Government Camp Winter Cross Country Ski & Snowshoe Trails

Conditions and Grooming Report

25th report of the season, Fri, Feb 3, 2012

Date: Fri, 2/3/2012	Time10 am Update
Weather:blue sky!	Temp:30
Avg. New Snow (overnight) : 0 inch	Avg. Total Accumulation: 2-4 feet  (less in some spots, more in others)

We have a good  base of 2-4 feet which has consolidated and  dramatically improved conditions. Spring seems to be "back" with sunny days and clear nights predicted for a week. Snow conditions will vary from firm to springlike depending on sun exposure. Off the track skiing and snowshoeing is good now that the snowpack has consolidated.  Snowcovered roads used as snow trails will provide the best conditions. Expect open water and other early season obstacles!

Trillium Lake       map    Activities:Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoe Trails   Dogs Allowed. The Forest Service asks that you ski with your dog on a leash on the main Trillium Lake Loop.  A portion of this area is open (but not recommended) for snowmobiling.   Hemlock and the Trillium Lake loop are generally groomed twice/week for XC skiing and snowshoeing. Donations from trail users and partners cover the cost of the grooming equipment rental while the driver donates his time. A $3 donation is recommended. Donation boxes are located at the Trillium Lake Trailhead as well as near the upper end of the Hemlock trail. Area Trillium Lake Trails Groomed Sun, 1/22/12: Trillium Lake Loop had a fresh machine set xc ski track set Sunday  1/22 Share the Snow, not the Tracks COMMENTS: The Forest Service snow gates are locked. The Trillium Lake Loop & Hemlock Trs are well covered. Trillium Lake  Loop had a fresh machine set xc ski track Sunday 1/22 & it's holding up fairly well. Condiions are good for skating  on the Trillium Lk Lp.  Barlow is a great choice for snowshoers. Good user developed xc tracks heading up Shearer Burn Rd and Mud Creek..

Government Camp Trails        map Activities: Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Trails The East Summit Trail (from Summit Guard Station to Ski Bowl east)  had a nice snocat track on it. Otherwise, be prepared to establish and improve xc ski and snowshoe tracks. Conditions are best for snowshoers and xc skiers using snow covered roads used as winter trails.  Early season conditions exist.  Please pack out your garbage and clean up after your dogs.  Dogs need to be on leashes in SnoParks.      Dogs Allowed  Area Government Camp Trails Last groomed: Comments: Expect to develop and maintain separate XC ski and snowshoe tracks.

Tea Cup Lake Nordic Center     map   Activities: Cross Country Skiing Trails groomed for skating and classic cross country skiing. Snowshoeing and dogs prohibited on groomed trails. $7 donation is recommended:  http://www.teacupnordic.org        Area Tea Cup Lake Nordic Center last groomed: Regular grooming Wed, Sat & Sun as weather & snow conditions allow Comments  Check website for updates on grooming status.

Mt. Hood Meadows Nordic Center       Activities: Cross Country Skiing Trails groomed for skating and classic cross country skiing. Snowshoeing and dogs prohibited on groomed trails.   Open Th-Mondays through Feb.    Trail Fees  http://www.skihood.com/The-Mountain/Nordic-Center

 

For other condition information follow this link to the Mount Hood National Forest Winter SnoPark information on their Website.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/recreation/winter/current-conditions.shtml

New signs are in place at most SnoParks reminding XC skiers and snowshoers to maintain separate tracks to provide a better experience for everyone. Please help by sharing this message.

Looking for a quiet, less crowded experience?

Consider a visit midweek (except for Christmas vacation) or in March and April. You’ll find ski shops open, popular trails uncrowded, minimal or no traffic jams and lots of choices for overnight accommodations.