Nordic Pulse

April 21st: Periods of snow fell on Sunday, but shrunk quickly in the warm daytime temperatures, and when the grooming started Sunday night only a cm or so was on most of Saturday night's grooming.  Snow started again around the same time as the grooming and kept up for most of the shift, heavy at times, and very light snow was falling in the South end as the grooming wrapped up for the season.  Less than 5cm's of snow fell during the grooming at Elk Pass trailhead, a little more at higher elevations.  The base stayed quite moist under the new snow, and there is likely to be some icy spots early Monday, depending on temperatures and new snow amounts.  Grooming is now finished for the season in PLPP and at Mt Shark. 

Intense Spring sunshine and warm daytime temperatures over the last few weeks have drastically affected the snow base, especially at lower elevations. All (or at least most) trails north of and including Whiskey Jack, as well as Boulton and Moraine, now have some bare spots, and some higher elevation sun exposed areas are not far behind. With Spring freeze/thaw conditions present, generally expect icy trails in the morning, softening as daytime temperatures rise. Recent high winds have brought debris on to the trails in places, with the possibility of downed trees. Be bear aware, as there is a possibility of bears on the trails.

Click on the computer icon above to access the Alberta Parks report and information on individual trails