Downtown may be lacking snow, but winter lovers are getting their hit of the white stuff at Hallis Lake, cross-country skiing under snow-laden spruce boughs.
“It’s good, early skiing,” Ron Watteyne, director of publicity for Hallis Lake said.
“The trails are in fair condition.”
Watteyne estimates there are 12 – 14 inches of snow at the facility, with members taking advantage of the conditions even during the recent cold snap.
This week’s weather promises even better conditions to come.
“Looking at the weather forecast – I get excited,” Watteyne said.
Facilitating good conditions on the trails is the new groomer Hallis Lake recently bought.
The delicate conditions at the trails make it impossible for the large groomer to get around without hurting some of the trails, but the new groomer is designed to be used early in the season and has been a boon.
Now that the trails are up to taking on skiers, Hallis Lake ski club has a list of events and lessons coming up for everyone from the experienced skier to the neophyte.
Starting first, the adorable Jackrabbits will hit the trails this Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – noon. Registration for the young club is still open.
Next Wednesday, the club will host a guided ski tour of their trails to help familiarize new skiers.
Starting in January, the club will also offer ski lessons for adults.
The rental shop will be open seven days a week, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., this year, starting Dec. 21, to allow people without equipment to take better advantage of the trails.
Gift certificates, for everything from rentals to passes, are available from Rocky Peak.