Preparing cross country ski trails is a process that starts long before the first snowflakes fall and requires collaboration from several different people and departments.
First, forestry crews must begin clearing trees, brush and flood debris that collected over the spring, summer and fall months. Next, trails are mowed and checked for hazards by park maintenance. Obstructions that limit trail access in the summer are removed and sections of the trail are repaired if necessary.
Once there is several inches of snow on the ground, crews can begin packing trails with grooming equipment. It is difficult to say an exact amount of snow that is needed because moisture content, ground and air temperature, sun and wind conditions can all effect how easily the trails can be packed, but it needs to be more than 4 inches at least to begin the packing process. It generally takes 6 to 8 inches of snow in order to actually groom the trail and 8 or more inches to set classic tracks.
Sometimes, enough snow falls in one snow event that allows crews to groom perfect trails the first time out, but generally it is a process that takes several weeks.
Make sure to follow Fargo Park District social media and the Latest News page of our website for important updates regarding trails.
