Many times I am asked as the groomer, "what are my favorite trail loops to ski on". I do have many favorites since I've been on every trail so many times going in every direction. Here is an example.
The 5km Loop
I'll start with my favorite 5km loop which takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete depending on your speed and the trail conditions. The loop runs entirely on easy trails, with enough rolls in them to make it interesting. Most importantly this is the first ski loop that we groom every day. On big snow days we groom this loop first to make sure it is open before we go onto any other trails. I like to ski this loop counter-clockwise because of the direction you go up and down the hills.
At the trail head ski out to the field and head toward the wood sheds and junction 2. From there you head up into the woods on a long easy climb to get to the top ridge on the east side. This is also the quickest way to get out of the wind and into the woods, and with the hill climb you get warmed up first thing.
From here to the half way point, stay right at every junction. Another reason I like to steer first timers out on this loop - easy directions. At the top of the loop, from junction 15 to 14 there is a good downhill right before you get to 14 and cross the VAST trail. Please exercise a little caution here listening for snowmobiles and being ready to stop if necessary. Going across the VAST trail bear to your left and head down to junction 21 where you will turn left and head south, parallel to the VAST trail. At junction 23 bear right (or take a break and check out the Stone Circle), at 11 go straight across and you will be on the east side pond trail for the rest of the way home. Between 11 and 25 there is another good downhill where you have to fit between two big trees. Once you get back out to the field, it's an easy downhill run in to the barnyard. Here's a map with the 5K loop highlight with a thick brown line.
