Out and Back to Vista Butte (or should I say up and down?)
When: Tuesday March 18 10:30am
Where: Vista Butte SnoPark along Century Drive
Meeting time/place: Parking lot just west of The Pavilion ice rink on SW Bradbury Way.
Distance/hours: About 5 miles...3 hours skiing depending on how long we stay at the top.
Brief Trail description: We will take the Lower Loop on the trip up and the more direct Upper Loop on the way down. The forecast as of Friday is mostly sunny which should give us 360 degree views. We might have to break trail after the heavy snow expected over the weekend.
Plan B: If the weather looks to be too harsh for Vista Butte, I will have another route and let you know. Still will be the same meeting time/place.
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate Tour with 2 challenging downhills: This means that to go on this tour you must have proficiency in the basic skills of cross-country skiing including diagonal stride, sidestep, kick turn, step turn, snowplow, and snowplow turn and you must be able to traverse and herringbone on moderately steep terrain. You must be able to negotiate long moderately steep and short, steep hills.
These are general guidelines when considering a group ski with CONC. Please honestly assess your ability in order to feel comfortable and enjoy the day, but without hindering the enjoyment of others.
Conditions vary according to weather and trail conditions. Be aware that medical help may be limited or delayed.
You must be physically fit enough to participate safely in this activity within the anticipated time. If you have any doubts about your ability to meet these requirements, please contact me before the tour.
Note: the difficulty of any trail can change based on current conditions such as ice, and may necessitate changes to the route.
What to bring:
Skis should be designed for backcountry use, and be adequate for the type of trip and terrain likely to be encountered. In general, skis should have a no-wax pattern for grip and metal edges for control on ice or hard pack conditions. Minimum width at the waist of the ski should be at least 68mm. Wider skis will provide better stability in more difficult conditions.
Boots should be over the ankle for support and control, and compatible with the bindings on the skis.
Poles should have large baskets so they don’t sink up the handle in soft snow.
Skis, boots and poles designed exclusively for skiing on machine groomed tracks are not allowed.
Ten Essentials
Proper winter clothing for insulation and protection from wind and rain. Dress in layers. No cotton!
Water, snack/lunch. Snacks and lunch are often eaten outside. Bring food that can be easily eaten quickly in case it is cold.
Number of Skiers: 8 skiers total.
Dogs are not allowed on this trip.
Contact: Dennis Krakow krakowcpa@gmail.com (541)420-6013. If you need to cancel, please do through the app or contact me.
