XC Ski (Classic) 53:15 [3] 4.8 mi (11:06 / mi)
So, with the roads in terrible shape (icy) on Friday and accidents all over the place, I decided to try to check out Chippewa Nature Center for some local XC skiing. Since my race next weekend is classic and that's usually the better choice on the marginal trails, I went with the classic skis. It was not so good. Skied out toward the tridge, but there were 3 road crossings, so I had to stop and take my skis off, which wasn't my favorite. It was total crust skiing conditions and actually would have probably been pretty decent for skating. Turned around and went to get on the river trail, which was free from road crossings. (Of course, after taking my skis off 3 more times) Unfortunately, after the heat up and people walking on the trail, plus high winds, the trail was pretty beat up - hard and bumpy with lots of debris. I had put wax on, but it wasn't doing any good (needed klister) so I double poled the whole time. Eventually, I got sick of fighting with my wax catching on the debris and threatening to make me fall, so I turned around and called it. Probably should have checked this trail out back when it was in good condition. I don't think that this ski gave it a fair shake. I actually thought about going down and skiing on the river (I saw snowmobile tracks) but decided against it. Just because the snowmobilers do it does not mean it's safe.
