Lower Meissner Groomed Intermediate Ski Tour
Trail Highlights: Terrain is the groomed Meissner system, beginning at Meissner Snowpark, and utilizing the less frequently used Ponderosa, Pine Drops, and up Mistletoe to the Meissner shelter. We will return to the parking area using Manzanita and Tangent trails.
Level of Difficulty and Distance/Time expected: The ski is hilly terrain. The Ponderosa trail has some downhill sections with turns. The total ski distance is about 5 to 6 miles. Plan for 2.5 hours of skiing, 0.5 hours for lunch at the shelter, and 1.5 hours extra for meeting at the Grove and drive to/from Meissner snowpark. We will stop for lunch/snack and drink break at the shelter (30 minutes).
Meeting Time/Place: We will meet at 10:00am on Wednesday 1/29/25 at the Grove near Thump Coffee (921 NW Mt. Washington Dr., Bend) and leave promptly at 10:15. We can carpool from the Grove as it suits us. Please arrive no later than 10:00 to sign waivers, organize carpools, and socialize. You must coordinate ahead directly with Gary Elnan if you want to meet at Meissner snowpark and skip the Grove.
Distance/hours: The skiing distance is 5 to 6 miles beginning and ending at Meissner snowpark. The total time is about 4.5 to 5.0 hours from the Grove.
What to bring:
● Ten Essentials
● Proper winter clothing for insulation and protection from wind and rain. Dress in layers. The forecast is for sunny weather and mild temperatures. Bring a windproof 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 to use the track. 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 (due to hills and length of ski tour).
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.
