Highlights: We will venture to Willamette Pass and explore several established nordic trails that leave from the Gold Lake Sno-Park. We will first ski 2.2 miles on an easy trail to Gold Lake Shelter, then continue a bit further to an overlook of the lake, and, if conditions are suitable, return via the slightly longer Marilyn Lakes Trail, which has a few moderate hills.
Level of Difficulty and Distance/Time expected: Intermediate Level. Most of this ski is fairly easy, but is rated intermediate due to a distance of almost 6 miles and 3.5 hours ski time.
When: Monday, Jan 27th. Meet at 9:00 am in parking lot of the Riverwoods Country Store on Baker Rd, right off Hwy 97 on the far south side of Bend (Deschutes River Woods exit). We can carpool from there.
Where: Trailhead is the Gold Lake Sno-Park on Willamette Pass, an approx. 1 hour 15 minute drive from Bend.
What to bring:
Ski Equipment:
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 tip of the ski should be greater than 62mm.
Boots should be over the ankle for support and control, and must be compatible with the bindings on the skis. Poles should have large baskets so they don't sink in soft snow. Adjustable poles are good for varying terrain and conditions.
Skis, boots, and poles designed exclusively for skiing on machine groomed tracks are not allowed on this tour.
Number of skiers: Registration limit is 10 people.
Reservation Contact: John Stephenson
The Central Oregon Nordic Club, PO Box 744, Bend, OR 97709, is chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.Email: conordicclub@gmail.com
