
Trip Report
Stevens Pass Nordic Center
The trail map is deceiving as many black trails are permanently closed or at least closed for the season. Conditions were good in the morning, then soft by noon, but better than Cabin Creek.
- Mon, Dec 30, 2024
- Stevens Pass Nordic Center
- Cross-country Skiing
- Successful
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- Snow and ice on road
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BLACK TRAILS: Round House and Gandy Dancer are closed permanently, essentially, because the Forest Service will not issue a permit due to proximity to the creek. East Portal and Switchback are closed, most likely for the season, because the resort's groomer is too wide. Although showing as open on the website, Gantry, Spike, and Chuga Chuga had deep uneven snow and had apparently not been groomed for many days - you would need back-country skis to navigate. Runaway was closed as it needs more depth under the trees. Most of Guthrie Heights was open. If you are looking for black trails this season look elsewhere.
BLUE-GREEN TRAILS: Main Line, Sidetrack, Guthrie Middle, Switcher, and Caboose were well groomed and conditions were quite good, noticeably better than Cabin Creek/Amabilis. Scenic was open but was a mess and not suitable for skiing.
The high-voltage power lines were buzzing quite loudly at times due to the precipitation. This was somewhat unnerving. I'm not sure of the science but this can't be good for one's heart or nervous system.
Day pass from the Stevens Pass Nordic Center was $36 with tax. Plenty of parking in the two huge lots. Coming home on Route 2 was smooth with very little slowdowns.