Full "Cold Moon" Ski Around Tangent Loop
Trail Highlights: We will take advantage of the light from the full Cold Moon for an evening ski on the groomed trails at Meissner Sno-Park. The crest of the full moon will occur at 1:02 a.m. on December 15th, but will appear almost full on the evening of the 14th. We'll head north up Tangent Loop, then take a side trip to the Meissner Shelter on either Mistletoe or Manzanita. After a quick snack/refreshment break and skygazing, we'll depart the shelter on Larkspur to Snowbrush and back to Tangent heading toward Swampy Sno-Park. Although Saturday evening is forecast to be cloudy, we should be treated to views of the full moon hanging in the sky to the northeast. If cloud cover is not too thick, we may be able to ski by moonlight, but HEADLAMPS ARE MANDATORY.
Level of Difficulty and Distance/Time expected: This is an intermediate tour. Distance about 6.4 miles with 665' elevation gain. Although we will be on groomed trails, it will be dark (HEADLAMPS REQUIRED!). There may be a snow refresh by the weekend, but trails may become fast and icy after the sun goes down. Plan for 2.5 to 3 hrs of skiing with 1.5 hrs extra for meeting at the Grove and drive to/from Meissner Sno-Park.
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. 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 include a long climb up Tangent Loop.
When: We will meet at The Grove at 4:00 pm on Saturday 12/14/25 and leave promptly at 4:30. Please arrive no later than 4:15 to sign waivers, organize carpools, and socialize.
Where: Meet near Thump Coffee inside The Grove at 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend. You must coordinate ahead directly with the reservation contact if you want to meet at Meissner Sno-Park and skip The Grove.
What to bring:
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Ten Essentials. Including tools & straps for ski/boot repairs.
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HEADLAMPS ARE REQUIRED! Be sure to fully charge or replace with fresh batteries, depending on the type of headlamp. Spare batteries and a backup flashlight are highly recommended (which should be in your 10 Essentials).
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Proper winter clothing for insulation and protection from wind and snow. Dress in layers. There is a chance of snow. Bring a water resistant outer layer.
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Water and/or hot drink, snack. Bring food that can be easily eaten if cold.
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Dogs are not allowed.
Ski Equipment: Skis should be designed for groomed track skiing. Maximum width of the ski should be 68mm or less. Skis, boots and poles designed exclusively for skiing on machine groomed tracks are recommended.
Number of skiers: 9
Reservation Contact: Warren Preston. Please contact me if your plans change (after reserving) and you cannot attend or if you plan to meet us at the Sno-Park.
