MLR - Best Snow in the Rockies, and Trackset Today!
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 19:39
That’s awesome! Probably next week.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: FAIRVIEW and the MLR - Best Snow in the Rockies, and Trackset Today!
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 19:28
Well MaSid,
The good news is that the Heritage Tracksetter must be onside as he has packed your preferred location with a quick skidoo loop, but I must admit that surrounding snow is deep powder.
Diredale replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 18:53
MaSid,
I was wondering if you would like me to guide you through making your own continuous loop bow string? I feel that continuous loop would be better for your recurve.
To answer a question or two, I would suggest a 12 to 14 strand string. Would start with a bowstring that is 3” shorter than your string groove to string groove measurement, and adjust to get the brace height you need.
Waiting your reply,
Dave
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: FAIRVIEW and the MLR - Best Snow in the Rockies, and Trackset Today!
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 18:19
Probabilities are high Chuck, time for a change of scenery now that Couch HQ is pretty much complete (which I’m surprised you didn’t visit when you went up blueberry). Any chance you stuck a pole in off the track and tested snow depth and consistency?
chuckley replied to ErinP's post: Skier Bob special at PLPP
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 17:17
Perfect report.
Karl and I were there too.
Patterson downhill was heavenly with 2 cm fresh snow on groom.
Further comment that Boulton Creek is also in very good shape considering very little new snow at lower elevation.
No complaints here!
Mike Nozdryn-Pl replied to MaSid's post: Kananaskis Conservation Pass: offence ticket update
Delivered: Friday Jan 06, 2023 at 16:30
Well, MaSid, you seem to have inadvertently started a political discussion of sorts. I love your ski reports as well as those by our good friend Mr Democratize. Have to confess though that I don't think he and I see eye to eye on politics.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Dj's post: Shadow Lake Lodge
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 23:36
My recommendation reguarding the lack of tracsetting up Redearth is as follows. When skiers on the trail meet Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) employees give them a polite earful about the crappy lack of service the ACC management is doing in reguards to tracksetting early in the season. Ask them to push ACC management to provide a reasonable public service and trackset the trail whenever the ACC drives a snowmobile down the trail.
A letter campaign to ACC would also be a good idea along with Parks Canada and the Minister of Environment who is in charge of Parks Canada.
It would be nice to know who signs the lousy leases with the corporate lodge operators in Banff. (That would require some investigating or a Freedom of Information request through the government.) That person is not doing a good public service by signing on the dotted line without ensuring tracksetting occurs all season long on the trails the corporations use.
If the ACC has can drive a snowmobile to the Shadow Lake Lodge in their off season, then they can damn well trackset the trail as well (most of the time they drive down the trail). There is no excuse not to other than being lazy, cheap or just poor or uncaring planners.
If the people were in control of the government through a process of real democracy, or rule by the people, you can bet that the people would ensure that the corporations that have the privilege (as opposed to right) to operate in Banff would provide a superior public service or they would be punted out of the Parks.
We don't need the ACC to operate a business up at Shadow Lake Lodge. Parks Canada could take over the operation and make it a low budget operation where more economically disenfranchised people would have the opportunity to utilize the cabins. We just have to look at Egypt Hut or Bryant Creek Hut to get an example of that.
Power to the skiers, not the corporations.
Democratize AB and Canada as Banff is federal jurisdiction.
Legalize Real Democracy Party (.ca)
MaSid replied to Dj's post: Shadow Lake Lodge
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 22:30
I suspect that the “lodge” will still be bringing in food and supplies to the location on a regular basis (by smowmobile) once they get going. Whether they do so in a manner that doesn’t affect cross country ski access is the question. Presumably parks should be applying a standard if they are doing the tracksetting themselves or requiring it as part of the lease. Sure would be nice to know what that arrangement is or if they care or not about their trails and access beyond a single facility.
Helen Read replied to Dj's post: Shadow Lake Lodge
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 22:03
Really appreciate your trip report. I was planning a ski there tomorrow but got the sense the grooming/track-setting was not going to happen, so changed our destination to Spray Bridge. I used to love skiing up to the Redearth Warden's Cabin, but it seems whoever is responsible to do the grooming, is keeping it a secret if/when it will ever get done. Last date recorded on Banff Trail report is Dec 13th? One would think that it will get done for incoming guests to the lodge this w/e??? It would be fabulous as it has enough snow.
Ray Yong replied to Ray Yong's post: Elk Pass: Moraine-Whiskey-Tyrwhitt-Hydroline-Patterson-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 22:02
Thanks - one reason I like getting to trailheads at sunrise is I generally have the trails to myself for quite a while, and undisturbed tracks can be remarkably beautiful, especially after a fresh snow fall, or as in this case, perfect hoar frost conditions.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Kananaskis Conservation Pass: offence ticket update
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 21:37
To be perfectly clear, my only purpose posting this is to help fellow skiers who may encounter similar issues to find ways of dealing with it effectively, just like we report on conditions for our fellow skiers, help them make ski decisions. There is no other purpose or agenda. Just information. Not a debate. Not a platform. Perhaps some opinions on issues relevant to skiing, but that’s it.
Bob Truman replied to Ray Yong's post: Elk Pass: Moraine-Whiskey-Tyrwhitt-Hydroline-Patterson-Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 19:28
Ray, that's a remarkable photo of Tyrwhitt with the hoar frost.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: Kananaskis Conservation Pass: offence ticket update
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 11:46
Howdy Masid,
Thanks for your report.
I wonder if anyone has been caught in Kananaskis Country without ever paying for a UCP Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee pass and what they faced for a penalty.
In a legalized real democracy, the people will democratically decide if they want to pay a tax to walk on Kananaskis crown lands that they own, rather than having some anti-democratic oligarchic political party leader making such a decision.
Democratize AB
legalizerealdemocracyparty.ca
Make way for real democracy. This is how we get more free parks in Alberta that the UCP rejects.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: BLUEBERRY HILL - Wonderful Wilderness Wednesday
Delivered: Thursday Jan 05, 2023 at 09:08
Wilderness Wednesdays provide Free access to Kananaskis
Eyesopen replied to CheersCP's post: Volunteers for sight challenged skiers. Feb6-12 www.skiforlight.ca
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 04, 2023 at 21:09
Thanks for adding the Post about Ski for Light needing volunteers at PLPP. I sent them an email to see how I can help.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to chuckley's post: Red Earth Creek - NOT RECOMMENDED
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 04, 2023 at 18:28
Howdy Chuckley,
Don't hold your breath that Parks Canada will groom Redearth Creek Trail. The Trudeau Liberals have cut the budget for our National Parks which means service reductions. The Banff National Park Superintendent is also not very pro trail maintenance. The Parks budget has been foolishly wasted on clear cutting and burning forests in Banff in recent years. In the past I have requested budget documents but received nothing. I wonder what Parks Canada is hiding?
Democratize AB
Legalize Real Democracy Party (ca.)
This is how people will control our National Parks, as it should be in a real democracy.
legalizerealdemocracyparty.ca
SteveR replied to Chuck's post: BLUEBERRY HILL - Wonderful Wilderness Wednesday
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 04, 2023 at 18:06
See any Wascally Wabbits? Or Walkers?
Helene replied to MaSid's post: More Couch HQ improvements (west elk pass)
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 04, 2023 at 13:52
Thanks MaSid for your awesome snow couches: they are so appreciated! Can't wait to get to them ,-)
SteveR replied to Ericdl's post: Great Day on Pipesone
Delivered: Wednesday Jan 04, 2023 at 10:20
We skied a similar route there yesterday and it exceeded expectations- conditions were very good with almost none of the "early season hazards" mentioned by PC. The "Yoho Blow" clouds and winds were creeping over the divide by the time we got to the meadows at the far end, making for nice sparkles in the afternoon sun, but also drifting in the tracks a bit.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Quest for the Elusive Snow Couch - Elk Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 20:54
By the way, I was informed today that beginning Feb 6th, Ski for Light Canada will host a week-long cross-country skiing event. The event will be held at William Watson Lodge at PLPP.
It pairs up blind and/or partially sighted cross-country skiers with experienced, sighted cross-country ski guides. Here is a link to their website: https://skiforlight.ca/
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Quest for the Elusive Snow Couch - Elk Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 20:42
Yes too bad it wasn’t more sunny today, MaSid. You picked a nice place for the couch. The surrounding mountains were tough to see today but on a sunny day it must be stellar. I did indeed bring my Asnes. The only difficulty I had getting to your spot was my poles kept sinking quite deep. My baskets are quite small. Larger ones would have helped for sure. We were able to pop up to Hydroline today via the Elk Pass trail.
Eyesopen replied to SkierRoger's post: Quest for the Elusive Snow Couch - Elk Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 20:18
Thanks for sharing Shabu's youtube video. So inspirational.
MaSid replied to SkierRoger's post: Quest for the Elusive Snow Couch - Elk Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 19:40
Here’s another tip for folks heading to the couch. Bring a foamy to sit on. The depth of the couch is designed to take the foamy with your back pack behind you. Full comfort reclining ensues, without any body parts touching snow. Then you can enjoys the views on a sunny day for as long as your warm jacket allows. (-:
MaSid replied to SkierRoger's post: Quest for the Elusive Snow Couch - Elk Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 19:34
That’s awesome that you made it there! Unfortunate that it wasn’t sunny. If ever there again and it’s sunny, sooooo much better. Assuming you didn’t extend to the hydroline and back (also fantastic on a sunny day). Looks like track skis worked ok for you? Didn’t look like your new Asnes LT gear. Too bad we missed each other. I did a bunch of work there mid day, just to stay warm, and eventually had to go for a ski, before a last fuel stop before returning to the main trail.
MaSid replied to Bob Truman's post: Skiing at its best!
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 18:40
You won the prize for picking the correct day Bob! Forecast was for the same today, but didn’t turn out that way at all. My back was glad to have the rest day nonetheless, but would rather ski in the sun.
MaSid replied to JB's post: Bragg Creek magic
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 18:12
Which trails JB? There’s a lot, and conditions vary widely.
Gord F replied to Kinga's post: Dicey at WBC (Elbow and Iron)
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 15:43
I understand your pain. I was there today, -12º at 10:30 and +2º by 1:00. Needless to say there was much waxing to be done. I would rate the trails I skied as 'hard and fast'. Probably best on fishscales or Skintecs as the tracks were quite glazed and no kind of wax was working very well. I hoped to do Sundog - Loggers - Mountainview - Mountain Road - Moose, but once I got a kilometre into Mountainview I turned around due to hard icy snow surface with no grip and headed back to Moose connector. Skied over to Moose Loop and skied about 800m down the south side, turned around again due to hard icy, rocky conditions. I found the trails in the shadow of Ranger Summit, Crystal Line, Sundog and Loggers to be in better shape. I chatted with a guy on his Atomic Skintecs. Looked like the right tool for the job.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chris12x's post: Ski recommendations for Shadow Lake?
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 12:52
Howdy 12x,
The skis you choose to ski into Shadow Lake should be based on ski level and skiing conditions.
Using fat downhill skis with mountaineer or walking bindings is normally slow heavy weight overkill going to Shadow Lake Lodge unless you plan on skiing the steep and deep or your skiing level is lower. Fat skis also do not fit into the xc ski trackset making for a little more difficult skiing on the snowmobile trail.
Skiing with 60 mm or narrower metal edge skis is a good option for those that can control their speed and skiing. Non metal edge skis are also an option when ski conditions are winter like rather than spring hard like. Skis up to 65mm should fit in the xc ski trackset, if one exists.
I do not recommend skiing on old school wood skis.
The ACC uses snowmobiles to pack the trail and trackset it. Sometimes the snowmobilers lack experience or intelligence or time to make the trail smooth and wide for skiers, particularly on the hills. When there are lots of snowmobile ruts on the hills, wider skis will help with control. If the snowmobiles can follow my old buried ski tracks on the trail hills, the trail should be packed fairly wide making for easier skiing on the hills.
The Shadow Lake Lodge trail from the end of Redearth Creek trail to the Lodge is narrow, concave and fairly steep in places. Skiing this trail requires advanced skills. Most people just walk down the hills without skis on if they are not good skiers. You can also side step down it on skis.
If you are planning on carrying a big pack, I recommend a pre trip to investigate the trail before hauling in weight if you are not a great skier.
Be sure to bring a headlamp. Enjoy the night skiing on Shadow Lake or towards Haikuk Lake, particularly if the skies are clear and there is moon shine to light up the mountains. This is how you will get the most memories and value out of your trip.
Enjoy.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Trackset Yesterday (New Years Day) after huge snowfall
Delivered: Tuesday Jan 03, 2023 at 08:48
What a great report Chuck!
Peter is is an inspiration and your shot of that dog team is a beauty.
Going to see if I can find me a snowfa today…
Normand replied to Chris12x's post: Ski recommendations for Shadow Lake?
Delivered: Monday Jan 02, 2023 at 21:25
Same suggestion as Helen for the type of skis, especially if you plan to explore past the SLLodge: light touring, waxable skis with metal edges, with those useful to better control on the bottom 5.3 km of the Red Earth Creek Trail, when poorly maintained or in crusty conditions. Unless you plan to tackle any of the three surrounding passes in the area (Gibbon, Whistling and Ball), short skins are sufficient to explore some light touring opportunities.
Visit the Red Chairs, skiing about 1.3 km on the right side of Shadow Lake, after its outlet at the long skinny bridge. With short skins, you could continue toward the meadows below Mt Ball (well far away to stay clear of avalanches coming off the massive face of MBall). One day could be spent exploring the Haiduk Creek Valley and if you want to earn yourself a nice glass of wine with a cheese & wild meats platter at the lodge, get up Gibbon Pass for some great touring (450 m elevation gain in only 3 km!). The further you wait in the season, the better are your chances to run into well broken trails up there, carved by other lodge guests or day trippers from TCH1 (Helen, Chuck, DEM-AB, Mike, Sarah and others).
Beware of avalanche runout zones at km 3.3, 4.7 and 8.1-8.7 along the Red Earth Creek Trail. AKA, don’t plan a leisurely snack in those spots, if the AVI hazard is >> High.
Helen Read replied to Chris12x's post: Ski recommendations for Shadow Lake?
Delivered: Monday Jan 02, 2023 at 18:48
Just skied Redearth to a little beyond the campground a few days ago, as posted below. My suggestion is always light touring, with metal edges and bigger pole baskets. I don't know how you are at waxing but skins are not needed until at least the turn off to SLL where many people would walk the first initial bit into the Lodge. I'm hoping to ski to Redearth Warden's Cabin this coming Friday. Always good to bring kick skins or whatever kind you have. I am hoping ACC or Parks will groom/trackset the trail before then. Have a fabulous time in there. Check avalanche reports prior, as you cross a couple of paths where they have occurred in the past. Normand skis this area very often and am sure he can add his experiential knowledge.
BonnyTasky replied to Bob Truman's post: Skiing at its best!
Delivered: Monday Jan 02, 2023 at 17:53
Must have seen you Bob. It was an amazing day to ski there for sure.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: West Elk Pass Plus
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 21:03
Unfortunate timing. You probably had time to squeeze in a bit of sun at west elk, either at the couch till about 230, or a bit later further south at the fork ‘n meadow lunch log. More sunny days ahead.
SkierRoger replied to Bob Truman's post: Emerald Lake is trackset but the names have changed
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 21:00
Thank you, Bob for your interesting review of the Emerald Lake area. I have included some maps for quick reference. The trail names are not updated yet.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: West Elk Pass Plus
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 20:32
We thought about heading to West Elk after Blueberry, but by then the sun had disappeared. Another day! Must have just missed you as we were back at the the Elk Pass trailhead about 3 as well.
BonnyTasky replied to 's post:
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 17:44
I think they are sold to skier Mike in Calgary :)
SkierRoger replied to NicoleG's post: Goat creek trail access
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 12:06
Hello Nicole,
I dug out a few trip reports & comments about Goat Creek that have been posted in the past month or so. These should be quite helpful, and I have included links to them below...
https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski_basic&id=1428
https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski_basic&id=1349
Have a Very Happy New Year!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to tmalaher's post: River Bend Golf Course - Red Deer - Excellent Day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 11:54
As I am an alternative kind of guy, I appreciate seeing the xc ski report from Red Deer. It looks like some nice terrain there for people to adventure out onto or learn how to ski.
As a skier who has skied as far as the Northwest Territories boarder, I know there is some unique special sweet skiing across this Province.
It would be nice to hear more xc ski reports from across Alberta. Lets hear from the skiers in Vermillion, Fort Mac, the Peace, Jasper or where ever you may be laying ski tracks in the snow.
Democratize AB and ski it!
Legalize Real Democracy Party (ca.)
SkierRoger replied to tmalaher's post: River Bend Golf Course - Red Deer - Excellent Day
Delivered: Sunday Jan 01, 2023 at 09:09
Thank you for the outstanding report, tmalaher. It is pleasing to see that our friends to the north have good opportunities for cross country skiing!
Ski on !
aqua toque replied to Bob Truman's post: The Peter Lougheed Pisten-Bully is back in business
Delivered: Saturday Dec 31, 2022 at 18:49
Ah, good to see the red one right on track.
Whoever's drivin' the white one is waaaay off course!
Diredale replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Saturday Dec 31, 2022 at 18:46
I will post here after the weekend and gather some additional info. Would be glad to make a string up. Or better yet, I could help you to make a continuous loop string. Continuous loop would be better on your recurve. Would be better to make it with the bow available to test fit. I am in Calgary if you are interested.
Such a cool project. Hope it shoots well!!
Dave
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Pisten Bully Angels bring New Year's Eve gift to Elk Pass/Blueberry end of PLPP
Delivered: Saturday Dec 31, 2022 at 15:37
Mon/tue/wed look like prime couch surfing weather. Perhaps all blue and no wind.
Frances Dances replied to Bob Truman's post: The Peter Lougheed Pisten-Bully is back in business
Delivered: Saturday Dec 31, 2022 at 13:37
Bolton Bridge trail was done on Friday. A little icy at the parking lot but the corduroy should break down to some powder as it gets some traffic on it.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Normand's post: Cascade River to Stoney Creek and beyond
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 21:16
Howdy Norman,
Under one of your pictures you mentioned large baskets are needed on poles to ski beyond Stoney Creek.
I was up in the Cascade Elk Trap area earlier in the week skiing on poles with broken baskets. I found the poles with no baskets worked not too bad in the somewhat shallow snowpack. They did hit the ground a fair bit but they still were functional although the length felt more like downhill poles when they sunk to the ground. What I was noticing in the typical rotten Rockies snow we have this year is that my poles with baskets get stuck easier on shrubs below the snow surface than my basketless poles. This causes significant yanking on my separated shoulders which I really hate. Once the snow deepens though, basketless poles will be useless. With all the baskets I have been breaking this year alone, I will stick with basketless poles in shallow snowpacks under 60 cm of depth. I even find the basketless poles are good on hard packed trackset trails. Mind you there is some sort of "bump" on them to hold the baskets in place which helps prevent some sinking.
I am glad you are one of the long distance skiers enjoying the trail beyond Stoney Creek. Later in spring when the rotten Rockies snow hardens, your regular poles will be fine to get you in further to hear the howling wolves while enjoying the views of the Flints Park area.
Ski cheers
Sophie replied to Bob Truman's post: Meeting SkierRoger - finally!
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 18:56
Look at Suzie fly!
Love it ;-)
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: JOHNSTON CREEK- BEYOND LARRY'S CAMP- via Moose Meadows
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 13:14
Has anyone every had an experience with a frost quake?
I recall hearing about these in Alberta. Apparently they can damage basements and foundations.
Perhaps this is what I experienced skiing Johnston Creek but who knows.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Nepal's post: Sell Madshus skin skiis
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 13:10
Only 18k on them? Give them another try skiing! Don't give up yet on them.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Helen Read's post: Redearth Trail to campground: Wish Banff/Lk Louise/Yoho would adopt Nordic Pulse!!!
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 13:08
There is absolutely no need for Nordic Pulse to be involved in anything in Banff. They would just push to privatize things and this would suck up more tax dollars. Why pay more and push people out of Banff like what has occurred with the UCP Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee that was pushed by Conservative Nordic skiing groups?
If you need an update on cross country ski conditions in Banff go to:
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions
Parks Canada updates its website when they trackset although they under rate trail ski conditions often.
The only reason why Redearth is not trackset is because of the Banff Superintendent who makes the decisions. We need a new Superintendent who XC skis regularly. Contract the Minister of Environment about complaints as the Superintendent does not care to listen and that person does not want to be contacted about squat. I get better communications when I go through the Minister of Environment's office when I have a complaint. At least I can contact the Minister directly at:
Steven.Guilbeault@parl.gc.ca
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to gh's post: Tramline and Great Divide
Delivered: Friday Dec 30, 2022 at 12:54
Hi GH,
If you need trail conditions go the Parks Canada website for trail conditions. See below. There is no need to pay a 3rd party to do trail conditions as that would be a waste of tax dollars. Nordic Pulse would just push to privatize things in Banff and then we would have to pay more . This would make it too expensive for the less wealthy to xc ski and push people out of Banff, just like what has occurred with the UCP Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee.
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions
Although Parks Canada often under rates the xc skiing conditions, they are up to date on tracksetting.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout (it’s real!)
Delivered: Thursday Dec 29, 2022 at 21:11
Well enjoy the comfort on a sunny day, both of you. Always best to pick the right day. But the meadows do travel ok right now, but would recommend LT, big baskets and gators at this time.
gh replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout (it’s real!)
Delivered: Thursday Dec 29, 2022 at 20:32
I can hardly wait to try out the new couch.
ulrikeski replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout (it’s real!)
Delivered: Thursday Dec 29, 2022 at 19:54
Hi MaSid: awesome sofa and photo in the sun. Thanks for your big efforts! Hope to check out West Elk Pass soon.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Blast from the past - Alf flying on Kastle Trail LW skis
Delivered: Thursday Dec 29, 2022 at 08:53
I meant "Powder Pioneers: The Story of Skiing in the Rocky and Columbia Mountains", Chic Scott, 2005.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Blast from the past - Alf flying on Kastle Trail LW skis
Delivered: Thursday Dec 29, 2022 at 08:45
Alf is so talented on skis. He's like a cat.
I recall that he would choose any method of getting down the hill that suited his fancy, be it schussing straight down, telemarking, or carving parallel turns, depending on snow conditions.
Below is probably the worst photo I have taken that didn't get thrown away. That's because it was of Alf, and also an action shot doesn't have to be perfect. It was an attempt at panning. It doesn't compare with the one in Telemark Journal.
Coming down from Bow Summit, Alf decided to build a ski jump. We are talking 75mm 3-pin bindings on touring skis. Alf was the only one who could keep his skis fuzzy side down.
Thanks Roger for letting me do some Christmas reminiscing. It came about because I found that our library has an e-copy of Chic Scott's "Ski Pioneers", which I am reading. A section is devoted to Alf.
SteveR replied to HenryL's post: Blast from the past - Alf flying on Kastle Trail LW skis
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 23:41
Capturing a rare moment of Alf looking like he wasn't born on skis!
Blame it on the misery sticks.
I'll say one thing about that era though- untracked powder skiing was a lot easier to find, especially once the SD road was opened in winter.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: SUNDANCE - I'd prefer a Snow Dance!
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 23:39
Howdy Chuck,
That was a pretty funny "Sundance- I'd prefer a snow dance!" headline you made. Classic. It looks like the deer was laughing at that one in your picture as well.
That deer picture was quick camera action. Usually it takes a camera hanging around the neck, like a pro photojournalist, to capture a close up picture like that. Congrats.
Having fast access to a camera is the way to capture extraordinary pictures. That is why pro photojournalists never carry them in their cases and always hang them around their neck for quick pics so they don't lose the shot. Sometimes that shot is the shot of the lifetime.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Karl B's post: Paradise Valley
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 23:24
Howdy B Karl,
I like the picture you took. It may look simple but it is very good because of the lines that make the eyes move around.
The head is looking slightly to the right on the far left of the pic and there is plenty of scenery to the right of the photo. That is good to do in photography. The tree on the edge of the photo adds a nice framing along with the trees on the left. There are a number of lines that get the eyes to move throughout the picture. The treed ridge line gets the eyes to move left and right or right and left across the picture. There is ski trail lines in the snow that do the same. The mountain outline gets the eyes to move up and down somewhat and some of the trees point upward getting the eyes to move in that direction. Chris' toque also gets the eyes to circle around. The depth of field is excellent. The various shades of grey make it look like a cold winter day but then there is the stripe of hot red on Chris' coat that breaks up the cold grey effect and helps make her look warm with that hat and coat on.
A photo like this would have likely earned an A or higher in my old photojournalism courses taught by Frank Schufletowski.
Please add more eye candy photos in the future although it can be a pain in the snow pants to take photos sometimes when out enjoying life in the Great Canadian Rockies on skis.
SkierRoger replied to tmalaher's post: Nordic-Pulse and Parks Canada Grooming
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 17:39
Today I received an email from Julien Locke, Founder/Developer of Nordic Pulse. Below is his response to a few comments submitted between Dec 16 to 18th.
--------------------------------
Hi there,
Thanks for voicing your concerns. Just a quick note to say that we (the team at Nordic Pulse) are just a bunch of avid skiers who share a passion for our sport. We likely ski the same trails as you and we love trails of all kinds - free or un-free!
Our goal is to simply help ski areas manage their trail reports and provide skiers with accurate, up-to-date information. We have no sponsors or financial backers. We’re a small business and we operate based on ski areas paying a yearly fee for our services. We’re doing our best to help ski areas afford to use Nordic Pulse, so we do have an option for ski areas to find their own sponsors to help cover their Nordic Pulse service fees, which is why you’ll see some “sponsored by” logos on some reports. This support applies to the ski area, not Nordic Pulse.
If you have any concerns for Nordic Pulse’s management (that’s me!), feel free to reach out via email. julien@nordic-pulse.com
Happy trails,
Julien
HenryL replied to Bob Truman's post: On the subject of Alf Skrastins....
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 15:59
And there is Wendy with that wonderful smile!
Bob Truman replied to Bob Truman's post: On the subject of Alf Skrastins....
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 10:30
Thanks, Chuck, you're correct. In the book it states, "Mt Sir Douglas from the ridge between South Burstall and Burstall passes.
Chuck replied to Bob Truman's post: On the subject of Alf Skrastins....
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 10:21
Mt. Sir Douglas (near Burstall Pass)
MtnGoat replied to 's post:
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 07:18
Whoops $300
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 28, 2022 at 01:04
Hi Alf
My experience from roaming the Eastern Slopes since the mid seventies is that when lands are clear cut the cattle are brought into many areas. The cattle would only roam in areas where there was water, pummeling many of the trees that are trying to return. The Westcastle River Valley is one such area where this occurred in the past where I did a lot of camping. Huge fat cattle maintained significant openings along the river before the Park came into place. The cattle competed with the wildlife for food. Predators would be shot. I would assume in the Park that no cattle are permitted now.
Valleys like the Westcastle were extremely productive for various types of lush vegetation for cattle to feed on. Some regions the soils are poorer and the cattle instead would choose to eat the best most nutrient rich plants which are usually found on better soils.
Bison could be re-introduced into the Eastern Slopes without man burning the landscape. Bison that were released into the Panther Valley have been found grazing in the high alpine elevations above treeline, like sheep and elk do, although the government burned much of the lower valley unnecessarily. The existing landscapes can support some bison. Burning of landscapes in past centuries certainly expanded the carrying capacity of bison on the land and attracted them to fresh vegetation after fires did their thing, but that was done for survival reasons in order to make hunting without guns easier.
If you look at time lapse Google Earth pictures from 20 to 30 years back to today, much of the existing old Forestry Reserve has not been reserved and instead has been clear cut. These areas could support bison as well. The bison will act like cattle and pummel many of the trees trying to regrow. Even more so. They will maintain open areas in order to feed. This is what is occurring in Yellow Stone and Wood Buffalo National Parks from my understanding. The wood buffalo or bison is basically the same genetics as the plains bison. If a plains bison is introduced into woodlands, it adapts and show all the characteristics of a wood buffalo or bison. These are tough animals and from an economic, health and environmental perspective we would be better of skiing with the buffalo than with the cattle.
Decades ago I skied with a massive heard of elk numbering over a thousand, possible as high as near 2000 head. The sound was incredible as I skied down a creek and they ran on the bank meadow. To hear bison do that while skiing would be absolutely spiritual. The only way this will ever occur is if we live in a legalized real democracy as the Provincial oligarchy government supported by the industrial cattle complex does not want the bison returned to Alberta landscapes. The cattle barons do not want to give the people the opportunity to hunt bison as that would harm their profits. The cattle barons make up all sorts of excuses not to return bison, such as they spread disease when in reality it is the invasive cattle that spread the diseases. You just have to take E.coli stream samples across Alberta to see that. I believe most Albertans would like to see the bison returned to a number of areas in Alberta, including the Cypress Hills, as it should be. We need to repair the mistakes of the past and benefit more Albertans economically by returning the bison. Skiers in parks with bison would likely love that once they learn how to deal with the animals similar to elk, moose, bears and mountain lions.
aqua toque replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 17:45
^Nope. Solar cowbell.
JimB replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 17:31
Price?
MaSid replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 16:18
Likely the sensor that tells the pump to stop pumping, but not like the float in the toilet.
Shulamit replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 15:55
Thank you, Alf! I appreciate your taking the time to answer. Could you explain the white device that is hanging down into the tub?
Alf Skrastins replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 13:57
The cattle are only grazing in the Public Land Use Zones between late June and mid-October, so there is no need to heat the water in the tubs. The solar panels merely provide the power for the electric water pumps.
Off-Stream watering is fairly common practice... just Google "Cows & Fish" for actual information.
The purpose of forestry on public land is to cut down trees for lumber. The logged areas are required to be re-planted within 2 years, so they do not provide grazing opportunities for very many years. The grasses that typically grow in pine and spruce forests tend not to be very palatable for cattle, so the grass that you see until the forest returns is not actually good grazing. If you want to see bison grazing in the foothills areas, we will first have to burn all of the forests, the way First Nations did in previous centuries. Bison eat grass, not pine trees.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 12:15
Hello Alf,
Ah that makes sense. I forgot about cattle grazing on crown lands that displaces other low cost food sources for people. I assume the solar panel helps heat water to prevent freezing. I have never seen this done for cattle before. It must be expensive to move the water to the tubs.
Keeping cattle away from streams is essential to reduce e-coli in streams while helping out the vegetation along streams or watering holes to benefit fish. The water tubs would also allow cattle to graze further from water sources to access other grazing land. This would put less pressure on grazing land around creeks or water holes. Overgrazing by cattle is bad for the environment.
One of the reasons why clear cutting has expanded greatly in the last 20 years in the Eastern Slopes is to provide subsidized cattle range, just like they do when cutting down the Amazon Forests for cattle. I would rather see the bison roam in the eastern slopes on crown lands rather than cattle. This would be better for the environment, tourism and allow people to hunt bison for food. This would provide a big cost savings for people to obtain food and bring back First Nations traditions. Bison is also healthier to eat than cattle and wild bison does not need pharmaceuticals to keep them alive. They can survive where cattle can not, particularly in winter. They also require much less water to live than cattle. All around bison are much better than cattle.
I don't hunt but imagine hunting for bison on XC skis, during hunting season, to bring home to put in the freezer and give to people in need. That would make skiing far more economical. You can't do that with cattle because the Conservative cattle barons will come after you.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: morning moose loop
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 11:07
Likewise Alf. Hopefully you find it today before any new snow!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 11:03
Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: WBC: morning moose loop
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 09:24
Good to see you yesterday. The temperature only got warmer in the afternoon... and then it rained a bit. My ski adventure resulted in me losing my iPhone. I'm sure it won't be found by any XC skiers, because I was skiing on Long Distance trail when I last had the phone.
Alf Skrastins replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 09:20
Those blue tubs are off-stream cattle water troughs. The solar panels provide the power to operate the water pump, which keeps the tub full of water in the summer. The purpose is to provide cattle with a source of drinking water that is away from the riparian area adjacent to the creeks.
MaSid replied to Barry G's post: West Bragg tracks remain in great shape
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 09:12
Cool phenomenon worthy of a stop. No sign of an overturned donut delivery vehicle in the ditch? The shot with the trees is great. Bit of an illusion on first look. Thought it was coniferous trees at first (which looked almost hoodoo/bank like), but no, deciduous. Good light.
aqua toque replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 04:26
eSki proximity charger.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Shulamit's post: WBC - Sunrise ski
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 27, 2022 at 00:00
Howdy Shulamit,
Thanks for reporting and snapping a pic of those snow bins on your xc morning ski trip. That is very interesting as it appears someone is doing some type of science. I love science.
Somebody seems to want snow to be collected for reasons that I could only think would be related to snowfall/H20 equivalent contents and snowfall frequencies or chemical analysis. I would be surprised if the blue tub in your picture would be used for anything else. They don't look like feed bins for deer or moose. It would be interesting to see a close up of the sensor in the tub and to know if it goes to the bottom. This is a unique set up that I have never seen before.
I have always wanted to do chemical analysis of various layers in snowpacks as I have seen some real odd stuff in snow over the decades. I have noticed much dirtier/polluted snow in about the last decade or so. When I see upslope pollution clouds from Calgary hit the eastern slopes, it makes me curious of the pollution fallout that gets into our water supply eventually. Pollution fall out from Asia has me curious as well. The Arctic is suppose to be highly polluted. The higher the altitude the more pollution fallout in snowpacks. Here is one such article talking about that:
https://sites.ualberta.ca/~ersc/water/industrial/mercury.htm
With the war in Ukraine, we would likely be getting trackable fallout from the war pollution. Fallout from volcanos would also be trackable as well as forest fires. Smoke from the Auzzie fires 3 years ago is apparently still circulating the globe, causing fallout and the particulate from it in the atmosphere would be blocking the sun intensity somewhat and cooling the planet slightly. Same with the BC fires along with the volcanos blasting off sulphur dioxide. This would counter greenhouse gases being dumped into the atmosphere by man, natural causes and by fires making climate models difficult to be accurate. Such activity will have effects on our winter weather as well.
When I worked down near Waterton National Park 20+ years ago I remember a massive snowfall in later April one year. We were walking over 10 foot high chain link fences in the snow at oil and gas facilities. There were 2 separate snow layers 2 feet deep each that were a baby blue color. I never saw snow that color before. I assume it was high water content, but I could not be sure. It was highly dense snow though. That snowpack made for great skiing on the May long week-end on Haig Ridge that year along with Middle Kootenay Pass.
When I used to do a lot of sunny Alberta summer skiing on glaciers in the 1980's and 1990's, the University of Saskatchewan was doing a lot of studies on snowpacks and glaciers. We need scientists to study our snow packs for chemical contents that harm aquatic life and irrigation waters. Changes in chemical composition of irrigation waters can have effects on soil and the ability of farm soils to hold moisture. Chemicals in snow can change the PH of water and kill aquatic life, as well as make it more difficult for food crops to uptake nutrients.
To get an idea of pollution fallout in Alberta go to windy.com and hit PM2.5 on the right side menu to get an idea of particulate fall out on Alberta that we are sucking up while skiing. In recent weeks, it appears Alberta is creating huge amounts of particulate with industrial activities that are occurring in the northern part of the Province where there is little accountability. The intensity of the particulate is some of the highest in the world. When the wind comes from the north, it falls out on us. Even a place on the northern end of Baffin Island has 2.5PM levels that I would have never expected and it makes me wonder what is going on up there.
The sulphur dioxide from Mauna Loa seems to have greatly subsided now so we should not be sucking that into our lungs out skiing or getting funky looking colored skies.
The U of BC has built a mobile air monitor pollution truck that drives around measuring pollution near ground level or nose level. We need a few of these air pollution monitor trucks in Alberta. Several years back, the few air quality measuring instruments the AB government has were located about 50 feet above the ground rather than measuring pollutants closer to our nose heights. I have no idea if this has changed now. Go figure government science sometimes! Our Conservative Government does not like to measure pollution or measure it accurately in Alberta judging from past lawsuits over some industrial activities in the recent past. It is usually universities or environmental groups that do some of the more remote monitoring, when money is available, as they care more about our sacred environmental gift of life, air, that fills our lungs skiing (other sacred environmental gifts of life include water, that hydrates life and makes snow, soil, that feeds us and the sun which energizes all life + solar panels).
Push to expand snow study science in Alberta. Contact your MLA to do so.
Democratize AB
Legalize Real Democracy Party (.ca)
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC: morning moose loop
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 17:50
Good call starting early! We got underway at about 11:30 and had decent skiing on the core trails for the first while on purple wax, but by the time we hit Iron Springs, temps had skyrocketed past 10 degrees. After a couple rounds of rewaxing that were only marginally successful (other than in picking up needles!) we bailed back to the core trails again which were generally much cleaner, and with somewhat better grip thanks to overnight grooming. Eventually though, the sun popped out and we decided- enough is enough- and we finished the day with a late lunch in the warm sun outside the trail centre. A big change from the perfect skiing on Christmas Eve. A snowy refresh is badly needed now!
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: CANMORE NORDIC CENTRE - A Christmas Gift
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 17:17
Hi Chuck: Fully agree. I never expect tracksetting at CNC on Christmas Day. However, there was not much grooming on Dec. 23 and Dec. 26, except a few main trails. That's why I hope they will start grooming soon more trails.
Nice to read your report of fresh grooming on Goat Creek Trail. That's encouraging.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: CANMORE NORDIC CENTRE - A Christmas Gift
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 16:00
Ah well Ulrike, the tracksetters deserve Christmas day off, just like everyone else. Just unlucky as to when the snow fell. At least they got the major trails done.
Best wishes for the New Year!
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: CANMORE NORDIC CENTRE - A Christmas Gift
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 15:07
Merry Christmas, Chuck. I guess I missed skiing into you at CNC yesterday. Nice mild day for a Christmas Day ski. I agree, the Banff/Meadowview Trails looked like they had been groomed fairly recently. But most of the other trails off the beaten path were not groomed at all. It was fun and a workout skiing down and up again on trails like Wolverine and Flying Squirrel in the new snow.
Hopefully the tracksetters are back at CNC soon.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Barry G's post: West Bragg tracks remain in great shape
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 12:18
The media would probably love the holey snow ball pictures.
Those holey snow balls would make an interesting snow man on XC skis.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Karl B's post: Cascade fire rd to Warden Cabin
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 12:12
I see the deck and table at the cabin are snow covered again since I cleared it off on Christmas Eve. The size 43 ski boots make for a reasonable shovel when pushing the snow with the side of the foot. A lot of the snow will drop through the spaces in the boards on the deck, making the snow removal process relatively easy.
That new snow should make for fine xc skiing on the trail to Elk Trap. Take advantage of it while you can. All the little creeks are easily crossable for your skiing pleasure. Enjoy all the snowshoe hares on the trail. This may enable you to see a lynx if you are lucky.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout
Delivered: Monday Dec 26, 2022 at 06:20
No worries Steve. Happy holidays! Had the iPod on shuffle and the song came on as I was returning in my track to the border. Apropos, and such a great lyric.
The Waterboys, “This is the Sea”, 1985
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: “Snowfaland’s” Boxing Week Blowout
Delivered: Sunday Dec 25, 2022 at 20:36
"Once you were tethered
And now you are free"
Thanks for the work in Snowfaland!
JeffG replied to MaSid's post: Cold Snap Couch Surfing
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 22:58
Merry Christmas MaSid. Our amazing ski scene would not be the same without you.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail wanderings
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 19:07
Hilarious! Good timing, but didn’t realize it was you. Thanks for the final link.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail wanderings
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 17:59
That must have been you who broke trail to within 10m of Mountainview West and then returned the same way. Curious about that as we skied by- I left the groomer briefly and finished the job for you! That was the only off-trail of our day as we were on the skinny sticks enjoying the superb conditions on the trackset trails.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 17:56
That would be fantastic Dave! I tried making the none-Flemish version? A continuous multi-strand loop, not sure what they call it. But very finicky to manage with my terrible close up eye sight, even with making a proper bow string jig and a serving string spool. Good fun nonetheless. Not sure how many strands I would need. Depends on string diameter, pull weight? I’m guessing it’d be no more than 35 lbs, definitely not 45. Length is approx. 60”, but will measure more accurately. Nock to nock, and limb width at nock? Sure would be great to test the darn thing out (with appropriate face protection!). In exchange, you are welcome to the jig and spool I made.
MaSid replied to Bob Truman's post: Pocaterra - a nice early Christmas present
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 17:18
Need to crank up the heat a bit on the fire to get rid of the beard frost (-;
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail wanderings
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 17:13
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail wanderings
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 17:06
Seem to be having some technical issues adding more than one photo at a time?
Diredale replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 16:53
If you want a bowstring I make Flemish Twist strings. If interested, all you need to let me know is length and number of strands. Would be glad to contribute a free string to a cool project.
Merry Christmas,
Dave
Chuck replied to chuckley's post: Silk Gliding on Spray Loop
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 15:54
Now that's a much better photo of Chris and Karl... Thanks Chuckley
Sara M replied to Sara M's post: Solstice Shenanigans - Powderface Ridge
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 09:46
DEM AB:
In the fall, I picked up a pair of Rossi boots. This was before people started talking about the sole delamination issue. They fit me perfectly, so hopefully they don't fall apart right away! I wore those boots for this adventure.
The Montanas are too big, but they only sell them in full sizes and 39 was too small. My feet overheat quite easily, so I don't double-sock. I've tried them with the thickest socks I own, and it's too warm and the boots are still too big. I bought those boots because in the initial Covid shortage of everything, they were all that was available and I really wanted to ski.
Helen Read replied to Bob Truman's post: Pocaterra - a nice early Christmas present
Delivered: Saturday Dec 24, 2022 at 08:09
What a perfect post to open on Christmas Eve! And terrific photo of you Bob. Yes, nostalgia has many of us missing the "old" Pocaterra. I often get confused at a few of those 4 way junctions, so if you see orange ribbon at some of them, I put it there to remind myself which way I did the figure of eight. I miss seeing the moose laying down in those willows. You timed your ski perfectly!
ulrikeski replied to JeremyN's post: Where is everyone?
Delivered: Friday Dec 23, 2022 at 16:43
Perfect grooming at WBC! Wish we could get grooming like that at Canmore Nordic Centre. Trails were not groomed there at all today. Skiing down the Rundle Trail in 2cm dry new snow was enjoyable though.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Upper Lake Louise Trails Update
Delivered: Friday Dec 23, 2022 at 11:07
Today, I received another grooming report from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Trail Team. Here are the significant changes from yesterday's report:
Fairview Loop (#2): Double trackset, Dec. 22. Fair, early season like condition. Still lots of rocks and stumps lurking and twigs everywhere. Our equipment was hitting quite a few hazards and the tracksetting pan dragged across the ground on more than one occasion. Don't use your race skis and exercise caution!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: Elk pass area: testing the sole
Delivered: Thursday Dec 22, 2022 at 21:18
Yo Ma,
I have been searching for reviews on the Madshus Glitterland Boots. There is not lots out there but people do seem to like them.
They have changed these boots over the years. Only one reviewer talked about how the inner liner pulls out when the boot is pulled out. I don't know if he was talking about the older model though.
People seemed to be reasonably impressed with the telemark turning ability in powder snow. They like the control of the boots off and on trail. They are more ridged than many boots.
Although people like the built in gator, I have reservations about it myself. I have never used gators and I am concerned that my 1994 fleece MEC ski pants would have to go inside of them. My fleece pants go over the top of my boots and keep snow out perfectly. I worry how comfortable my fleece pants will be inside the gator. In deep snow, if the gator has any gap, snow will get into the boot.
I called Norseman tonight and they said they are still waiting for their NNNBC boots. When I asked when they would arrive, they told me they were expecting them in mid September. I asked if that was mid September 2023 and got a chuckle and answer- who knows.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - Winter Solstice Ski
Delivered: Thursday Dec 22, 2022 at 18:39
Hey Mr. D.,
Glad I did not have to try and beat your record ski at minus 45 C.
It was only minus 41 here in Banff this morning (feeling like -46 with the wind chill), so I stayed home!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Sara M's post: Solstice Shenanigans - Powderface Ridge
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 23:26
Hey Frosty the Snow Woman,
Did you use your Montana boots or others on your ski/hike adventure?
You mentioned the Montana's give you heel blisters and foot cramps. The heel blisters suggest poor heel hold down or heel movement. That sounds like a size problem. Are your boots too big? Do you where double socks?
You also mentioned you used a different insole. Did you put it on top of the existing foot bed or did you pull out the original and put in another foot bed?
Foot cramps are often from bad arches or boots too big or too small that they "crush" your foot.
MaSid replied to Sara M's post: Solstice Shenanigans - Powderface Ridge
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 21:42
Cudos on the effort and perseverance in such temps, wind and location. A cold upper valley for sure. But also why it can be a good option after an upslope dump, on a warmer day even. It’s rarely really good over top, or south.
mike w replied to Septuagenarians's post: Virtual Night Ski
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 21:36
DAB - You forgot several very important night skiing safety items: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat in case you fail to make it back to your car by sunrise. In the worst case, you may have to take shelter until sunset. I think this is referred to as being "bedayed".
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - Winter Solstice Ski
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 20:15
Howdy Chuck,
I used to ski as cold as -45c at night up north when I worked in camps. I used to have a special balaclava that even covered my nose but had a special "nose spout" that would go downward to keep icicles out of the nose hairs. I never felt the cold with my quality gear that included a wicked Arctic coat bought in about 1971 from Eddie Bauer I believe. I still have that coat. It just needs a new zipper.
I skied up north at night after work because there would only be one TV in the camps with hundreds of guys watching and the channel would always be on the porn channel. Not the kind of TV or place I like. Star and moon shows are so much better skiing at night while hooting with the owls.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Septuagenarians's post: Virtual Night Ski
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 19:59
Hello Septuagenarians,
You have it right about me and my love for night skiing.
Thanks for posting that stunning clear night sky shot from the Sunshine cam. It has been so long since I have skied at night (a week) that I forgot how beautiful the night sky is being stuck in the Calgary doing my Legalize Real Democracy Party(ca.) - Democratize AB politics.
Do not fear the night, particularly if you are skiing with friends. Ski with a smile and let your senses take over. Just be prepared with a good headlamp, dry warm clothing, food, water and psychologically.
Lately my first break skiing in the day is when the sun sets or later. That is when I stop and eat and change my gloves and put on my toque or change it if it is snow covered. I will also put on my down vest or winter coat so that the dry clothing makes me feel more warm and comfortable at night. Then I will pig out on some grub and guzzle 1.5 liters of water as I do when I first start skiing. I like to pack 4 oranges for my breaks as well. I always carry at least 3- 1.5 liters of water and 4 in the spring + a 500ml bottle to ensure may body is well hydrated.
I always put my night gloves in my coat when I am on a break at night. The gloves will get toasty warm so when I ski out I normally have nice warm hands when I put them on. Skiing at night requires a person to be more prepared for adventure with the right equipment and right fearless state of mind. Obtain that state of mind in any way possible as fear must be eliminated. There is nothing to fear except fear itself night skiing. Try it. Just take it slow and easy on trails you know well that do not have high avalanche risk.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 11:51
Never got that far in the thinking Arie, so thanks for that. Carbon fibre would be the ticket though, smooth and light. If only the ski poles were skinnier.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Cold Snap Couch Surfing
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 10:46
Indeed Helen. Sometimes the wind wall is necessary first! And here’s another memory shot for you. (-:
aqua toque replied to Gord F's post: Lots of Space at West Bragg This Morning
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 09:28
Good day to test out a Ski-bow & arrow.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: Cold Snap Couch Surfing
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 09:01
Helen Read replied to MaSid's post: Cold Snap Couch Surfing
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 21, 2022 at 07:04
Perfect time to remind us of the warmth to come and the great memories of these lunch spots. Can't wait to get back out there! With temps heading to low minuses, might be wise to bring a shovel to help build some blocks for the wind wall.
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: Cold but sunny at WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 20, 2022 at 12:26
Nope Steve, I think you just confirmed your Intelligent Person status. ;)
Arie replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 20, 2022 at 11:48
Cool. Now you could McGyver some arrows from some old bamboo ski poles.
Sara M replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 20, 2022 at 00:32
Thanks Dem AB, but unfortunately the boots give me foot cramps and heel blisters. I tried a different insole, but that didn't help. The toe area doesn't bother me at all! I've been annoyingly busy with non-skiing things so far this season, but hoping to get out on some epics soon!
SteveR replied to ErinP's post: Cold but sunny at WBC
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 21:28
Well, with the afternoon sun I actually looked at my bar of "polar extreme" glide wax (-30 and lower) and thought about rewaxing for some quick loops at confed. Nope- wimp status confirmed!
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: TUNNEL MOUNTAIN WINTER TRAILS - Cold but Sunny
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 21:08
Yes Anton... all it took was a scarf to stay happy
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 20:40
Oh crap. Now I will have to worry about arrows flying through the air out skiing rather than just bugs in the spring.
There is some great talent and minds within the Skier Roger Reporting Nation.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to 's post:
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 20:34
Howdy Sara,
If your Alpina Montana boots don't fit right around the toes, or they jam into the top of your feet, change the lacing so that the your laces don't go through the first eyelet or 2 from the toes. I had to do that with a pair of Montana's I have to make them comfortable. Once I did, I skied the highest mileage per day in my life. You don't have to run the laces through the eyelets of any footwear the exact way the factory does. You can even put the laces on in reverse if you like and tie them at the toes. There are no rules when it comes to comfort.
You can also tie knots in the laces anywhere in the lacing system to permanently keep the laces loose in areas where you need loose lacing. This may require 2 different knots depending on location. Looping or twisting the laces around each other is usually better than knots as it is easy to change things up if needed.
These are old tricks I learned over 30 years ago when I worked at a small mountain shop. Sometimes it works great and other times not so much. Try it, you might like it. Of course if your toes jam into the boots, not much will help you as the Montana boots can not be thermally molded to get a better fit.
I hope bad boots are not keeping you from skiing and reporting on your trips. Your killer hard core trip reporting is missed by many, especially from a skiing whimp like me who has greatly appreciated your trail breaking in the past.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 18:56
Indeed AT! If only there was a ski designed for such. Never heard of one, but Quite possible. Take them off, bolt together, shoot, put them back on. None of this compressed air stuff.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: TUNNEL MOUNTAIN WINTER TRAILS - Cold but Sunny
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 18:49
Wow.
If anyone is out skiing in these conditions, it would have to be Chuck.
"People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy."
- Anton Chekhov
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 18:39
Very innovative.
There is serious potential here for a new Winter Olympic sport. A type of archery-based biathlon if you will whereby competitors ski the course with a quiver of arrows. Upon arrival at the shooting range the skis are removed and assembled into a bow. After the requisite volley of arrows the competitor performs take down of the ski bow and continues on the course.
SLC 2030?
Sara M replied to MaSid's post: Upcycling old skis
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 16:09
Oh, that's VERY cool! I hope it works!
MaSid replied to Ray P's post: Spray River Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 13:50
Doesn’t always form perfectly every year (and not currently, as of Friday). But if you are stealthy and have good timing, it’s in one of the smaller meadows on the BC side of west elk pass route between couch HQ and the hydroline.
HenryL replied to Ray P's post: Spray River Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 13:32
Mom's a real beaut MaSid. You must have also snuck up on her while she was sleeping.
Quixote replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 09:23
"Resources revenues being extracted from Kananaskis Country far exceed the cost to maintain it. There is all sorts of logging, hydrocarbon extraction, mining and hydropower generation being produced in Kananaskis Country and that is where the revenues to facilitate operations should be coming from"
Exactly!!!
MaSid replied to Ray P's post: Spray River Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 07:46
HenryL replied to Ray P's post: Spray River Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Monday Dec 19, 2022 at 07:25
A sleeping baby Sauropod.
RainerA replied to tmalaher's post: Nordic-Pulse and Parks Canada Grooming
Delivered: Sunday Dec 18, 2022 at 09:41
I was happy to see that Parks Canada responded to your enquiry about implementing Nordic Pulse. Having real time (or close to real time) grooming updates for the Parks trails would be a great benefit to the skiing community. The current system of trail condition reports is often updated late because I understand the groomers submit their reports after finishing the day to some central Parks person who then updates the website often not till the next day. Nordic Pulse would save Parks staff with manually updating the website and fielding a steady stream of phone calls from skiers asking about conditions. Not sure how much the App costs but there could be cost savings when one considers the costs of using Parks staff to keep the public updated.
aqua toque replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Dec 17, 2022 at 10:16
These are exciting times in Alberta my friends!
Jan replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Dec 17, 2022 at 07:26
That KCPEO vehicle paint job must be a previous/first design. The paint job on the vehicle that caught me using the outhouse at Grotto Pond was a much splashier, multicoloured extravaganza that ran on an angle across both doors on both sides. The vehicle itself was the same white. Your tax $ at work!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Elk pass area: testing the sole
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 20:01
Thanks Gord. I think the other learning for me is not buying a Rossi boot again. Too many reports of sole delamination. Anyone have a pair of these and can report on quality, comfort, fit, warmth?
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Managed 3/4's of Skier Bob Special today
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 19:26
Sorry I missed you helen. Didn’t get back to the main trail until about 230, hoping I would see you descending elk pass. Next time, maybe when it’s warm and sunny again!
Gord F replied to MaSid's post: Elk pass area: testing the sole
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 19:25
I use PL Construction Adhesive for lots of building projects but for shoes and outdoor gear I recommend Gear Aid Aquaseal. It's a thick urethane that's super tough and stays flexible. You can get it at MEC in the shoe repair section I believe. It stays stuck to whatever you use it on. I use it for rips in Goretex, worn seams on gloves, and boot rips and tears.
Good luck with your boot repair, I hope it holds.
https://www.mec.ca/en/product/0799-130/aquaseal%2Bsr-shoe-repair-28g?colour=NO_COLOUR
SkierRoger replied to Septuagenarians's post: All I want for Christmas is a new ski pole.
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 18:49
Better a broken ski pole than a broken you...
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 18:25
If you go shopping to Trail Sports without a United Conservative Party Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee permit, then you can get a ticket.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to tmalaher's post: Nordic-Pulse and Parks Canada Grooming
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 18:22
I fear Nordic-Pulse being involved with Parks Canada in any way. Nordic-Pulse seems to be sponsored by corporations/organizations who want people to pay for skiing and that influence is likely in Nordic-Pulse's management.
Nordic Alberta, a sponsor of Nordic-Pulse, is one of the organizations that was in favor of the United Conservative Party (UCP) Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee in order to divert money from ordinary Albertans and transfer that wealth to racing facilities at Canmore Nordic Centre. The UCP Kananaskis Country tax fee put a charge for walking on lands in Kananaskis Country which now keeps a lot of less wealthy people out of the Kananaskis undemocratically.
The Canmore Nordic Centre is not a self sufficient facility and it subsidizes skiers and racers skiing there heavily with its operations that include making extremely expensive man made snow. The Canmore Nordic Centre is subsidized by the UCP Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee and is a beneficiary of $44,000,000 of Alberta tax dollars since 2008. $17,000,000 was added this year with the UCP Kananaskis Country entrance fee tax that was pulled out of tax payer wallets, including those who have never stepped onto Canmore Nordic Centre lands.
The Trudeau Government last year announced costs will be going up in our National Parks. I fear people involved with Nordic-Pulse and its sponsors will talk the Trudeau Government into charging for cross country skiing and or parking in Banff and other National Parks. If similar talk convinced the United Conservative Party to put in a UCP Kananaskis Country entrance tax fee, and waste money on new unnecessary big grooming equipment, then it could spread to Banff and other National Parks like a pandemic. This would force less wealthy xc skiers out of Banff and leave no place to go for such people who can not afford more taxing fees.
Anyone who needs information about grooming in Banff National Park is asked to not look at Nordic-Pulses website and instead punch in the following Parks Canada website address URL for xc skiing conditions:
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions?genid=thisiscanada_mtn_parks_canada
I have noticed Google has buried search results for the Banff Parks Canada xc skiing conditions website in recent days. It makes me wonder who is behind that. Hmmmmm. Coincidence? Maybe, maybe not.
Eyesopen replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 18:17
I spotted one of those Kananaskis Enforcement vehicles parked in downtown canmore on Weds this week and thought that's a fancy vehicle....parked in Canmore. Maybe they were headed up to Mt Shark looking for rebels in that parking lot.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 17:36
Hello Septuagenarians,
Thanks for your intel sighting report. That was very smart to report on.
The United Conservative Party enforcement car in the picture is an example of some of the wasteful spending of the United Conservative Party (UCP) Kananaskis Country entrance fee tax dollars going to waste for no good or smart reason. Having specialize vehicles and drivers wasting money looking for people walking around without a UCP Kananaskis Country taxing pass is what wasteful spending looks like. If we lived in a real democracy where people rule, this sort of UCP nonsense would not be occurring.
We need more Conservation Officers in this Province to control illegal activities, such as poaching or land, air and water abuses, not clowns driving around looking for someone walking on crown land without a paid tax permit. The land belongs to the people and we should not be taxed to travel on our own land. But because we do not live in a democracy, this is what is occurring.
The amount of money being wasted by the UCP from sucking money out of people with the UCP Kananaskis Country Entrance Tax Fee is absurd. Millions of dollars are being turn into "yellow snow". There is a great lack of UCP accountability and the friends of the Conservatives are some of the target beneficiaries of the wasteful spending. In a real democracy, friends of politicians will not easily get away with your tax dollars like they do now.
Resources revenues being extracted from Kananaskis Country far exceed the cost to maintain it. There is all sorts of logging, hydrocarbon extraction, mining and hydropower generation being produced in Kananaskis Country and that is where the revenues to facilitate operations should be coming from, not from your wallet. These resources revenues should not all be going into general revenue where the Province has accumulated billions in an over taxing surplus. A portion should be directed to the Kananaskis. Excessive surplus money in government hands shows improper economic management, particularly when it is from the wallets of the people.
Premier Lougheed created Kananaskis and it was once apart of the now extinct Alberta Advantage. Every leader in this Province, in the past, respected the fact people should be able to walk on crown lands freely. Even the NDP- not democratic party. The United Conservative Party changed that because they truly are not about Freedom contrary to their marketing slogan. They want total control and what is in your wallet.
Legalizing real democracy is the only cure to the bad conservative oligarchy government that has been in rule in Alberta since 1971 with the exception of 4 years. They have been in power almost as long as I have been going down mountains on skis. That is too long.
The time for real democracy is now. Return the control of the crown lands back to the people to walk freely on them- universally.
Septuagenarians replied to Septuagenarians's post: KCPEO sighting at WBC
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 16:50
Whew!, we bought ours in May this year.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- NORTHERLY END OF POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 11:24
Hi Roger,
You are right about the fire arms restriction.
Your comment reminded me of a story backpacking at the head of the Clearwater River at Devon Lakes. I found a large 30-06 rifle shell, unused by a rock. I was rather choked as Devon Lakes is not far from the now extinct caribou range in Banff. At that time there were still caribou in Banff.
I packed up the rifle shell. When I finished my trip, I called the wardens to tell them about the rifle shell I had found. They had no interest in having it for evidence. I was kind of shocked that they did not care. Wardens never have impressed me with what they don't do in the backcountry.
SkierRoger replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- NORTHERLY END OF POINT CAMP MEADOWS
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 07:57
Great report Mr D.
Not completely sure, but I think rocket launchers are illegal in the national parks. However, I must admit I don’t see them listed here: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/bulletins
Great song though😳
Helen Read replied to Bob Truman's post: ♪♪♪ Blue skies, smilin' at me ♪♪♪
Delivered: Friday Dec 16, 2022 at 07:00
Great song for posting your next video Bob! I just adore your Skin in a picture perfect postcard video on Fox Creek Trail.
https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=videos
Thanks for keeping them on the site Roger: perhaps something vicarious to do during the upcoming DEEP FREEZE.
MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Great Divide fully groomed and track-set today before noon!
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 19:14
Maybe see you in the hood helen. Swing through, there will be a trail.
Sky.high replied to Ray Yong's post: Ribbon Creek
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 17:43
We concur, one of those vehicles was ours! We skied and ran perimeter trails clockwise from Ribbon Creek parking lot, Terrance, Kovac, link, Ribbon Creek, good conditions throughout with a few cms of fresh enhancing the feel good factor.
Casino gas is a bust now more expensive than Calgary :(
Martin & Jip
SkierRoger replied to Jen Journeau's post: Goat Creek with return by the golf course
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 10:55
I think that's an excellent suggestion Arie!
I'll get on it.
Arie replied to Jen Journeau's post: Goat Creek with return by the golf course
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 09:21
Goat Creek trailhead on the Canmore side is indeed closed until Dec 31 for construction
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/bulletins/75F6E929-0FD6-40F7-B7A2-39E714342E2C
Roger - how about creating a page on this site that lists closures? For example, last year the upper Taylor valley was closed due to a hibernating bear. Prior to that we had utility work on Baker Creek. Closures like this are easy to miss, and it would be very helpful to have a page with current closures.
SteveR replied to SkierRoger's post: Rocky Mountain Jackrabbit Ski Club
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 09:14
We were involved with the Rocky Mountain Jackrabbits from about 1987 to 1995. I can't speak to how they operate now, but during our time they had a great programme that emphasized not only lessons for the kids, but also actually getting out on tours to put those skills to use. Along with that, we met other like minded families to join up with for summer activities such as camping and biking. Our daughters are still in contact with some of their jackrabbit friends. Highly recommended!
Jen Journeau replied to Jen Journeau's post: Goat Creek with return by the golf course
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 08:49
We parked in the lot past the Banff Springs hotel and skied out and back from there. I believe the Canmore end parking lot is still closed for construction.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Jen Journeau's post: Goat Creek with return by the golf course
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 08:48
Howdy Jen,
The governments are cranking up prices without public input undemocratically while cutting services. Being soaked by soaking in the Banff Springs Pool is just the beginning. Wait until they start charging for parking or xc skiing. Expect Park gate price increases in the near future as the government milks the people to pay for excessive over spending.
The UCP put a $20/ night fee for random camping in the eastern slopes last year plus the UCP Kananaskis Country tax fee just for walking in the hills. This is while running the biggest surplus in decades and shows the government is taxing the xxxx out of us unnecessarily to shift wealth to their friends in corporations to clean up abandoned wells, support carbon capture and to clean up your wallet.
The time for skiers to push real democracy is now, The oligarchy governments are out of control like an incompetent beginner xc skier on the Brewster Creek Trail hills on an icy spring day without metal ski edges. It is all crazy and undemocratic!
CheersCarol replied to Jen Journeau's post: Goat Creek with return by the golf course
Delivered: Thursday Dec 15, 2022 at 08:14
Where did you park and shuttle for Goat Creek ski?
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: THIS DAY LAST YEAR - Sighting of Mr. Democracy!
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 14, 2022 at 21:05
Oh No, the hair is gone... How will we recognize you?
I thought my late afternoon ski up the Cascade might reveal you heading out towards the Panther!
Glad you didn't mind the repeat exposure of your photo from my ski dungeon, and thanks for your fun commentaries.
Septuagenarians replied to Septuagenarians's post: Great Day on Goat Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 14, 2022 at 20:39
Thanks Chuck,
We will keep an eye open for you.
Chuck replied to Septuagenarians's post: Great Day on Goat Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 14, 2022 at 20:08
Wise choices, given the new snow!
Looking forward to meeting you both, out there.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: THIS DAY LAST YEAR - Sighting of Mr. Democracy!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 23:55
Howdy Chuck,
I should have never cut my super strength Covid-19 hair. Now I can't ski as far. That hair was like Redbull, it gave me wings when it flapped and it reduced the ski penetration while trail breaking.
If you think that hair was long, wait for the next pandemic.
That hair went to a good cause cleaning up oil spills. There is also a lot that ended up involuntarily in bird nests for insulation.
That Covid-19 hair sure kept me a lot warmer out skiing. I did not need a balaclava on colder days. The hair was really great for keeping the sun out of my eyes when I was planting pear trees and melon seeds and it kept me cooler when working the land in +50c temperatures last year. It helps prevent sunburn on the face in the summer and frost bite in the winter. It also kept a lot of bugs from biting my face and shoulders last summer out in the field. I should have grown it down to my butt. Now I know why Jesus wore his long.
I missed skiing the same place on this photo anniversary by just a few hours this year. My report from skiing yesterday suggests ski penetration was rather similar as a year ago judging by the ski penetration in your photo.
Even though there is a fraction of the snow base as last year, conditions are not so bad up Brewster Creek, particularly if you are skiing on rock skis (don't use nice base skis up there yet). If it was not for the "old" rain crust in the current snow base, skiing would be more frightening than my photo up Brewster Creek.
Thanks for pulling the photo out of the ski dungeon and scaring the hell out of the people that look at it. Roger probably lost half his viewers to blindness or zombism as a result.
Just remember my politics are better than I look.
If you stop skiing so early in the morning, I will see you on the trails in the later afternoon.
May snow fall on you in this quasi drought time so it is harder for you to capture my image with your camera.
Ski on with a really big zoom lens.
Alf Skrastins replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's and Scratchies Test New Boundaries
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 21:58
Yes, there is better snow on the north aspects, but it's early season and there hasn't been much snowfall in about a month. Yes, those were probably my ski tracks from a while ago.
The logging on Boundary Ridge was done in 2012 to create a "wildfire containment line" to protect Bragg Creek. The downed trees that are found throughout the WBC trail network were blown down in an intense wind storm on November 30/Dec 1, 2021. Many of the trees that blew down were the oldest and biggest trees in the area. When we counted the growth rings, most of the trees were between 100 and 110 years old. Interestingly, there were virtually no trees blown down in areas that had been logged at some point over the past 50-70 years. I suppose the younger trees were just more flexible, or they hadn't outgrown their root base.
In any case, it took Bragg Creek Trails volunteers and Alberta Parks and Public Lands staff 4.5 months, working every week to clear the 2760 trees that fell across the trails.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: THIS DAY LAST YEAR - Sighting of Mr. Democracy!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 20:12
You definitely have an eye for the classics Chuck.
SteveR replied to Frances Dances's post: PLPP-Upper Lake to Elk Pass via Hydroline-Returm via Fox Creek-Moraine-Wheeler-William Watson Lodge
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 18:37
That tree was gone by the time we skied by at about 3:30. Looked like it was hand cut, so maybe done by a random skier packing a folding saw. Lucky you, getting some sun! Not a hint for us.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 18:36
Howdy MaSid,
I am kind of in the same spot. I bought new Alpina Montana boots and after 4 days of skiing the sewing started to blow out. I returned them and returned to skiing on my old Montana boots with mega size holes because nothing else was available to fit my wide feet. MEC has Alpina Alaskans, but they are leather. I don't want to maintain leather xc boots. That seems nuts to me in this day and age.
Rossignol boots seem to be a problem for durability. My sister bought a pair 2 years ago and the sole started to peel off. She took them to a shoe maker who re-glued them and put screws in them to better hold the soles. Now she is getting screws in her foot. Better than in her head I guess.
The only tip I have for you is Spry. They may have boots for you. Check out there website:
https://spryactive.ca/
You will likely have to drive several hours as they are located in Blairmore. If you don't like the boots after wearing them at home, it would be a terrible trip to return them.
If you take a trip to the Spry, try some skiing down there and give us a report. May I recommend Coal Mountain? It looks like it could be skiable. I looked into old topo maps 30 years ago to see if it was viable for a ski area. I never did check it out in person. The contours look good though and it is in a snow belt on the great divide.
There are also xc trails in the Crowsnest that could be sampled.
MaSid replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's and Scratchies Test New Boundaries
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 18:35
Looks like Carl and the little B’s are on the improvised bench at the high point of the boundary horse trail. It basically follows the upper edge of the large cut block. As an open slope it’s sun exposed in the afternoons, so needs good timing and conditions for a safe ski. Lots of stumps/logs, but relatively smooth grass and dirt, as opposed to rocky (with the exception of the area around the bench).
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK - well beyond the old trappers cabin
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 12:41
Parks Canada reports that Brewster Creek trail is flat packed. That is absolutely false! It just blows me away that such bad information occurs in our government. The trail is only skier packed and no snowmobiles have been up the trail yet this year for some rather lame reasoning.
Reference from:
https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/etat-sentiers-trail-conditions?genid=thisiscanada_mtn_parks_canada
Brewster Creek Winter Trail Fair. 12-12-2022: Thin snow cover over uneven surface. More snow is needed to cover rocks, roots and creeks; Flat packed
There is good snow cover, with only the risk of hitting a rock or 2 off of the skier track. Once it gets snowmobile packed, the conditions may get a little worse until new snow falls. They are very late in snow harvesting and packing on this trail.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's and Scratchies Test New Boundaries
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 12:19
The Little B's and Scratchies in the first picture look like they are in a bombed out forest on the edge of Ukraine.
If one does a time lapse view of google earth, going back 2 or 3 decades, one can see how the Conservatives in Alberta have made much of the older growth forest in the Eastern slopes disappear. More has disappeared in that time period than the 100 years before. It used to be called the Alberta Forest Reserve, in order to protect watersheds for drinking water and irrigation, but no more. The only advantage to the clearcutting is the views that appear on a days skiing adventure.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK - well beyond the old trappers cabin
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 13, 2022 at 11:42
I forgot to add that in the early afternoon, there appeared to be very bad air quality from Calgary into Banff. The bad air quality was likely a combination of the usual pollution man dumps into our sacred environmental gift of air that we breathe in combination with gases and dust being released from Mauna Loa.
If you look at windy.com and add layers, you can view the spew of pollution from various areas around the world, including Mauna Loa. Punch in SO2 (Sulphur dioxide) and you get some interesting data and can follow the pollution drift and fallout around the world. Punch in PM2.5 and you see some serious pollution from western Canada, particularly in Northern Alberta where there are few eyes monitoring the oil patch. Prince George BC is a pollution hell hole often.
I knew I was going to run into bad pollution skiing by looking at windy.com the day before, but I had no idea how bad it was going to be due to a lack of experience with volcano gases mixing pollution with man's toxic crap being pumped into our air. The map forecasted a SO2 "front" sweeping through the mountains, just like a cold front. It was a little tough on the lungs skiing until the winds changed things and the air eventually cleaned up somewhat.
It sure would be nice if the media showed the windy.com pollution maps on their TV weather reports. It would do a lot to educate people on air pollution and enable some people to better protect themselves if they have lung issues. But the big corporate media is not about educating people, they are only about keeping them "comfortably numb".
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's and Scratchies Test New Boundaries
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 23:25
Thanks for the tip Alf! We noticed some old wide-ski tracks on Boundary Ridge. Were they yours? Any idea if the snow coverage is better on the north side?
Alf Skrastins replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's and Scratchies Test New Boundaries
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 22:54
Once there is a new snowfall, the Little B's and friends should try Boundary Horse trail... a much better skiing option than Boundary Ridge.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: SYRAY RIVER and GOAT CREEK to the PARK BOUNDARY... and BEYOND!
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 20:30
Sweet!! You must have really gone the distance!
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: SYRAY RIVER and GOAT CREEK to the PARK BOUNDARY... and BEYOND!
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 17:33
Hey Chuck, those classic tracks on Goat Creek look fresh and perfect. No boot or fat bike dents. It seems the tracksetter works after weekends and Monday is the perfect day to hit this trail. I'll keep that in mind for the near future. Great report.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 13:32
Will do Mike. But I’m sure it will be fine. I trust Steve and his extensive adhesive/repair experience. (-; It’ll get done tonight and tested later this week. The only real issue is if enough flex in the cold.
GordN replied to SkierRoger's post: Ability to embed website links directly inside text is here!
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 12:05
If you want some details on the art of grooming there's a well written (by my brother no less!) FAQ on the Kimberley Nordic Club site.
Grooming tab in the main page. I read how to insert links but by the time I got over here to do it I'd already forgotten
Mike W replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 10:02
MaSid - Please let me know how it goes. It will be a few weeks before I have a chance to repair my boots.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 07:24
An excellent solution Steve! Didn’t occur to me to go that route, and we even have some down at the shop. Two thumbs up.
Sara M replied to Chuck's post: ALBERTA CUP 2022 - Results and some photos
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 07:00
It was nice to see you out there, Chuck! Thanks for cheering!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Jeff P's post: Beauty day at Cascade
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 00:24
Howdy Jeff,
Nice pics. They make me feel like I am there now.
What I have never noticed before, in your warden cabin pic, it looks like the solar panel is floating in the air above the cabin. That is quite the effect!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to walterh's post: Can the south end of PLPP get any better?
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 00:19
Howdy Walt,
That looks like a wolverine but I don't see the confounded claw marks! Perhaps they just did not show up in the photo or the snow fell in them. Hard to tell from pictures sometimes.
Those animals have brought me great pleasure out backpacking over the decades. Damn smart animals which have stolen a lot of expensive food from me!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to The 13th Troll's post: North Glenmore Park
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 00:15
Howdy 13th Troll,
Thanks for that South Glenmore Park report. I will have to do some night skiing out there soon and see if I can find some Trolls in the night skiing.
A few years ago I was walking the dog further west of the trackset in winter when I saw the biggest cougar in my life at night. The cat was longer than the width of the bike path. It had to be 225 lbs. It was 100 meters in front of me. I don't think it saw me but who knows? I quickly scooted up to the cougar tracks and the 30 lb schnauzer immediately started tracking the cougar into the bush. I stopped it after about 25 meters for safety purposes. That dog hated cats!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: Trail Update for Upper Lake Louise
Delivered: Monday Dec 12, 2022 at 00:05
Howdy Roger,
The picture of the glove on the ground reminded me of a story an old friend told me out in the Kootenays.
His wife was a young ranger up in Kokanee Glacier Park where one of the brothers of Justin Trudeau, an avalanche victim, rests in peace at a bottom of a lake. His wife was involved in another avalanche body recovery that took out a rather large number of skiers back in the last century. She had never been trained for or involved in recovering bodies from an avalanche before. Apparently the skiers were pushed by the snow over a rock bed. Limbs were torn off bodies and faces were basically shredded from the rocks. Apparently there were many broken bones in the bodies as well. She quit her job shortly after that avalanche rescue experience and lives in the bush with her husband who was a former room mate of mine. The story really blew me away as she was a nice lady and she had a dream job. The glove picture you took, Roger, in your report brought my mind back to that story. It was one of the many avalanche lessons I have learned over the years.
I faced nearly the same fate of those avalanche victims at Nakiska ski area downhill skiing some many years ago. I decided to head to the back bowl from the top chair. I got off the chair and, as a self trained "quasi" avalanche expert, I viewed the slope that I was going to cross. There were lots of bomb blasts and avalanche patrol control zig zag switchbacks everywhere on the slope except a small section of slope under a group of small trees past the old race poma. That concerned me at first as I knew they missed that slope section and that there was some deadly avalanche risk. I decided to proceed thinking that the snow was likely potentially safe. As I crossed the slope under the trees, I heard that classic sound effect of "an explosive charge going off on the other side of a ridge in the distance sound" (which is the sound of a avalanche fracture within the slab snowpack that I have heard often). My mind subconscious took control of my body in probably 1/1000 of a second and without thinking on what to do, I did a jet turn on the tails of my Rossignol slalom racing downhill skis and flew out the way I basically came. When I got to a safe spot I turned around and an avalanche came down, across big windblown rocks and out across the green run cat track. Big chunks of ice the size of small cars like mine stopped on the green run. It blew my mind away as there was a few meters of fracture line depth and someone could have been killed other than me.
I skied down to the lift and told the lifty. He told me the avalanche patrol was up top to the left of the chair. I went up the chair and met up with them and told them what happened. We traversed over to look at the avalanche debris and they were absolutely shocked that it happened and that I survived and knew what to do. I was invited after the lifts closed by the avalanche patrol to do avalanche control work up there. I appreciated that as I do enjoy explosives going off. I love that sound of bomb bomb bomb as Johnny Hooker sings.
(Hear Johnny at: https://www.google.com/search?gs_ssp=eJzj4tVP1zc0TEmriC_LNjMyYPSSLMlIzU1VKMlXyEvOLFbISy1XyC_KSU3MKwYAHWoOHg&q=theme+to+ncis+new+orleans&oq=theme+to+ncis+&aqs=chrome.1.0i355i512j46i512j69i57j0i22i30l4j0i15i22i30j0i390l2.10723j0j9&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:15a5bb0b,vid:K096sx5whTE )
Everything "expert" skiers have told me or argued with me over the years about "ice bridging" did not apply in this situation. The deep icy snowpack deeper down snapped on a layer of faceted snow only a few millimeters thick.
It is always best to think independently and judge things for your own safety when skiing through avalanche terrain. I first stared training myself about avalanches in 1974 after skiing Paradise Bowl at Lake Louise before there was a chairlift there. I made numerous traversing runs there from Ptarmigan Chair by myself one day, and when I came back for another run the bowl snow was gone- in an avalanche. Right then and there I taught myself about layers in the snow and what layer the avalanche slide on. It was "sugar snow". I used to also cause lots of small avalanches along the slopes of the Glenmore Reservoir in Calgary in order to study the snow layers.
Now that I can't hear as well as when I was young, I do not go into serious avalanche terrain because I would likely be unable to hear that sound of the initial avalanche fracture that sounds like "an explosive on the other side of a ridge in the distance"- effect sound that is common with many slab avalanches. I know of no other way to describe that sound. All that I know is hearing that sound has educated me and kept me alive over the years in order to ski another great day in the Canadian Rockies.
Please note that I have only heard that "explosive over the ridge sound- kind of in the distance" sound effect with snowpacks with slabs. Various avalanches make various sounds. Some will not make noise when they first fracture- at least from my experience. Some avalanches can sound like snow crystals blowing in the wind over a crusty snowpack. There are various other sounds as well. Beware and educated before travelling in avalanche country.
Also, in some cases I will feel the snow drop a couple of centimeters below my skis or snowmobile. That is the sign of an avalanche fracture when you are on a slope of 20% or more. This also occurs on flat or low slopes.
I do love starting avalanches. Ski cutting at the top of slopes is a good idea before skiing the steep and deep along with doing other tests. You really have to know what you are doing when ski cutting and where to escape and avalanche.
If you want to hear more, let me know when you crash into me out skiing- day or night.
Diana Piggott replied to Carl V M's post: Classic skis at Skogan Pass
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 20:23
Lovely picture and report!
And the comments brought back a lot of memories for me too - we used to have replacement ski tips, but they were probably cheap plastic?
My husband didn't learn to snowplow for many years, and did wild somersaults instead. Needless to say, he went through several pairs of wooden skis in spectacular (if somewhat frightening) fashion, before getting fancy new fibreglass skis in the mid 1980s.
Thank you, all of you, for the memories! Too soon, they will be all we have......
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 19:45
I've repaired quite a few boots both hiking and skiing, using PL Premium construction adhesive, with great results. $9 for a lifetime supply (but it will harden in the tube before that) at any home improvement store. Very high strength, bonds to almost everything other than polyethylene, moisture cure so no solvent fumes, waterproof. The usual prep applies-read directions, physically remove any old adhesive, rough up smooth surfaces if possible, clean again, mask any areas that you might not want "squeeze out" on, plan how you are going to clamp pieces in place for 24 hours (I've always used tape), work adhesive as deep into the "wound" as possible on both surfaces. Oh yeah- don't get this stuff on your hands- it's a polyurethane adhesive that also bonds very well with your skin, and is tough to remove if you don't get to it quickly with a solvent.
Edit to add: As much as I like to buy local, there was nothing available locally or even in Canada in my size when my old Alpina 1500's bit the dust for good (they were just completely worn out). I found a replacement online at Backcountry.com in Salt Lake City- the previous years Alpina 1550 model, for a very good discount. I can't speak to how much shipping or customs charges might be, as I picked them up in person in SLC on our way to the desert in October.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 19:29
Mike, I’m likely to just use the 6000 again, as it lasted for 2 seasons. My delamination was quite far back the first time (also rossi’s, but probabiy 5 yrs old+). The cause was wet snow/ice building up under front of foot while touring off trail in the spring, forcing the boot upper away from the sole. After a good long time to dry out, I peeled it back a bit more to almost half way (easier to bend further away from the thicker toe) which allowed enough access to squeeze in a good heap of glue. Then clamped it with gorilla tape on the toe front, with stretchy orange ski straps and bungee cords around ball of foot area and instep. Then let it sit for 24-36 hrs. I was shocked that it held the next time I skied. glad the repair lasted 2 years. However, will try to find some new boots and keep the twice fixed rossi’s as a back up. E6000 can be purchased at Home Depot.
Mike W replied to MaSid's post: Boot sole delamination tips?
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 17:48
The uppers of my brand new Rossignol BC X6 boots are separating from the sole - see photo. Not sure if this happened on the first or second day of skiing with them! Pretty typical of prices spiralling up while quality spirals down. I can return them to MEC, but they have no others in stock and the model is discontinued. I'd have to pay about double for a suitable replacement. So I might try to repair them, and return them later if the repair doesn't hold. I've never repaired a boot upper / sole delamination, but the products I'm familiar with are Shoe Goo or Freesole (now called Aquseal+SR to improve confusion). The latter is available from MEC. Check their website for a description and product reviews. The former is available at Canadian Tire or Marks ($2 cheaper there than CT, even though they're owned by CT). More reviews on those websites. Shoe Goo seems more designed to rebuild worn areas than as an adhesive to reattach parts. Sounds like Aquaseal+SR is commonly used to reattach uppers to soles. It's roughly the same price but you only get 1/4 the product volume.
MaSid - The E6000 reviews look similar to Aquaseal+SR, so not sure if the latter would be better. How did you do the repair? Did you pull apart the upper and sole to get good access to the surfaces? Or did you squeeze the E6000 into the crack between the two parts?
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Carl V M's post: Classic skis at Skogan Pass
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 16:03
Howdy Carl,
The interesting picture of your skis at the top of the ridge brought back some near killer memories for me.
I can thoroughly understand the sentimental value of those skis that your Dad bought for you. It must feel good to boogie across the snow with them.
For me the picture reminds me of a time way back in the last century when a buddy of mine and I went back country skiing at Mount Shark on skis like that.
Shortly after leaving the car at the old Mount Shark parking lot (not the one existing now) a big snow storm came in. My buddy was guiding us up some nicely sparse tree slope with your typical Alberta rotten Rockies snow. We were breaking trail in deep old faceted sugar snow that only got deeper with the storm. We decided to turn around and I was getting some nice tele turns in on the old wooden xc skis that had less paint on the tops than yours. After a few turns I crashed, ripping a binding out of one ski and breaking the other. The ski broke like a used chop stick. I was choked to say the least. That may have been as a result, in part, of snow crammed down my throat and up my noise as a result of the crash.
I had to post hole my way back to the car up to the waist. It was a brutal experience that I will never forget until old timers disease takes over my mind- maybe next week.
My buddy was skiing ahead to break trail back to the car in the new snow as our tracks were already covered. Night time fell and I was still post holing my way back to the car. I remember being at the end of my energy when I faintly heard my buddy yelling he found the car. There was so much new snow on the car he skied right into it as it was totally covered. I could not have gone another 100 meters at that point. I would have collapsed if I had to go much further.
I can remember driving the Mt. Shark road out to the Smith Dorrien Road. It took us well over an hour because as soon as the car would start moving the cold smoke powder snow would blow over the windshield of my VW Rabbit. We could not see outside of the windshield to see where we were driving. It was stop and go driving. Stop, memorize the road for a few meters then drive and stop and repeat. We also had to clear out the radiator as it was plugged with snow and over heated. When we hit the Smith Dorrien Road, things improved greatly and we were able to drive about 30 kph.
The picture of your wooden skis on your report either brings back memories or a bit of post traumatic Stress Disorder- PTSD from that day. I did not get back on cross country skis for a number of years after that day until I discovered xc skis that were not wooden at a store. That changed everything for the better and it made me a tougher smarter mountain dude.
Helen Read replied to Karl B's post: Spray River loop
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 13:39
Hi Karl, I skied it also yesterday but did not have time to ski back on East Spray, so thanks for that great news, but I did go maybe 2 kms beyond the "Bus Shelter" towards the big Spray Bridge and to me, it is always the best section of trail between Goat Creek Parking lot and West Spray parking lot.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: ALBERTA CUP 2022 - This weekend at the Canmore Nordic Centre
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 12:22
I hope the racers are enjoying the $44,000,000 the Canmore Nordic Centre has received in subsidizes from the Alberta tax payers to upgrade facilities since 2008. $26,500,000 was pumped into the Canmore Nordic Centre in 2008 by the Alberta Conservatives for upgrades and another $17,500,000 was pumped in to the Centre in March of 2022 to fund upgrades to the upgrades from 2008. This does not include the many millions to develop the Canmore Nordic Centre when it was first built.
References: 2008 $26,500,000 Funding see:
https://albertaparks.ca/media/2161747/cncpp-strategic-plan-2010-2015.pdf
See background page information in the above document
2022 $17,500,000 Funding see:
https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/we-re-grateful-canmore-gets-17-5m-for-nordic-centre-upgrades-1.5816078
We the people of Alberta have been undemocratically forced by the UCP to pay a $90/year Kananaskis fee and a $20/ night random camping fee in the Eastern Slopes so the Canmore Nordic Centre can receive subsidies for the unfeasible business facility.
Unfortunately for many less wealthy Albertans now, they can no longer afford to walk in Kananaskis Country as a result of the UCP Kananaskis Pass cost which subsidizes the Canmore Nordic Centre which its management is unable to make operate in a self supportive conservative manner. Perhaps it is time for better management of the Nordic Centre so it can run without subsidies, like every other skiing resort facility in Alberta.
The town of Canmore is the primary economic beneficiary of the subsidies to the Canmore Nordic Centre. Certainly towns like Red Deer or the Crowsnest Pass are not. Perhaps the town of Canmore should be the only government subsidizing the Canmore Nordic Centre. I would love to see a Provincial wide poll and debate on this issue along with the UCP Kananaskis Pass.
When millions must be spent on subsidizing artificial snow for XC skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre in a Province where there is ample free snow in the snow belts, it makes real conservatives wonder if the Conservative Alberta government should not be involved in the business of skiing. Making snow is a very expensive process and those skiing on it should pay their full cost to ski on it without having all Albertans subsidizing it.
There are those in the Nordic Centre that suggest there is a $5 million dollar per year return on investment, but that evidence is not verified well and there are many better returns on investments to be made with the money, such as investing in more doctors so health care waits are reduced and people can get back to work sooner or so people, like sick kids, can live.
Real democracy should prevail on this issue and every other issue Albertans face.
Written by a graduate of Ski Resort Operations and Management- a champion for the legalization of real democracy who has skied for over 50 years.
BonnyTasky replied to BonnyTasky's post: Lake O Hara
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 11:41
The boots are Mens US 11.
SueO replied to 's post:
Delivered: Sunday Dec 11, 2022 at 06:43
Hi Bonny, What size are the boots?
SteveR replied to Carl V M's post: Classic skis at Skogan Pass
Delivered: Saturday Dec 10, 2022 at 21:22
Good to see those oldies still getting some love. Looking at them, I can almost smell the pine tar in Bernie Mason's shop in Wildwood! I've still got one of those emergency ski tips in the parts bin, yours if you want it, Carl. I haven't seen a broken tip in many years, a product both of stronger skis, and the plethora of well groomed trails that we enjoy now.
MaSid replied to BonnyTasky's post: Lake O Hara
Delivered: Friday Dec 09, 2022 at 20:43
Cell service on parts of ribbon ck/kanaskis village and skogan if you want to dial in and check the score while still skiing. (-;
MaSid replied to chuckley's post: Skier Bob Special at PLPP w modification
Delivered: Friday Dec 09, 2022 at 20:40
For another slight alternative, try the dodge left through Patterson meadow, 100 m down hydroline from elk pass, if the track is in (you will see it). Comes out on Patterson about half way down, still getting some track descent fun on the lower half.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: wind and sun
Delivered: Friday Dec 09, 2022 at 19:03
P.S. head-on collision between a large van and an SUV on the 70 k section heading back to Bragg. Partial snow cover, not overly icy and fine with snow tires. Not sure what happened, but hopefully everyone ok.
JoLynn replied to SkierRoger's post: Can't Beat that Day: Ribbon🎀 Creek
Delivered: Friday Dec 09, 2022 at 07:22
Thanks for all that great info, Mr. Democracy! There were lots of those tracks and some smaller, so I wonder if it was a wolf pack...whatever it was, it sure helped me ski faster!
ulrikeski replied to Helen Read's post: Incredible Conditions at PLPP : walked almost straight up big hill at Elk Pass on blue wax.
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 21:51
Hi Helen: thanks for the great PLPP trip report and the update on Mt. Shark. Hope to get there soon as its such a scenic place. Tomorrow will be my once a year lift skiing day at Sunshine Community Day.
I can report that CNC had good grooming on upper part of the night loop and biathlon lit loop today.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Can't Beat that Day: Ribbon🎀 Creek
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 21:04
Thanks for the info DEM.
Your animal knowledge is on par with Mowgli of The Jungle Book.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: Can't Beat that Day: Ribbon🎀 Creek
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 20:04
Howdy Roger,
The tracks in your picture are kind of difficult to interpret as the picture does not do justice for my eyes. I could also use information on strides. To me it looks like a wolf based on the size of the animal print compared to the ski boot reference. I think I see claw marks but I am not sure. If there were claw marks, it would likely be some sort of front foot of a canine like a wolf. The main track to me is somewhat bizarre looking, particularly the back pads. There is also a strange scuff mark beyond the toes too. Knowing the length of the animals stride can help in identification. Please take extra pictures next time which show the stride if possible. Put a ski or pole next to the prints so a person can get an idea of the stride length.
The track upside down in the pic is too hard for me to ID. Again it looks canine wolf like because of size, but I don't see claw marks. Perhaps snow filled in the tracks somewhat. Sooooo confusing.
I don't think the tracks are mountain lion/panther/cougar/puma/catamount as they seem really big for a typical Alberta putty cat. The cats are like black bears and don't show claw marks normally- unless they are slipping or need extra grip.
I have had more difficulty identifying animal tracks this year than any other in the snow as I am skiing along. Perhaps it has to do with the cold snow not giving nice impressions. Many of the tracks I have seen this year have had a skiff of new snow in them as well which adds to identification difficulties as I ski along.
One thing that has freaked me out a little this year is skiing over old tracks returning back to the car at night. They can look rather fresh with the LED headlamp lights as I am moving +10 kph skiing over the tracks. I have had to stop a couple of times to ensure they were not fresh and that I was not sneaking up on a Griz at night.
Some animals lose part of their foot in new modern humane traps that are not to humane when they destroy part of an animals foot unintentionally. I think that mainly occurs in bears though, but I could be wrong. Big cats could be affected as well but I have heard no evidence of that.
Some tracks of canines may be hard to identify due to breeding. Coyotes and wolves have been known to breed together and are known as coywolves. There could be dog mixed into them as well.
Grizzlies and polar bears interbreed apparently as well. On my land a few years ago I had a minature or pigmy sow grizzly with 2 cubs feeding on melons. The sow was not much more than a foot and a half high. The cubs were as big as mom. They had fur patterns unlike any bear I had ever seen, but they had the back hump. I have also seen one white grizzly bear in the bush as well. So animal tracks are also likely to vary a little too with genetic diversity.
Ski on with the wolves the way nature intended.
Gord F replied to Septuagenarians's post: Early Morning Ski at WBC
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 17:51
I can't wait until I become a septuagenarian (I had to look that up) so I can get up that early and ski that much distance.
Normand replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 12:15
Good job and nice report DAB for your trip yesterday. Indeed, anyone venturing beyond Shadow Lake or Lodge, from TCH1 in the same day, is a demanding effort when trail breaking is done this time of the year.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 11:28
Hey Ye All,
The thermometer at the warden cabin is no longer hanging. The "hanger" was broken a year or two ago and now the thermometer sits in the corner on top of the shelf box. It is probably safer there. Thanks Helen for putting that there. Could you put one at Cyclone Warden Cabin east of Red Deer Lakes on the Red Deer River?
Anyone skiing down the Shadow Lake Lodge trail should take caution if they are skiing on flawless base skis as there is risk of hitting a rock or two. I side stepped the trail to make a better base and to make it wider. With 10cm of new wet snow this trail should be in very good to excellent condition and fine for skiing down. If you are skiing on rock skis, give 'er.
I bought a pair of Alpina Montana xc boots around 3 weeks ago. After my fourth day out I noticed threads blowing out in a few places. I wonder if the crust in the snowpack was the reason for the threads blowing out. I returned the boots to the ski shop and there was no other boots my size for a replacement. I am now skiing on my old Montana boots that have a number of holes in them. They are kind of like skiing on jelly runners. Not much for support and my feet get pretty wet and heavy. I was rather bagged skiing 32 km yesterday. It felt more like 50 km that I skied. It is really grim to find wide 43 cm xc ski boots these days. There is a lack of stock by the stores as stores do not want to carry much stock or they can't get it.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 10:59
DAB - Thanks for the timely report. I'm heading up there tomorrow and now I know what skis I should use! Sorry to hear you didn't get to see the occultation.
aqua toque replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 08:32
1:30:10
You're welcome.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 08:03
Mars Occultation of Dec 7, 2022 from Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles
HenryL replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 08:02
Mars Occultation from Griffith Observatory
HenryL replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 07:52
Well done DEM. I'm glad that you were out at such a beautiful spot and were able to look up.
I should have had a prize for best Mars trip report. You would have won. Next time.
Helen, the celestial event was on early Dec. 8 in Europe, but on the evening of the 7th here.
I watched the live stream from Griffith Observatory in LA. You can find them on Youtube and see the recording.
Those in Europe saw it at just about midnight and later.
Helen Read replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: SHADOW LAKE AND BEYOND
Delivered: Thursday Dec 08, 2022 at 07:29
I am glad to read the old thermometer I hung at Redearth Warden's cabin is still there. I put it there many "moons" ago. And also to congratulate you on all your night skiing! I believe the viewing of Mars and the moon is happening tonight as per that posting below with at least a dozen comments.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 07, 2022 at 15:12
Hi Whipper,
Not to get too Beery, but I would appreciate the benefits of your research.
You know my taste in beer, so please give me some specific local suggestions.
Thanks
Whipper replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 07, 2022 at 08:50
Thanks for the trip reports. Not to get political, but what about shopping a bit more local and buying beer here in Alberta? According to my personal research, there are many fine choices. Our merchants could use our business.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Wednesday Dec 07, 2022 at 08:06
Helen, check the Moon at about 7:30 pm or so. See how high in the sky it is. Then a good plan is to place yourself where you'll be able to see Mars dip in behind the Moon at a couple of minutes to 8.
I recommend to begin watching a few minutes early, in case your time is off.
This is really best as a binoculars or telescope event, but I know that you intrepid skiers will find a way to see it while out on the trails.
ern replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 14:45
Hey Willie, just curious re: the purpose of the bat? Is that to fend off 'would-be absconders' of your fine, fine choice?!?
PS> does anyone give you the 'crook-eye' when you empty the local boozeteria of all their Kootenay glory?
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 13:42
A correction.
To set your location in Stellarium, go into the left side slide-out menu by dragging your mouse cursor to the far left edge. Choose the top icon which looks like a compass rosette. Then use the list of cities or enter your longitude and latitude and finally "Set as default location".
Enjoy the show on Wedn. evening.
Helen Read replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 12:22
And where do we sign up for this "night" course???
I think I need a private lesson on all these comments and url's. When I lead a Moonlight Ski, I just go on optimistic hope, that we'll be able to see the moon.
Bob Truman replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 11:17
Hi Chuck, this is one of your most interesting reports ever with photos of beer, a dog, and wolverine tracks. The photo you posted is an excellent example of the unmistakeable "three-print diagonal" of the wolverine. A special thrill to see them.
Willie replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 11:11
It's too bad we have to travel so far for our beverages. But the trips are usually worth while.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 10:09
Hey Aqua Toque,
Very observant of you to see the blue tails of my Morotto skis under the arch of beer!
aqua toque replied to Chuck's post: YOHO VALLEY ROAD to the SWITCHBACKS - Snow shoe packed only!
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 09:05
Pro Tip:
When stacking beer in the SUV always leave a space for the ski tails.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Tuesday Dec 06, 2022 at 06:19
A correction.
To set your location in Stellarium, go into the left side slide-out menu by dragging your mouse cursor to the far left edge. Choose the top icon which looks like a compass rosette. Then use the list of cities or enter your longitude and latitude and finally "Set as default location".
Enjoy the show on Wedn. evening.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 21:42
Hey DEM AB.
Indeed, "Time and Date" is a wonderful website, so thanks for sharing.
It is cool that for any date you can slide the cursor along the graphic, as you suggest. Nice!
I see that the altitudes from Time and Date match up with those from Stellarium, so that's a relief.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 21:21
re. Stellarium.
When your mouse cursor hits the bottom of the screen a menu will appear.
Also, a pop up menu will appear when the mouse cursor hits the left edge of the screen.
From this left edge menu. choose the "wrench" icon to go into setup. Find your location, Calgary, in the list, and set as the default location.
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 21:17
Thanks Chuck for the translation into English. Yes, the Moon will hide the planet Mars for about an hour, starting at 7:59 PM Calgary time. This happens because of the Moon's eastern travel through the sky with respect to the stars/planets.
DEM AB, the link you provided had an error.
I use the free software Stellarium. (link below)
The interface is a bit crude, but okay. Use function keys F3 to find an object and F5 to change time/day/year. So in other words you can use this software to what stars will be in the sky tonight, or a thousand years ago!
In Stellarium, click on an object like the Moon and information, such as it's altitude above the horizon will appear.
I see that in Calgary at 8 pm the Moon will be at 33 degrees altitude, and at 9pm will be 42 degrees. So should be visible from broad valleys.
Good luck. We've got cloud in our forecast.
Free Stellarium software (web version is doesn't seem good at all. I use the downloaded app.
Septuagenarians replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 21:15
Mr. Democracy,
Thank you for your useful link to the moon chart. If you add a space before and after the link, it will be easier to click on the link and not get a 404 not found error. Or you could remove the parenthesis.
I have attached the moon rise and set link below.
Moon Link
Mike W replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 19:51
Too bad it won't be a crescent moon. Then we would have been able to see Mars between the tips of the crescent. ;-)
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: SUNDANCE CANYON and HEALY CREEK - Tracking down the Tracksetter!
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 19:43
Aloha Chuck,
We are going to have to wax you skis with Redbull so those skis can fly up trails for enhanced ski report reasons!
Thanks eh.
See ya if I crash into you on the trails.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 19:37
Hello Henry.
If you look at the following web site reguarding the moon on Dec.7 you will see the altitude of the moon on Wednesday. One can move the computer curser over the moon on the below website to get altitude and direction at any time of the day. It is pretty cool.
( https://www.timeanddate.com/moon/canada/banff )
Skiers will have a low moon until later at night or very early in the morning before sunrise.
From what I can tell, in the evening before 9 pm Dec 7, it looks like the best place to ski to get reasonable direct moonlight is in very high elevations or in East West valleys, such as Watridge Lake trail area or Bryant Creek.
I had some very nice near 1/2 moonlight skiing on the Cascade Trail several days back where I just had to use my red headlamp light for the most part in shaded areas. I would turn it off in bright moonlit areas. On the big hill coming out I used my regular beam for safety at higher speeds in shaded areas. I probably turned my light on and off several dozen times while ski striding. It looks like the moon on Dec/ 7 is shifting so that the trail may not be lit like it was several days ago. However, Minnewaka "ski" Road to Upper Bankhead should be well lit on Dec. 7 though.
What effect the moon will have on Mars viewing is unclear to me.
For a solar panel headlamp that requires no batteries see: https://hybridlight.com/products/the-headlamp
Just leave it in the car when not skiing to charge and you will never run out of battery power for skiing. Never worry about forgetting batteries in a charger again.
Moon ski cheers.
Chuck replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 19:30
Thank you Henry for pointing this out.
As you suggest, a good night for a moon light ski when Mars will become hidden by the Full Moon.
The attached link might help folks like me!
How To Watch The Full Moon Occult Mars
HenryL replied to HenryL's post: Moonlight ski on Dec 7 to see the occultation of Mars
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 18:46
This is an evening event.
Times are PM -)
SkierRoger replied to Dougb's post: Roger’s Interview on CBC
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 18:27
Yes, the CBC has my number these days.
Would enjoy meeting you on the trail one day to shake your hand Jeremy!
JeremyN replied to George B's post: Beware of Rocks at West Bragg
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 18:14
Always a shame but hopefully todays 10-15cm gets packed over well to hide those pesky easily season land sharks.
JeremyN replied to Dougb's post: Roger’s Interview on CBC
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 18:09
Heard your cheery interview this morning Rog. Good advice & well told on a snowy (& traffic snarled) morning! Also last Sat with Paul on the way to Skogan was a surprise.
SkierRoger replied to Dougb's post: Roger’s Interview on CBC
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 16:39
Thanks for the kind words of encouragement Doug!
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SUNDANCE CANYON and HEALY CREEK - Tracking down the Tracksetter!
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 16:39
Looks like it, but I did not go far!
EPK replied to EPK's post: BUY & Sell Light Touring Medal Edge Waxable
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 14:11
I do not have the original owners manual to reference for your questions but have added two pics which should do the job. Phone me if you need more, you scored my Madsus skis last week.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: SUNDANCE CANYON and HEALY CREEK - Tracking down the Tracksetter!
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 10:52
Howdy Chuck,
Was the Brewster Creek trail snowmobile Packed?
The Parks Canada website said it was packed the day after I skied the trail a week or so ago.
Snow cheers.
Ski ya later.
SkierRoger replied to Neil's post: Elk Pass
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 07:13
Thanks for that aqua toque, but that one seems a bit pricey.
Actually, in that photo I was wearing my SkierRoger.ca toque.
I had it on sideways though. Isn’t that the fashion these days?
aqua toque replied to Neil's post: Elk Pass
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 07:08
SkierRoger replied to Neil's post: Elk Pass
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 06:45
Hey Chuck
I did come equipped with one but it was a tad chilly that morning
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Lost Ski Pole: Cascade Fire Road trail
Delivered: Monday Dec 05, 2022 at 06:40
Thanks for the reply Dem.
He says his pole is about 125 cm.
Chuck replied to Neil's post: Elk Pass
Delivered: Sunday Dec 04, 2022 at 20:46
Hey Skier Roger,
How about wearing a hat that would help us all recognize you skiing out here?
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to EPK's post: BUY & Sell Light Touring Medal Edge Waxable
Delivered: Sunday Dec 04, 2022 at 20:23
It would be a good idea to give the sidecut width of the skis you have for sale. Minimum and maximum width of skis in mm. This may create more interest as some people are looking for a specific width.
Also stating whether they have a single or double camber is a good idea. Taking a picture of the camber with a tape measure would show height of the camber under the bindings.
Those handmade 200cm skis look rather attractive.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: Lost Ski Pole: Cascade Fire Road trail
Delivered: Sunday Dec 04, 2022 at 20:13
Kind of a late lost report from last season. If someone did not find it, the owner may have to go scuba diving in Lake Minnewanka to find it!
Was it 150cm in length by any chance?
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to The 13th Troll's post: Lonely Fox Creek
Delivered: Sunday Dec 04, 2022 at 20:08
The Trolls are supposed to come out at night, usually when the Northern Lights are out, at least that is the tradition according to the web.
The following solar panel headlamp can aid in night skiing Trolls without ever having to buy headlamp batteries or worrying if the northern lights are out:
https://hybridlight.com/products/the-headlamp
Ski Trolls ski- at night.
SkierRoger replied to Neil's post: Elk Pass
Delivered: Sunday Dec 04, 2022 at 12:55
It was great meeting everyone on the trail!
I hope your enjoyed your run down Fox Creek as much as I did.
Carole replied to Chuck's post: STONEY CREEK - Trackset, Warmer Weather, and lots of Cold Powdery Snow
Delivered: Saturday Dec 03, 2022 at 20:15
Jamie and I enjoyed Cascade today too!
Chuck replied to Helen Read's post: FIRST TRAX on Upper Kovach but no FIRST TRAX beer!
Delivered: Saturday Dec 03, 2022 at 08:18
Well Roger,
Little do you know Helen:
She was probably drinking Mt. Begbie Tall Timber Ale before we were born!
Another good dark winter ale to enjoy after a ski.
Chuck replied to Rick B's post: Cascade new trackset
Delivered: Saturday Dec 03, 2022 at 08:12
Now Rick,
If I could train you guys on the Cascade to take photos, maybe I wouldn't have to go!
Great report though... Thanks.
Bob Truman replied to Bob Truman's post: Keep Going(accessing Skogan Pass through Nakiska)
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 23:03
Further to Mike's comment, here's another photo of the Powderface slope. I'm standing on the Hidden trail where it shows the sign in Mike's photo.
Mike W replied to Bob Truman's post: Keep Going(accessing Skogan Pass through Nakiska)
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 22:53
Following Bob's last photo, you cross the Powderface downhill ski slope - see my photo. The trail continues at the far right of the photo, where you can just see a trail sign. The big snow mountain on your left is the landing zone of a terrain feature where skiers and snowboarders can catch big air and land on top of you while you ski across. Watch out!
Helen Read replied to Ray Yong's post: Skogan Pass - Perfect
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 21:39
CONGRATULATIONS RAY and Santa BOB !!! Braving the cold gave you both this incredible ski almost all to yourself with brand new grooming. So glad you made it to the very top. A First Trax beer might be in order. I am jealous!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: CASCADE RIVER - beyond Stoney Creek afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 20:12
Howdy MaSid,
The wind was not blowing from the east yesterday. I noticed that driving home at night when the smoke stake pollution from the numerous cement plants east of Canmore was blowing in a SE direction, away from Banff or Canmore.
I had noticed the burning of pine beetle signs previously on the Trans Canada Hwy on my other ski trips. Those signs were giving misinformation or lying to the public. There was a construction company burning big spruce logs in 2 big steel burn bins. I think they may have been involved with a powerline construction company. I was disgusted by what I saw burning as they could have cut up the wood for fire wood to heat homes rather than wasting logs that looked as big as a foot and a half across or more. I am sure a lot of people would have appreciated that wood to heat their homes. They could have simply cut up the wood and leave it off the side of the highway for people to pick up. It would have disappeared fast as some people need the fire wood to reduce home heating costs. But anti-environmental corporations will be anti-environmental corporations and just pollute when it is unnecessary because of lack of intelligence and smart UCP government regulation along with the fact that they just don't care about the air we have to breathe. This is what a red neck corporation looks like.
I was going to give the company "a public relations lesson" on my ski trip out yesterday if I saw them burn again but I did not see any burning yesterday- the first time in weeks.
As a nature loving G.O.D. (Great Out Doors) type of guy who spends the majority of life on the land, I have learned to have major respect for the Sacred Environmental Gifts of Life.
The Sacred Environmental Gifts of Life include the sacred air we breathe into our lungs skiing, the sacred water we drink to hydrate us skiing, the sacred soil that grows our food to feed us out skiing and the sacred sun that energizes all life on earth and my buns on a cold day of skiing.
Unnecessary wasteful polluting corporations like the one burning big spruce on the side of the Trans Canada Highway do not respect our Sacred Environmental Gifts of life and they need to be educated or legislated to do so if we want our environment to last for the future generations.
Their disrespectful corporate actions prematurely help melt the glaciers and snowpacks faster that provide us water to drink along with irrigation for crops that feed Albertans while putting particulate in the air that reduces solar power hitting the ground which costs us all more money in heating as your passive solar windows in your home collect less energy when pollution particulate reduces the sacred sun's light intensity. Smoke from fires can travel around the planet 2 times, creating harm across the planet which also reduces sun intensity for crops growing. Reducing a farmers sun adds to food inflation and decreases food output. This is not what environmental or economic sustainability looks like and anti-environmental wasteful burning needs to stop.
Air particulate pollution also adds to cooler growing temperatures. On my farm, the sun is often blocked by about 20% due to air pollution which slows crops down and makes them more susceptible to early frosts. The only good thing about an early frost is I get out skiing sooner.
Bob Truman replied to Ray Yong's post: Skogan Pass - Perfect
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 18:40
Great seeing you today, Ray. Just wanted to tell everyone that my beard is white because of all the frost. Nothing to do with age. Here's a photo of you coming down the trail.
MaSid replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: CASCADE RIVER - beyond Stoney Creek afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 13:32
Noticed “smoke in the area” signs beside the Hwy yesterday east of Canmore for pine beetle control. Typically wouldn’t get blown in from there. Temperature inversion will do it too, compress stuff into the valleys.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: CASCADE RIVER - beyond Stoney Creek afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 13:16
I forgot to mention the bad air quality skiing up the hill before the Cascade Bridge. I was getting hints of burning plastic and other materials that I could not recognize. The " air layered" particulate was very hard on the lungs in some places. It looked like I was skiing into the Arctic haze when I first started skiing. At times I was wondering if I was smelling the pollution fall out of the burning of buildings and soldiers in Ukraine. It was bad to suck up that particulate while working hard to ski up the hill. After I got over the hill the air cleaned up, I could not see and Artic Haze effect anymore, but I was noticing snow that did not look pure white. It had to have some significant particulate in it to give an off white color.
As I was skiing out to moon light, the air was fairly heavy with smoke particulate in some sections going down the hill again. My guess was the sell out former Greenpeace Federal Environment Minister is still burning forest in Banff. We pay carbon taxes so the government can burn about 1.5% of Banff per year while the government pollutes the atmosphere. Such immoral hypocrisy.
The 1.5% figure is based on conversations with park officials about 15 years ago. They told me that was their burn target and I don't know if that has changed. It is absurd to wastefully burn forest and pollute the air with hundreds of chemicals, including releasing past radioactive fallout from past activities. I have noticed very significant increases in air pollution in Banff over the last couple of decades as fall out from all over the world falls on me while skiing. But most of the fallout is local. The Banff Canmore valley is becoming increasingly polluted with the growing population and industry. The snow is not as pure as it once was to ski on.
SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: FIRST TRAX on Upper Kovach but no FIRST TRAX beer!
Delivered: Friday Dec 02, 2022 at 10:18
Thanks for the report, Helen. You don't strike me as the beer drinkin' type anyway!
I'm attaching a few of the pictures you emailed me.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY - First tracksetting in Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Thursday Dec 01, 2022 at 16:54
Great idea!
Hang on,I’m on my way…
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY - First tracksetting in Winter Wonderland
Delivered: Thursday Dec 01, 2022 at 14:44
Thanks for the woodpile tip!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Thursday Dec 01, 2022 at 14:18
Thanks Mike. Good suggestions. I purchased my Kananaskis pass in person at barrier lake, no offer of a reminder option. Will get them to add that to my latest pass if they can.
Jan, thanks for the info. Should be helpful. My offence date was oct 18, so must have stopped doing warnings just before that based on your experience.
Anyone have experience successfully dealing with a fine?
All that happened today was entering a “not guilty” plea to initiate a yet to be determined court date to hear my case. Terrible driving to get to the Canmore courthouse in time. Very low visibility and a bit icy. Eastbound Hwy 1 near deadman’s was closed at 830 for a bit while they pulled a Couple of semis out of the ditch. Better on the way back after 10.
Jan replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Thursday Dec 01, 2022 at 08:00
I have refused to purchase a K Pass for reasons previously discussed by others on this board and elsewhere. On a trip back from Banff NP in Oct I stopped at Grotto Lake to use the outhouse. When I emerged from the outhouse there was a brand new white SUV with a very expensive paint job across both sides reading 'Kananaskis Pass'...that is where your pass fees are going, probably part of the fee to the private company that has the contract to monitor pass use. Within the week, I received a notice in the mail, a warning rather than a ticket, thank goodness. You need a K pass to use an outhouse...and how many toilets exist on the 1A between Cochrane and Canmore? I will ski on the 'free days' until we get a more equitable solution with a change in government.
Hope you are successful in your court appearance, MaSid.
SkierRoger replied to Ray Yong's post: PLPP - Elk Pass
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 20:53
Pictures taken by Helen Read…
SkierRoger replied to Ray Yong's post: PLPP - Elk Pass
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 20:45
I’d be happy to post a picture for you Helen. And very willing to show you how to include photos in your trip reports.
Mike W replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 20:36
The website currently lets you request a reminder: "I would like to receive annual expiry notifications and periodic e-newsletters from Alberta Parks, sent to my email address used for the Kananaskis Conservation Pass." Scroll to the bottom of the pass payment page at https://conservationpass.alberta.ca/kcp
Your best bet may be to bring proof that you bought an annual pass previously (e.g. confirmation email or credit card statement) and say that you signed up for a reminder but never received one. And you've talked to others that never received a reminder.
FYI Parks is using our Pass fees to fund this private company instead of funding Kananaskis infrastructure and services. Best solution is to vote in the NDP in May who've promised to cancel the Park Pass program.
Chuck replied to Septuagenarians's post: Spray River West and Goat Creek MUCH better than Poor
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 20:13
Thank you Septuagenarians, for such an informative report.
You are obviously ready to deal with whatever nature sends you. As you might have seen, I headed a little further and higher today (following our tracksetter) for deeper snow... hope you give it a try soon.
Looking forward to your next report!
Helen Read replied to Ray Yong's post: PLPP - Elk Pass
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 19:29
Great running into you Ray this morning. We both seem to like early starts and I enjoyed fresh grooming on Moraine and Fox from where I parked. Think you gave me good advise not heading into the wind up Hydroline, so just enjoyed Patterson, and then took in Hydroline Hill that had beautiful untouched corduroy. Might send your picture to Skier Roger. I am too tired to figure this photo challenge out tonight. Keep that snow a coming'. Didn't feel like -18 at all.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 16:58
Apparently they stopped doing reminders and warnings after a while. Just didn’t work out with timing of my pass. A new system requires longer period of warning. At BNP, if you drive up sunshine road for example without a park pass or a recently expired one, and there happens to be a parks staffer checking passes, you can at least purchase one (but not with a private company doing it). Same with being parked somewhere, you get a warning with the option to rectify immediately. It’s an unreasonable approach going with the full slap right off the get go, and not good for tourism. Hoping to have the ticket tossed out, or at least some change to the system to be more reasonable and fair other than a cash grab. We will see.
Gord F replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 15:37
Just an FYI. Back in May I received a notice that my Kananaskis Pass was due to expire in 30 days. Not sure if this was an automated notice or if I selected to be notified when I purchased the initial pass. Good luck with your ticket.
Normand replied to MaSid's post: PLPP recent grooming
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 30, 2022 at 15:11
Really sorry for you MaSid; that's simply insane and abusive they fined you so much. And indeed, no warning was ever given for anyone to renew their pass (well I did not receive any this past spring to renew mine). Kind of wonder if it is done on purpose to abuse of such fines being handed, especially when you already had a pass for last year. Such corporation won't even care about the values to others on your posted reports for snow conditions on the ski trails and front/back country.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK BEYOND FATIGUE PASS JUNCTION- snow reconnaissance ski mission
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 29, 2022 at 12:59
Aloha Mike,
That is pretty MacGyver like!
Little Bs replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 29, 2022 at 11:54
MaSid and aqua toque: For the record, if either of you want to get pink skis, that's fine with us!
aqua toque replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 29, 2022 at 07:11
Hey! I wear the "blue toque" around here. You build couches. I wear the toque. Don't rock the boat...m'kay?
MaSid replied to 's post:
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 20:14
Sorry willie, just wearing my “blue toque” on that one. But look forward to seeing you again in the elk pass environs. It’s been a while. Bring your fatter skis if going there in the next while. More snow has fallen since my last visit, but likely facetting out in the next week is my guess, unless a major wind event to create a new crust. The last wind crust has already broken down.
Willie replied to 's post:
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 19:52
Sorry MaSid
Picture not for sale. Have someone ahead of you for the skis.
Will keep you in mind for the skis and take the post down tomorrow and repost if the deal falls through.
Maybe see you at the couch this season.
Cheers
MaSid replied to Chuck's post: PIPESTONE - First Trackset of the season
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 19:43
Ice looks good Chuck, but maybe not enough snow depth on top yet. Needs almost 2 ft to make it work there.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK BEYOND FATIGUE PASS JUNCTION- snow reconnaissance ski mission
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 17:40
DAB - You can create a cost-free feeler gauge by making a 10mm thick stack of paper (or anything else comparably thin) and dividing by the number of sheets in the stack. Then you know how thick 1 sheet of paper is. Count how many sheets of paper fit in the gap, and multiply by the thickness of each sheet to get the size of the gap.
Sounds to me like the bindings have been mounted fine.
MaSid replied to 's post:
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 17:30
Skis, bindings and wolf pic for how much more? (-;
SkierRoger replied to chuckley's post: Snovember at the Canmore Nordic Centre
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 16:23
What a superbly beautiful area!
Thanks, chuckley
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK BEYOND FATIGUE PASS JUNCTION- snow reconnaissance ski mission
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 15:56
Howdy Mike,
Thanks for your masterful detailed binding information.
The "back" part of the white part of my regular Rottefella new manual bindings on 2 pairs of skis (205 BC 59 and 210 Vidda) has some gap under it. There is even a slight gap at the front of the white toe piece area. There is a little curve there from the manufacturing process it appears.
The black plastic has a gap from the white part of the binding to the heel piece, not including the heel piece directly under the heel.
I scored another pair of Madshus Voss white base skis yesterday with Solomon bindings and those bindings are similar with lots of gap, if not more under the plastic plate- more in terms of length of gap under the binding. These bindings were only skied on about 6 times by the previous mellow skiing owner. I will replace those bindings with regular manual NNNBC bindings when the budget allows or when I can find older Rossignol manual bindings to mount on them.
My older Rossignol manual bindings, mounted on my Rossignol TMS Mountain Series skis as well as an old pair mounted on a pair of Madshus Voss black base skis, only has a little gap under the skinny little short piece of black plastic just before the heal piece. This seems very reasonable to me.
My conclusions, from looking at all my skis that I have hoarded in the last year, is the older manual Rossignol bindings are better designed than newer Rottefella manual and automatic bindings along with Salomon bindings.
I do not have a spark plug gap tool, anymore, to measure the gaps under the plastic on the bindings as you recommended. All that I know is I will feel more secure skiing on the old Rossignol manual bindings than skiing on newer Rottefella bindings.
Old manufacturing is generally always superior when it comes to quality and durability. Corporations now just produce junk for maximum profit rather than having pride in what they produce. This shows in Rottefella's lower quality now, in my opinion. This is why I really hate shopping for anything new.
Thanks again for your assistance and links.
Keep your ski tips up!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SkierRoger's post: Increased snow coverage near Banff
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 15:05
If 4 cm of new snow has fallen on the road to Cascade, it is rock ski time for the Cascade Trail.
Can Banff locals check it out and report?
gwk replied to 's post:
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 14:25
Please text 403-240-2975 ! Skis are perfect for me. Thx Willie
Bob Truman replied to SkierRoger's post: Increased snow coverage near Banff
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 08:22
Nakiska is reporting 19 cm of snow in the past 24 hours which bodes well for the Kananaskis Village and Ribbon Creek trails.
Norquay received 10 cm. It should be enough for some grooming in Banff.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE and MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Over 40 KM, all trackset in the last 24 hours
Delivered: Monday Nov 28, 2022 at 07:14
Thanks for the report Chuck. I love that long shot of the Great Divide.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK BEYOND FATIGUE PASS JUNCTION- snow reconnaissance ski mission
Delivered: Sunday Nov 27, 2022 at 23:41
Thanks for the detailed report DAB! As for the gap under the binding plate, which bindings did you get? If you got the manual Rottefella NNN BC, the underside of the binding should look like the attached photo. The white part is what takes all the strain. It should be absolutely flush with the ski topsheet, at least between the 3 front-most screws. Because the white surface on the underside of the binding is flat, whereas the ski topsheet might have a slight curve (from the ski thickness thinning out fore and aft of the binding area), there could be a minute gap at the fore and aft ends of the white area.
The black part of the plate on my Rottefella Magnum binding takes no upward strain. Its main purpose is to keep the boot from twisting sideways when the heel is down. Because of this, there's no need for it to be as robust as the white part. On my Rottefella Magnum binding, the white part where the finger is pointing in the photo sticks out 0.3mm from the black part. i.e when the binding is mounted, the underside of the black part is 0.3mm above the ski topsheet. I don't know if this is by design or because of sloppy manufacturing. The black part is flush with the ski at the point where the 2 rear-most screws go through it. Fore and aft of the screws, the gap is about 0.1mm. Any water that gets under the black part of the plate and freezes would either escape out the sides, or at worst bend the black part of the plate up a bit which is fine since it's flexible. The black part of the plate would never pull out the 2 screws that hold it down because the plate isn't strong enough in the vertical direction; it would crack first.
If all this sounds like the gaps you're seeing, it should be fine. If your gaps in the black area are bigger, or if there is any gap at all in the white area between the 3 front-most screws, then the binding mount should be checked. Also, put a boot in the binding and twist the boot with one hand while holding the ski in the other. If there's any play in the white area, the binding mount should be checked.
If the gaps are bigger than described here, things to check for are topsheet volcanoes at the screwholes - https://www.wildsnow.com/18694/how-to-remove-ski-volcanoe-bubbles/, and screwjacking - #2 at https://www.wildsnow.com/23119/tech-ski-binding-mount-mistakes/ . And while you're at it read all the points in the latter link, especially #6 - did the shop actually use glue at all!?
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Sunday Nov 27, 2022 at 21:15
Thanks for the Akamina recommendation DAB! We'll ask Dad if he wants to check that area out.
No base scare on Powderface Ridge. The scary bit was on Powderface Trail road, with sharp gravel just under the snow surface.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Much better Day at Lake Louise!
Delivered: Sunday Nov 27, 2022 at 08:30
Thanks for not taking offence to my honest mistake Frances. One day we will meet on the trail and I’ll apologize again and again, offer to buy you a beer and that will be it.
You obviously have many years of skiing experience and a great eye for detail!
Frances Dances replied to SkierRoger's post: Much better Day at Lake Louise!
Delivered: Sunday Nov 27, 2022 at 06:05
Re: Chuck, I did not realize until after I had set my "handle" that I had used the female "Frances" rather than the male "Francis" but then thought " what the heck it is just a handle. I challenged Chuck to do some detective work last year and I see that he has "got the goods"! Re: Skier Rogers "mistake", I have not come across it yet, but I am willing to cut him the utmost slack for all the work he does here. As far as "negative" reports go, I urge readers not to use reports for not going but instead as a guide for doing the trip themselves. Remember, the reporter has had the adventure.
Frances Dances replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: BREWSTER CREEK BEYOND FATIGUE PASS JUNCTION- snow reconnaissance ski mission
Delivered: Sunday Nov 27, 2022 at 05:45
Re: gap. It probably would not hurt for the shop to review their work. Water can do most damage when it is fully contained: it will expand to the easiest route. If it gets into the binding screws this could be problematic. The screw threads are sealed with epoxy glue. Note: I have not done a binding in many years and I will pay the binding fee, always but the water expansion theory should hold true.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Elk passes (west, middle, east)
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 20:03
Hi Chuck, just a copy from an animal/encyclopedia web site. No credit provided on the web site for the photo. The show lasted about 2 minutes. You would have been able to get a good shot for sure.
Chuck replied to MaSid's post: Elk passes (west, middle, east)
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 19:54
Hey MaSid,
That final photo of the weasel is the winner... who gets the photo credit?
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Elk passes (west, middle, east)
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 19:09
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Much better Day at Lake Louise!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 17:49
Thanks for the education, Chuck. I'm always learning things from you!
And my heartfelt apologies to Frances Dances for my mistake. I'll fix it right up...
Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Fresh snow at Boom Lake
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 17:48
Thanks for the factual ski report Ulrike.
Hope Gary didn't damage those $10 skis on any rocks hidden under all that fresh snow.
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Much better Day at Lake Louise!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 17:43
That first machine is 'Flat Packing'.
Thanks to Frances Dances for HIS very factual report yesterday!
tmalaher replied to Frances Dances's post: Chateau Lake Louise-Fairview-Moraine Lake Road-Upper Tramline-Peyto-Great Divide-Tramline-Village.
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 10:11
As mentioned elsewhere, I called the Banff Park info centre and they explained the process: the groomers email their reports to the info center. If the email arrives after the office closes at 5pm they don't update the web site until the office opens the next day at 9am, and maybe not right away if things are busy.
This is why everyone needs to email Parks Canada and push for them to get hooked up with https://nordic-pulse.com
Here are some addresses to try (addresses are scattered across many different web sites, and are inconsistent):
banff.vrc@pc.gc.ca
pc.banff-vrc.pc@canada.ca
pc.lakelouiseinfo-infolakelouise.pc@canada.ca
lakelouiseinfo-infolakelouise@pc.gc.ca
yoho.info@pc.gc.ca
information@pc.gc.ca
Nordic Pulse Live Grooming Reports
RainerA replied to Frances Dances's post: Chateau Lake Louise-Fairview-Moraine Lake Road-Upper Tramline-Peyto-Great Divide-Tramline-Village.
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 08:35
Curious that the grooming you saw Friday on Great Divide hasn't been reported on the Parks trail report as of 8:30 AM on Saturday
Helen Read replied to Frances Dances's post: Chateau Lake Louise-Fairview-Moraine Lake Road-Upper Tramline-Peyto-Great Divide-Tramline-Village.
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 07:46
Thank you Frances Dances, I like your style-tell it like it is. A bit too early for Fairview. Too bad the big dump of snow did not materialize. but hopefully the grooming finally happened on MLR and GD to refresh those two gems.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 26, 2022 at 00:33
Those Little B's must have faced some serious base scare face on the Powderface. That is some serious eastern slope hard ski hike trippin' reminiscent of Yaha Tinda region in my younger years of the last century.
The Little B's might need some fluffy southern vacation time in the Akamina region after the cold weather goes away in about 10 days or so. Nice quiet place, burned out 3 years ago, offering joyous terrain west of the Prince of Wales. Once they check that place out they may never want to return north. Such easy access for the B's they might get too lazy to ski anywhere else, although they might find the exceptional scenic drive at sunrise, where the prairie meets the mountains, a tad lengthy.
Ski on Little B's.
Little Bs replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TO POINT CAMP MEADOWS- Wednesday afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 22:42
DAB - We'll let you know about the glade skiing after our trip tomorrow.
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 22:34
MaSid - Thanks for your suggestion. Any chance of you building a snofa up there? If so, please make it wide enough for us - 140cm!
Arie replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP: Whiskey Jack, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 21:38
Sure!
Chuck replied to JoLynn's post: Ski Day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 21:26
Hey JoLynn,
Now there's an honest report... but who in their right mind would bother going out.
Suggest you read SkierRoger's website before heading out next time!
JoLynn replied to JoLynn's post: Ski Day at Lake Louise
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 20:33
MtnGoat replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 19:39
One crazy adventure but much appreciated to live this vicariously!
MaSid replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 18:31
Another option, especially after road closes: powderface creek route, out and back. Was in there monday (but hiking vents ridge traverse). Good walker packed base in the shadowy valley bottom, at least before the warm temps anyway. But it holds snow back there. A good one after a melt freeze followed by an upslope dump. Perfect for a little B slalom run.
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's face PowderFace!
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 18:11
MORE PHOTOS!
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP: Whiskey Jack, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 17:23
Hi Arie
Too bad we missed each other on the trails. Hopefully next time!
Lucky you: I didn't spot any wildlife at all.
Looks like you may have tried to send a picture that didn't upload quite right. Feel free to try again.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TO POINT CAMP MEADOWS- Wednesday afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 17:18
The Little B's are slacking off on reporting are they? Perhaps they need a psychedelic wax job to motivate them.
Is there much for glade skiing up in the Rummel Lake area? I have noticed the forest up in that area has thinned over the decades.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TO POINT CAMP MEADOWS- Wednesday afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 16:45
Hi DAB - I'm definitely skiing, but the Little B's are doing most of the trip reporting. We're heading to Rummel Lake tomorrow. And I need to encourage the Little B's to post our trip report from Monday.
- Mike
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TO POINT CAMP MEADOWS- Wednesday afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 12:14
Howdy Mike,
I think you are right about skiing with the planet Jupiter shining in the late day sky. After Jupiter came out there were a couple of other bright stars that also came out before it got dark. I believe one was Saturn and the other Mars. I hung out up in the meadows until well after dark for the star show and to catch the lighting on the spectacular mountains to the north.
Are you skiing these days Mike?
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 08:48
Yes Ulrikeski,
I was able to transfer these bindings from my old skis to my new skis!
Arie replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP: Whiskey Jack, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Friday Nov 25, 2022 at 08:23
Hi Roger I skied PLPP as well, Tyrwhitt and Lookout starting from Back Door. Unfortunately I didn't run into you on the trail. I did see several spruce grouse and lots of boreal chickadees, though.
SteveR replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 22:04
Good looking skis, Chuck! I expect that we will see those tips in many future reports. In response to other comments- the Asnes "x-skin" and the Madshus kicker skin system as well, are not permanently attached, but are simply an extra tool in the kit to use when wax isn't enough. The skis themselves are normal waxable skis, and function perfectly as such without the skins. Pricey when new though, but FWIW I paid $80 last spring for a lightly used pair including the skins.
Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 22:02
Have the pink Little B's got a new friend in your Baby Blue's? Glad you found some new skis to enjoy the back country with.
Sara M replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 21:31
The new skis look great!
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 21:16
Hey Chuck: very inspiring trip report! Congrats on the new light touring skis. It seems to be difficult to find waxable ones, unless you're willing to pay $500 at a local ski shop. Do you have BCNNN bindings on them? I'm looking to find a new pair as my binding is old and not working well anymore. Definitely will look at Switching Gear again.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 20:38
Hey Brother D,
Surprisingly, I managed to score a pair at 190 cms!
I am so glad to have found a traditional waxable ski without skin attachments.
Hopefully, the ski industry is monitoring SkierRoger and we will get what we want!
BTW, wait for more snow... for the Cascade.
Ski ya later, my bobski twin,
Chuck
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 19:40
Howdy Chuck,
I scored the same skis as well last spring. Mine are a little short though, probably 180 cm. I prefer 205's or 210's. I skied on 210 cm Madshus Viddas last season for the first time and I really liked how I could "reach" further for contours in the snow to get better grip and glide. It was a rush skiing on big boards that marketers would say are not the appropriate size for me.
You could have bought new metal edge Madshus skis but they have skins. But what experienced skier wants slow skins stuck on the bottom of skis permanently? The manufacturers don't seem to have the smarts to provide super narrow metal edge skis free of skins for the experienced skiers. It is like the old Ford motto: "you can have any car you want as long as it is black." The ski industry is not into real freedom of choice markets. You get what they want to sell not what you want to ski on.
I guess we will be ski bobbsie twins again having the same skis.
Could you tell me what you thought of the conditions up Cascade River when you skied it a while back? Lots of unavoidable rock? How much snow was at the confounded bridge? Any base to that snow?
Ski ya later.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP: Whiskey Jack, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 19:12
The pleasure was all mine Colemania!
sincerely,
Colemania replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP: Whiskey Jack, Tyrwhitt, Elk Pass
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 19:05
Nice meeting you on Whiskeyjack Roger! Hope you had a great rest of your day!
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: BOOM LAKE - Enjoying the cold snow up high
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 18:38
Congrats on the new skis Chuck. I know you've been looking for quite some time.
May you use them for many years!
SkierRoger replied to Karl B's post: Moraine lake road is excellent skiing
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 17:53
Thanks for the report, Karl.
It sounds like Lake Louise is a great choice right now.
SteveR replied to SteveR's post: Lookout!
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 15:03
Mr D: my 3/4 edged skis are waxable Asnes Vikafjell, dimensions 60-51-55. Compared to my other metal edged light touring skis, the Madshus Glittertind which are 68-55-62, waxable with a full edge, the Asnes offer a nice compromise, with far better performance in set tracks than the draggy wider skis, while still behaving nicely in ungroomed or icy conditions. I bought the Asnes lightly used last spring and am very happy with them, but I only have about 10 days on them thus far. During this time I have used them for some very icy groomed trails, and several days knocking around off-trail at Bragg and in the east and west Elk Passes area, with excellent results including some wide sweeping tele turns coming down the logging cut on the circuit of the two Elk passes (that was in ideal conditions). Having said that-the Glittertinds are a much better turning ski. They also came with the slick Asnes kicker skin setup which fastens to the ski using a low profile metal clip that engages with two slots in the ski. Some kick and glide is still there with the kicker skin in place but, nowhere near as good glide as an xc "skin ski". Right now I have them setup with bindings to go with my track skiing "slippers", which works very well, but I may change bindings so I that can use my NNN-BC boots for better control in more rugged terrain. Finally- this ski is no longer in the Asnes lineup, but they do have a very similar newer model.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER TO POINT CAMP MEADOWS- Wednesday afternoon/ night ski
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 12:31
Probably Jupiter. Definitely not a satellite, which would have been noticeably moving.
"From November 14 to 28, 2022 ... Jupiter appears during evening twilight above the east-southeast horizon, culminates around 8 p.m. some 40 degrees above the southern horizon and vanishes in the west around 1:30 a.m."
https://espacepourlavie.ca/en/planets-visible-naked-eye
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to SteveR's post: Lookout!
Delivered: Thursday Nov 24, 2022 at 11:54
Hello Muffin Man,
What kind of 3/4 metal edge skis are you skiing on and how wide are they?
Ski Cheers
SteveR replied to SteveR's post: Lookout!
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 23:26
MaSid replied to bob truman's post: Hello, old friends
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 21:48
Well put. I was thinking the same thing, skiing through west elk, like meeting an old friend after 7 months apart. A good reunion. And then the first person I saw all day was Bob. A good end to the day, although perhaps I should have done fox creek.
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: West elk pass (spring touring)
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 19:58
No, not me steve. I didn’t venture down thyrwitt from elk pass at all. The initial meadow section probably travels fine, until the narrowing. Some folk just go in part way for a sunny lunch stop. Usually needs more snow to fill in the deeper drainages through there. I usually wait until late December to get into east elk.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: West elk pass (spring touring)
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 19:46
I noticed a track leading south from the usual jumping off point for East Elk, on my way by on Tyrwhitt this afternoon. Not you?
Normand replied to MaSid's post: West elk pass (spring touring)
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 17:31
Nice report MaSid and great photos.
Zosia replied to Alf Skrastins's post: WBC: Tom Snow-North
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 16:04
Thanks MaSid! I wonder if the trees are cleared on this trail?
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 23, 2022 at 06:41
Thank you Sara for that additional very valuable information.
Ray Yong replied to gh's post: WBC
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 21:07
Just a couple of minor comments to add - Tracks are generally really good and deep, even in the sun-exposed areas like Mountain View West, but there is debris (i.e., needles, pine cones, twigs, etc.) in the treed trails.
I found the trails in the open were much easier to ski (I was using skin skis), e.g. Mountain Rd, Mountain View West, but the snow was hard and fast.
Sara M replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 21:05
I don't think Madshus' kicker skins would be worth it for you since you already have a full-length set. The kickers seem more prone to failure, anyway. I suppose the hole in the ski could be a potential weak point, but it's reinforced with plastic and I've never felt like it was a thing to worry about. It doesn't affect the waxability of the ski at all, they could be used the same way as your old skis.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 19:07
THANK YOU so much, Sara and Helen,
Sara, it is really interesting to learn of the Madshus options. I have been looking for a pure waxable ski, and have been turned off by any suggestion of an optional kicker skin which seems to just complicate matters (with holes in skis and and added cost). I have full length 50 mm skins that I can carry if I am going far and high into the backcountry. I wonder if I am being overly concerned.
Helen, I will respond by email... as I have your email address!
Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 17:45
Chuck, I'm thinking of O'Hara end of Great Divide tomorrow, or LL end, and my Asnes are already in the car. You and Jeannette can join me (meet up at Norquay Rd) 8:30.) I need to be back for bridge classes at 3 so intend to leave there by 12:30/45. I can bring my other Rossy's to ski on as it will be deluxe powder I hope, sunshine and -8.....maybe even some grooming!!!!
Sara M replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 13:46
Chuck, my LT skis are waxable. They also have the option to use them with a custom kicker skin that integrates with the ski base. Madshus Panorama M55, which this year got replaced by the T55 which Madshus says is lighter but performs similarly. Neither option seems to be available in any local stores but both are available in Quebec stores that ship. Mine are the 180cm, which I believe is the same as the skis you're hoping to replace. You're welcome to borrow them for a spin if you want to try them out.
https://www.demersbicycles.com/us/ski-madshus-panorama-m55-intelligrip.html
https://lecoureurnordique.ca/en/collections/ski-1/products/madshus-panorama-t55-intelligrip-transition-fw22
Quixote replied to 's post:
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 10:01
What length and for approx. what weight?
Frances Dances replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 22, 2022 at 08:38
Frank Howard reports that it was not he, but James Lawson (in orange) who was leading the MnM A's. He would also like to report that aside from a couple of rocks, the Lower Tramline was very good. They crossed the bridge to go to the Village.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to Normand's post: Shadow Lake
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 20:11
Glad to read Normand is up in the "Shadow The Lake" country again. I was going to say it would take big snowballs to ski the lower 1.5km of the trail but the amount of new snow likely helped cover some of the rocks. The pictures make it tempting to ski back up there with that nice skiff of new snow.
It is always nice to see wolverine tracks on the trail. When I was up there just over a week ago, there were plenty of wolf tracks going up to near Shadow Lake Lodge. They followed the trail from the parking lot. There must be some good eats up there with all the carnivores tracking their way up there.
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 19:47
Hola Mike,
Thanks for the Lee Valley tip. This is where I buy my grape vine pruners from. The glues look good to fix up the old Rossignol TMS Mountain Series skis. A flexible glue is exactly what is needed for the side wall.
These skis will live to ski another day.
Recycling ski equipment is important in this era of "skinflation". Now I won't have to hang them on the wall or trash them.
Thanks for your help, Mike.
Keep your ski tips up.
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Original tracksetting holding up well
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 18:50
Pity the poor woman giving birth to that.
Great news that Moraine Lake Road is still looking good! It was one of the options that I suggested on Paul Karchut's Real Ski Report show this weekend https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-95-daybreak-alberta/clip/15949846-the-real-ski-report
CMS replied to Normand's post: Shadow Lake
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 18:27
It looks to me like there could be 5 toe prints? if so, it would be a Wolverine track.
MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: WBC: Tom Snow-North
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 14:17
Hi Zosia,
Alf has reported in previous years that snow tends to be thinner north of kestral than south of. That means waiting for more snow to accommodate sonny on LT gear. (-:
JimB replied to JimB's post: Back door to Tyrwhitt Meadows and back
Delivered: Monday Nov 21, 2022 at 08:24
Bob - When Kim and I started into x-country skiing a few years ago, your web page was a wealth of information for us so you're a bit of a celebrity ;)
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 21:50
DAB - You should be able to repair the sidewall with a low viscosity glue such as Hot Stuff - https://www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/tools/supplies/adhesives/glue/20022-low-viscosity-glue-hot-stuff - that will penetrate the exposed wood and seal it. Then optionally follow up with a slow-cure epoxy such as G2 - https://www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/tools/supplies/adhesives/glue/20011-g2-epoxy - to cover and protect the wood from abrasion. You're welcome to bring your skis over to my place and we can fix them.
Eyesopen replied to Bob Truman's post: Back Door Score
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 21:13
Looks lovely Bob. Thanks for sharing.
RhondaW
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 20:53
Aloha Mike,
Unfortunately I do not have the technology to post a picture of my old 1994 Rossignol TMS Mountain Series metal edge xc skis with the original bindings on them. There must be COVID-19 supply chain issues as I can't buy film for my SLR camera! I blew out a sidewall on these skis last spring and a metal edge previously so I think I have finally retired them, unless I can fix the sidewall. I don't like skiing with exposed wood. It might ruin the wood!!! I have a lot of great memories night skiing with owls and wolves on muskegs up north with these skis.
The budget does not allow me to buy new 75 mm bindings and boots as I just bought new Alpina Montana boots last week. I was just thinking how bad my new Montana's felt compared to my old ones when my ski binding broke on the Pipestone River trail.
You pulled an old Skier Bob report up about me skiing Assiniboine Pass where I pulled screws partly out of my automatic Rottefella bindings which are mounted to Rossignol BC59 skis. I was lucky I could still ski out that day. Last spring I had a shop remount the bindings and that was the ski I was skiing on when the binding broke. I believe I skied on the remounted skis 4 days. I noticed the toe of the binding had a little toe screw movement after the binding broke. I don't know what role, if any, that played in the binding breaking. I noticed no binding movement before skiing. I am considering getting new bindings for these skis but I am concerned about the ability of the skis to hold bindings.
I was just viewing my 205cm Madshus Voss skis with manual Rossignol bindings on them, thinking these 60 mm metal edge skis will be my choice to ski the next ski day out until the snow gets good 'n deep. I got these used so I have no idea how many kilometers are on the bindings. Judging by the wear, I would guess at least 3000km. That is almost like new!
Bob Truman replied to JimB's post: Back door to Tyrwhitt Meadows and back
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 19:42
Nice meeting you and Kim today on Pocaterra. It always makes me feel important when skiers will come to a stop while they're enjoying a fast downhill to talk!
range replied to SkierRoger's post: Gloves found at WBC
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 16:10
The gloves that were found Friday Nov 18 on the road leaving the West Bragg Creek parking lot are in the Lost and Found Box at Trail Centre. The gloves are a well used pair made by Black Diamond, men's large or extra large. They look like an over glove and they are black and rust coloured.
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 13:53
DAB - I remember you first brought up your concerns about the Rottefella NNN-BC binding in your 2021-Apr-28 Assiniboine trip report - http://skierbob.ca/trip-reports-april-2021/#comment-798277 . I think the most dependable touring binding would be something like the 75mm Riva cable binding - https://thumbs.worthpoint.com/zoom/images1/1/1110/11/riva-black-diamond-telemark-ski_1_681a7fdfc72e95cf82cb3cd46ebae823.jpg. But you'd have to switch to 75mm boots and then the system failure point would probably just change from the binding to the boot sole! The replies to your 2021-Apr-28 post reported ski failures, binding failures, and boot failures as well. I think the take-away is that eventually the weakest point in the system will fail: the skis, the bindings, the boots, or your legs! Be thankful you've got 25,000km on your Rossignol bindings (and same skis and boots?). I expect most ski touring equipment isn't designed to last beyond at most a couple of thousand kilometres over simple terrain, because the vast majority of skiers never ski anywhere near that distance or on challenging terrain.
P.S. It would be great if you could provide a photo of your 1994 Rossignol NNN-BC bindings!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Sunday Nov 20, 2022 at 12:19
Howdy Mike,
My automatic Rottefella bindings are from about 2012. I bought them at the old Lifesport store. I was suppose to get Rossignol bindings but they slipped on the Rottefella's instead. I remember being choked but figured that they could not be that bad. My mistake.
My Rossignol manual bindings were bought in 1994. There is a clear difference in terms of materials used. The Rossignol bindings have more metal parts than the Rottefella's.
I bought new manual Rottefella's last season to put on my Vidda's. They are mostly plastic and I do not expect they will be as durable as the Rossignol manual bindings from 1994. If I live long enough and survive all my ski trips, time will tell.
I am now in search of old lightly used Rossignol manual nnnbc bindings from the mid 1990's as I don't want to risk my life with the new crap bindings on the market.
I looked at the Rottefella Magnum bindings but they were a little too wide for my new used metal edge 48mm Madshus Viddas I bought last season. The Magnum stick out way to far on the skis. I could see these being a problem in tracks and just breaking trail. They would slow me down and be more susceptible to hitting rocks or stumps. Bigger is not better. I thought they were just a lousy marketing gimmick when I saw them. If my narrow Rossignol manual bindings have survived tens of thousands of kilometers, why would I need a big fat wide Magnum binding? It just does not make sense to me. This is just bad engineering by the manufacturer in my mind.
Time for a "Rott"efella binding burning ceremony.
ErinP replied to ErinP's post: WBC heaven
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 22:45
Wow that sounds intense!! Stay safe out there!
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: PIPESTONE RIVER- back on one ski
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 22:22
Glad to hear you made it out safely. Incredible that a binding would break at under 7,000km of use; barely the distance from Calgary to Costa Rica! I prefer the manual NNN and NNN-BC bindings as well. I've never broken an automatic binding, but have found that they occasionally freeze in the open or closed position until they get thawed out. And as far as I know, the Rossignol NNN-BC bindings are just rebranded Rottefellas. If you're going to replace them with manual NNN-BC, I'd recommend the Rottefella "BC Magnum" over the "BC Manual". The Magnum's are a beefier version that should take you to at least Tierra del Fuego!
Little Bs replied to SkierRoger's post: Ability to embed website links directly inside text is here!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 20:02
Hi Chuck - I think you've got us confused with Mike W. We love to post lots of photos, but Dad usually just posts a few, except when he was doing it on our behalf before we got our own account.
Carl V M replied to SkierRoger's post: Gloves found at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 19:21
I lost a pair of mitts (not gloves) early last week. Please let me know if that's what was found. I'm assuming NOT.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Ability to embed website links directly inside text is here!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 18:03
As expected you end up with a cryptic looking link but it is indeed embedded within the text.
If you want to place a link with a clean name, you can still use the previous link features.
Like this
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Ability to embed website links directly inside text is here!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 17:54
Okay, it got highlighted after I posted it!
So glad Roger keeps developing this website.
Thanks
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Ability to embed website links directly inside text is here!
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 17:49
Oh, Mike W. is going to love this new feature... An opportunity to post more than six pictures (and never losing access to them)!
Now how do I paste my link... I'll try a simple paste:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/4eiPAqeXPkmXiMxn7
It does not highlight... does it work??
Arie replied to SkierRoger's post: Snowy View from the Lookout
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 10:38
I skied PLPP yesterday (Friday Nov 18th), starting from Back Door, then Tyrwhitt and Elk Pass. Grooming is underway. I encountered both rollerpacked and trackset sections. Tyrwhitt beyond the Lookout turnoff is still snowmobile packed with new snow on top. I met the grooming crew between Elk Pass and Blueberry Junction. I broke trail into west Elk Pass from near Blueberry Junction. Off-trail travel is heavy going with only the basal refrozen snow providing support. I only went as far as the first meadow. Nice and sunny lunch spot. A chilly -17C to start and -13C at the end. I returned the same way.
HenryL replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 08:57
Congratulations Bob.
She's a cutie and a sure keeper.
SkierRoger replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Saturday Nov 19, 2022 at 07:56
Following up on SteveR’s message, I was (yesterday) able to chat with James, the Team Lead for Kananaskis. The guys at PLPP were having some problems getting their data into Nordic Pulse but as you can see that seems to be resolved now.
Recent snow pack measurements showed 50-70 cm at Blueberry & Lookout.
James also gave a heads-up that they should be out grooming Mount Shark some time this week.
Diana Piggott replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 21:29
Suzie!!
How delightful! I'm so happy for you both :-)
Sophie replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 20:31
Oh Bob!
I am so happy for you both that you can ski again with a dog companion.
Suzie is gorgeous!
Sophie
Bob Truman replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 19:51
Yes, SteveR, that's our Suzie. We couldn't have found a more beautiful dog.
Thanks for the heads-up about PLPP.
SteveR replied to Bob Truman's post: Suzie's first ski trip
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 19:32
Nice looking dog, Bob! Yours?
Just checked and Nordic Pulse is showing Elk Pass and environs is largely trackset!
Chuck replied to Karl B's post: Lake O'Hara road
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 19:13
Wow.. what a special sighting...and photo!
Thanks for sharing
MaSid replied to ErinP's post: WBC heaven
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 16:56
Crazy cats! About mid-morning today I was sitting on a log at the wooded edge of a meadow near tom snow north, 100 m from moose loop, enjoying some tea. There was a sudden clattering in the bush and a deer came rushing out into the meadow at warp speed 50 ft to my left. I was expecting a cougar to be chasing it, but nothing came out after the deer, thankfully. Doesn’t mean there wasn’t one there (now that you mention it!). No wonder I spilled my tea.
Zosia replied to Alf Skrastins's post: WBC: Tom Snow-North
Delivered: Friday Nov 18, 2022 at 07:43
Hi!
Any data on how are the conditions on Tom Snow north (from Pine Woods to Kestrel)?
Thanks!
aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Try Out Fat Biking...
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 22:55
haha
Oh, by the way, did you hear about the backcountry skier who took up pottery?
Now when he's not earning his turns he's turning his urns.
Mike W replied to Bob Truman's post: Evan-Thomas Triangle
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 20:49
Bob - Congrats on getting around the 6-photo limit!
Little Bs replied to MaSid's post: WBC: chasing the sun
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 20:48
Thanks MaSid, we'll add Tom Snow North to the list!
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Try Out Fat Biking...
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 20:39
Hi Aqua Toque! Dad said he had a good toque joke but wouldn't tell us because he was afraid it would go over your head.
SkierRoger replied to Septuagenarians's post: WBC Perfection
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 19:01
Wow,
I know where I’m going tomorrow!
aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Try Out Fat Biking...
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 11:48
Hey Little B's, did he have any good Dad jokes? I need some new ones.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Great Start to the Year!
Delivered: Thursday Nov 17, 2022 at 11:02
Yes, readership stats would be nice to have.
A lot of that information may be accessible through Google Analytics. Problem is I don’t know the the first thing about it…
Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Try Out Fat Biking...
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 16, 2022 at 23:13
Great idea Alf. We'll give those trails a try!
Alf Skrastins replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Try Out Fat Biking...
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 16, 2022 at 22:49
Excellent! Those trails are fun on skis and you help to flatten and pack the snow, which is great for fat bikers and snowshoers. I did Snagmore on Sunday, as part of a loop with Iron Springs and Elbow.
You should really try Kestrel, Tom Snow and Moose Singletrack. And when we get another good snowfall, check out Boundary Ridge and Boundary Horse... some nice turn can be found up there.
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Great Start to the Year!
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 16, 2022 at 20:51
Hey Roger,
Even more interesting would be the increase in readership... I meet so many people out skiing that read your website but don't report!
Any stats on that?
Chuck
ps Please... any readers out there, who think your trip has been covered... actually, we need your perspective and feedback.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Snowy View from the Lookout
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 16, 2022 at 20:27
As a point of clarification, I’m not certain what the grooming schedule is for this area.
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA - What could be better than skiing?
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 16, 2022 at 08:52
Wow!! So spectacular, and brilliant to take skates along!
SteveR replied to KathyH's post: Fresh Tracksetting on Moose Loop
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 17:51
The fresh tracksetting on Moose sure was a treat! Our afternoon Moose-Mountainview West-Mountain View-West Crystal-etc loop started and finished in plus 3. Breezes kept the snow cool though, with no melting, and VR30 (purple) grip wax worked perfectly. No new grooming on MV West but it's still in great shape, (as was everything else) although the big hill down to Mountain Road is hardpacked and slick.
ErinP replied to KathyH's post: Fresh Tracksetting on Moose Loop
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 14:06
I always do Moose Loop but today was the day I decided to try something new and head out to Iron Springs…doh! Oh well…I didn’t get fresh tracks but lots of fresh air. :)
GordN replied to Frances Dances's post: Kananaskis Village-Terrace-Ribbon Ck Parking Lot-Hidden Trail-Winter Ribbon Ck-Connector-Kovach-Village
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 12:19
Good update...
I've learned my lesson on that trail after going through a whole package of P-Tex from that area facing the sun on the hill that rips the bottoms of my skis every fall!
Mike W replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK- double snowmobile packed
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 11:41
As usual, thanks for your detailed and informative report!
MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC side country
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 08:41
Indeed Steve! Perhaps you remember this day last season. Missed each other by about an hour (based on the weather that rolled in). Glad I wasn’t there any earlier!
Gord F replied to JackB's post: Healy Pass
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 15, 2022 at 08:21
Thanks for the report on Healy Pass. Great to hear the trail is in good shape.
Mike W replied to SteveR's post: WBC South Trails
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 23:42
Bob, I was there on Nov 10 and saw 8 other skiers in 3 groups!
Bob Truman replied to SteveR's post: WBC South Trails
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 23:14
All the "hidden gems" have been discovered by the masses except for Iron Creek. I've never seen another person on it, so I think you and I are the only ones who ski it.
SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC side country
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 20:58
As someone who also likes to wander around off trail on xc skis, it's great to see another of your reports!
DEMOCRATIZE AB replied to DEMOCRATIZE AB's post: REDEARTH CREEK- double snowmobile packed
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 18:13
I skied the trail on Sunday rather than Monday.
aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC side country
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 12:26
Great report Mr. Sid.
Welcome to the internet!
SkierRoger replied to Bob Truman's post: Wonderful tracksetting at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 08:59
This morning I received a quick reply from Parks Canada’s Visitor Experience Manager, Lake Louise, Yoho, Kootenay Field Unit:
…………………….
Hi Roger,
Thanks for connecting again. We are still working away on integrating Nordic Pulse into our operations. We should have a decision on our plans for this season within 4 weeks.
Helen Read replied to Karl B's post: Great ski @ Great Divide
Delivered: Monday Nov 14, 2022 at 07:28
Great to see your smiling faces on Great Divide, Chris and Karl and to obtain such good reports on MLR and GD.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SKOGAN PASS from Troll Falls -
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 20:18
Hi Ulrike,
The answer is "Ski with Alaric"... he dug out almost every rock that would have thrown me out, especially on those critical bends down the Screamer. Now, all you have to do is watch out for dark spots, and turn on a dime with your metal edges in time!
Ski Safe.
ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: SKOGAN PASS from Troll Falls -
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 19:41
Hi Chuck: How do you avoid the rocks on the fast descent? bring metal edged or rocks skis or wait for another snowfall?
Ulrike
SkierRoger replied to Bob Truman's post: Wonderful tracksetting at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 15:52
On the subject of Parks Canada potentially adopting the Nordic Pulse system, I actually received an email from them last January 13th. Below is a copy for your review…
I will respond to that e-mail thread today and see if I can get an update on Parks Canada’s plans.
………………………………………..
Dear Mr. Sakatch,
Thank-you for your email and for bringing your excellent suggestion to us regarding Nordic Pulse.
As an avid cross-country skier myself, I am very aware of the good work that Nordic Pulse has done to put real-time trail conditions into the hands of nordic skiers. Last year, we had some preliminary discussions with Julien from Nordic Pulse however at that time, we were not quite ready to start using Nordic Pulse with our trails.
Parks Canada does think that Nordic Pulse presents some great opportunities for improving the visitor experience of our Nordic skiers however there several technical issues that we need to fully understand before we can commit to implementing it’s use. We are planning on assigning members of our team to look at whether or not we can now incorporate Nordic Pulse into our operations.
At this time, I do not have a timeline for when we will have decision on the future of Nordic Pulse for Parks Canada. I can however commit to having our teams look into the application of Nordic Pulse and the feasibility of using it. Please feel free to connect with me again in the coming months for an update on how this is progressing.
I hope to see you on the trails this winter.
tmalaher replied to chuckley's post: Moraine Lake Road - Groomers Delight!
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 15:06
See comment on https://skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski_basic&id=1230 about getting Parks Canada onboard with Nordic Pulse to improve the tracksetting update situation.
tmalaher replied to Bob Truman's post: Wonderful tracksetting at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 15:05
I called the Banff Info Centre last week and talked to a nice person there. They were aware of Nordic Pulse and the benefits of it, but she didn't know if there was any move afoot to add the Banff or Yoho parks to it.
Apparently the current system is that the tracksetters email the info centre when they are done for the day and the info centre staff update the web page when they have time *during business hours*.
She stated explictly that if the email doesn't arrive until 5:04 pm, they won't even start thinking about updating the web site until after 9am the next day, and if they are busy then not even then. Which explains a lot about why the updates are so out-of-date.
It was suggested that I email info@pc.gc.ca and then they would forward this email to their management. So I've done that.
However, it seems that there are a multitude of different addresses on the web for the various info centers, and that address doesn't show up. So I'm going to forward the email to all the addresses I can find. [Update: information@pc.gc.ca has at least given me an auto-response]
I also emailed info@nordic-pulse.com. Julien at Nordic Pulse says:
"We’d love to have the National Parks onboard as well. We’re already working with Parks Canada in other provinces and it would be great work with Banff/Yoyo as well. We’re doing what we can, but I also hear emails from skiers might make a difference!"
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 11:59
As the photo of the old family car seems of interest, allow me to share some memories.
I remember Dad making a big celebration when the odometer clicked over 99,999 miles to just zeros... a new beginning!
Bob Truman replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Sunday Nov 13, 2022 at 11:20
Hi Chuck, that's a remarkable photo of your family at the Great Divide. Your family car looks like a 1959(or thereabouts) Mercedes-Benz, a rare vehicle to see in Canada in the early sixties. The other car looks like a 1962 Pontiac.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Saturday Nov 12, 2022 at 16:54
Yes Diana, that is me waving to my Mum behind the camera
Arie replied to Diana Piggott's post: Little Elbow revisited
Delivered: Saturday Nov 12, 2022 at 10:02
Nice!
Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Saturday Nov 12, 2022 at 09:46
I love that old picture! Are you the kid waving?
HenryL replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Saturday Nov 12, 2022 at 08:32
Great photos of both present and past.
aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: Busy Day at WBC
Delivered: Saturday Nov 12, 2022 at 07:16
Yeah, that's right. We go waaaaay back. I knew him before he turned into a couch potato.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Busy Day at WBC
Delivered: Friday Nov 11, 2022 at 18:17
He mentioned that he used to ski with a certain Blue Toqued fellow.
aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: Busy Day at WBC
Delivered: Friday Nov 11, 2022 at 17:50
Ma who?
SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Not trackset yet, but well packed, and away from the crowds
Delivered: Friday Nov 11, 2022 at 16:36
Awesome report and pictures Chuck!
SkierRoger replied to Mike W's post: Snowcat grooming started at PLPP!
Delivered: Thursday Nov 10, 2022 at 20:20
Thanks for the heads-up Mike.
This is great news!
aqua toque replied to SteveR's post: Happy in the Highwood
Delivered: Thursday Nov 10, 2022 at 09:35
Well, it's a winter wonderland wherever it is!
Gord F replied to Gord F's post: Burstall Pass Nov 9
Delivered: Thursday Nov 10, 2022 at 07:34
Yes, I skied back down the climb trail. There's more snow in the trees than I expected, but didn't want to get in that gully this early in the season.
Gord F replied to SteveR's post: Happy in the Highwood
Delivered: Thursday Nov 10, 2022 at 07:33
Looks like Arethusa. Good to hear there's some skiing to be had.
SteveR replied to Gord F's post: Burstall Pass Nov 9
Delivered: Thursday Nov 10, 2022 at 07:07
Did you ski the trail back down the headwall? I'm guessing that the gully exit is still not filled in enough yet.
Ray Yong replied to Bob Truman's post: Wonderful tracksetting at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 09, 2022 at 20:45
I wonder what it would take to get Parks Canada to use Nordic Pulse? Love that web site. It's made deciding where to ski both easier (lots of choices shown) and harder (lots of choices shown)...
Sundance replied to SkierRoger's post: Confederation Golf Course Open for Skiing
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 09, 2022 at 19:01
Looks great. Has anyone been to Maple Ridge Golf Course this week. Is it going to get trackset this year?
Sundance
aqua toque replied to SteveR's post: The neighbourhood loop
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 09, 2022 at 06:27
Another fine entry in your age-old tradition of neighbourhood ski reports!
But why no pictures of the alley? We love the pictures of the alley. With all the colourful bins and whatnot.
Clive Cordery replied to SkierRoger's post: Confederation Golf Course Open for Skiing
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 08, 2022 at 16:44
Good to meet you today Roger. I have nothing really to add to your post, plus your photos have the fresh tracksetting!
SkierRoger replied to SteveR's post: Do you see what I see?
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 08, 2022 at 15:19
Oh yes. Alex is the best!
Sara M replied to Sara M's post: Burstall Pass
Delivered: Monday Nov 07, 2022 at 17:43
No issues on the headwall! Enough snow to cover rocks and branches, and enough to control the speed as well.
SkierRoger replied to Mike W's post: Grooming in Progress at Ribbon Creek!
Delivered: Monday Nov 07, 2022 at 17:22
This is fantastic news Mike
Thanks!
Arie replied to Sara M's post: Burstall Pass
Delivered: Monday Nov 07, 2022 at 09:18
Well done, and nice pictures! How was the headwall coming down? This is often problematic in the early season.
aqua toque replied to Arie's post: Little Elbow
Delivered: Saturday Nov 05, 2022 at 08:41
Man, that's really getting out there in the boonies!
Beautiful pic. Thanks for adding it.
Chuck replied to Chuck's post: WEST BRAGG CREEK - Not Trackset yet, but still well worthwhile
Delivered: Friday Nov 04, 2022 at 09:47
Maybe WBC could use some of those funds from the Kananaskis Pass to harden the surface of, at least parts of those trails, so that rock issues don't continue to emerge!
Gord F replied to Alf Skrastins's post: Telephone Loop First Tracks
Delivered: Friday Nov 04, 2022 at 08:55
When we completed Moose Loop yesterday, I stopped to look at all the deep powder on the Telephone Trail and wondered how long it would take for someone to break trail all the way through. Now I know.
SteveR replied to SteveR's post: Moose Loop November 3
Delivered: Thursday Nov 03, 2022 at 21:32
More people out then yesterday, but not crowded at all.
SteveR replied to Chuck's post: WEST BRAGG CREEK - Not Trackset yet, but still well worthwhile
Delivered: Thursday Nov 03, 2022 at 21:26
So Chuck, you've finally seen the light!
Ditto on the rocks. I removed about 12 along our route today. You'd think that over the years, they would all eventually get tossed off, but they must breed underground and pop out over the summer.
SkierRoger replied to @kananashtanga's post: Premature Pocaterra
Delivered: Thursday Nov 03, 2022 at 21:24
Thanks very much @kananashtanga.
A report showing poor conditions is still very valuable.
SkierRoger replied to SteveR's post: Moose Loop November 3
Delivered: Thursday Nov 03, 2022 at 19:35
What a great looking day Steve. Sorry I had to miss it!
Did you have the place to yourself again or was there a crowd?
The Ern replied to Bob Truman's post: Packing starts today at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Thursday Nov 03, 2022 at 16:40
Some got duped! (despite suspicions) It was still pretty great on the rollerpacked surface this morning: Logger's ccw, East Crystal, etc...
Spectacular am!!!
SteveR replied to SkierRoger's post: West Bragg Creek: Nothing but White
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 02, 2022 at 21:44
Building on Roger's report:
After clearing a lot of snow, then prepping and waxing 6 pairs of skis, the itch to ski got the better of me after lunch. The roads from NW Calgary out to Bragg were in fair winter condition, calling for alert but not horribly slow or slippery driving. After looping West Crystal and most of it's variants, I continued out on Moose Connector-Mountain Road-Mountain View-Loggers-Sundog East Crystal for a most enjoyable first ski of the season. At first-most of the trails were sno-mo packed only-a bit rugged at times, but as I progressed along my route I caught up with the roller packing, and then the grooming crew with me, making for even better skiing. With skis unscathed despite some visible rocks (toss them off if you can) and thin spots, and a generally smooth soft packed base after rolling- I would rate it as fair to good EARLY season conditions.
Bob Truman replied to Bob Truman's post: Packing starts today at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 02, 2022 at 18:38
Update: I was prudent to be suspicious. The trail report no longer shows any tracksetting.
If the trail report is accurate, tracksetting is in progress as I write this on Wednesday evening(see photo). Check the Nordic Pulse trail report later tonight or tomorrow morning for more updates. If tracksetting is indeed occurring, I am surprised.
SkierAlan replied to Bob Truman's post: Packing starts today at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 02, 2022 at 14:59
With 20cm or more, plus more on the way, do you guys think there will be tracks set soon or do we still need more snow for that?
Looking forward to some early skiing at Bragg!
Alf Skrastins replied to Bob Truman's post: Packing starts today at West Bragg Creek
Delivered: Wednesday Nov 02, 2022 at 10:34
The 25 cm of new snow at West Bragg Creek is sitting on the remnants of snow that fell a week ago. Roller packing begins today. The ski season us underway!
Gord F replied to Gord F's post: Waxless to Waxable
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 01, 2022 at 13:59
Thanks guys. That's sort of what I suspected.
aqua toque replied to Gord F's post: Waxless to Waxable
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 01, 2022 at 12:40
...and nobody likes a thin base!
John replied to Gord F's post: Waxless to Waxable
Delivered: Tuesday Nov 01, 2022 at 09:43
We used to do a lot of stone grinding at Trail Sports and experimented with taking off waxless patterns without much success. The base ends up very thin.
SteveR replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - My first ski of the season
Delivered: Saturday Oct 29, 2022 at 17:08
Looking forward to more of your prolific reports, Chuck.
So, it seems like your "specially aged" wax was the key to good, clump free skiing. Sometimes it pays to procrastinate!
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: New Feature: Show All Trip Reports within a Selected Date Range
Delivered: Saturday Oct 29, 2022 at 15:07
When planning to go skiing, I often wonder what was being done about this time last year.
Well now, Roger has made it easy for anyone to do this research!
For instance, Select ALLSKIERS and then select a date range like Oct 25, 2021 to Nov 10, 2021.
Try it... it works beautifully.
Thanks Roger for developing this feature, while the rest of us are out skiing!
MtnGoat replied to MtnGoat's post: Wanted
Delivered: Saturday Oct 29, 2022 at 10:42
Nepal replied to MtnGoat's post: Wanted
Delivered: Friday Oct 28, 2022 at 09:20
I have Fischer fishscale skiis
179 NNN
62 52 60 cut
Not sure if for back country use.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan Engagement: Invitation to Participate in Phase 2
Delivered: Thursday Oct 27, 2022 at 11:25
Note that the deadline for public response to the West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan has been extended to November 16, 2022.
An email I received today said the following:
" We are extending the deadline for feedback on the trails plan. We have received over 300 survey responses, which is great, but we felt an extension was fair given we have had a social media pause during the transition to a new Premier and have not been able to send out our regular social media posts. We are extending the deadline for public comment to Nov. 16, 2022. Please let your networks know. "
Mike W replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 20:22
I endorse the reports-first, followed by comments in downward chronological order as well!
At some point in the future, it would be nice to be able to embed photos within a report, rather than having them all appear below the report. I expect this change would be a significant amount of work, and I wouldn't want Roger to miss out on any skiing because of it!
Mike W replied to SkierRoger's post: West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan Engagement: Invitation to Participate in Phase 2
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 20:09
To add to Roger's comment, the plan says "Loggers, Middle Crystal Line, Mountain View, Moose Connector and Moose Loop will be authorized for skate ski grooming once the trails are upgraded to 6m width." This should reduce the impact of skate skiers unable or unwilling to avoid damaging the classic tracks. It will also create longer skating loops such as East Crystal - Loggers - Mountain View - Mountain Road - Mountain View West - Moose Loop - Moose Connector - West Crystal.
The other notable change is a proposed trail just to the west of and alongside East Telephone, between the Disconnect and Long Distance junctions. It will separate skier traffic from other (primarily fatbike) traffic that often trashed the tracksetting within a couple of hours. The situation was getting so bad that BCT was considering abandoning tracksetting Telephone Loop altogether. So this is great news not only for skiers, but also for the fatbikers, other users, and last but not least the grooming crew who would see their hard work destroyed in hours.
I highly recommend everyone review the plan and fill out the survey. It even includes the opportunity to drop pins on an interactive map where you can add location-specific comments!
West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan Engagement
Interactive Map
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan Engagement: Invitation to Participate in Phase 2
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 18:22
I’ve had a chance to review the West Bragg Creek Trails Master Plan information. It’s clear that a fair amount of of thought has gone into the plan. However, from what I see, you should not expect a significant expansion to the XC ski system. A total of 18 Km’s of new trails are planned, but most of that is geared towards Hiking, Biking, Snowshoe & equestrian.
Any new trails are designed with the following in mind:
• Existing density of trails network
• Potential impact to ecosystems
• Desire to maintain safety and quality of recreation
For cross country skiing, the idea seems to be to work with the existing trail system. Some trails are to be upgraded to 6m wide to accommodate skate and classic ski tracks.
Public feedback will be accepted to Nov 2nd only on this plan.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 13:11
Thanks for the feedback Donna. I agree
The focus should be on quality reporting and providing of information for others. Plus I love the pictures!
Distance is far from the main goal (at least that's what my old bones say).
Donna B replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 10:49
Comparison can be the thief of joy so my ask is that reporters focus on conditions and waxing help rather than distances they can accomplish.
aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Monday Oct 24, 2022 at 08:03
DCO--best thing to happen here since eSkis!
Yay Chuck!
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Sunday Oct 23, 2022 at 19:58
👍
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Sunday Oct 23, 2022 at 17:05
While giving it a try, could you please put the comments below the report in downward chronological order. It would again provide proper flow.
As you say, the Comments page with most recent comments at the top allows readers to quickly stay engaged!
Thanks again.
SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Sunday Oct 23, 2022 at 13:36
As always, thanks for the feedback Chuck!
I think your idea of placing the comments default position below the trip report is a valid idea. Let's try it and see how it works...
My motivation for placing the comments on top was to engage our readers to participate in the discussion. However, the comments page will provide that information just as easily.
Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Welcome to the the 2022/23 XC Ski Season
Delivered: Sunday Oct 23, 2022 at 10:06
Thank you Roger for all your work.
I do wonder if users would agree with me that Comments should appear below Reports?
I find it difficult to follow the thread of a discussion if the original topic is down below.
If users want to ensure that they see the most recent comments, they can always select the Comments tab.
SkierRoger replied to Ericdl's post: First Ski of the season
Delivered: Saturday Oct 22, 2022 at 17:43
Good to hear that you managed to get some skiing in today Ericdl !
Did your skis perform well on all that heavy snow?
Feel free to upload some pictures of your adventures. We’d love to see them.
I noticed a couple of tracks at Bowness Park this morning.
The 13th Troll replied to Gisele s's post: Buy
Delivered: Wednesday Oct 19, 2022 at 19:48
Try the Norseman XC Ski, Hike, Climb (see link on Skier Roger). I know that they now have lots of waxing irons, forms, scrapers, brushes & waxes. Plus they are going to have in store waxing clinics starting in early November.
Mike Keller replied to Mike Keller's post: Winter Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Puma MF
Delivered: Wednesday Oct 05, 2022 at 16:18
Yes - it is still available. I also have a Cypress - long - almost new - that is also available.
brandon replied to Mike Keller's post: Winter Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Puma MF
Delivered: Tuesday Oct 04, 2022 at 09:27
hi Mike,
is the WM sleeping bag still available?
