SE Wisconsin XC Ski & MTB Reports for Public Trails

Official Lapham Peak Trail Report on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 10:58am
by Jay A.

Lapham Peak received about 1 inch of snow overnight. This was packed on the entire trail system and a track was set on the man made loop. Off the man made loop everything is snow covered, but it is very thin and there are many icy areas underneath, including many of the downhills. This thin layer is easily pushed off exposing the ice. Skiing off the man made loop not advised.

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McMiller: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 6:59pm
The white loop at McMiller was in good shape this afternoon. Only a couple icy spots.

Nordic: Report by Paul Lemens on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 5:29pm
Skiable, trails is "snow" covered, hard base with a dusting/crust on top. Better than I hoped, only 3 or 4 tiny bare spots to ski around. I did the blue loop in the afternoon using my new skiis, not a mark.

Zillmer: Report by Jerry gensch on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 4:37pm
skate lanes are in very good condition considering the lack of snow depth. Classic tracks on inner loops looked good.

Minooka_Park: Report by Bob Franze on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 2:55pm
Skied at Minooka for @ one hour with my son on the loop that begins off the parking lot furthest into the park. THere are some challenging hills on that loop. Trails had been groomed and skating was really nice, plus it was beautiful sunny weather!

Lapham: Report by Richard Von Haden on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 1:56pm
Skated the upper loops starting about 11am. I was shocked at how good it was. The new snow bonded quite well with the ice beneath providing a very good surface for skating. Both the blue and black trails are very controllable with very little ice exposed. Thanks to the groomers for making this possible.

Lapham: Report by Craig Fischberg on Saturday Jan 28 2012 at 12:23pm
Skied Lapham on the classic tracks at 9AM this morning. Stuck to the man-made snow loop. Dramatically better than last night after the new snow. Very good coverage and grip (Swix V40 Blue Extra). By the time I finished, tracks were getting banged up and more ice was starting to show through. Go early!

Fox_Hill: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 8:08pm
Warm temps have created a fast and icy track at Fox Hill. Most of the flats and open spaces still have adequate purchase, but use caution on hills. I would advise rock skis until we get some more snow.

Lapham: Report by Craig Boschke on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 12:31pm
Thursday evening at 8pm, conditions were like sno-cone quality. Some stretches of the loop were moderately fast, but I found some areas turning "sticky". Not sure how the rollercoaster temperatures will affect the conditions, but I assume it will ice things up quite a bit. It seems like the daytime temperatures are killin it. Hope for snow and consistant temps!!

Nordic: Report by Paul Sandgren on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 10:52am
Nordic still remains generally snow covered. With the predicted warm temps that will soften the snow, grooming was not attempted Friday morning. There is a small of amount of snow predicted to fall Friday night. The groomers will try to mix the crusty snow with the new snow so that it will adhere and improve the conditions. There will still be icy patches and bare spots - but should be skiable. No classical track has been set. Saturday night is the candlelight ski event at Nordic from 6 - 9 pm.

Scuppernong: Report by Paul Sandgren on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 10:46am
After inspecting the trail this morning the groomer reports nearly 100% snow cover. He did not groom this morning so the snow is crusty - it will be skiable as the predicted warmer temperatures arrive Friday and soften the snow. The plan is to groom the trail as the little bit of predicted snow falls this evening to mix the crusty and new snow together so it bonds. Saturday the trails should be skiable with fast somewhat icy conditions. There is no classical track set due to lack of snow depth.

McMiller: Report by Paul Sandgern on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 10:42am
Of the three trail systems at the Southern Unit - McMiller is probably in the toughest shape after this week of rain and warm temps. The outer blue loop is not worth skiing, the Orange, White and Biathlon loops are all generally well snow covered and skiable. Best to wait until the temps warm on Friday as it is crusty when frozen, the groomer will mix in any new snow with the crusty base layer Friday night.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Friday Jan 27 2012 at 9:30am
ran the groomer through the skate lanes this a.m., looks good. Don't forget about the ski/snow shoe event Sunday at 3.P.M.(See clcf.info for details)

Fox_Hill: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Thursday Jan 26 2012 at 7:19pm
Early morning ski through the entire system found a freshly groomed skate lane. Wednesday's surprise snowfall provided consistent purchase over the hardened base. Icy patches are few and far between.

Lapham: Report by David Schauer on Thursday Jan 26 2012 at 1:28pm
Skated on the manmade loop Thursday morning from 9:30 - 11:00. Snow cover remains good and conditions are non-icy but there are a few small areas near the top of the first climb that are showing dirt and grass. It would be nice to get a couple inches of snow to "freshen" things up. Cross your fingers.

Lapham: Report by Craig Boschke on Wednesday Jan 25 2012 at 10:09pm
Skied at 7pm tonight on the loop. The snow is very fast and stable. No need for rock skis on the man made loop. Certain stretches are a bit thick, but considering the lack of ski weather/snow, the staff at Lapham have done a great job!!!!! Sounds like the rest of lapham is not good enough to ski on, from what I've heard and read.

Fox_Hill: Report by Charlie Dee on Wednesday Jan 25 2012 at 9:45pm
What a hoot this morning. Jerry went over and over the ice on Tuesday to make the course skiable and then scratched it up again this morning. So it was fast and fun today. There are still some very thin spots that are icy but easy to avoid, except for the steep downhill out of the woods back to the parking lot. That is best skied uphill rather than downhill.

Lapham: Report by DoubleB's on Wednesday Jan 25 2012 at 9:31pm
Ski'd the man made for 1.5 hours before the kids started racing. Conditions were very fast and not icy. The hill was a little sugary, but no big deal. Great conditions to work on drills and still get in some K's. Thanks to the staff, you guys are awesome!

Zillmer: Report by Reagan groomer on Wednesday Jan 25 2012 at 4:20pm
We received about 1 inch of wet snow today, not much but helped. I packed and groomed all loops this afternoon. The skating lanes are getting close to good, watch for icy spots and thin areas. Should be much better in the morning after colder temps tonight. I reset track on the brown, it is thin, poor condition. I reset track on the red, poor to good condition, thin cover in places, some debris. I left the original track on the yellow from last Friday, it is ok overall.

Pike_Lake: Report by Pike Lake Ranger on Wednesday Jan 25 2012 at 10:30am
The trails are in poor condition. The warm weather and rain early this week created very icy conditions. There is not enough base remaining to re-groom the trails until we get more snow.

Lapham: Report by Matthew stanke on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 11:24pm
Meadow loop at upper lot is C-, only for rock skiing. Good skiing on all man made loops. Thank you groomers!!! Keep the donations coming everyone, every dollar helps!!

Lapham: Report by Jay A. on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 7:26pm
Update to Paul Sandgren's groomer report. The man-made loop was groomed early Tuesday evening and will be groomed again later Tuesday night. It should be in very good shape Wednesday morning.

Lapham: Report by Richard Von Haden on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 1:19pm
Skied part of the upper loop about 11 am. My advice is too stay off all of the black trails. They are very icy. Even the blue loops are a challenge. Best is the meadow. Even better would be to stay on the man made snow loop down below.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 12:49pm
Grooming report: "ball-bearings baby" groomed-up really well, few icy spots, fields are good, woods had complete coverage except VERY icy on turn going north to parking lot. Can use good skis or rock skis as conditions are very fast. Suggest going counter clockwise to avoid icy section on downhill.

McMiller: Report by Paul Sandgren on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 12:31pm
A portion of the McMiller trails were groomed Tuesday morning. The inner loops, Red, Orange, White, Green have been groomed creating a icy base with loose sugar snow on top. There are a number of bare spots and debris mixed in to the snow texture. The Blue only trail has long stretches of very icy and bare sections of trail. It is not considered skiable

Nordic: Report by Paul Sandgren on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 12:28pm
Nordic is generally well snow covered with a few bare spots. As of 12:00 on Tuesday the groomer has been working up the crusty snow that is on the trail. At this point the south loops (white, purple and brown) have been completed and conditions are fair with some spots better than that. The other loops will be groomed this afternoon and Wednesday as needed.

Scuppernong: Report by Paul Sandgren on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 12:25pm
The rain and warm temperatures had an impact on the ski trail reducing the snow cover and creating a hard icy snow. As of 11:30 am the groomer reports success with breaking up the crusty snow. Some of the downhills as well as up hills are a little thin and icy. In general there is an icy base with some loose snow on top. There are no classical tracks set.

Zillmer: Report by Reagan Groomer on Tuesday Jan 24 2012 at 11:05am
All loops were groomed this morning. The skating lanes are in poor condition but definitely skiable. Expect some bare and icy spots. Rock skis if you have some. I lightly went over the tracks on the brown and red because of icy conditions, they are in poor condition but skiable. Expect some bare and icy spots. I did not do anything with the track on the yellow from the split off the red on the east side back to the shelter. It seemed to be ok as is, but also poor condition.

Lapham: Report by Ben Lund on Monday Jan 23 2012 at 8:31pm
Tuesday Night Lessons are ON! The warm weather and rain has taken its toll on the snow but there is still enough to have lessons!! 7pm start at the Lighted Loop trailhead. All experience levels are welcome! Skate and Classic. If you want to get on our email list, send a note to info@L2Ski.com. See you tomorrow!

Lapham: Report by Rich M on Monday Jan 23 2012 at 7:47pm
Skating Monday night at Lapham after grooming on the man made loop was excellent! Thanks to the groomers after a tough day of weather

Fox_Hill: Report by Russ Sobotta on Sunday Jan 22 2012 at 8:52pm
Skied the whole system from 2:30 to 4:30 with the light freezing drizzle clouding up my glasses. Trail base very firm with a light top that made for very fast, yet smooth conditions throughout. Hoarfrost on the trees created a surreal setting. I skated but jumped in the tracks for double poling on the flats and downhills. Tracks were very fast and in very good shape.

Nordic: Report by Matthew stanke on Sunday Jan 22 2012 at 6:58pm
Nordic has about a 2-3" base with thin spots on some of the downhills on the green trail. I still would use my B or rock skis, but its pretty nice out there, especially on the flats and in the pines. Great day on championship sunday.

Zillmer: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Sunday Jan 22 2012 at 5:30pm
Zillmer trail was freshly groomed last night and skating was great. The classic track looked freshly set as well! Enjoy while it lasts!

Nordic: Report by Darren on Sunday Jan 22 2012 at 11:54am
Joanie and I skated most of the trails early this morning. Skate lanes had been re-groomed Saturday night, so trails were in good condition with a few rolls that additional snow will smooth out. Classic track was washed out in areas.

McMiller: Report by Paul Sandgren on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 7:26pm
The South Kettle trails received 3 - 5" of new snow on Friday. More on the south end of the forest. All three trails, Scuppernong, McMiller and Nordic were packed and groomed on Friday into Friday night. Scuppernong which is for classical sking only has a double classical track set that is in very good condition. McMiller is groomed for skate skiing and classical sking - skate skiers will find generally very good conditions and clasical skiers will have a generally good track with a few areas with skimpy snow. Nordic received the most snow on Friday. It is well covered. Skate skiers will find generally good or better conditions with some soft snow. Classical skiers will find 75% of the track in very good condition and 25% of the track in variable condition. The skate lanes will be regroomed on Saturday night at Nordic and McMiller.

Nordic: Report by Paul Sandgren on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 7:26pm
The South Kettle trails received 3 - 5" of new snow on Friday. More on the south end of the forest. All three trails, Scuppernong, McMiller and Nordic were packed and groomed on Friday into Friday night. Scuppernong which is for classical sking only has a double classical track set that is in very good condition. McMiller is groomed for skate skiing and classical sking - skate skiers will find generally very good conditions and clasical skiers will have a generally good track with a few areas with skimpy snow. Nordic received the most snow on Friday. It is well covered. Skate skiers will find generally good or better conditions with some soft snow. Classical skiers will find 75% of the track in very good condition and 25% of the track in variable condition. The skate lanes will be regroomed on Saturday night at Nordic and McMiller.

Scuppernong: Report by Paul Sandgren on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 7:26pm
The South Kettle trails received 3 - 5" of new snow on Friday. More on the south end of the forest. All three trails, Scuppernong, McMiller and Nordic were packed and groomed on Friday into Friday night. Scuppernong which is for classical sking only has a double classical track set that is in very good condition. McMiller is groomed for skate skiing and classical sking - skate skiers will find generally very good conditions and clasical skiers will have a generally good track with a few areas with skimpy snow. Nordic received the most snow on Friday. It is well covered. Skate skiers will find generally good or better conditions with some soft snow. Classical skiers will find 75% of the track in very good condition and 25% of the track in variable condition. The skate lanes will be regroomed on Saturday night at Nordic and McMiller.

McMiller: Report by David Schauer on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 2:38pm
Started skiing around 10:00 AM Saturday. Trails are well covered and in very good condition, especially for skating. Some areas of the classical track had leaf litter and grass showing through. The snow was a bit soft but I am sure by tomorrow it will be fast and firm.

Nashotah_Park: Report by DoubleB's on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 1:51pm
Great snow coverage for skating, only a few pine cones on the woods. Used A-ski's but stayed out of a few classic track downhills as they were draping the ground in a few area's. Snow was a little on the slow side but groomed well, should get better with age.

Scuppernong: Report by Darren on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 1:46pm
Joanie and I enjoyed fantastic double-tracked trails this morning. Skied all 3 loops and they were all in great condition. Well worth the drive from Madison. Thanks to the skilled groomer.

Pike_Lake: Report by Pike Lake Ranger on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 10:41am
We received approximately 2" of new snow on Friday. Trails were groomed and tracked this morning and are in fair to good condition. In most areas the trails have a snow base of approximately 2", but there are still areas that have very thin snow coverage.

Lapham: Report by Matthew stanke on Saturday Jan 21 2012 at 12:13am
Finally some good news (longer term)!!! 3" of new snow fell in the southern KM (only 1" north). It will take trails a day or so to firm up and get fast again after the bitter cold. Still wouldn't used my racing/best skis just yet. Looking good for skiing in the evenings next week!!

Lapham: Report by Charlie Dee on Friday Jan 20 2012 at 4:24pm
Arrived around noon with half inch on the ground, and another half inch at least hit the trail during my 1.5 hour skate. Everything is covered. Hit one rock just below surface, but if there are at least 3 inches of new snow total, there will be no problem with race skis tomorrow. The course for the race will have enough snow but will likely be relatively slow since I doubt the new snow will set up fast enough. Should be very fast by Sunday.

Minooka_Park: Report by Steve Martin on Thursday Jan 19 2012 at 8:51pm
Trails were nicely groomed yesterday. Classic track was set. Good snow cover. Used good skis.

McMiller: Report by Amanda -Staff on Thursday Jan 19 2012 at 9:06am
All three trail systems at the Southern Unit were packed on Tuesday afternoon and evening, following the snowfall. Classic track was set at Scuppernong and was in great condition. Classic track was also set at Nordic, which received less snow than Scuppernong and is only in good condition. No track was set at McMiller. We are expecting a good amount of snow on Friday and hopefully all the trails will be in great condition for the weekend.

Nordic: Report by Amanda on Thursday Jan 19 2012 at 9:06am
All three trail systems at the Southern Unit were packed on Tuesday afternoon and evening, following the snowfall. Classic track was set at Scuppernong and was in great condition. Classic track was also set at Nordic, which received less snow than Scuppernong and is only in good condition. No track was set at McMiller. We are expecting a good amount of snow on Friday and hopefully all the trails will be in great condition for the weekend.

Scuppernong: Report by Amanda on Thursday Jan 19 2012 at 9:06am
All three trail systems at the Southern Unit were packed on Tuesday afternoon and evening, following the snowfall. Classic track was set at Scuppernong and was in great condition. Classic track was also set at Nordic, which received less snow than Scuppernong and is only in good condition. No track was set at McMiller. We are expecting a good amount of snow on Friday and hopefully all the trails will be in great condition for the weekend.

Lapham: Report by Craig Fischberg on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 8:33pm
Skied the lit loop at 5PM. Very happy to see the improved coverage from yesterday's snow. Temp was 18-20 deg and snow was still pretty fresh making for slower conditions than I experienced here during the weekend. Downhills were nice on the soft snow. Tracks are shallow but still work well.

Fox_Hill: Report by Starsk on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 6:45pm
Overall good condition. no track. one scary section at the tail end of the long loop (right of the parking lot) where there is ice, roots, sticks. still suggest rock skis because of that section.

McMiller: Report by Bob Jersey on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 5:11pm
wow.....great job DNR. 4+" of new snow skating was great today and the biathlon track looks perfect for Sunday's race. BTW...not tracked

Scuppernong: Report by John Maki on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 3:04pm
Very good conditions, nice track, virtually no litter, couple of spots to lift out of the track but really nice track. Used good skis, no problem. Red tape was not working for me, only fair kick.

Zillmer: Report by Reagan Groomer on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 1:25pm
All loops have been packed, groomed and tracked as of 1:00pm today. Generally there is a 2 inch base. The base is rather thin in some spots, which resulted in track being marginal. Some places the track has debris and or grass in the bottom of the track. The track is probably 80% skiable with decent snow in it. The skaters will find overall marginal to good conditions. There is two bare spots to contend with on the yellow but both are only about 10 yards long. May still want to use rock skis. Snow is a little soft but has improved much. Feel free to start a fire in the wood burner in the shelter or throw a piece of wood on to keep it going. There is a woodpile behind the shelter.

Lapham: Report by DoubleB's on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 12:09pm
Ski'd the lit loop this morning at 7 am. Parking lot temps said -2 and with the snow being new, it was very slow. This is nothing negative, the trails were covered in all places I went and packed well. I'm thinking a little age and warmer temps will smooth them up more. Would love to see a report from this afternoon if anyone ski'd it. Can't wait to get back!

Lapham: Report by Todd Hanke on Wednesday Jan 18 2012 at 9:43am
Skated Black loop yesterday late afternoon. Trail had just been groomed and was in very good shape. A few rocks/roots so don't want to bring best skis, but very happy with conditions. Not sure what they will be like if we don't get more snow, and a lot more people ski it. Gut Buster was as tough as I remember!

Zillmer: Report by Reagan Groomer on Tuesday Jan 17 2012 at 4:16pm
We received about two inches of light snow today. All trails have been packed and groomed. Still a few bare spots and a couple rocks and debris. I did track the brown trail, but it is very thin in many places for track. Still suggest rock skis. Overall ok conditions given the little snow we have.

Lapham: Report by Jay A. on Tuesday Jan 17 2012 at 3:57pm
All trails were groomed Tuesday afternoon. About 3 inches of new snow fell this morning. A track was set, but it is still a bit icy on the man-made section in areas and some leaves and grass showing through on the rest of the trail system. Skating lane will be re-groomed after dark and should set up nice for the morning.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Tuesday Jan 17 2012 at 1:39pm
As of 1:30 p.m. all trails have been groomed for skating, still too thin to set classic tracks.

Lapham: Report by Ben Lund on Monday Jan 16 2012 at 11:16pm
'Tuesday Night Lessons' officially start tomorrow at Lapham Peak!! 7pm at the Lighted Loop trailhead. All experience levels are welcome! Skate and Classic. If the coming weeks I will be posting updates regarding the 'Tuesday Night Lessons' on Sunday and Monday evenings. Also, if you want to get on our email list, send a note to info@L2Ski.com. See you tomorrow!

Nashotah_Park: Report by John McCarthy on Monday Jan 16 2012 at 1:05pm
Skied Nashotah on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Trails have been rolled and packed for skating, with a skied in striding track in places. Generally good coverage thoughout the system, but some trouble spots in the dense pines. I run at Nashotah a lot during the summer, and can tell you that the Park staff take excellent care of the trails -- which are grass or mulch throughout. There is nary a rock anywhere, so the trails can be skied safely with very low snow depths.

Lapham: Report by Jborja on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 9:20pm
Thank you groomers for a great wkend of skiing! Think SNOW!

Nordic: Report by Leslie on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 7:15pm
SAT & SUN; 2 great days at Nordic, including lot's o' happy skiers. Skating lane in v. good condition. Thanx DNR groomers!

Lapham: Report by Craig Fischberg on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 2:00pm
Skied the classic tracks on the lighted loop until noon. The bare spots are getting bigger and many more rocks are showing their ugly little selves on the skating lane on Two Tier. Even so, the bare spots on the tracks are still relatively small and easily avoided. Magic carpet ride is starting to look like a grass carpet in spots. Snow quality is good, just need more.

Minooka_Park: Report by Bob Franze on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 1:34pm
Skied at Minooka Sunday @ noon and it was really nice, lots of fresh corduroy after a nice grooming job by the park staff and little evidence of footprints from hikers, which is often a concern at Minooka, let's hope it stays that way!

Fox_Hill: Report by Russ Sobotta on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 12:23pm
Skied most of the trail system on this AM with excellent conditions. The entire trail was groomed twice yesterday, once in the AM and once again yesterday evening. With the cold temps last night the result is a really nice hard pack base with a top that lets you get an edge and FLY. Lower skier density at the Fox means the precious few inches that fell a couple of days ago is holding up nicely. The meadows and field trails are great. The west loop hills vary from great to thin. Beware of the curves on the trail from the top of the woods to the parking lot as its a bit thin with some exposed roots/rocks. You can use good skis on most of the trail.

McMiller: Report by Paul Sandgern on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 10:10am
Nordic Trail skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night. Conditions vary with fairly good but thin cover. Some areas with debris on the surface and a few thin spots with ground showing. the track remains in place in fair to poor condition.

McMiller skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night and are in similar condition to Nordic. No classical track has been set.

Scuppernong was packed Thurday and Friday. It is in similar condition to McMiller and Nordic with no classical track being set. With the colder temps last night is will be somewhat hard packed.

Nordic: Report by Paul Sandgern on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 10:10am
Nordic Trail skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night. Conditions vary with fairly good but thin cover. Some areas with debris on the surface and a few thin spots with ground showing. the track remains in place in fair to poor condition.

McMiller skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night and are in similar condition to Nordic. No classical track has been set.

Scuppernong was packed Thurday and Friday. It is in similar condition to McMiller and Nordic with no classical track being set. With the colder temps last night is will be somewhat hard packed.

Scuppernong: Report by Paul Sandgern on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 10:10am
Nordic Trail skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night. Conditions vary with fairly good but thin cover. Some areas with debris on the surface and a few thin spots with ground showing. the track remains in place in fair to poor condition.

McMiller skate lanes were regroomed Saturday night and are in similar condition to Nordic. No classical track has been set.

Scuppernong was packed Thurday and Friday. It is in similar condition to McMiller and Nordic with no classical track being set. With the colder temps last night is will be somewhat hard packed.

Nordic: Report by Tom Held on Sunday Jan 15 2012 at 7:12am
Skiers I encountered on the Nordic Trails all had the same comment: "Hey, this is better than I thought it would be." Good cover and a solid classic track (sketchy in spots). Downhills were a little rough. Good to very good overall and should be getting better.

Lapham: Report by Craig Fischberg on Saturday Jan 14 2012 at 6:24pm
Skied the classic tracks on the lighted loop from about 2:30-4:30PM. Snow set up nicely. Much faster than last night. Covered well nearly the entire way. A few spots with grass or dirt showing. Easily avoidable. Some rocks on the steep hills outside of the tracks kicked up by the skaters.

Zillmer: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Saturday Jan 14 2012 at 5:46pm
Skated the rainbow at Zillmer. Red and Green are in the best shape. Yellow and Brown have a few more sticks/leaves/grass. Groomers did a fantastic job using the snow we received. I would recommend rock skis. There have not been tracks set, but the dozens of striders out there today set some nice track. The new chalet is wonderful! I have a feeling Zillmer will no longer be that hidden gem, but there are plenty of trails to go around and the more the merrier!

Lapham: Report by Matthew stanke on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 10:44pm
Thank You Groomers!! Upper loops nice, rock skis only as base is still thin, especially on uphills. Lower loops in good shape, B skis (still not enough for good ones). Lots of snow was being made for the hill part of the man made loop. Thank you again!!

Nordic: Report by Paul Sandgren on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 10:34pm
NOrdic received a little more snow than Scuppernong or McMiller. The entire trail system has been packed and a classical track has been set on all but a small section of the red only and green only trails. Skate skiers will find generally fair to good skiing conditions at Nordic with a few spots that have a thin snow cover. Classical skiers will find a variety of conditions. Some sections the set track is full depth and in good or better condition. Some other sections there is not enough snow for a classical track. The entire trail has been packed which resulted in a base of roughly 1-3" of packed snow. Get out and enjoy ths abbreviated winter. See you on the trails

McMiller: Report by Paul Sandgren on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 10:23pm
McMiller received 4+ inches of new snow on Thursday. The entire trail has been packed which resulted in a base of roughly 1-3" of packed snow. No classical track has been set as the snow cover is not yet deep enough. Conditions for skate skiers is fair with some sections in good or better condition. Classical skiers will find no set track, but sections of the trial have enough snow cover for a track - skiers will ski one in. A section of trail near the 9 K marker was damaged by a logging truck operating outside of it's contract requirements. Skiers can avoid this section by sking backwards on the Biathlon Trail for a couple of hundred yards. It is a great time to enjoy the winter wonderland. Get out and enhoy ths abbreviated wintor.

Scuppernong: Report by Paul Sandgren on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 10:15pm
Scuppernong received a little less than 5" of new snow. The entire trail has been packed which resulted in a base of roughly 1-3" of packed snow. No classical track has been set as the snow cover is not yet deep enough. Get out and enhoy ths abbrevuated wintor.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jeff Grotenhuis on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 7:58pm
Trail in the meadow and most open spaces were great. Got a little sketchy in the wooded areas. I would advise rock skis. No classic tracks yet, but skating was pretty decent.

Lapham: Report by Craig Fischberg on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 6:12pm
Skied the classic tracks on the blue trail. At 4PM. Snow was soft, fresh and relatively slow. Some areas with thin cover but managed the full loop without ski damage :). A few sticks here and there but no rocks. Nice to get beyond the man made snow loop.

Lapham: Report by Dave Hammer on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 6:04pm
Skated entire course. Lower loops firmer than upper loops. Steeper hills (up and down) were softer than flats. Classic track looked OK in most spots, but thin in some areas. Cooler temps and another chance to groom will set up the course well for the weekend.

Greenbush: Report by Jeff Welsch on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 3:34pm
Greenbush received five inches of snow. All trails are packed and snow covered, there are some thin spots where the wind blew it off. No tracks, we will continue to work the little bit off snow we have.

Zillmer: Report by Reagan Groomer on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 1:36pm
We received approx 3 inches of snow on thurs, 1/12. We groomed today, Friday, 1/13. All loops have been groomed, not enough to track anything yet. Overall the entire trail system is covered, one bare spot on the yellow by the overlook near the Ice Age Center. Some debris in places and a few rocks sticking through in a couple spots on the yellow south of the Ice Age Center. Overall not bad considering the light snow cover. Probably want rock skis yet. Still a bit soft but should firm up with colder temps and time in the next day or two.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 1:09pm
Trails were groomed for skating this a.m. Snow was very fluffy, may not want to use your best skis. Will attempt to put classic tracks in the p.m.

Pike_Lake: Report by Pike Lake Ranger on Friday Jan 13 2012 at 1:04pm
We received approximately 5 inches of snow Thursday / Thursday night. Trails were groomed and tracked Friday morning and are in fair to good early season condition. Trails are soft at this time. After grooming there is approximately 1-2 inches of snow on the trails (less in some spots).

Lapham: Report by DoubleBs on Wednesday Jan 11 2012 at 10:23pm
Skied this evening at 6 pm. Conditions were awesome! Very fast track with a little ice but enough to get an edge. An hour went by in a blink and it was nice to see all the parents and grandparents rooting for the kids race. Thanks groomers!

Lapham: Report by Bend PPP on Wednesday Jan 11 2012 at 1:15pm
Skied for 01:31:00 last night around 7. Nice to see all the people out enjoying the spring weather. conditions were decent. A report about the somewhat icy conditions in spots or the good conditions on the hill for hill work is not needed. First storm of the season should take care of our concerns. Hopefully, bown deer will get some coverage. Thanks again to the snowmaking and grooming crew!

Lapham: Report by John McCarthy on Tuesday Jan 10 2012 at 8:47pm
Tuesday evening - it may have hit 50 today, but the skiing on the man made loops was still great. It was 39 when I arrived at about 6:30. The snow base was firm - no standing water or ice, though it was somewhat hard packed. There was evidence of a recent grooming, and enough loose snow to get an edge into. Tracks looked old. There was a smallish group for lessons (compared to the sizes of the groups from last year), but a good night for it. Another night in paradise. Come out and enjoy.

Lapham: Report by Pete Plaushines on Tuesday Jan 10 2012 at 8:55am
It was delightful to see so many young people using the loop last night. "Hats Off" to Mary Eloranta (and her crew) and Paul Sandgren (and his crew) for their leadership and hard work. To get all those kids out the door in winter, line up all that equipment, and then make it a fun experience is truly remarkable.

Lapham: Report by John McCarthy on Monday Jan 9 2012 at 9:37pm
More fun than a barrel of monkeys. Great conditions for the first night of the Peak Nordic Kids. Looked like a hundred kids, divided in groups, and spread over the man made snow. The brave volunteers provided guidance for the youngsters, who seemed to enjoy the ups, downs, and a few falls - okay, lots of falls - but they got right back up. Kudo's to Roy, Donna, and the parents and helpers for running this wonderful program. And thanks to the DNR and the Friends for providing the snow, which, by the way, is way fun to ski on.

Lapham: Report by Bend PPP on Monday Jan 9 2012 at 1:47pm
I will second Christopher's post about adding some snow to the warming hut. The short trek is starting to eat my boots. We have snow at Lapham and your workout is what you make of it. No reason Birkie times should suffer. SISU this weekend and lapham has been our training grounds as brown deer is a little, well brown.

Lapham: Report by Christopher on Monday Jan 9 2012 at 12:56pm
All things considered, fantastic trail conditions at Lapham Peak this week. Thank you to the park staff for all their hard work, they have done an outstanding job with the snow this season. If there is some cold weather and an extra snow gun in the next week, is it possible to make a path from the warming hut to the trail head?

Lapham: Report by DoubleB's on Sunday Jan 8 2012 at 8:52pm
Third day in a row at Lapham, and with the extended loop yesterday, it's long enough to put some solid time in. Temps were upper 30's both days, but today was the best yet. The extended section was a little loose yesterday but much better today. With temps warming up the next few days early morning/late evening will probably be the best snow. Where would we be without Lapham? Think about donating, and if you see a groomer, take a break from skiing and tell them how much they are appreciated.

Lapham: Report by Matthew stanke on Saturday Jan 7 2012 at 7:27pm
According to the computer models, we will see more cold by Thursday, but little snow for the next 2 weeks. See ya on the Lapham loops tomorrow am.

Lapham: Report by Bend PPP on Thursday Jan 5 2012 at 1:53pm
25 laps around the hamster wheel at lapham last night. Lot's of folks out for the race, then things settled down. Nice to have snow and a great workout, it's what you make of it. Thanks to all who make this happen!

Lapham: Report by John McCarthy on Thursday Jan 5 2012 at 8:55am
The parking lot was full last night as 100's of skiers enjoyed the manmade snow loop, racing and just for fun. The snow was soft and loose, with no signs of ice. Almost too loose on the upper half of the start hill - suger snow. Classic tracks looked good, but well used.

Lapham: Report by John McCarthy on Wednesday Jan 4 2012 at 2:34pm
Snowmaking trail was in great shape last night, with loose, fast snow on a firm (not icy) base. two classic tracks were set along one side. Snowmaking continued on the balance of the snowmaking loops, and it looks like the full 1.2 KM will be available shortly, with plenty of snow. Enjoy and be thankful for the only skiable snow in southeast Wisconsin !!

Lapham: Report by Craig Boschke on Wednesday Jan 4 2012 at 12:25pm
Tuesday evening at 8pm, out skiing for the first time this season and it was great. The short 0.7 loop is the only option, but huge piles of snow were piling up around the lower loop....hopefully additional sections will open soon. No ice or debris so ditch the rock skis. The 0.7 loop is fast and merciful for a skier's first time out.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Wednesday Jan 4 2012 at 11:29am
skied Fox Hill this a.m., surprisingly, very good for skating ,where groomed. Did not go through the snow, did not have a problem with skis grabbing. Stay on groomed areas, be careful going to fields(I walked)and the lane going up to the upper fields, park at lower,north gate and walk in.

Fox_Hill: Report by Jerry gensch on Tuesday Jan 3 2012 at 3:24pm
ran the groomer through the fields this afternoon hoping it might set-up, very minimal conditions. The parking lot is no open, but you can park to the north at the memorial rock entrance. You might want to walk until you get to the grassy area.

Greenbush: Report by Matthew stanke on Monday Jan 2 2012 at 11:15pm
I'll save everyone the trip. Unless you are fimiliar with the terrian at Greenbush, it's NOT worth the trip. NOT GROOMED. Grade of C to D+ for rock skiing and only to get worse at the week progress. Maybe some moderate snows by mid NEXT week. Sorry, just the honest facts.

Lapham: Report by Liam Hughes on Saturday Dec 31 2011 at 5:15pm
Was 38 degrees at 1:30 yet the track and skating lane were still fast and skiable, much like Lee Borowski's report for Thursday. That manmade snow seems to hold up better than mother nature's as the temperature warms.