Category Archives: Reports

Parent section — don’t assign

Trail Report

Trails are open for skiing.  Solid hard base with good coverage throughout. Surface is hardpack with a few icylike sections.   Trees etc. coated thick with frost making for winter wonderland scene.  We have been working on the trails this week harvesting snow, mostly on Skaters Waltz. Conditions have improved and skiing has been good on Skaters. We will be working Twin Lakes, JibFly and Sukkerbusk the next two days doing our best to improve the classic conditions on these trails, mainly covering up the thin spots so the base will be consistent before next snowfall.

A handful of the southern exposed areas have opened up with sun and the warmth from last weekend and some thin areas exposed. With that said, we are recommending to classic ski on Sukkebusk and JibFly and skate ski on Skaters Waltz.   Other trails are open but there are some thin areas with exposed ground in spots.  Scattered leaves and other organic forest matter here and there on the trails. There is also a 4km loop on the lake that has been groomed for skating and also a track on the side. On the west side of the loop, there is a double track on one side for instruction purposes.

A great weekend for the first HS Ski camp.Nice job to all the skiers that logged some big time kilometers, including a handful that skied 100km on Saturday!  ( Results and photos from the Natural Snow Opener race.)

50km of trail groomed. 35km groomed classic only, 15km groomed skate only. 4km lake loop groomed (skate/no track) for total of 54km groomed. Early season conditions, use caution on the downhills as a few thin/rough/unmarked obstacles exist, especially on the outer trails after Saturday’s warm up.

Double track set on Sap Run, Sukkerbusk, Poki Loki, JibFly, and Twin Lakes.  Rootin Tootin, Mother North Star, Wavy Gravy and Island Lake trail single tracked. No grooming between the marsh area. Best to take skis off and walk through but people have been bushwhacking through as well.  Total km tracked around 35km. Skate lanes recently groomed on Skaters Waltz, North Loup and Skaters Extension as well as Suicide Hill for nearly 15km of groomed skate trail.

 Ski rentals available for overnight guests.

Total snowfall since November 1st around 11″ Total snowfall since October 1st around 19″. October snow melted off but currently the base from November snowfall is 1-4″. The trails at Maplelag are maintained as such that we can have good skiing on less snow and we take pride in managing less snow.

Please no walking or hiking on ski or bike trails.

 The Twin Lakes singletrack will be open for winter riding/fat biking once again this season. Most recent grooming November 30th. Click here for latest report and information.

Champlain Park Nordic Ski team female skiers working on skills on Skaters Waltz, December 21st, 2018.
Champlain Park Nordic Ski Team boys at the top of Suicide Hill, December 21st, 2018.
Drietz family having fun on Sap Run! December 21st, 2018.
Frosty conditions all day, dusk at Twin Lakes crossing. December 20th, 2018.
Checking out the track on JibFly, December 20th, 2018. For the snow what we have and the recent weather, classic skiing not too bad.

Ice rink ready!  December 20th, 2018.

Frosty scene along JibFly, December 20th, 20-18.

Setting new track on JibFly. We were able to set a new track on about 50% of the trail. Along with Sukkebusk, classic trail recommended to ski right now.

Setting new track on Twin Lakes. We set a new track on 25% of the trail as we walked along shoveling on the thin areas. December 20th, 2018.

Frosty scene at Eagle Nest view. Twin Lakes trail. December 20th, 2018.

End of Island Lake trail where it merges with Twin Lakes trail. Track in fine shape 70% of Island Lake trail. Scattered forest matter on top. December 20th, 2018.

Gone for the winter!

 

Frosty edge on South Twin Lake.

Patching up the base on south facing downhill on Twin Lakes trail. December 20th, 2018.

Another beautiful December sunset. December 19th, 2018.
The clipping machine! Thanks Denny for all your help this fall/early winter. December 19th, 2018.
Fun skate ski conditions on Skaters Waltz. December 19th, 2018.
Spreading snow on Skaters Waltz, December 18th, 2018.
Dr. Bob heading out for a skate ski. No complaints from Bob! Said the east side was best skiing. December 18th, 2018.
Building up base on Kamikaze hill on Skaters Waltz. Two pick up loads thicker! December 18th, 2018.
Harvesting snow from the basketball court, December 18th, 2018.
Skaters Waltz with good coverage throughout. December 17th, 2018.
Skaters Waltz with good coverage throughout. December 17th, 2018. Hardpack with some icy segments.
Skaters Waltz extension, December 17th, 2018. Bit tougher conditions on the north side. Will be groomed before the weekend to soften up the deck.
Building up base in open area at start of JibFly trail, December 17th, 2018.
Great way to clear leaves off! Select segments cleared today. December 17th, 2018.
St Paul Highland Park skiers getting in some last kilometers on Sukkerbusk, December 16th, 2018.
Skaters Waltz, December 16th, 2018. Groomed yesterday evening during the transition time from warm to cold pulverizing the surface and setting as much new structure as possible.  Most of Skaters Waltz in good shape. The thin/icy areas we will build up this week.
Open area on Sukkerbusk facing the sun. December 16th, 2018. No tracks but on this short segment but came through just fine yesterday after mid 40 temps. Building up snow here during the week paid off!
Ski Camp! Ready for a full day of skiing! December 15th, 2018.
Start of Ski Camp ski race, December 15th, 2018.
Climbing up Kamikaze Hill, December 15th, 2018.

Ben and Peder striding on Twin Lakes Friday morning, December 14th, 2018. Fantastic classic skiing this morning! Tracks set up hard overnight and held out great all day. Just a few direct south facing areas a little melting.
Setting new track on Loon Return, December 13th, 2018.
Cutting new track on Sukkerbusk. Both tracks reset today. December 13th, 2018.
Setting second track on access to Twin Lakes. December 13th, 2018.
Island Lake trail with dusting of new snow on top. December 13th, 2018. Island, Wavy Gravy and Roy’s Run all with good track for most of trail and should be nice skiing with new snow on top.

 

 

New track cutting on Loon Return. December 13th, 2018. Temp was around 34 today but snow held out great. Freezing down good tonight and should set up nicely for Friday.

 

Cutting new track on Sap Run, December 13th, 2018.
Grooming skate lane on Skaters Waltz extension, December 13th, 2018.
Grooming skate lane on Skaters Waltz extension, December 13th, 2018.
Grooming skate lane on Skaters Waltz, December 13th, 2018.
Ron and Sandy heading out for a snowshoe hike. December 13th, 2018.
Denny heading out for another day of clipping brush. Thanks for all the help again this week Denny! December 13th, 2018.

Trail Report

Grooming Tuesday on Roy’s Run, Rootin Tootin and Mother North Star. We cut a track on all three trails in anticipation of this new snow cover up the thin areas.  All trails have good sections of trail and other areas with thin cover we didn’t set a track but skiable throughout. Monday and  Wednesday we shoveled on the Skaters Waltz trail and a few other segments on the classic trails, building up the base on the high traffic areas.

50km of trail groomed. 35km groomed classic only, 15km groomed skate only.   Early season conditions, use caution on the downhills as a few thin/rough/unmarked obstacles exist, especially on the outer trails. Good reports from weekend skiers.

Double track set on Sap Run, Sukkerbusk, Poki Loki, JibFly, and Twin Lakes.  Rootin Tootin, Mother North Star, Wavy Gravy and Island Lake trail single tracked. No grooming between the marsh area. Best to take skis off and walk through but people have been bushwhacking through as well.  Total km tracked around 35km. Skate lanes recently groomed on Skaters Waltz, North Loup and Skaters Extension as well as Suicide Hill for nearly 15km of groomed skate trail.

 Ski rentals available for overnight guests.

Total snowfall since November 1st around 11″ Total snowfall since October 1st around 19″. October snow melted off but currently the base from November snowfall is 2-4″. The trails at Maplelag are maintained as such that we can have good skiing on less snow and we take pride in managing less snow.

Please no walking or hiking on ski or bike trails.

 The Twin Lakes singletrack will be open for winter riding/fat biking once again this season. Most recent grooming November 30th. Click here for latest report and information.

Building up base in open area on JibFly, December 12th, 2018.
Frosty scene. December 12th, 2018.
Cutting track on Roy’s Run, December 11th, 2018. Full depth track where set. Some leafy spots and other forest organic matter but any dusting of new will improve the conditions.
Far north section on Roy’s Run. Those that have skied Roy’s Run no surprise of the marshy segment and unique wildness of the trail. Not indicative of the whole trail. We try to be honest and straightforward as possible on trail conditions.
Cutting second track on Rootin Tootin, December 11th, 2018. Double tracked for the first km or so than singletracked where good coverage rest of trail. Middle section with leafy spots.
Base building on Skaters Waltz, December 10th, 2018.
Building up the base on “Kamikaze” hill, Skaters Waltz trail, December 10th, 2018.
Combing a loop on the lake, December 10th, 2018. The loop on the lake is groomed for the ski camps for instruction.
Combing a loop on the lake for the upcoming ski camp, December 10th, 2018.
Combing a loop on the lake, December 10th, 2018.
Building up base on a downhill segment on Skaters Waltz. Although the base is in great shape, we build it up in anticipation of high volume of skier traffic for the ski camps. December 10th, 2018.
Skaters Waltz, December 8th, 2018. Skiing very nice for early December. Still some bumpy spots but the most recent snow very silky on top of firm base and super fun skiing.
Moorhead skiers heading down Suicide Hill. December 8th, 2018.
Heading up!

Poki Loki double tracked with recent fluff snow on top. December 8th, 2018. Outside some leafy areas, most of the classic trail skiing good. Trails that have been skied more have the track a bit more washed out but still some good skiing to be had.
Moorhead Nordic Ski team after a morning of practice at Maplelag. December 8th, 2018.
Group of skiers enjoying a picture perfect day on JibFly ski trail. December 7th, 2018.
Peder heading down Eagle View downhill as flakes were falling. Twin Lakes trail, December 7th, 2018.
Poling through on Island Lake trail, December 7th, 2018.
Skiing through Twin Lakes. This area called “Mac’s Mess” part of Wavy Gravy and Island Lake trails. Not groomed but skiable throughout on grassy. December 7th, 2018.
Canadian friend Detlev out for morning ski after passing through “Mac’s Mess” December 7th, 2018.
Light dusting of fluff now on top of yesterday’s grooming on Wavy Gravy. December 6th, 2018. Last nights sub zero temps setting the track up firm. Few leafy spots and one rough section otherwise good early season classic skiing.
Double track on Sukkebusk. December 6th, 2018. Last nights sub zero temps setting the track up firm.
Setting track on Wavy Gravy, December 5th, 2018. Some sections groomed up very nice. Other areas bit thinner with leafy material. Still some nice early season skiing to be had!
Local skier and neighbor Carol out with friend Mary for a morning ski. December 5th, 2018. It’s an unusual year for leaves still on the trees in some pockets of the forest. Early freeze in October froze some of the maple and oak leaves and are still falling on the trail.
Bruce ready to hit the trails for the first time this season. December 5th, 2018.
Setting second track on JibFly. December 5th, 2018. Most of JibFly in good early season condition for classic. Like all trails, use caution on the downhills. JibFly is the groomer’s choice trail. Don’t pass it by!
Sunset grooming skate lane on North Loup at dusk at Poplar Pass. December 5th, 2018. The skies cleared for a hour than another round of fluff snow early evening. North Loup has improved but still some rough spots on a few of the downhills. Best to ski where snowmobile track is for best line on downhill.
Fallen red oak on Island Lake trail. December 5th, 2018.
More wood for the sauna! December 5th, 2018.
Rootin Tootin trail, December 4th, 2018. Track holding out well, scattered organic matter otherwise nice early season skiing.
Local skier Bob out for a afternoon ski, December 4th, 2018.
Peder Arneson enjoying fresh cut track on Rootin Tootin trail, November 30th, 2018.
Setting double track on Poki Loki, November 30th, 2018. We set a bit deeper track since double tracking. Few more thin areas to watch out for.
Track on JibFly. Out of all the trails tracked, JibFly skiing the best. November 30th, 2018.
Wolf track on North Loup, November 30th, 2018.
Combing on Skaters Waltz, November 30th, 2018.
Combing skate lane on new Skaters Waltz extension inner loop. November 30th, 2018.
Heading out to Twin Lakes, November 30th, 2018.

Trail Report

The trails are open for skiing.  Around an inch of new snow past 48 hours improving the conditions.  The base is rock solid between 2-4″ and a dusting of snow on top.

We combed all the inner trail and set a shallow track all the way around Sukkerbusk and few other segments on other trails Tuesday. Although the track is washed out in spots, the positive from the tracksetting was the base is rock hard and didn’t press to the ground . Just an inch or two of new snow on top of the current base will allow us to set track on trails like JibFly, Sukkerbusk, and Twin Lakes. With fresh snow, please do not skate on trails besides Skaters Waltz and North Loup. Good reports from skiers this week. Thanks for the reports.

Heads up for a few thin areas if venturing out but with a good attitude some great early season skiing to be had on about 25km of groomed trail at this time. No tracks set on than the shallow one on Sukkerbusk. Classic skiing doable on flat deck.  No guest services in lodge. Ski rentals, lunch with day pass, lodging and other services will begin mid December but the trails are open for day skiing only. Free will offering to use trails. Thanks and Just Ski!  With no recent significant snowfall, scattered leaves and other forest organic matter on ski trail deck but nothing to prevent a good ski. Thanks Denny for helping clip brush last week!

Recommended skiing on the “early season loop”. The loop starts on Sukkerbusk to the right and heads out towards the skinny field.  Take a right at the end of skinny field than follow cone markings at intersections.  Other trails are open and have been skiing on them but use caution if venturing out. Un marked obstacles exist, ski at own risk including oak leaves in some spots. If venturing off the early season loop, suggested to ski on Sukkerbusk, Twin Lakes, JibFly for classic skiing and North Loup and Skater Waltz for skating.

Total snowfall since November 1st around 8″ Total snowfall since October 1st around 16″. October snow melted off but currently the base from November snowfall 1-3″. The trails at Maplelag are maintained as such that we can have good skiing on less snow and we take pride in managing less snow.

Please no walking or hiking on ski or bike trails.

There is no lodging available or  guest services in the lodge at this time, no ski rental but trails open for skiing. Trail pass on donation basis for early season. Ski at own risk! Ski rentals and other services will be available mid December.

The Twin Lakes singletrack will be open for winter riding/fat biking once again this season. Most recent grooming November 21st. Click here for latest report and information.

We had a great fall of trail work clearing deadfall and blowing leaves off the trails right up until the snow last week.

Setting shallow track on Sukkerbusk. November 27th, 2018. Just a inch or two more we will be able to set a better track.
Combing the skate lane on Skaters Waltz, November 27th, 2018.
Combing the skate lane on Skaters Waltz, November 27th, 2018.
Fresh wolf track on Sukkerbusk, November 27th, 2018. With the dusting of snow on top of hard base, a great time to see a wide variety of tracks in the forest.
Grooming on Rootin Tootin. Like Mother North Start, there are still some rough spots and recommend skiing other trails until more snow but very skiable and folks have been skiing on the good segments.
Testing the track on Sukkerbusk at dusk. November 27th, 2018.We are excited to offer skin skis in the rental shop this year. Great skis for a variety of conditions.
Istvan enjoying the early season conditions. Thank for the report Istvan! November 26th, 2018.
Dusting of new snow making for nice skiing today. November 26th, 2018.
Returning to Maplelag via Sukkerbusk. Beauty day on the trails! November 26th, 2018.
Late afternoon grooming on the early season loop working in dusting of fluff earlier in the day. November 25th, 2018.
Members of the Moorhead Nordic Ski team at the top of Suicide Hill, November 24th ,2018.
Moorhead Nordic team drills to work on skills! November 24th, 2018.”Perfect conditions to work on becoming a better skier”!
Cruising on Twin Lakes. With the hardpack deck, all trails now open to both classic and skate skiing until more snow. November 24th, 2018.
Spidahl crew ready for a outing on the trails. November 24th, 2018. Be sure to check out their Nordic center gem in west central MN between Pelican Rapids and Fergus Falls MN.
Morning skiers, November 23rd, 2018. Good seeing all the high school kids out today.
Thanksgiving Skate Ski on North Loup, November 22nd, 2018.
Family ski, November 21st, 2018.
Denny heading out for another day clipping brush. Thanks Denny! November 21st, 2018.
Grooming on Skaters Waltz extension, November 21st, 2018.
Second pass on North Loup, flattening and combing the deck. November 20th, 2018.
Deadfall on North Loup ready to be cleared. Lots of deer tracks on North Loup! November 20th, 2018.
Combing in fresh snow on Skaters Waltz, November 19th, 2018.
Porcupine in tree on Twin Lakes trail, November 19th, 2018.
Combing fresh snow on Twin Lakes ski trail, November 19th, 2018.
Combing fresh snow on Twin Lakes at Sugar Creek crossing, November 19th, 2018.
Members of the Moorhead Nordic Ski team enjoying the early season snow for a morning of practice, November 17th, 2018.

Hill work on Suicide Hill. November 17th, 2018.

Moorhead Nordic working on ski skills. November 17th, 2018.
Peder Arneson on the early season loop, November 16th, 2018.
Combing Suicide Hill, November 16th, 2018.
Evening grooming at the start of Sap Run where we have solar lighting. November 15th, 2018.
Ben Melby out for a early season ski, November 15th, 2018.
Start of Sukkerbusk, late morning November 15th, 2018.
Top of Suicide Hill, November 15th, 2018.
Jonell enjoying ski at sunset. Despite temps near 40 yesterday, the snow held out fine and froze down overnight solidifying the base. A few oak leaves coming down a reminder it is mid November! November 14th, 2018.
Shoveling snow on a thin area. Best time to add snow to thin areas etc. is when the snow is damp/moist. When freezing down again it will set up harder. November 14th, 2018.
Packing out practice area at start of JibFly. North facing area should hold out just fine with any warm weather. November 13th, 2018.
Checking out base on Sukkerbusk, no track classic skiing, November 13th, 2018.
Roll packing on Twin Lakes at eagle nest, November 13th,2018.
Start of Twin Lakes singletrack. Open for fat biking! November 13th, 2018. (please no hiking/walking on bike trail or ski trails. Thanks!)
Denny Barry enjoying the early season conditions. November 12th, 2018.
Start of Sap Run ski trail, November 12th, 2018.
Sukkerbusk, November 12th, 2018.
Heading out for late afternoon groom/packing on the entire loops of JibFly, Sukkerbusk and entire Skaters Waltz. November 12th, 2018.
Sunday night grooming during another flurry of snow showers. November 11th, 2018.
Little Sugarbush (lake Maplelag shores) frozen over, November 10th, 2018.
Packing/grooming on JibFly before next round of snow. November 10th, 2018.
Grooming Friday morning after another dusting last night. November 9th, 2018.
Grooming Friday morning after another dusting last night. November 9th, 2018.
Rocks level to trail still not frozen and melting snow. One thing to watch out for early season skiing. November 9th, 2018.
Deck starting to firm up on early season loop. November 8th, 2018.
Deck starting to firm up on early season loop. November 8th, 2018.
Bear tracks at Twin Lakes crossing! November 8th, 2018.
Lakes and ponds starting to freeze over. South Twin Lake, November 8th, 2018.
Deck starting to firm up on early season loop. Skinny Field, November 8th, 2018.
View of Bullhead lake. Edges starting to freeze on calm areas. November 8th, 2018.
Grooming early season loop in skinny field, November 8th, 2018.
Grooming on Suicide Hill, November 8th, 2018.
Night ski on  checking out new solar lighting. We are planning to have a 1km loop lit for this upcoming season. November 8th, 2018.
Grooming early season loop, November 7th, 2018.
Measured snowfall in 24 hour period as of 12pm November 7th, 2018. Less snow accumulating on the trails with warm ground melting a inch or so.
Sukkerbusk ski trail, November 6th, 2018.
Coating of snow around the Coop cabin. November 6th, 2018.
JibFly ski trail with dusting of new snow. November 6th, 2018.
Deadfall cleared, cut and blocked off the ski trail. Firewood for the sauna and cabins with wood stoves. November 6th, 2018.
Slough near Mother North Star ski trail. November 6th, 2018.
Loon Return ski trail, November 6th, 2018.

 

Fall grooming on Skaters Waltz, October 23rd, 2018.
Trail tuning on Sukkerbusk, October 18th, 2018.
Tamarack trees in peak fall color. Only coniferous tree to lose its needles! October 18th, 2018.
Eagle view on Twin Lakes trail. October 17th, 2018.
Clearing deadfall, Sukkerbusk ski trail in the skinny field. October 17th, 2018.
Sukkerbusk ski trail cleared! October 17th, 2018.
Great to see the sun and blue sky….and a touch of snow! Fall and winter scene. October 15th, 2018.

Checking out the grooming! October 11th, 2018.
Skiing through the skinny field, first ski of the year October 5th, 2018.
First grooming of the year, Suicide Hill October 11th, 2018.

 

Bike Trail Report

The trails are now closed. With colder than anticipated weather, it looks like we will be able to open the Twin Lakes loop for fat biking next week.

We will once again groom the Twin Lakes loop for fat biking once there is enough snow and cold temps to follow. We also have plans to have a groomed beginner loop closer to Maplelag. Thanks everyone to everyone who helped make it another awesome year of riding! Good seeing everyone out for the final day of the dirt season.

Click here for trail map.

The mountain bike trails are open outside of rain/wet conditions.  The “nature” of the mountain bike trails at Maplelag allow for quick drying and rideable conditions 6-12 hours after any precip. The trails can be described as classic, old school singletrack. Some sections are very technical with roots and rocks and a great test of skills! The Twin Lakes loop is recommended first for first time visitors to Maplelag with mountain bike experience and for first time or beginner riders, the Citizen loop is recommended.

Season pass is $10. Park in far parking lot, click in and enjoy! Maplelag maintains, builds, manages and funds the trails privately with no outside assistance (grants etc.)  but we are happy to share the trail. We appreciate season pass purchases to keep the trails maintained and build new for others to enjoy.

Click here for trail map. Trail starts just past the flag pole, head towards skaters waltz ski trail for access to both the beginner loop (Citizen/TT) and advanced loop (sport/comp/expert). Singletrack sections can be bypassed on the east side. Bike signs are red and there are also big white signs at key intersections. To access Twin Lakes loop, take either the east side or main loop and follow red signs or head down the driveway and look for orange cones just past the gate and red signs indicating the start of Twin Lakes singletrack.  Any questions on riding or conditions, email Jay at [email protected] or text 218-849-7669. We typically will have the trails open sooner than expected after wet weather, feel free to contact us for more information.

Good seeing all the riders out enjoying the closing day of the dirt season. October 28th, 2018.

Thumbs up on another great season of mountain biking! Thanks everyone for the support! October 28th, 2018.

 

Late fall riding at dusk, October 23rd, 2018.
Colorful local forest road, October 19th, 2018.
Area tamarack trees in peak color right now, October 19th, 2018.
Twin Lakes singletrack, October 19th, 2018.
Fresh cleared singletrack on Twin Lakes. October 18th, 2018. Entire loop cleared past two days.
Twin Lakes singletrack cleared of leaves. October 17th, 2018.
Island Lake trail, October 17th, 2018. Part of Twin Lakes loop.
Evening ride, Twin Lakes lakeside, October 16th, 2018.
Despite recent wet weather, riding has been good on the mountain bike course. October 14th, 2018.
Surreal riding conditions, October 12th, 2018.

Surreal riding conditions, October 12th, 2018.

Surreal riding conditions, October 12th, 2018.
Start of Twin Lakes singletrack after leaf/snow clearing. October 11th, 2018.
Singletrack scene, October 7th, 2018.
End of Twin Lakes singletrack, October 7th, 2018.

 

Singletrack after fresh clearing, October 6th, 2018.
Twin Lakes singletrack lakeside, October 5th, 2018. Trail bit damp from recent moisture but open for riding!
Singletrack after clearing, October 2nd, 2018. Leaves falling down continuously covering the surface but still great fall riding.
Chilly and damp day didn’t stop a great day of riding. September 29th, 2018.

Blowing out singletrack, September 30th, 2018. We will blow out most of the course again before this weekend.
Rolling through Twin Lakes singletrack, September 28th, 2019.
Beautiful fall color scene at end of Twin Lakes singletrack. September 28th, 2018.
Peder Arneson on Hudson’s Hula segment, September 28th, 2018.
Lakeside Twin Lakes singletrack. September 28th, 2018.
Fall riding September 22nd, 2018.
Fall riding September 22nd, 2018.
Jake and Ben Olson original lakeside singletrack,September 22nd, 2018.
Testing new trail near Bullhead Lake on Maplelag property, September 20th, 2018.
Testing new trail near Bullhead Lake on Maplelag property, September 20th, 2018.
Denny Barry helping out with trail work on new trail. September 19th, 2018. We hope to open the new trail yet this fall.
Testing new trail near Bullhead lake. September 19th, 2018.
Start of Roy’s Run and North Loup ski trails. September 19th, 2018.

Beautiful fall riding, September 18th, 2018.
Ski trail segment, September 16th, 2018.
Colorful singletrack, September 16th, 2018.
Scattered leaves on the bike trail, September 14th, 2018.
New singletrack segment, “North Star Extension” cleared out yesterday. New section has set up nicely over the summer and riding superb. September 14th, 2018.
Fantastic early fall riding continues. Twin Lakes lakeside, September 11th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Lucky’s Loype part of the bike trail, September 11th, 2018.
Fall scene on the bike course, September 9th, 2018.
Singletrack segment on bike course, September 9th, 2018.
Great forest riding on local trails this time of year, Sugar Creek rd. September 6th, 2018.
Sugarbush trail north of Maplelag, September 6th, 2018.

 

Forest road riding north and east of Maplelag. September 8th, 2018.
Early fall color as seen on Sukkerbusk ski trail which is part of the bike course. September 5th, 2018.
Steve Wenzel rounding a turn in the singletrack, Laddies Loppet September 1st, 2018. Steve the only rider to compete in every Laddies Loppet since 1990!
Great night for the Wednesday night time trial, August 29th, 2018.
Great fall like riding, August 28th, 2018.
Trail check later afternoon on Friday found tacky and firm conditions. The areas we tuned (as above) the past few weeks benefited greatly from the rain. August 24th, 2018.

Twin Lakes singletrack tuned and riding well. August 22nd, 2018.

Trail tuning at the start of Twin Lakes, August 20th, 2018.
Great riding on Sunday with cooler temps and light rain shower. Surface remains hardpacked and dry. August 19th, 2018.
Corey out for a long distance training ride. August 18th, 2018.
Section of Twin Lakes singletrack after trail tuning/buffing. White ribbon of hardened clay indicator of hard and fast conditions! August 16th, 2018.
Trail tuning. August 10th, 2018.
Great riding over the weekend, August 5th, 2018.

Great riding over the weekend, August 5th, 2018.

 

Singletrack tuning, August 7th, 2018.
NW Wolves high school cycling team practicing Thursday evening. August 2nd, 2018. (Ben Olson photos)

NW Wolves high school cycling team practicing Thursday evening. August 2nd, 2018.
Great conditions for evening ride, hours before downpour came through. July 31st, 2018.
Beautiful morning ride, July 28th, 2019.

Lush forest floor on the ski trail, July 28th, 2019.

Beautiful morning ride, July 28th, 2018.
Tuning berm on the singletrack, July 27th, 2018.

Blowing out a section of singletrack, July 27th, 2018.
Another beautiful evening ride. July 24th, 2018.

Another beautiful evening ride. July 24th, 2018.
Keith rolling Twin Lakes lakeside, July 21st, 2018.

Morning ride, July 21st, 2018.
Main loop Lakeside drops, July 17th, 2018.
Ski trail riding Kohlepp’s pond. July 17th, 2018.
Riders from Oregon visiting the area, out for ride. Great to see new faces on the trail. July 5th, 2018.
Beautiful evening and great conditions July 5th, 2018. Pat back on trail.
Twin Lakes rock garden. July 5th, 2018.
Jake rolling through rock garden on Twin Lakes singletrack, July 3rd, 2018.
Having fun on Hudson’s Hula segment, July 3rd, 2018

Pat Climbing Suicide Hill, July 1st, 2018.

Pat lakeside, July 1st, 2018.
Forest singletrack, July 1st, 2018.

Clearing deadfall off the trail, June 30th, 2018.
Rolling through Twin Lakes rock garden, June 30th, 2018.
Kieth rolling through Twin Lakes rock garden, June 30th, 2018.
Beautiful evening ride. June 26th, 2018.

Twin Lakes, June 26th, 2018.
Into the woods! June 26th, 2018.
Trail check late afternoon found hard and tacky conditions on majority of the trail. June 18th, 2018.
Singletrack segment east side, June 18th, 2018.
Rolling along lakeside, main loop. June 12th, 2018.
Keith Twin Lakes lakeside, June 12th, 2018.
Brushing/blowing out the bridge section, June 12th, 2018.
Ready to blow out the trail after brushing the sides. The main lakeside segments on both the main and western loops completed this week. June 7th, 2018.
Clearing deadfall from wind on Tuesday night, June 7th, 2018.

Keith out for midweek ride, May 30th, 2018.
Memorial day riding, May 28th, 2018.
Forest road riding north of Maplelag, May 28th, 2018.
Memorial day riding, May 28th, 2018. Deep woods feel in the forest!
Maplelag team members Matt and Steve out on the trail for a training ride Saturday morning. May 26th, 2018.
Denny Barry on course Saturday morning. May 26th, 2018.

Maplelag team members on course Saturday morning. May 26th, 2018.
Peder evening ride lakeside, May 23rd, 2018.
Steve rolling out of new singletrack segment, May 23rd, 2018.
Wayne lakeside Twin Lakes, May 23d, 2018.

 

Wednesday night group ride. Keep the wheels moving…the mosquitoes are out! May 23rd, 2018.
Keith rolling through Twin Lakes lakeside on a beautiful evening. May 22nd, 2018.

Start of singletrack lakeside, May 20th, 2018. The woods have filled out with deep lush green.
Peder Arneson rolling along lakeside on main loop. May 18th, 2018.

Peder rolling along Twin Lakes singletrack lakeside, May 18th, 2018.
Jake at start of new trail “North Star Extension”. May 18th, 2018.
Final berm, May 18th, 2018.
North Star segment, May 18th, 2018.

Bente’s Bump segment, May 18th, 2018.
Ski trail segment on bike course. May 17th, 2018.
Berm work on new trail. We completed enough tuning to have this new segment open. We will continue to fine tune but the more riders to ride in the better! May 14th, 2018.
Another great weekend of early season riding, May 13th, 2018.
Ideal riding Wednesday late afternoon, May 9th, 2018.
Fresh clearing on Hudson’s Hula segment, west side on Twin Lakes singletrack. May 8th, 2018.
Fresh clearing on Hudson’s Hula segment, west side on Twin Lakes singletrack. May 8th, 2018.
Fresh clearing on Hudson’s Hula segment, west side on Twin Lakes singletrack. May 8th, 2018.
Fresh clearing on Hudson’s Hula segment, west side on Twin Lakes singletrack. May 8th, 2018.
David J on trail, May 7th, 2018.

Ben O on trail, May 7th, 2018.
Ben on Lakeside drop, May 7th, 2018.
Weekend riding, May 6th, 2018.
Fresh cleared singletrack on the east side, May 6th, 2018.
Group of riders heading out to the trail, May 6th, 2018.
Twin Lakes lakeside, May 3rd, 2018.
New course tape! May 3rd, 2018.
Ski trail segment, May 3rd, 2018. Ski trail portions of course in great shape.

Checking out Twin Lakes singletrack, lakeside. April 25th, 2018. Most singletrack segments are dry and ready for riding but the ski trails need a few more days to dry out.
Clearing leaves from singletrack, April 23rd, 2018.
Cleared!
Moss growing on the side, April 23rd, 2018.
Singletrack drying out nicely, April 23rd, 2018. Weather permitting, we hope to open the trails by May 3rd weekend.
One last winter ride on the Twin Lakes singletrack, April 21st, 2018.

Trail Report

Trails are now closed until Thanksgiving week. We close the trails for the safety of the guests and out of respect of local landowners during deer hunting season which is going on now until Thanksgiving week. We are fine tuning on the trails near the lodge as we are in the final stage of trail work. All the leaves are down for the most part and we are clearing the main trails for the first snowfalls and early season skiing.

One of the coldest and snowiest first halves of October on record.  Out of the first 15 days of October there was at least a trace of snow seven of those days and temps running 10-12 degrees below average. Total snowfall in October was 4-6″.  We even got out grooming and skiing a few of the days. Overall October of 2018 one of the coldest on record

Mountain bike trails closed until Thanksgiving week when we will open again for the winter/fat bike season. We will begin grooming as soon as there is enough snow and cold weather to follow.  Click on the bike trail report for latest update and photos.

The trails are closed to horses and motorized traffic.

 

Group of riders enjoying closing day on the mountain bike course, October 28th, 2019.
Sukkerbusk ski trail, October 27th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Skaters Waltz, October 23rd, 2018.
Tamarack trees in peak. October 18th, 2018.

Trail tuning on Sukkerbusk, October 18th, 2018.
Eagle view on Twin Lakes trail. October 17th, 2018.
Island Lake trail, October 17th, 2018.
Clearing leaves on Sukkebusk, October 17th, 2018.
Clearing deadfall, Sukkerbusk ski trail in the skinny field. October 17th, 2018.
Sukkerbusk ski trail cleared! October 17th, 2018.
View of Bulhead lake, morning sun highlighting tamarack trees on north end. October 15th, 2018.

 

Sukkerbusk ski trail, October 15th, 2018.
Suicide Hill, October 15th, 2018.
October 15th, 2018.
Despite recent wet weather, riding has been good on the mountain bike course. October 14th, 2018.
Twin Lakes ski trail, October 12th, 2018.
Great to see the sun and blue sky! Fall and winter scene. October 12th, 2018.
JibFly field, October 12th, 2018.
Sod Roof cabin, October 12th, 2018.
Island Lake frozen over completely, October 12th, 2018.
Navigating frozen waters, October 12th, 2018.
First grooming of the year, Suicide Hill October 11th, 2018.
Checking out the grooming! October 11th, 2018.
Autumn and winter scene. October 11th, 2018.
Dusting of wet snow as seen lakeside near Sod Roof cabin, October 10th, 2018.
Skaters Waltz ski trail, October 10th, 2018.
Lucky’s Loype ski trail, October 10th, 2018.
Sukkerbusk ski trail, October 8th, 2018.
Singletrack after fresh clearing, October 6th, 2018.
Wintry weather continues. Another light dusting of scattering lingering flurries! October 6th, 2018,
Fall/winter scene on Sukkerbusk! October 5th, 2018.
Skiing through the skinny field, October 5th, 2018.
Skinny field, October 5th, 2018.

 

Branches over on Rootin Tootin from wet snow. Should rebound completely after a day or two. October 5th, 2018.
Frosty scene at Twin Lakes crossing, October 4th, 2018.
Start of JibFly ski trail, October 4th, 2018.
Frost coating at the trail head, October 4th, 2018.
Great to see the sun today! Maplelag driveway, October 4th, 2018.

Sun filtering through the colorful maples on Twin Lakes, October 4th, 2018.
Clearing on Sukkerbusk, October 2nd, 2018.
One of the cabooses surrounded in fall color, October 2nd, 2018.
Toot and Toot bypass, October 2nd, 2018.
Skaters Waltz extension, October 2nd, 2018.
Mother North Star Ski trail, October 2nd, 2018.
Bullhead Lake, October 2nd, 2018.
Singletrack after clearing, October 2nd, 2018. Leaves falling down continuously covering the surface but still great fall riding.
Top of Suicide Hill, October 2nd, 2018.
Sukkerbusk ski trail, October 1st, 2018.
Fall scene near the Sod Roof cabin, September 26th, 2018.

 

Fall color along Maplelag driveway. September 27th, 2018.
Fall color along Maplelag driveway. September 27th, 2018.
Fall color along Maplelag driveway. September 27th, 2018.
Fall color along Maplelag driveway. September 27th, 2018.
Fall color scene in front of main lodge. September 27th, 2018.
Fall scene as seen through the dining room windows. September 25th, 2018.
Fall scene near Finish Log and Sava Sauna cabins, September 25th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Skaters Waltz, September 25th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Skaters Waltz, September 25th, 2018.
Fall color scene lakeside of main lodge, September 24th, 2018.
Twin Lakes ski trail, September 23rd, 2018.
Sunrise at Island Lake, September 22nd, 2018.
Fall colors along forest road north of Maplelag, September 22nd, 2018.
Fall colors as seen looking down Maplelag driveway, September 22nd, 2018.
Fall colors as seen looking down Maplelag driveway, September 22nd, 2018.
Skaters Waltz ski trail, September 22nd, 2018.
Start of Roy’s Run and North Loup ski trails. September 19th, 2018.
September sunset, September 19th, 2019.
Scattered leaves on the trails, September 14th, 2018.
Fall color in front of the lodge lakeside. September 14th, 2018.
Top of maple trees displaying fall color, September 12th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Sukkerbusk ski trail, leaves changing and falling already! September 11th, 2018.
Fall grooming on Lucky’s Loype, September 11th, 2018.
Fall color across from the Maplelag driveway near the start of North Loup ski trail. September 9th, 2018.
Touch of color on top of maples near Red Caboose. September 9th, 2018.
Early fall color as seen on Sukkerbusk ski trail, September 5th, 2018.
Suicide Hill after fresh mowing, August 13th, 2018.
Early signs of fall from poplar tree. August 13th, 2018.
Acorns starting to fall, August 13th, 2018.
Early fall color near the Brant cabin, August 13th, 2018.
Wood for the sauna! August 8th, 2018.
Singletrack tuning, August 7th, 2018.
Orange sulfur shelf fungi on side of trail. August 7th, 2018.
Hauling a deadfall birch out for sauna firewood. August 5th, 2018.

 

Clearing oak deadfall off Skaters Waltz, August 8th, 2018.
Lush green on the ski trail forest floor, July 28th, 2019.
Colorful ski after passing storm, July 23rd, 2018.
Awesome evening paddleboard under rising moon. July 25th, 2018.
Clearing deadfall off Lucky’s Loype ski trail. Typical summer of clearing. July 27th, 2018.
Variety of mushrooms popping up on the forest floor. July 28th, 2018.

Tuning berm on the singletrack, July 27th, 2018.
Another mowing on Suicide Hill. June 27th, 2018.
Summer sunset, June 19th, 2018.
Rootin Tootin ski trail after fresh mowing. We have been busy mowing the ski trails almost daily. June 19th, 2018.
Mowing on Sukkerbusk ski trail. We have been mowing daily on the trails when dry. June 13th, 2018.
Another great batch of pink slippers this year near Bullhead lake trail.  June 19th, 2018.

Beautiful summer sunset, June 12th, 2018.
Color in the woods! June 8th, 2018.

Trail run. June 8th, 2019.
Bumblebee on wild raspberry, June 8th, 2018.
Vibrant forest floor. June 8th, 2018.
Columbine flowers in bloom, June 3rd, 2018.
Beautiful evening on Little Sugarbush, May 30th, 2018.
Yellow slippers blooming in recent days, May 27th, 2018.
Sunset over Little Sugarbush, May 23rd, 2018.
Spring clouds, May 13th, 2018.
Peder rolling along Twin Lakes singletrack lakeside, May 18th, 2018. Great riding this spring.
Wild flowers on the forest floor. May 13th, 2018.
Marsh marigolds popping up in recent days. May 13th, 2018.
Spring sunset, May 12th, 2018.
Ski trails greening up and leaves starting to fill out on the trees. Sukkerbusk ski trail, May 11th, 2018.
Blood root flowers emerging from the forest floor. May 9th, 2018.
Turtles making a presence the past few days thanks to warmer temps. Snapping turtle crossing the road this afternoon, May 8th, 2018.
Sukkerbusk ski trail, May 3rd, 2018.
Pair of trumpeter swans on local slough. Many swans again this year and other species of waterfowl. April 27th, 2018.
Snow cleared on mossy segment of Skaters Waltz. April 25th, 2018.
Wild flowers popping up from the warm day on Monday, April 23rd, 2018.
Clearing leaves from singletrack, April 23rd, 2018.
Mountain bike singletrack drying out nicely after clearing, April 23rd, 2018. We hope to open the trails for mountain biking May 4th.
One last ski, April 21st, 2018.

One more ski on North Loup, April 20th, 2018.
Great early morning transition skiing on North Loup, April 19th, 2018.
Great early morning transition skiing on North Loup,April 19th, 2018.
Great early morning transition skiing on North Loup, April 19th, 2018.
Outside of one south facing area, most of North Loup still holding excellent coverage, morning April 19th, 2018.
Late afternoon ski on Sukkerbusk, April 18th, 2018.
Grooming on Skaters Waltz, early evening April 18th, 2018.
Grooming on North Loup, early evening April 18th, 2018.
Grooming on North Loup, early evening April 18th, 2018.
Late afternoon ski on Sukkerbusk, April 18th, 2018.