Revised: Upper Meissner Groomed Intermediate Ski Tour
Revised Ski Plan: While the original plan was a Nordeen Loop ski, due to conditions we have changed the plan. See below for revised ski plan.
Trail Highlights: Terrain is the groomed Meissner system, beginning at Swampy Snowpark, and utilizing the less frequently used Upper Tangent, Gentian, Gilia, and Bitterbrush trails.
Level of Difficulty and Distance/Time expected:
The ski is hilly terrain. Total ski distance is about 5-6 miles. Plan for 2.5 to 3 hrs of skiing with 1.5 hrs extra for meeting at the Grove and drive to/from Swampy snowpark. While we will not plan to stop for lunch, we will stop for a snack and drink break along the way (10 minutes).
Meeting Time/Place: We will meet at 9:00am on Thursday 12/5/25 at the Grove near Thump Coffee (921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend) and leave promptly at 9:30. We can carpool from the Grove as it suits us. Please arrive no later than 9:15 to sign waivers, organize carpools, and socialize. You must coordinate ahead directly with Gary Elnan if you want to meet at Swampy snowpark and skip the Grove.
Distance/hours: The skiing distance is 5.5 to 6.0 miles beginning and ending at Swampy snowpark. Total time is about 4 to 5 hours from the Grove.
What to bring:
● Ten Essentials
● Proper winter clothing for insulation and protection from wind and rain. Dress in layers. There is a small chance of showers. Bring a rainproof outer layer.
● Water and/or hot drink, snack. Bring food that can be easily eaten if cold.
● Dogs are not allowed.
Ski Equipment: Skis should be designed for groomed track skiing. Maximum width of the ski should be 68mm or less. Wider skis would work but would be unable to use the tracks and would be slow.
Skis, boots and poles designed exclusively for skiing on machine groomed tracks are recommended.
Number of participants: 8 skiers total
Trip Leader Contact: Gary Elnan. Please contact me if your plans change (after reserving) and you cannot attend.
Ski Difficulty Level: Intermediate
To go on this tour you must have proficiency in the basic skills of cross-country skiing including diagonal stride, step turn, snowplow, and snowplow turns. and you must be able to climb or descend on moderately steep terrain and some longer uphill sections. You should be able to exit the track while moving to allow use of the center section of the trail (if needed) for the steeper downhill sections. The ski will end with a long climb up Tangent Loop.
