New Year, more snow!

The first day of a new year and 10 fresh cms of overnight snow, I think I am going to like this 2010!! The much needed snow was well appreciated to cover up the crusty trails and especially so in the trails other than the parkways. It sure was nice to make some first tracks in ankle deep snow on the trail down to the Brulé lookout. There was no view from the lookout due to clouds and more snow to come! I made a short stop at Huron to warm up and have a snack. There is more snow in the forecast and I hope to make the most of it this weekend!

Comparison shots of the Brulé lookout:





Other shots from today:

Spring skiing

In what was likely the last ski of the season, Bryan, Ken and I set out from P10 at about 10:30 for some spring skiing. As we made our way up the Fortune Parkway it seemed as though we had our own personal groomers as we were passed twice by two grooming machines. The freshly groomed tracks ranged from icy to soft to downright slush and they progressed towards the latter as the day progressed. But how could one complain when out skiing in shorts and thin fleece with the temps above 10C?

We headed up Ridge road, stopping briefly at Shilly shally and Huron before settling in a Brulé lookout where we had our pick of the picnic tables that were buried under snow the last time I was there. No woodstove to toast our sandwiches but a gentle breeze and warm sun. The occasional skier passed below on the Champlain parkway that was mostly pavement. There was a thin ribbon of snow about 2 feet wide! After lunch and some beverages, Ken announced that he was returning to work. Was he getting paid to ski?

Bryan and I then headed west. We went first to Champlain lookout which was bare pavement and the view along the escarpment showed no evidence of snow. We then continued to Western cabin. The trail there ended about 30 yards from the cabin, just past the duct taped ICE sign. We enjoyed a half hour sitting out back before setting out for P10. The trails were softer but still skiable and that last 2K down the parkway was more effort than normal but still a sweet way to end a ski day.

This was a great day and a great way to end a ski season that was four months long by my count! OK, now to plan my assault on the 46er patch!

Spring vs Winter

I drove up to Gatineau park after work to get the May long weekend off to a start and also to visit some spots that I had skied to in the winter to compare the views. Things look quite different when buried under several feet of snow and with no leaves in the trees you can see further in all directions.

Brulé lookout:


Buried picnic tables at Brulé lookout:


Champlain lookout:


I'm glad I didn't plan on a hike or bike as the bugs were swarming as I sat on the ledge at Champlain Lookout and did some contemplating.

Coming soon, some Adirondack trip reports!

Ah! Spring skiing

In contrast to Friday's sticky conditions, today was a perfect day. It was warm and sunny enough to make me think I should have put on some sunscreen and slick enough for some nice glide. I eased past the parking lot full sign at P10 and had my choice between two spots. A friendly sort greeted me as I approached the parkway and wished me a good day. I'm not sure if this is the guy who is supposed to ask for your pass or suggest that you pay. It would seem this winter that one could have skied free if one wanted to. I am happy to pay for a pass given the extensive network of trails and the usual great conditions but I must say I hope they go back to Lafleur next season.

I headed up the parkway and then took Ridge road to the Brulé lookout. I managed to snag the only picnic table that was above the snowline and sat for a nice break soaking up the sun and the view of the Ottawa river valley. Then it was all downhill back to the car. That is one thing I love about xc skiing, whatever effort you put in going uphill is rewarded with a relaxing slide back down! We'll see how many more weekends there will be to ski but I hope to get in a few more days like this before the season is over.