Comments Related to Trip Reports...

758 reports & 886 comments are available from this ski season
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Jean-Francois replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY to CUTHEAD CABIN - A 50 Km Challenge Worth a Couple of Beer

Delivered: Thursday Mar 28, 2024 at 10:40


Bonjour Chuck,
Merci for the report! It seems you use your skinny skis, good to know. I always been tempted to ski to the cabin but I don't know exactly where it is....From the end of grooming you just follow straight in the valley for another 9 / 10k or you need to take some turns to access it?
Merci d'avance
Jean-Francois





SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP Lookout

Delivered: Thursday Mar 28, 2024 at 08:29


Yes. Conditions on the north side allowed very good control on the descent.




MaSid replied to SkierRoger's post: PLPP Lookout

Delivered: Thursday Mar 28, 2024 at 08:24


Still quite “edgeable” on the north descent?




Chuck replied to ulrikeski's post: Rare sighting at CNC

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 27, 2024 at 20:59


No wonder you kept your distance!




MaSid replied to Robbo's post: WBC - Not so good

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 27, 2024 at 08:31


In addition to Old Grouch’s insight:

Fact: We are in an El Niño cycle, first one since 2016. Meaning: less than normal snow amounts, more days above zero than normal and by a greater amount. This probably makes for challenging grooming conditions, even for the most experienced. For example, between the last two cold/snow events, there was 10 days or more of warm temps, creating a compact snow/ice base which the last snow fell on. The forecasted 30 cm of upslope storm snow didn’t materialize and only got about 10 cm. It was also cold low density snow without much water content. This compacted down to an inch or two and the base snow being icy and hard was not available to add to the mix. Hence the shallow tracks.

They did the best they could with what they had to deal with. Perhaps the issue has more to do with the weather than the groomers. Expectations need to be tempered with reality. Bragg Creek is low elevation foothills and is much more prone to weather variances than higher elevation mountain terrain along the great divide. All things considered, it was pretty good for late March in the foothills and we had a few extra days of skiing in great weather. A bonus I certainly enjoyed without having to drive far. But going farther will be necessary for the rest of the foreseeable season. Enjoy your spring!





Old Grouch replied to Robbo's post: WBC - Not so good

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 27, 2024 at 08:14


Last 3 years, WBC grooming ceased on 03, 18 and 21 Mar so there's nothing unusual about this year. Personally I enjoyed 12 great outings at WBC this winter including a few spectacular days. It's a matter of picking your days, Robbo. And this time of year, spend the money to either buy gas to get to PLPP or LL higher elevation trails or pay for a pass at CNC. No cause for complaint in my books - I'm very thankful for the efforts of the grooming crew although the problems with Nordic Pulse have been disappointing.




aqua toque replied to ulrikeski's post: Rare sighting at CNC

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 27, 2024 at 07:18


Lol. You need to start carrying a SDD (skiing dinosaur deflator).





GordN replied to Robbo's post: WBC - Not so good

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 23:47


That reminds me. Had so much fun on Saturday I wanted to get another donation in before I forget.

Keep up the, what I consider, great work. Maybe those complaining should sign up to learn, the hard way, how hard it is.

Jeez, some people’s kids. Yeesh.





haywire replied to Robbo's post: WBC - Not so good

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 16:23


Yes, I remember the good old days, too. When we were happy to have snow to groom.

How we started




teleskier replied to Robbo's post: WBC - Not so good

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 14:14


"Robbo" it is the end of the season at WBC. The fat biking is impeccable, you should consider having a bike as a back up for marginal skiing conditions. If you want perfect olympic style grooming CNC may be more to your liking. We've had great grooming at WBC all season, maybe you missed those days. Keep in mind that the foothills are prone to melt freeze and all sorts of meteorological variance.




aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Greater Bragg Creek BBB (Better Badger Bureau)

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 12:13


Good eye Mike.

First of all, do NOT venture into badger terrain with sissy carbon fibre BDDs!

I recommend making your own like I do from 1/2" dia (or larger) steel rod:

https://www.metalsupermarkets.com/metals/mild-steel-round-bar/

Use your angle grinder to make a good sharp point. Powder baskets can be fabbed from whatever you have on hand (old shower drain grates work well).

You'll find that the steel has good heft and is malleable enough to be bent back into shape after an encounter.

Happy turns!







Mike W replied to aqua toque's post: Greater Bragg Creek BBB (Better Badger Bureau)

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 09:54


Your bent BDDs indicate lots of badger encounters. How many pairs of poles do you go through each winter!?






aqua toque replied to aqua toque's post: Greater Bragg Creek BBB (Better Badger Bureau)

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 08:08


Well that's really great...unless you're allergic to bergamot!




SteveR replied to aqua toque's post: Greater Bragg Creek BBB (Better Badger Bureau)

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 26, 2024 at 07:31


If skiing alone in badger zones, carrying a tin of this is highly recommended if one should get surrounded after being trapped in a tree well.







MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 21:04


Yes Mike. Next fix: the deteriorating threads at the toe bend where heavy waterproof sole material meets upper flexible cloth. Probably just shoe gue, slathered well.




Mike W replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 20:50


SteveR - Thanks for the repair advice. Looks like MaSid and I have the same model of defective Rossignol boot.




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 20:33


It’s clearly all about timing in spring.




Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 19:50


Just following up on one part of your tour… Hostel Loop was groomed last this afternoon.

New grooming on Hostel Loop





SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 19:18


Good to hear that my repair advice is working out! Polyethylene is about the only material that it doesn’t bond to.




Mike W replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Taking advantage of the touring tracks (last best day for it?)

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 18:51


My PL Premium is working out great as well!






MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek powder skiing

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 15:28


Thanks gents! The description was sufficient.





SkierRoger replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek powder skiing

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 09:24


He is a link to WBC Trails Master Plan. Details of proposed new trails and refinements to existing ones are shown in Appendix A on page 64.
https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=showski_special&id=2591





Alf Skrastins replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek powder skiing

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 08:42


Both the Horseshoe Ridge Loop, connecting to a re-aligned Tom Snow (moved off of Mountain Road) and a connection to the summer alignment of Mountain View West have been approved in the new WBC Trails Master Plan. The construction depends of getting sufficient donations and grant funding.




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Following the Groomers!

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 07:27


Hey Howie and Sue,
Thanks for the great advice to check out the Pipestone trails again!






MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek powder skiing

Delivered: Monday Mar 25, 2024 at 07:22


I look forward to the approval of this new multi-use trail and its eventual construction. Departing from Tom Snow, up along the ridge and connecting to Mountainview West, or just a loop back to Tom Snow?




ulrikeski replied to Mike W's post: Skogan Pass and Loop from the North

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 21:21


Wow, admirable perseverance, Mike. I would've given up. We skied Skogan Pass loop on LT skis a couple of years ago starting from Deadman's Flats over Skogan Pass, down the trackset S side and finished at Kananaskis Village. A friend broke trail on the North side with AT skis the day before, we had fresh snow coverage and a pickup at Kananaskis Village.
You did it the tough way!





Howie replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Following the Groomers!

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 21:17


Thanks for the great shot of Sue! It was fun chatting with you and learning about Skier Roger.
Enjoy the snow!
That couple from New Hampshire





GordN replied to Ray Yong's post: Snowshoers on Elk Pass

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 18:20


Thanks Mike,

In all my 30 odd years of skiing K-Country I never knew that! For X-Country, I was aware of the Alpine version.





Mike W replied to Ray Yong's post: Snowshoers on Elk Pass

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 12:44


It sounds like the ski patroller was talking about the hill whose top is about 1km from the parking lot, and drops down to the Fox Creek junction on the far side. CAN ANYONE PROVIDE FIRST-HAND INFORMATION ABOUT THE CONDITION OF THAT PART OF THE TRAIL?

The patroller apparently said "a larger group had also torn up the TRACKS leading down the hill the other side." But there are no machine-set tracks on that side of the hill because it's too steep. And I'm mystified as to how snowshoes could "tear up" the slope. In any case, that section of the Elk Pass trail is officially shared with snowshoers who have every right to be there, assuming they weren't intentionally wrecking the slope. Ray - Can you provide any clarification?

Snowshoers should not have been on the Elk Pass Trail between the parking lot and the top of the hill, since there's a dedicated snowshoe trail for that section. There are certainly people who knowingly ignore signage and courtesy, including skate skiers who slash the classic tracks and classic skiers who do the same by herringboning up the tracks (sometimes unavoidable on narrow trails or if skiers are coming down right next to them). But others share some of the blame. The ACC goes into great detail about the Elk Lakes Cabin rules and regulations, but provides little information about PLPP rules and regulations, and exactly where the snowshoe route is. The snowshoe trail signs are tiny and not immediately obvious; they could be a lot larger. Likewise for the "trail for skiers only" signs. And on the same signpost should be another sign showing where the snowshoe trail is. I've spoken to both the ACC and Kananaskis Parks about this. The ACC now provides a somewhat better map, but still no info about PLPP rules (such as not leaving leftover food on the Elk Pass picnic table).

GordN - There are indeed volunteer ski patrollers in PLPP.







JillJ replied to Ray Yong's post: Snowshoers on Elk Pass

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 11:31


I am a snowshoer and get so angry when I hear of that my fellow s-shoers have no respect for ski trails. There is a perfectly good snowshoe trail up to Elk Pass along the tree line to the south. Maybe that gang like the look of a nicely packed track rather than having to break trail on the dedicated SS trail. Sheesh. Has there ever been any enforcement of the trail regulations? Sorry your tracks were destroyed.




SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 10:42


IABTS, despite seeing the light about a decade ago, I still like to fire off occasional rusty tele turns on the xc skis!




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Following the Groomers!

Delivered: Sunday Mar 24, 2024 at 07:25


Thanks Gents





Alf Skrastins replied to JohnFB's post: West Bragg Creek ski and birds

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 23:25


Yes, it was a really good day out at WBC. I skied some of those same trails and connected them together with a tour across West Meadow and Tom Snow. Expect to see some fresh grooming on Moose Loop by Sunday morning.

Tom Snow trail




MaSid replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Following the Groomers!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 19:37


Agreed! It’s the 90 degree tree shadows that make it. Perfect timing. If Chuck was earlier…..maybe not.




SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: GREAT DIVIDE - Following the Groomers!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 19:17


Just love that LONG view up the Great Divide Trail!




iamthebestskier replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 19:06


MASID tooshay humour is good & another btw Mr. Riggs went to the darkside long ago





MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 18:54


IATBS, it was clearly evident. All turns are good, some are just better than others. And thanks again for the track.




iamthebestskier replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 18:33


MaSid I am the best skier & those are my tele turns btw i don't think A.T. drops the knee any more




GordN replied to Ray Yong's post: Snowshoers on Elk Pass

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 18:16


Ski patroller??! What the...?





GordN replied to MaSid's post: Another snowfall warning has cropped up for Bragg Creek and Canmore (Longview, Pincher Creek)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 18:14


Yeah, i snowed all day there today but it was so light.




GordN replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 18:13


I believe it's "Right of Way"




SteveR replied to Ray P's post: Kananaskis Village Trails

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 17:04


After meeting your group a couple of times in passing, it seems that we skied a similar up, down, round, and about route of 14km, but in opposite directions. Agree with your take on conditions, it was very pleasant skiing, with Swix blue extra working perfectly for us.

Excellent smooth and reasonably fast tracksetting on Kovach!





aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC: shell gas line ROW

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 15:57


What pray tell is a "ROW"?

It's nowhere to be found on the acronym list.





MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Another snowfall warning has cropped up for Bragg Creek and Canmore (Longview, Pincher Creek)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 15:23


Warning has been downgraded to 10-15 cm by tomorrow morning.




SkierRoger replied to SteveR's post: Skogan!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 09:50


Thanks Steve.
Seems to be a few options to get there, despite the Ribbon Creek lot being closed. In the past, I’d taken the Troll Falls trail.






JeffG replied to Helen Read's post: Took advantage of early morning grooming on Skogan Pass (as suggested in comment to Mike W)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 09:24


Mazel tov Helen from Claire. Get them started young!!




SteveR replied to SteveR's post: Skogan!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 23, 2024 at 07:21


We started at Nakiska, taking my usual route from the north parking around the back of the lodge area and down past the lowest chairlift to join Skogan. On the way back we went further south on Skogan to see what the “Skogan-Nakiska Connector” was, after noticing it on the map. It’s a good wide trail that took us up to the road opposite the north parking, ungroomed but easy enough to climb. Descending it with the lumpy ice crust would have been challenging on the skinnies. I wonder if it ever gets groomed?




Mike W replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek Two Updates

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 23:03


Alf - With all the grooming and tracksetting, I'm wondering why Nordic Pulse is showing that only Elbow S has been groomed? I realize that "live" reporting isn't always possible because of spotty mobile signal access. But compared to previous winters, this winter the grooming seems to be particularly slow in appearing on Nordic Pulse and it's often incorrect. If there's a problem with how to upload the information to Nordic Pulse, I'd be happy to help out. I have lots of IT experience.






Dana replied to Helen Read's post: Took advantage of early morning grooming on Skogan Pass (as suggested in comment to Mike W)

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 21:43


My elevation gain showed 760m, and it is supposed to be something like 680, so I calculated to slip back 80 metres. Not too bad for a 18 km trek. Thanks, Helen, great day.




Chuck replied to Swany's post: Hasty retreat on East side of Spray

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 21:13


Thank you Jim and Abbie for reporting.
This is the information we need to know.
Your pine tarred wooden skis will see another day!





SkierRoger replied to SteveR's post: Skogan!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 20:55


Lovely pictures Steve.

Where did you park today?






SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: Took advantage of early morning grooming on Skogan Pass (as suggested in comment to Mike W)

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 20:52


Congrats on an awesome trek and most importantly for getting a new grandchild!

I sure do remember that ornament. You and Diane were kind enough to give me one (PLPP I think) on the day my grandson, René was born.





SteveR replied to Helen Read's post: Took advantage of early morning grooming on Skogan Pass (as suggested in comment to Mike W)

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 20:43


You must have posted your report just as I was doing mine. Congrats on the new family member! Thanks for the warning about the table, no tea was spilt. No summit picture for us, as a snow squall was moving though and we had no view.




tmalaher replied to SkierRoger's post: Very Good Conditions at Confederation Park

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 19:25


Can confirm! Felt like full-up winter: snow and wind. Tracks were fine, only a few low spots with ice.

Snowing harder when we left at 6pm.






chuckley replied to ulrikeski's post: Refresh again at CNC

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 19:11


Loved the new snow but...
Beware the base is rock hard. sharpen your poles!





mike w replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 17:09


AT - Thanks for the reminder about the Badger Pass Tragedy. It should never be forgotten. For the young'uns reading this report, we should clarify that '09 refers neither to 2009 nor 1909, but 1809. The Tragedy was the basis of Rudyard Kipling's 1894 novel The Jungle Book. Personally, I think the impact of the story was lessened by Kipling's decision to base it in India instead of the Rockies.




SkierRoger replied to Jeff P's post: Say no to Brewster Creek and Sundance Lodge

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 15:27


Very helpful to know, Jeff.
This one was on my list. Now I can take it off.






ulrikeski replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 14:07


Mike: a great tale of perseverance. I take it that the embedded skins on the skis were good for the uphills on the icy snow and no full length skins were needed.
Too bad your track is now covered under new snow. Trail breaking required to get to that cabin now!





Mike W replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 11:37


Thanks Helen! Based on Sporten's skier weight specifications, it looked like 185cm would have been a better fit for me. But Switching Gear didn't have it in that size, and I like the maneuverability of shorter skis such as when floundering in isothermal snow as in the Cuthead Creek photo. I was concerned the 175's would have too much grip and too little glide, but hoped I could compensate by sliding the binding back as far as it would go. In the worst case, I was prepared to shave off some of the skin hairs to improve glide. But the skis worked great with the binding in the centre position.

Although an NNN-BC binding & boot setup would be sturdier for more challenging terrain, the combination of NNN bindings and my Combi boots were more than adequate. And it had the advantage of lighter boots with a moveable binding. For more challenging terrain, I've got the Little B's!

Thanks for the Skogan Pass tip. I haven't been to the pass yet this season, so I might head there tomorrow.





aqua toque replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 09:32


There's an oldtimer around these parts, who as an infant was the sole survivor of the '09 Badger Pass Tragedy (and subsequently raised by wolves).

When asked about it says he'll "never get over Badger Pass".






SkierRoger replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 09:22


Thanks for taking us along on that adventure, on a snowy Friday morning.

BTW: I tried to enter the new acronym but for some reason the website wouldn’t take it 😂





GordN replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 09:04


I too noticed the skis right away! Nice snag at SG.





HenryL replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 08:43


As they would have said in the old days, "Huzzah, huzzah!". Great trip. You persevered longer than most folks would.
I'm surprised that AquaToque (I like to use AT for short) didn't badger you about your growing quiver of skis.






aqua toque replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 07:35


Fun with acronyms!

lol





Helen Read replied to Mike W's post: Cuthead Cabin at last!

Delivered: Friday Mar 22, 2024 at 07:22


What an incredible report you wrote.....it was like ready a perfect mystery without the dreaded culprit attacking you at Cuthead Cabin. You got yourself a sweet pair of Sporten skis and am sure those skis never got further than Skoki Cabin in their previous rental life at Wilson's. I did not see them in my visit to Switching Gears a few days ago, but might have been tempted because 175 cms is the sweet length of my Asnes, which are 76-56-66. I prefer the back country binding but heh, you got yourself an awesome pair of skis and with the imbedded skins. Your trip report was entertaining; how you and Sporten Explorer's persevered. I will be searching for a "Badger Pin" at our local Thrift Store, cuz you earned it. BRAVO MIKE W.! Today's perfect conditions at Skogan Pass are screaming out to you!





Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: WBC: less than forecast so far

Delivered: Thursday Mar 21, 2024 at 19:13


West Bragg Creek seemed to be right at the edge of this snow event. Only 9-10cm has fallen since Wednesday… much less than forecast. The ski groomers were waiting for more snow to accumulate, but it never came, so they have started roller packing what’s there now. It’s light snow, so it doesn’t pack down to much of a layer. And it’s not bonding very well to the south facing hills that got glazed-icy over the previous 12 days of melt-freeze conditions. Hopefully more snow arrives in the coming days.

Today’s roller packing on Sundog.




SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: WBC: less than forecast so far

Delivered: Thursday Mar 21, 2024 at 11:48


And it looks like Confed has it all tuned up!

Confederation Park from Nordic Pulse




SteveR replied to MaSid's post: WBC: less than forecast so far

Delivered: Thursday Mar 21, 2024 at 10:06


Almost 7” (17 cm) in Silver Springs over the last 36 hours. Looks like a good day for local skiing. Heard that Confed is extending the season.






aqua toque replied to Chuck's post: STANLEY GLACIER - Spring Skiing is ON - Get High

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 20, 2024 at 17:06


Impressive looking turns with the archival Tua misery sticks!




SteveR replied to Alf Skrastins's post: Spring Equinox - And Winter is back!

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 20, 2024 at 08:56


Looking at the West Bragg picnic table webcam just now, there's over double that amount here in NW Calgary. Seems like there will be a slow and steady accumulation over the next few days, giving a decent refresh.




MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: Spring Equinox - And Winter is back!

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 at 23:36


Was just about to post same. Radar shows Bragg may be on the edge of it, for now, so might not get a lot right away. But you never know with these types of storms. But it should bond and compact well with the old snow, coming in a bit warm and moist to start.




ToTheWoods replied to Frances Dances's post: LOST: Walkie-Talkie-Kananaskis Village trails

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 at 08:25


Hi I think I may have found your Walkie talkie.
I tried phoning the number you have posted, but who ever answered did not know what I was speaking of.
If you would like to see if it’s yours reach out! tothewoodstraining@outlook.com





HenryL replied to SkierRoger's post: BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 at 08:16


Gee the weather was spectacular for the biathlon world cup. The international announcers were raving about the venue. Canmore really did present itself really well. Bravo.




HenryL replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 at 08:12


Or the astonished skier who had failed to read the reports - "WTF-grooming!".





JeffG replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Monday Mar 18, 2024 at 20:20


Her Poppa skate skied at the Nordic Centre this morning. I thought I would see ErinP there!




ErinP replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Monday Mar 18, 2024 at 19:58


FTG is my new favourite acronym!
It’s easy to be motivational with skies and tracks like that. Now for a few more good snow days before spring hits in earnest…





SkierRoger replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Monday Mar 18, 2024 at 18:44


Completely agree:

https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=acronyms





aqua toque replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Monday Mar 18, 2024 at 18:14


With the rise in popularity of the "follow the grooming" trip report it would seem that a new acronym (FTG) would be in order.





SkierRoger replied to ErinP's post: Following the PLPP grooming to the middle trails

Delivered: Monday Mar 18, 2024 at 15:17


Just stunning, Erin!

And thanks to those posting such motivational reports over these very warm days, while we await another big dump of snow.





MM replied to Gini's post: Found on Spray River Trail Ski Waxes

Delivered: Sunday Mar 17, 2024 at 16:20


Those are mine! Thanks for picking them up, Gini. I will stop by the visitor centre. I knew I lost them somewhere on Spray River/Goat Creek trail last weekend and thought they were gone for sure.




keithmi replied to Mike Keller's post: Winter Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Puma MF

Delivered: Sunday Mar 17, 2024 at 08:40


Potentially interested. Keep me in the loop.

Keith
403-816-0561





SkierRoger replied to Alf Skrastins's post: Peter Lougheed Park-North Trails

Delivered: Sunday Mar 17, 2024 at 08:34


Looking forward to the return of winter! Wednesday or so it seems.

Nice report.





MaSid replied to CMS's post: Elk Pass thru West Elk Pass

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 20:11


It happens to us all. Especially when it looks so different with all this snow but not much on the trees.




MaSid replied to Mike W's post: PLPP Hills and Obscure* Trails Special

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 20:05


Well done Mike. LMAO @ #7!! But glad to know packers didn’t eat your lunch.

My guess is after cold temps and snow mid next week, I’ll be back breaking trail, perhaps venturing down tobermory for something different. We will see.





Chuck replied to Joan's post: Great snow on Moraine, Fairview and Tramway

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 19:50


Thank you Joan, for taking the time to share this valuable information with our cross country skiing community.
Glad to know that these other trails at high elevation are also worthwhile.
The season is far from over!





CMS replied to CMS's post: Elk Pass thru West Elk Pass

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 16:46


No, we just followed your track. I was merrily skiing along, chatting with my friends, not paying attention until I looked up and saw trackset ahead and realized it was the Elk Pass trail. It would have been easy to do had I been watching where I was going.





MaSid replied to CMS's post: Elk Pass thru West Elk Pass

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 15:21


Did you break a trail in through the normal route on Patterson meadows? If so, thanks for doing that. I exited the cut block right at the normal (flagged) entry to west elk, so probably further south as you suggested. I always find it hard to spot that entry when coming down the power line. It could do with a “gate” like feature with just a horizontal tree wedged into two others high up.




CMS replied to CMS's post: Elk Pass thru West Elk Pass

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 15:08


Yes, I noticed the alternate route through Patterson Meadows. I have been through the "normal" route. Perhaps you came down the clearcut farther south than where we cut off the powerline over to the West Elk Pass trail because I think we saw you at Blueberry Junction, and my friend asked you about your bindings.




HenryL replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skoki Lodge the return

Delivered: Friday Mar 15, 2024 at 08:13


One of the best photos from Boulder Pass I have ever seen. Bravo.





ulrikeski replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skoki Lodge the return

Delivered: Thursday Mar 14, 2024 at 21:23


Fantastic day, great photos!




Barry G replied to Helen Read's post: Following the "Follow the Groomer" theme

Delivered: Thursday Mar 14, 2024 at 20:58


Hi Helen, nice to meet you again. I stayed out for hours on that same stretch (6 times for 30K) … it was one of those days you never want to end. I would have rated it 10 out of 10 but meeting you, my favourite trip reporter since Bob retired, turned it into an 11 out of 10 … you are such an inspiration to us ‘experienced’ skiers.




MaSid replied to CMS's post: Elk Pass thru West Elk Pass

Delivered: Thursday Mar 14, 2024 at 14:30


Note that the Wednesday track through Patterson meadows wasn’t the normal route. I followed Alf and teams old burried track to see where it went. It took a more westerly forested line in a direct south direction and ended up on the elk pass grooming west of elk pass (not a shortcut or with long open views). Normally it would take a more SE direction through the larger meadows and intersect with hydroline just north of elk pass. I didn’t see any fresh tracks through west elk, breaking my own trail through to blueberry. If you were on a freshly broken track through west elk, you must have missed seeing my down track through the cut block (took the conservative LT line that may not have been visible). I started descending the cut block about noon and probably went through west elk about 1230-1.




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Thursday Mar 14, 2024 at 09:12


Excellent. Such an easy no-bake recipe. I’ll definitely give it a try. On my way home still stopped at both fortress and the village for more food as the tank was still low. Was feeling a bit shaky at blueberry. Thanks again. And now you can give the traverse a go in the clockwise direction.





SteveR replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 13, 2024 at 21:16


Glad that we got to chat, and put enough fuel in your tank to make it home! A couple of short off-trail excursions on the way to Blueberry showed that conditions were indeed very good for wandering on LT skis, with about 15 cm ski penetration over a supportive crust. This is the recipe for those bars- a staple in our packs.
https://www.healthstandnutrition.com/andreas-award-winning-cocoa-energy-bars/





Frike replied to Helen Read's post: The therapeutic BENEFIT of getting in perhaps one last ski in -9 temps

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 13, 2024 at 20:24


Today on Peyto






Frike replied to JeffG's post: Great Divide still good

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 13, 2024 at 20:17


We started around 10 am at -10. The snow conditions were exellent. Skied lower telemark, then up Peyto to the Deerlodge and back to the Parking lot. There was a lot of fluffy snow on Peyto.






SkierRoger replied to Helen Read's post: The therapeutic BENEFIT of getting in perhaps one last ski in -9 temps

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 13, 2024 at 18:34


Sore hip or no sore hip, just can't keep you off those trails. Good for you!





ulrikeski replied to Helen Read's post: The therapeutic BENEFIT of getting in perhaps one last ski in -9 temps

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 13, 2024 at 18:23


Hi Helen: glad that you had a fun ski at Lake Louise. Judging from the weather network's extended forecast winter should return on March 20th with some new snow for at least a few days!!




SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: New Trip Reporters This Season

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 12, 2024 at 20:44


A fair point, aqua toque.

But if I let The Man from Badger Mountain in, then I’d probably have to do something for Mr. Mustard. It’s all or nothing.





aqua toque replied to SkierRoger's post: New Trip Reporters This Season

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 12, 2024 at 20:29


Thanks for the data Roger.

Some really fun screen names on there.

But I'll tell you right now, The Man from Badger Mountain won't be happy when he sees that list.





Arnprior replied to canmorechris's post: The Secret to Spring Skiing - Follow the Groomer!

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 12, 2024 at 17:21


What a great day at PLPP! I was hoping to do the SkierBob loop but opted instead to "follow the groomer." (Sorry to say) but it made a great end to my ski season.





Mike Keller replied to Mike Keller's post: Winter Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Puma MF

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 19:40


Yes - they are both sold. I do have a Puma GWS, nearly new, that I am considering selling.





SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: Update: Elk Pass Ski Touring Guide for Cross Country Skiers

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 19:04


You're very welcome, MaSid
I know everyone is on pins & needles to see the Elk Pass Touring guide.





SkierRoger replied to Jean-Francois's post: Shadow lake Nirvana

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 19:02


Great news, Jean-Francois

Awesome pictures too!





Jean-Francois replied to Jean-Francois's post: Shadow lake Nirvana

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 18:48


Howdy Chuck,
Rob and Louise are indeed the epitome of Canadian hospitality.
A un de ces jours!
Jean-Francois


Rob and Louise, Shadow lake lodge custodians





Chuck replied to Jean-Francois's post: Shadow lake Nirvana

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 18:43


Hey Babette et Toi,
Bien fait, I missed out on coffee with Bob and Louise Olinger!
Felicitations,
Chuck





MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Update: Elk Pass Ski Touring Guide for Cross Country Skiers

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 14:47


Thanks Jeff, you are too kind. But I appreciate the nod. See you and Erin on a snowfa next season maybe. However, there may be a brief window for reasonable travel in the area Tuesday and Wednesday before things heat up again after some fresh snow the last couple days.




JeffG replied to MaSid's post: Update: Elk Pass Ski Touring Guide for Cross Country Skiers

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 10:29


Thanks for everything you do, MaSid.
JeffG






MaSid replied to MaSid's post: Update: Elk Pass Ski Touring Guide for Cross Country Skiers

Delivered: Monday Mar 11, 2024 at 08:18


Morning D,
Yeh, not sure I will get a chance to return this season unless it cools off and there is some fresh snow. It may be a sticky affair in the meadows without a broken trail. You might get lucky if hut goers have been keeping a trail open in west elk pass (they seem to have been travelling that route more this season, perhaps due to improved route descriptions by ACC). Otherwise, looks like hiking weather in the foothills.





Diana Piggott replied to MaSid's post: Update: Elk Pass Ski Touring Guide for Cross Country Skiers

Delivered: Sunday Mar 10, 2024 at 22:50


Thank you both - I am waiting with bated breath!
I can't believe I haven't been anywhere near Elk Pass yet this season, really must do something about that......





Helen Read replied to Dana's post: Goat creek on Sunday

Delivered: Sunday Mar 10, 2024 at 20:28


Bravo Dana for skiing Goat Creek all by your lonesome. I sure wish I could have joined you. Great that Paul became your "sherpa". Gorgeous photos as always. The new Wedge Connector looks very tempting also. I skied by it twice earlier in the season, before the last few great reports on it.




GordN replied to SkierRoger's post: Ribbon Creek, Coal Mine, and Kananaskis Village trails

Delivered: Sunday Mar 10, 2024 at 19:34


From Pulse:

Please be aware Ribbon Creek day use (parking) is scheduled to close Monday March 11th for prescribed fire work in the area for a couple weeks. Ribbon Creek and Coal Mine trails will also be closed when this happens.





GordN replied to SkierRoger's post: Ribbon Creek, Coal Mine, and Kananaskis Village trails

Delivered: Sunday Mar 10, 2024 at 19:30


When Ribbon is good, it's a great day and so quick to get to.
Always my first go to..






SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: Ribbon Creek, Coal Mine, and Kananaskis Village trails

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 21:53


Sorry to have missed you Alf. I know you’re getting around quite a bit these days. Thanks for all the great trip reports!




Alf Skrastins replied to SkierRoger's post: Ribbon Creek, Coal Mine, and Kananaskis Village trails

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 21:01


What an amazing coincidence. We did almost the exact same trails today at Ribbon Creek. Coal mine is a pretty interesting trail, but I am always struck by what a relentless climb it is to get up to the viewpoint. I'm guessing the descent will be pretty spicy after another melt-freeze cycle... but by then we won't be allowed to go there, as Parks Crews prepare to burn the Ribbon Creek forests.
We definitely encountered those dreaded "catch and release" conditions when transitioning from slightly icy shaded areas to very soft-sticky sunny spots.
I was also impressed by the amount of new single-track alternative trails which have been developed for snowshoers, hikers and fat-bikers. There are still some shared sections on the ski trails, but it is overall a big improvement... and better user experience for everyone.


Only a hint of the Coal Mine viewpoint picnic table was visible under the rapidly building snow drift. It won't be seen again for some time!




MaSid replied to GregC's post: West Bragg Creek, Moose Loop

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 20:32


Sometimes it only takes a day or more for tracks to get fairly worn, especially with warm temps and busyness. This week was busy with the great weather.

There were lots of school trips too with the mild sunny temps.




MaSid replied to Chuck's post: BAKER CREEK EASTWARDS - No Grooming Possible

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 16:36


I noted similar this morning in the upper Kananaskis lake parking lot and access to the ski trail that takes you over to the elk pass trailhead. More of an issue for skiers than grooming equipment as it’s usually groomed from elk pass.

Easy fix. A quick shovel party meet up would do it. I’d meet you there Chuck if I had a banff park pass. I got two shovels. Anyone else?






keithmi replied to Mike Keller's post: Winter Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Puma MF

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 14:01


Kind of a long shot, but are both of these bags now sold?




aqua toque replied to JeffG's post: Goat Creek was icing on the cake!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 12:32


whoa. That's almost too much happy for one trip report!

Nice toques all around. I approve of the colour choice.

😊





JeffG replied to JeffG's post: Goat Creek was icing on the cake!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 10:17


OK Chuck, I now added the pictures!!





Chuck replied to JeffG's post: Goat Creek was icing on the cake!

Delivered: Saturday Mar 09, 2024 at 08:46


What a lovely report Jeff... Thanks for sharing it.
Even without a photo, I think I can visualize it!
These are the days that our memories will be made of. Congratulations.





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: BANFF to GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD and back - Nice to have these longer daylight days!

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 19:45


How was it on Friday, Bob?
Or, I am looking forward to your report,





Bob Milko replied to Chuck's post: BANFF to GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD and back - Nice to have these longer daylight days!

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 19:10


yes they did groom on Friday!!!





Jean-Francois replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skogan Pass, bumpy ride

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 17:18


Oui Carole, c'est vraiment un bel endroit. Avec les jours qui se réchauffent, les "snow bombs" vont être nombreuses. Il faut juste être attentif quand on ski...




Carole replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skogan Pass, bumpy ride

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 17:05


C'est beau!

Glad you made it, Jean-Francois! I suspect that some of yesterday's snow bombs hardened overnight, causing some difficulties.






Arie replied to Jean-Francois's post: Glad the cougar attack did not happen….

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 10:25


I smell smoke.... Wait, there is a pair of pants on fire.
Anyways, I am all freaked out now about falling vending machines.





MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: Glad the cougar attack did not happen….

Delivered: Friday Mar 08, 2024 at 06:51


Nothing said in the article about him being charged with filing a false report. That was a lot of resources expended. Lots of conservation officers on scene, a hired cougar tracker with dogs, plus DNA testing. A lot of coin for a little bit of fame.




Peter N replied to Mary's post: Skier Bob Special - in reverse

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 21:59


Glad you had a fine ski. About a decade ago, SkierBob explained in detail why it's best to ski his special clockwise. Briefly, if you descend Whiskey Jack, in several places you're pushing snow down the hill. Also, there are 1 or 2 tight turns in which it would be hard to avoid uphill skiers if you were descending at any speed. Finally, why not get most of the climbing out of the way early, then enjoy the mostly easier downhills ? But it's not labelled one way, so you're free to ski as you wish.




ulrikeski replied to Carole's post: Skogan Pass Goodness!

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 21:36


Absolutely stunning! Nordic skiing continues to be fantastic. Backcountry touring remains unpredictable, unfortunately. The Special Public Avalanche Warning has been extended until March 10.




Jean-Francois replied to Carole's post: Skogan Pass Goodness!

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 21:28


Thanks Carole for the report as I had planned to do a similar outing tomorrow. Great info!




MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: Glad the cougar attack did not happen….

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 19:13


Interesting. I was suspicious when pictures of the wounds looked more like scuff marks than scratches. Regardless, I will still keep the CDS handy, just like not holding up an umbrella in a lightning storm. Thanks for the report to keep us informed. But always conscious of seeing lots of evidence of their presence while out solo off trail.





aqua toque replied to Jean-Francois's post: Glad the cougar attack did not happen….

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 18:50


Oh crap! Now my Cougar Defence System stock's not worth the paper it's printed on!

That young fella's got sum splainin' to do.





Jean-Francois replied to Chuck's post: BANFF to GOAT CREEK TRAILHEAD and back - Nice to have these longer daylight days!

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 18:39


Howdy Chuck,
Thanks for reporting as I was wondering what the conditions were.
Definitely on my weekend list now!





MaSid replied to Diana Piggott's post: Sandy McNabb north side trails still good

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 14:47


Hi Diana, let me know if you find a source for large (human sized) googly eyes. Can’t seem to locate so far. And it’s doesn’t “google” well, thinking I might order a big batch on line.





Diana Piggott replied to Diana Piggott's post: Links not working?

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 13:51


Totally blame Zuckerberg.....
After refreshing my Chrome, the links are working again, thank you!





SkierRoger replied to Diana Piggott's post: Links not working?

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 13:41


Thanks for letting me know, Diana.

I just tested my Weather links and everything is working fine at this time. Also tested posting a picture and it worked great too (since deleted). Please try again - I expect you’ll have better luck this time.

I see there has been some pretty significant connection issues with Facebook and Instagram over the last couple of days. Perhaps those troubles have spilled over to my website host, HostPapa. I don’t mean to blame Zuckerberg, but I think it’s Zuckerberg…


Test only




Judith replied to Helene's post: a Haiku-worthy day, on the East side of Spray

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 09:33


Beautiful Haiku, Helene. Maybe you have started something new on Skier Roger.





SkierRoger replied to aqua toque's post: Return to Badger Mountain

Delivered: Thursday Mar 07, 2024 at 08:20


Well, next time I have a badger question I’ll know who to talk to.




Alf Skrastins replied to Bob Truman's post: Elk Pass was wonderful

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 22:06


Sorry to have missed seeing you, Bob. By the timing of your Elk Pass photo, I was probably busy breaking the "Patterson Meadows" shortcut when you were up there. As you know, shortcuts always take longer than expected.




aqua toque replied to Helene's post: a Haiku-worthy day, on the East side of Spray

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 21:35


Technical detail is over-rated.
Thanks for the haiku!





aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Ski touring above tree line?

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 21:33


Report lacks mustard.




Ryan replied to Bob Truman's post: Elk Pass was wonderful

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 19:47


Great to meet you today Bob! Thanks for the encouragement and conversation!





gh replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Ski touring above tree line?

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 18:30


It was good to run in to you today MaSid. I did end up skiing the West Bragg maintained perimeter trails today (36.5 km). Conditions were the best that I have encountered out there this season. Tomorrow looks to be another good day out there. Maybe Friday too. After that it is going to be really warm again. Today green wax worked fine for me.




SkierRoger replied to Helene's post: a Haiku-worthy day, on the East side of Spray

Delivered: Wednesday Mar 06, 2024 at 18:10


Lovely, Helene




aqua toque replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC encore

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 05, 2024 at 19:53


Perhaps. More likely an Alberta Correctional Services minimum security work detail.




MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC encore

Delivered: Tuesday Mar 05, 2024 at 17:54


I believe that’s Alf and the alpine touring snow making team. Ski, pack tracks, shovel, repeat. No end of fun. We all have much to thank them for, on and off trail. Hats off! Thanks for capturing the work J-F so people know what it takes and the dedication to the sport. And two bluebird days coming!




gh replied to gh's post: Banff / Goat Creek up and back

Delivered: Monday Mar 04, 2024 at 22:16


Yes, I figured that would be the case. It was weird to see that huge parking lot totally empty.




chuck replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY to STONEY CREEK CABIN - Recent tracksetting holding up well

Delivered: Monday Mar 04, 2024 at 21:26


Thanks Ulrike… hope you get a chance to explore it!




MaSid replied to gh's post: Banff / Goat Creek up and back

Delivered: Monday Mar 04, 2024 at 21:05


The road was closed George, as they were still removing snow from the road after successful bombing. Apparently there was a 5 m deep pile of snow to be dealt with. Crews expect another day of closure to get it all cleared.




ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: CASCADE VALLEY to STONEY CREEK CABIN - Recent tracksetting holding up well

Delivered: Monday Mar 04, 2024 at 20:26


So much more snow than when I was there 2 months ago. Beautiful snowy photos.





Alf Skrastins replied to SkierRoger's post: Night Ski at WBC

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 23:08


Yes… absolutely stunning conditions at West Bragg Creek today. Mountain Road had perfect grooming and the Alberta Youth Championship long race course on West Crystal Line-Middle Crystal was superb.
Now that the races are finished and the snow has stopped falling, the trails will get another round of grooming. Should be a great week of skiing.







MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail meandering

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 19:30


Wasn’t me in the cut block though. No appetite for uphill today, quite content just to wander around in the sun on wax.




aqua toque replied to SteveR's post: Paskapoo!

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 19:17


Awesome!
Turns IN Town.
(sorry, can't use the acronym...this is a family site)





Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: WBC: off trail meandering

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 19:15


I guessed those were your tracks wandering around. I also noticed some turns in the cutblocks along Mountain View. Very good off-trail travel conditions right now!





RainerA replied to SteveR's post: Paskapoo!

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 18:00


Looks like Calgary got a lot of snow. Great idea to toodle around the Paskapoo slopes. I love the second to last photo - magical.




Dennis replied to ulrikeski's post: Yoho - TONS of snow

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 14:02


Beautiful photos!

Off-topic, but fun: I spent three hours yesterday "snow-farming" off my large driveway, to surprise my visitor from Tennessee with the luxurious Canadian experience of sleeping in a quinzee! Ran out of time to dig it out, so about to go do that now.


The snow farming "harvest".




dianej replied to dianej's post: Anyone know if Tracksets done March 1 from P hut?

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 07:39


Thank you MaSid, Ribbon Creek it may be, with Canmore having IBU event.





MaSid replied to dianej's post: Anyone know if Tracksets done March 1 from P hut?

Delivered: Sunday Mar 03, 2024 at 07:20


See Rogers post below from his trip Friday out of pocaterra. Expect fresh snow over the latest grooming. If needing more recent grooming to avoid fresh snow, check Nordic pulse (ribbon creek may be a better bet, see another post below from Saturday, or CNC, both have options to warm up).




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Marching on….(and testing the new CDS)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 02, 2024 at 15:26


Bonus (as skier specific terminology). Not to be confused with the financial derivative known as the Credit Default Swap, the Canadian Depository for Securities, or those shiny round music and data storage mediums.




SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Marching on….(and testing the new CDS)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 02, 2024 at 14:29


A very astute point, Mr toque.

Still, I've inaugurated the now trademarked CDS acronym into the SkierRoger.ca hall of fame:
https://www.skierroger.ca/index.php?content=acronyms





aqua toque replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Marching on….(and testing the new CDS)

Delivered: Saturday Mar 02, 2024 at 12:42


Given the locale and the described degree of carnage one would be inclined to suspect a rogue pack of badgers.

In which case a CDS™️ won't do much good unless you can stab accurately multiple times very quickly!





MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: WBC untracked touring

Delivered: Saturday Mar 02, 2024 at 08:03


There are no fences Roger 😬(well, there are, but mostly just in the mind). Only limited by snow amounts, gear, knowledge, skill set and maybe some risks (such as Cougars!). Alf knows the area like the back of his hand. I’ve only scratched the surface so far at WBC. Plenty of exploring to be had.





SkierRoger replied to Sewski's post: Sticky Situation

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 23:41


Oops! There I was up at Pocaterra and forgot to check for your boot and sunglasses. Sorry about that, Sewski.

I'd suggest calling the Visitor Information Centre: 403 678-0760





SkierRoger replied to Alf Skrastins's post: WBC untracked touring

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 23:18


You, MaSid and SteveR sure find some interesting places to ski out at WBC!




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Marching on….(and testing the new CDS)

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 22:42


Oh wow! Anything is possible. But glad it was well fed and likely finished with that meal.




Alf Skrastins replied to MaSid's post: WBC: Marching on….(and testing the new CDS)

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 22:32


I was thinking about a CDS (Cougar Defense System) on my WBC tour today. About half way up the Boundary Ridge Trail, I came across a spot where a cougar had disassembled and eaten a deer at some point during the overnight snow storm. All that remained were a couple of legs, some intestines and several chunks of fur.
I assumed that the successful hunter had a full tummy and was having a nap somewhere.






Chuck replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK BRIDGE - Everything in the area Trackset again today!

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 19:12


Actually JoLynn, the only challenge on this trail is distance. The good news is that there are so many delightful turn back destinations.
Starting in Banff, it is 6 km to the first bridge (east/west junction shelter), another 4 km to second Spray River bridge, and then only another 2 km to the iconic Goat Creek bridge.
And by the way, parking was not an issue, even today.





JoLynn replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK BRIDGE - Everything in the area Trackset again today!

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 18:52


I would love to try that trail! Will have to be satisfied with just reading trip reports for a while-broken toe🫤 Do you think it would be appropriate for an intermediate level skier?




Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: GOAT CREEK BRIDGE - Everything in the area Trackset again today!

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 16:58


Almost went there today but once got stuck in that little parking lot, after a big snowfall. You can luckily ski to the trail head from your condo!





MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek snow

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 16:15


I thought about going to ribbon last night until it snowed hard (haven’t skied there yet this season) expecting parking lot issues everywhere along hwy 40 and the lakes trail (although always possible to park at the village and start there).




Normand replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek snow

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 10:40


Just arrived at Ribbon Creek parking lot, not plowed: at least 20 cm of fresh snow. It will be a good trail breaking workout.




MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek snow

Delivered: Friday Mar 01, 2024 at 08:23


👍😃 looks great! See you on the side trails.





MaSid replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 22:50




Looks a bit intense in the moment for snowfall. But Definitely more work fixing trails than making a simple couch.




Alf Skrastins replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 19:19


Thanks, Bruce.
A team of BCT volunteers was out all day harvesting and moving snow to create the best possible snow base for the Alberta Youth Championships.







SteveR replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 19:16


Apologies if my report from Tuesday was mis-interpreted as being critical of the grooming crew. It was only meant as an honest observation of trail conditions, which is the purpose of this site.




MaSid replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 18:19


Good to know Bruce. Thanks.

Given this little blip of snow (10 cm maybe at Bragg) I’ll be heading there tomorrow after a bit of work. No need to take the day off and drive further to land at an unplowed parking lot in deeper Kananaskis. Should be great with some cool temps and acres of fresh trail breaking to be had. (-:






haywire replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 17:45


Respect to MaSid and Skier Roger. Your comments were in the spirit of notifying BCT of issues and letting skiers know that there were some issues. BCT also has a report a trail issue. I'm sure they would appreciate hearing there as well. https://braggcreektrails.org/trail-issue-report/ Happy trials.





MaSid replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 17:11


And they will be busy prepping for the race, as it’s puking there right now. Same issue with the Louise loppet. Too much snow to groom! And I just saw a tree starting to bud in calgary. Tough waxing maybe.




SkierRoger replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 16:41


Hey MaSid.

It’s perfectly fine to point such imperfections out; just one of the many uses of this website. Constructive, positively stated information can help improve our ski areas and make this forum better.






MaSid replied to haywire's post: Bragg Creek rejuvenation

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 16:24


Thanks Bruce. Well said.

I assume it’s ok to point these things out (no judgement), in case it’s not noticed. Never sure.

In the mean time, here’s the race schedule of events:


Race schedule.




Chuck replied to Helen Read's post: Figure of Eight in perfect powder conditions

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 09:07


Thanks Helen, but You are the inspiration here




Helen Read replied to Helen Read's post: Figure of Eight in perfect powder conditions

Delivered: Thursday Feb 29, 2024 at 08:32


Apologies to George and thanks Chuck for the correction. Name recall has never been my best suit and I will never aspire to your photos capturing the perfect information and people that has made you so invaluable to this site.





Chuck replied to Helen Read's post: Figure of Eight in perfect powder conditions

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 28, 2024 at 20:54


Helen, that is George, not Graham!




Gord F replied to MaSid's post: Avalanche bulletin for kananaskis

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 28, 2024 at 16:46


Absolutely fantastic that the biggest snowstorm of the season is upon us. The high av hazard isn't so fantastic, but it is manageable. I'll be skiing at Sunshine tomorrow.

BC Backcountry




MaSid replied to CheersCarol's post: Fairview Beauty…just missing THE COUCH .

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 28, 2024 at 16:43


No Louise Snowfa’s this year unfortunately. Diesel for my little car is far too expensive to justify a trip to Louise. But sure looked like a good day for a couch sit, if not a bit too cold.




ulrikeski replied to MaSid's post: Road closure (Canmore hill) tomorrow

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 27, 2024 at 19:51


I heard rumbles off Mt. Rundle and helicopter noise while skiing on the Rundle Trail at CNC around 5pm today. Great classic tracks and powder snow.
The storm has brought a major avalanche cycle. Hazard is rated high in Alpine/treeline.
A MIN report from Parkers Ridge from Monday showed a huge slab release:
https://avalanche.ca/mountain-information-network/submissions/594466e0-d52d-11ee-a681-0a58a9feac02





SteveR replied to Ingrid's post: Cold snow at WBC

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 27, 2024 at 19:06


I also started out around 2 on a similar program: West Crystal-Moose Connector-Mountain Road-Mountain View-Loggers-Elbow-Iron Springs-East Crystal. Most trails were in nice shape- Elbow being the notable exception as it was rough with icy lumps in spots, and wonky wobbly tracksetting. Iron had some of that going on as well, but was generally more pleasant to ski. And yes- I also noticed those big lumps, but they were easy to avoid. East Crystal had not been recently groomed despite being shown as such on the Nordic Pulse map, but prior skiers had re-established the old tracks and it was decently fast on the long downhill. A morning hotwax with Maplus cold glider (-8 to -22) helped with the slow cold snow, but the glide was still a bit sedate even with only a whiff of Swix Green underfoot for grip. Still- an enjoyable ski under bluebird skies.

Mountain View, with inexplicable gaps in the tracksetting, which I noticed on other trails as well.




Diana Piggott replied to SkierRoger's post: Lake Louise Upper Trails: Grooming Update

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 18:17


Oh, it looks like upper Telemark and Peyto have just been groomed for the first time this season?!
I hope they get some nice powder on top of that :-)





ErinP replied to JeffG's post: Alberta Bluebird day at Pipestone

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 17:10


Wish I was there with the ski bros, but I’m so excited to go tomorrow!




MaSid replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 14:34


That’s puts you in fine shape to do the tobermory creek circuit (also about 30 k and maybe 2/3 the gain), after the added snow (hopefully as much as they say) has had a chance to settle. Might go part way in on my next venture in the elk pass area, unless the powder is too inviting (hard to pass up on in exchange for distance).




ulrikeski replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 14:14


Hope the moon was bright and the Little B's didn't hit too many rocks on the roller coaster ride. Sparks must have been flying😂





Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 14:13


Thanks MaSid. The stats were 30.3km, 1100 cumulative vertical metres, 9 hours elapsed time, 6.5 hours moving time. Thanks to the roller coaster trail, the 1100 vertical metres only got us 750m above the trailhead! We looked into stopping in Longview for sustenance but couldn't find an open hot wax establishment, so we waited until we got home.

aqua toque - Sorry but no badger sightings. Perhaps the groomers scared them off into the Elk Valley.





aqua toque replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 08:13


What an epic adventure Little Bs!

😲 Deep into the heart of badger country!





MaSid replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 06:49


“A” for effort and perseverance Mike. How long of a day did it end up being? I hope you stopped in Longview for some sustenance.





Little Bs replied to Little Bs's post: The Little B's Have a Baril of Fun on the Fording Pass Roller Coaster!

Delivered: Sunday Feb 25, 2024 at 00:11


Our report continues!

At the bottom we found we were now 50m below the pass on the BC side. The snowmobile trail turned west further down into BC, so we turned east back up to the pass and Alberta, trailbreaking for the first time (photos 15-16). It was a combination of hard windcrust, breakable windcrust, grass, and gravel. It took us about an hour to loop back to the snowmobile trail. With only a couple of hours of daylight left, we headed back down to the car with an almost-full moon rising ahead of us. What a day! See photo 17 for our route.


Photo 13 Mount Bolton.




JeffG replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Best Conditions given the right wax!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 24, 2024 at 17:52


It’s true, Chuck was the fastest today. However I have a feeling that Katie had several more gears in waiting! I haven’t seen Chuck all season, so it was a great reunion. My skins slipped a bit but Sue had no problem with her’s. The falling snow lifted everyone’s spirits.
And hello to my good friend Helen!





Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: MORAINE LAKE ROAD - Best Conditions given the right wax!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 24, 2024 at 16:59


Jeff G and Sue G. Great to see you both out on MLR. I certainly ran into challenging conditions Wednesday there, doing Fairview in the powder and +1. I keep my scrapper (and bit of hard glide wax) right in my side pocket.




Normand replied to Normand's post: Mount Ball (in the sun!)

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 22:24


Only missing were Helen’s cookies served along the way on the trail!




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI LODGE - Such a Warm Welcome for just a Day Tripper!

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 21:56


Thank you Karl and Chris (wondering how you found his card).
Yes, I find Reuben's artwork to be absolutely beautiful.
I've delved into his website for these special pieces painted while working at Skoki.
And/or go to his home page.


Check out his Skoki artwork with this direct link




SkierRoger replied to KeithB's post: Best Ever at Mount Shark

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 19:39


Great news, Keith

I wasn’t 100% certain but did recommend Shark on tomorrow’s Paul Karchut, Real Ski Report. Whew!





Karl & Chris replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI LODGE - Such a Warm Welcome for just a Day Tripper!

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 18:51


The artist is Reuben Nimegeers, I have attached a photo of his card. Beautiful art!







HenryL replied to Normand's post: Mount Ball (in the sun!)

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 08:52


Helen, that was also the year of the Quebec/Ontario ice storm.

March 17, 1998 Snowmageddon




Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI LODGE - Such a Warm Welcome for just a Day Tripper!

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 08:24


Great photo of the visitors from upstate New York who I met family day w/e skiing the Alluvial Fan (I was walking around the lake with my grandkids and took their photos at bench at end of lake) and my husband met then downloading at Temple before their ski in. Looks like you met then on their way out if they stayed 2 nights. Super photos and hope you find the artist's name. Wonder if you put that photo on google, if AI would come up with the artist?




Helen Read replied to Normand's post: Mount Ball (in the sun!)

Delivered: Friday Feb 23, 2024 at 08:19


Wonderful to see your name up here again and such a stunning report. Makes one wonder, will be have the massive Spring dump that I so well remember about 15-20 years ago in Calgary on March 17th that halted everyone in their tracks! (Except me who walked to the neighbourhood pub in Deer Run to celebrate St. Patrick's Day and not being able to get to work that day!!)





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI LODGE - Such a Warm Welcome for just a Day Tripper!

Delivered: Thursday Feb 22, 2024 at 21:18


Hey Ulrike,
You could definitely skate ski across Ptarmigan Lake (the west wind helps). Dropping down the north side of Deception Pass was a challenge due to tight bushes and a soft snowpack beside the snowmobile track. Metal edges were worthwhile.
The ski out was no problem.
Enjoy.





ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: SKOKI LODGE - Such a Warm Welcome for just a Day Tripper!

Delivered: Thursday Feb 22, 2024 at 20:51


You're covering lots of distance on your skis, Chuck! Looks like a beautiful day. Judging by the packed snow you could almost skate ski across Ptarmigan Lake. How was the descent from Deception Pass and the LL ski out? Hopefully no breakable crust and no ice.




CMS replied to CMS's post: Pipestone River to Point Camp Meadows

Delivered: Thursday Feb 22, 2024 at 17:33


Thanks, Helen. I put a clarification in my report, as I had not made it clear that the hole I punched into was dry, so no wet foot (or iced up ski).




TSellers replied to SkierRoger's post: YouTube Channel for Snow Forecasts

Delivered: Thursday Feb 22, 2024 at 10:10


The first thing I noticed on the link that Gord F gave was the ability to see Weatherbell charts. This is a great way for us great unwashed to access resources that you cannot see unless you pay for them. And it also tells you that the presenter is probably more professional about what they do because in all probability they are paying for access to that resource.

For me, my favourite resource was discovered on this site, which is SpotWx. I think Roger may also have mentioned at one point this was also a favourite of his. As there are burn piles from the fuel reduction project burning 30 meters from my front yard as I type this, I find it is invaluable for me to see forecast wind speed, direction and how good ventilation will be by using the planetary boundary layer plot on the HRRR. If I am considering what to do tomorrow I'll use a mesoscale forecast such as the HRRR. On SpotWx you can even access a hard to find plot of HRDPS at 1km resolution if you want a more granular view. As a bonus, if you want help interpreting any of the data, Garth that is the developer of SpotWx in Winnipeg, is very responsive and helpful.

Another resource that I have learned a lot from is the Nutrien AG solutions Youtube channel. I start my day every morning watching Eric Snodgrass' morning briefing, and once a week Andrew Pritchard does a Canadian Prairie weather summary that extends into the mountains. (These videos also gives you the advantage of being able to see long range forecast resources that must be paid for), For over a month Eric started to predict that a change in the polar jet was likely to happen in March because the MJO was showing signs of transitioning to null space finally allowing for an opportunity for that Low that has hung off ALaska all winter to move south (which is it doing right now). For anyone just wanting a quick forecast this resource is not for them, but for anyone that wants to learn more about weather and all the available resources, it is highly recommended.

Nutrien's Videos





snafflehound replied to SkierRoger's post: YouTube Channel for Snow Forecasts

Delivered: Thursday Feb 22, 2024 at 08:57


Nobody is doing this kind of report for Western Canada? Not that it makes any difference, we get what we get.




SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: Don’t forget: cookie race Saturday

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 19:38


Thanks for the reminder, MaSid!

A quick review of their website shows snow conditions have forced some changes: The 15, 24, and 42km skiers will start and finish at Boulton Campground rather than Pocaterra Hut, and the 0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 5km skiers will race at Confederation Golf Course in Calgary on the next day.

A bit of history (taken from website):
-------------------------------------
The Cookie Race is the second oldest Nordic event (after the Lake Louise Loppet) and the second largest loppet (after the Canadian Birkebeiner) in Alberta.

The first Kananaskis Ski Marathon was conducted in March of 1978, with 67 participants and one 45 km distance.

This seasons routes are shown below:


Racers in the 15km and 24km categories do the 17km loop once. Racers in the 42km category do it twice




Helen Read replied to CMS's post: Pipestone River to Point Camp Meadows

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 17:27


You are brave and very rarely seen photos!!! Hope your foot did not get too icy cold.




SkierRoger replied to SkierRoger's post: YouTube Channel for Snow Forecasts

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 15:10


Thanks for your valuable input, gents.

I've included links to both YouTube channels in the Weather Reports section of this website.





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 12:51


Thanks for the Heads Up, MaSid.





Gord F replied to SkierRoger's post: YouTube Channel for Snow Forecasts

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 12:26


Good Comments TSellers. I've been watching this channel for a while and I find I don't pay much attention to Chris Tomer's overly optimistic snow totals. I do like the graphic descriptions of the various systems at play however. There's another guy (Michael Snyder) doing similar forecasts, primarily focused on the Pacific Northwest. He includes European models as well as the American data in his predictions. You can check him out here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EL3PplwMxZU&t=370s





TSellers replied to SkierRoger's post: YouTube Channel for Snow Forecasts

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 11:09


Nice that his graphic includes Banff and that he focused on the transition of the northern branch of the Jet for March, which will give us more active weather and finally some snow. It seems that he is a victim of the GEM propensity to over estimate precip amounts when lee cyclogenesis is favourable for development. For example, recently for Feb 11-13 he forecast snow accumulation of "heavy snow" and gave values of 2-4 ft. In the end, Banff got a total accumulation of 2.2cm for that period.




MaSid replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 10:07


Chuck, have you tried their Porter?

Sounds delicious, if not a bit wobbly (0.5% more alcohol than the naramata nut brown).





Chuck replied to SkierRoger's post: Shadow Lake also

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 09:17


For the record... Roger was seen standing at some stage!

... but maybe grunting!




MaSid replied to Helen Read's post: Finally made it to West Elk Meadows

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 08:31


Fantastic! And no turtling I assume (now known as a “Roger”), but perhaps a snow angel. (-:




Diana Piggott replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 08:15


You two put the biggest smile on my face, thank you :-)






ulrikeski replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 21, 2024 at 07:17


Naramata Nut Brown Ale, Kettle chips, red chairs and Mt. Ball in the sun - the best!




SkierRoger replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 20, 2024 at 20:37


I thought Chuck and Roger were in their 60's. No way those fellas are THAT old! 🙂




HenryL replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 20, 2024 at 19:50


I love both photos, that of the red chair dudes, as well as Chuck's winning Shadow Lake Lodge image.
Bravo.





Helen Read replied to Chuck's post: SHADOW LAKE - With a Skier Roger Sighting!

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 20, 2024 at 18:51


I love this photo you took with the Naramata Nut Brown Ale and sharing it in such terrific company! Chuck you deserve winning the photo contest and thank you for sending the link so we can enjoy all the other entries.




BonnyTasky replied to Chuck's post: LAKE O'HARA and the ELIZABETH PARKER HUT - I Had It All To Myself!

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 20, 2024 at 17:34


Yes, I seem to remember 22 bodies were staying over that night! I work with most of the adults :)





Helen Read replied to KeithB's post: PLPP: More Snow - Please do the Snow Dance

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 18:41


So thrilled to see you back writing reports and yes, to Snow Dance. I cannot believe I have not even skied out to Couch HQ and thru to Hydroline or Patterson Meadows as yet. Aggravated one hip and no skiing for about 10 days, but still enjoying the reports!!! Loved the Boom Lake report; expressing my sentiments exactly!




Jean-Francois replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skogan Pass Trails

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 17:20


Hi Not Dead Yet,
I remember your orange backpack and your skis.
Glad you had a good time.





NotDeadYet replied to Jean-Francois's post: Skogan Pass Trails

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 16:47


I was probably your one other skier. Agreed, it was a good sunny day with reasonable temperatures (-8c to +4c) and good grooming from Friday. Thanks to Ulrike mentioning that. Nakiska ski resort was very busy compared to our nearly deserted trail. Considering the snow volume this winter, it really could not have been any better.

Vintage gear still works!




Dennis replied to Dennis's post: Goat Creek to Banff -- Lovely day

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 13:33


@ulrikeski -- The trail was trackset except for the stqrt, from parking lot to Bqnff Park boundary. Assuming it was trackset on Feb 8, as per the Parks trail report, There must have been very few skiers on it. Under the 1-2 inches of fresh, the shallowish track was very clean and undamaged, with maybe four to six skiers before us on top of the fresh. On the east side of the Spray loop, We were the first skiers on top of the fresh, which was over skier set track for about 60% of the distance. The rest of it was pretty smooth, soft-packed snowshoe track. Near the finish, we took the left turn to Spray Connector. I hit a few rocks while snowplowing part way down. Fortunately, they were smooth and rounded enough that I slid right across them, no catching and no marks on my ski bases!

We were both on skinny track skis, no metal edges.

The hill at Goat Creek trailhead was fully covered, soft-packed enough to snowplow.






aqua toque replied to The 13th Troll's post: OK, BOOM-er!

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 12:06




Here's a boomer AND a creeker. It doesn't get any more whack than that!




HenryL replied to The 13th Troll's post: OK, BOOM-er!

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 09:20


There was a real sense of exploration when the only thing between us and the great unknown was the Rick Kunelius guidebook and a topo map.

I'll never forget my first ski after moving to Calgary. It was to Taylor Lake in a foot of fresh December snow. I might well have been in the Yukon. The world seemed so big!







Dana replied to The 13th Troll's post: OK, BOOM-er!

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 08:41


I feel exactly the same.





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: KICKING HORSE TRAIL and an ADVENTURE - Awesome

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 08:32


Thanks for adding those beautiful patterns




MaSid replied to The 13th Troll's post: OK, BOOM-er!

Delivered: Monday Feb 19, 2024 at 08:24


Maybe one day in the future, the younger masses will learn with time and re-discover through pure and simple logic (or by getting passed by lots of happy and smiling old skiers) that skis are the most efficient and fun way to travel in winter (and that boomer was right!). Maybe.




CMS replied to Chuck's post: KICKING HORSE TRAIL and an ADVENTURE - Awesome

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 21:36


Nice trail along the Otterhead and the Kicking Horse River, Chuck. The hoarfrost presented some amazing patterns on the ice. And the afternoon "popcorn" clouds were cool.

Popcorn clouds above the Kicking Horse River.




ulrikeski replied to Dennis's post: Goat Creek to Banff -- Lovely day

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 18:28


Hi: thanks for the report. I assume it was skier tracked. Did you use light touring skis or track skis? How was the start of the trail from Goat Creek?




Chuck replied to Dennis's post: Goat Creek to Banff -- Lovely day

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 16:32


Thanks for the report, Dennis.
That was very daring of you guys to head out on those trails despite the poor ratings on the Parks Canada Trail Conditions report!
This is what we need to know.





haywire replied to SteveR's post: More WBC Ramblings

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 10:55


When I ran the early days of ski grooming we used to keep our equipment at the high point of your side trip. That section North to Iron Creek had the best snow in WBC. And you are correct. The locals in Elk Valley and Highlands snowshoe that area frequently





haywire replied to Bob Truman's post: A rare treat at West Bragg Creek

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 10:49


A word of caution about the Iron Creek ‘parking lot’ There isn’t one and there are no parking signs on the road. People get tickets there. And there are no facilities.




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: 🎵 These days…..

Delivered: Sunday Feb 18, 2024 at 08:39


Just over 2’ of snow at the pass in open areas. Between a foot or two in the forest above. Almost 3’ up at the top of the cut block. Usually east elk has at least double that amount of snow by now. Worth checking out though, if not just for the out and back on a nice day, or throw in the traverse. You’ll get a sense of it as you travel to east elk. Doesn’t seem like the year for it so far.




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: PIPESTONE TRAILS Including MUD LAKE - Good and FAST!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 19:47


Hi Erin,
Wondering what you think of the tracks in my 4th photo with the unusual side track, when you see it on the river?
A Parks Canada member suggested that the side track is actually the impression left by a cat dragging something (like a leg) from a kill site.





Jean-Francois replied to Mike W's post: West Bragg Creek S & W Tour - Beware of potholes!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 19:13


Hi Mike,
Two days ago I noticed these potholes 2 days go as I crashed into one of them on Elbow ha ha. It was a first for me to see these.





ErinP replied to JeffG's post: Alberta Bluebird day at Pipestone

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 19:08


Wish I was there with the ski bros, but I’m so excited to go tomorrow!




ErinP replied to Chuck's post: PIPESTONE TRAILS Including MUD LAKE - Good and FAST!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 19:07


Thanks for the report and the pictures Chuck! We’re heading there tomorrow…can’t wait!





blog replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek - Telephone Loop

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 18:27


Just to add to this comment, Feb 17 2024
Saw several people up there which was a first! Trail was nice but icy down lower with the cold. Tree bombs could fall galore up there with the warm / cold temperatures coming.
Thanks for grooming it, it's in great condition. Pray for snow!





Mike W replied to MaSid's post: 🎵 These days…..

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 18:10


Thanks MaSid, I'll give it a bit more thought.




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: 🎵 These days…..

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 18:08


You’d get 2 km beyond pass easily as its meadow travel. It’s a 1000 ft descent to the road from the pass, and south facing. If it’s anything like travel through the drainage corridor on the way to the pass it’ll be thin in the trees. Depends how much deadfall etc. For example, going up the boundary cut line to the top of the hill would be challenging with LT gear and wax without skins right now. Switchbacking through the forest would be a bit bony with the low snow and deadfall/brush to deal with.





Mike W replied to MaSid's post: 🎵 These days…..

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 17:51


MaSid - Any idea what snowpack conditions are like S of E Elk Pass, heading down the Tobermory Creek drainage? Thinking of making an attempt to get to Tobermory Cabin, or at least setting a track partway for later.




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: PIPESTONE TRAILS Including MUD LAKE - Good and FAST!

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 08:37


A note of Caution:
Do not take this newly signed #5 route to Mud Lake. It is not groomed and just a hiking trail.
Take the mapped route down the #22 Drummond route, which is beautifully trackset, and only 400 metres.


Maybe, try this route in summer!




SteveR replied to Bob Truman's post: A rare treat at West Bragg Creek

Delivered: Saturday Feb 17, 2024 at 04:21


Always a treat to get a Skier Bob report!





Diana Piggott replied to ulrikeski's post: Skogan Pass - what a day!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 19:25


Hello Ulrike!
You probably passed us on your way down. My son and I got a late start, skied to Hummingbird Plume via Sunburst, returning by High Level. Most enjoyable!

I would add that the grooming was very firm, the corduroy often felt like rumble strips! The screamer definitely has some very thin spots, and occasional rough patches, but wasn't that bad to descend.

Nakiska was very busy, but not the Skogan area trails.
Swix blue wax worked pretty well for us, but our herringbone and especially the snowplow muscles got a good workout!





SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Skogan Pass - what a day!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 19:02


Thanks for the tip, ulrikeski !




ulrikeski replied to ulrikeski's post: Skogan Pass - what a day!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 18:26


Hi Roger: With the roller coaster winter so far, it was definitely a window of opportunity. I forgot to mention that we had a base binder wax (ironed on) and then grip wax layers on top on our skis, as snow is abrasive.




SkierRoger replied to ulrikeski's post: Skogan Pass - what a day!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 18:13


As we drove past, I wondered...

And now I know.






MaSid replied to MaSid's post: WBC: The naughty moose!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 12:00


Ah, yes. They see less humans/dogs in west elk pass vs. West Bragg. Possibly more curious than anything, less threatened. Or you were sweaty and he was up for some salt. (-;




MaSid replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 10:33


Here’s another one: a taller pack that covers the back of the neck more.

As to a knife, something with a sharp point to puncture deep. Stabbing motion better than a slashing motion when it’s on your back. Diving knives often have no point.


Cougar deterrent.




Arie replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 09:05


My first thought was to wear a pickelhaube, to impale the cougar as it pounces.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pickelhaube
But that would probably catch when tree-skiing..
Seriously now: MaSid's suggestion of an easily accessible knife/machete is a good one. I have one on my PFD in case of rope entanglement, so why not transfer it to my ski gear.






Arie replied to MaSid's post: WBC: The naughty moose!

Delivered: Friday Feb 16, 2024 at 08:44


Nice photos of the moose. At least it moved and didn't just stand on the trail.




MaSid replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Thursday Feb 15, 2024 at 17:29


I’ve been meaning to sew some eyes on the back of my toque for many years as one method of avoiding a surprise attach (or start a mini business: “cougar toques”). I should get on that given all the off trail stuff I do, solo, often seeing big cat tracks. Also made myself a specialized knife and sheath that attaches to a pack shoulder strap (ultra handy). Just took it into the shop yesterday to finish it off. Once they are on your neck, not much time left, gotta puncture an organ or something pronto. As Arie says, summersault grab and toss a little tough on skis. If not a surprise attach, at least we have poles. Wave to make big and still the pointy ends if it keeps coming.




Arie replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Thursday Feb 15, 2024 at 08:42


Wow - quite a story. Good on him that he was able to shake the cougar off. They are large animals and it sounds like both took a tumble down the slope.
So how does one protect against cougar attack? Over the past few years I've been bringing bear spray on winter trips, knowing that cougars don't hibernate. But cougars pounce from a tree in surprise attack, while bears charge at ground level with some forewarning. Weilermann said he had bear spray with him but he didn't have a chance to pull his bearspray out - it happened so fast. So, what is best practice for skiers when it comes to cougars?
I would think skiers would be at a disadvantage having their legs and feet tied to their skis.





aqua toque replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 19:54


From the report:

"He went about 20 metres off-trail to urinate when suddenly, a cougar latched onto him."

Yep, that's what they do alright -- wait until you are distracted, have your back to them and are at your most vulnerable (midstream) -- then they POUNCE!

His reaction was textbook as well. Very admirable!





MaSid replied to Alf Skrastins's post: West Bragg Creek snow

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 19:27


And a bit more tonight by the looks of it.






Helen Read replied to Deb & Rory's post: Emerald Lake, Alluvial Loop, and Connector

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 19:04


Way da go, Rory and Deb. Delighted to hear your report. I have yet to do these two trails this year which are amongst my favourites. Great to read updates on grooming and how you spent your Valentine's Day! Heading out to Field Truffle Pigs Lodge and Bistro with grandkids this w/e. Likely opt for sledding in Field but might bring the skis just in case.....




Gord F replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 18:09


Good to hear he escaped with minor injuries. It sounds like it was quite a struggle with the cougar, and a good thing he is a strong young man and was able to fight back. Although I take precautions with bears in the summer, I find I don't worry much about cougars. Maybe worth reconsidering?





MaSid replied to Chuck's post: COUGAR ATTACK IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK - CTV News Update

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 18:07


Wow. Not even much of a scratch. But so lucky it didn’t clamp its jaws around his neck right off.




Chuck replied to Chuck's post: ALBERTA WORLD CUP 2024 - Last Day Sprints with a 3 minute Video

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 12:26


Thanks for the reminder to highlight local athletes.
Click on the link below for the excellent coverage in the Rocky Mountain Outlook.
Wish I could get pictures like these.


RMO Article




Mike W replied to aqua toque's post: Man fends off cougar in BNP! Anybody we know?

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 10:46


Looks like Banff National Park has outsourced their closure bulletins to Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/BanffNP








MaSid replied to Jean-Francois's post: WBC delightful

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 08:25


Good info J-F. Looks very inviting!




MaSid replied to aqua toque's post: Man fends off cougar in BNP! Anybody we know?

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 08:05


Some closures of castle junction ski trails as a result (#1, 2 & 3), according to trail conditions page. News reports also indicate closure of rockbound lake trail and Silverton falls. However, no official closure bulletin posted on the BNP conditions page. One of those find out when you get there scenarios. Maybe not a good place to take the puppy currently, especially unleashed.

As to identifying the person, likely someone of small stature.





clp replied to Chuck's post: ALBERTA WORLD CUP 2024 - Last Day Sprints with a 3 minute Video

Delivered: Wednesday Feb 14, 2024 at 07:54


Fabulous day at CNC. Good to see Xavier McKeever of Foothills Nordic in 19th in Mens Sprint Final





Mike W replied to aqua toque's post: Man fends off cougar in BNP! Anybody we know?

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 23:07


I heard that when the cougar jumped out of the tree, a badger pounced out of his den, locked its jaws on the cougar's tail, swung the cougar around his head and sent it flying into a tree trunk about 30m away!

You don't want to mess with an angry badger!




Chuck replied to Deb & Rory's post: Pipestone

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 21:42


Valuable information... Thanks




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 10:56


Oh no! My bad. My sincerest apologies Jeremy, and of course a fantastic photo, which I have subsequently tried to emulate.

No wonder you didn’t remember Mike! It’s my memory that’s bad, not yours. (-:

The trip report has been edited to give proper photo credit.





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - Great to meet members of the MnMs Outdoor Club

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 09:15


Oh yes, “Leaning on the Wind”.
Also loved listening to him read in his poetic style at the Banff Mountain Book Festival.






Mike W replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 08:44


Got this image by clicking on the photo thumbnail under "Scenic Photos Dec 26, 2021" on SkierBob's website. Looks like it was Jeremy N's photo.






Frances Dances replied to Chuck's post: UPPER BANKHEAD - Great to meet members of the MnMs Outdoor Club

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 07:26


Chuck, the name of that author is Sid Marty. Further to the races in Canmore, we met the German team going up and down Cascade Fire Road.




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Tuesday Feb 13, 2024 at 06:44


December 2020, so pre-Roger, back in the Skier Bob era (time flys). The above photo is currently on Bob’s “scenic” photos home page. The photographer had also taken a good one of the wind wall in front of the Fork ‘n Meadow Lunch Log (built by “Cheeky”).





Mike W replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 23:19


MaSid - Thanks for your compliments on my photo. Except I don't remember taking that photo and can't find it going back to the start of SkierRoger. Which report did you find it in!?




C&T replied to C&T's post: The Groomer’s Special

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 20:01


Thanks for the route suggestion MaSid. We will definitely add this option to our upcoming meadow traverse day. Hope to see you on the trails again soon.




MaSid replied to C&T's post: The Groomer’s Special

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 19:36


So that was you guys I chatted with in the parking lot at the end of the day! See you in the trails some time soon. Happy to have others improve the meadow trails with travel. So thank you in advance. It’s unfortunate you didn’t try the Patterson meadow track. It would have worked fine for your skis today and enters Patterson trail not far from the top. In that direction it provides some different views. Or add it to your next sunny day on the touring skis (if doing the traverse, go through the Patterson meadows first, hard to spot flagging, and a track of course).




MaSid replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 18:45




Found it: photo by trip reporter JeremyN, early in the day at west elk meadows.





SkierRoger replied to MaSid's post: East elk to west elk pass traverse

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 16:32


I’m going to guess the caption of your second photo refers to this May, 2022 photo taken by Mike W.






MaSid replied to The 13th Troll's post: Morning Ski North Glenmore Park

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 16:13


Thanks for that Mr 13th Troll! Solar heating probably works well.




The 13th Troll replied to The 13th Troll's post: Morning Ski North Glenmore Park

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 14:37


Those are warming huts - there are two of them here - no heat source but they do block the wind and have wooden benches. There is a cafe hut by the playground where you can get coffee and treats... so these make a good place to enjoy them while your waiting your turn on the curling or crokinole rinks.
Yeah... it's fairly decadent in North Glenmore Park.






aqua toque replied to Carole's post: Calmness between Castle Lookout & Baker Creek Chalets

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 09:04


A bird on the foot is worth two in the hand.


....or something like that.





blog replied to Colonel Blimp's post: WBC - Telephone Loop[

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 09:01


Telephone Loop is certainly a later in the season ski and I also recommend counter clockwise.
It's more of a tour or a ski by hardier skiers with skinny sticks when its track set by skier or packed down which was recently done. It is certainly do-able. It also feels great to zip around mountain road and end with mountain view which puts in a longer day but is great.
Enjoy the skiing and thank you everyone who packed the trail down last week.





Chuck replied to Chuck's post: CANMORE FIS ALBERTA WORLD CUP 2024 - Update

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 08:00


Thanks Ulrike for documenting our great Canadians.
Not a great picture, but I got them!


#43 Sam Hendry and #18 Antoine Cyr





MaSid replied to Carole's post: Calmness between Castle Lookout & Baker Creek Chalets

Delivered: Monday Feb 12, 2024 at 05:54


The bird seems to be attracted to the duct tape. The older the boots, the better the gorp. (-:


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