Posted by Yuzo Kanomata
on May 12, 2009, 4:02 pm, in reply to "Re: What kind of XC-skiing trails are on Mt. Pinos?"
169.234.4.X
I have seen folks renting gear at Lake of the Woods and come up. NNN bindings and I think some didn't have metal edges. They generally stay on the flat parts like the meadow next to Nordic Base or the area called 1st and 2nd meadow off the main trail.
I have also seen full-on race suited folks on the main trail to the top.
It is all condition dependent IMHO. When it is packed and just a light top of fresh snow, any skis would work great. I've had problems breaking trail on BC equipment when it has been deep and light.
It's do-able especially on the easy to intermediate trails. It is just a lot easier on BC skis. I know some folks go up in tele gear and other AT, but they are looking to areas where they can cut turns.
I had the best time going up last year when the plough broke at the 2nd snow gate next to McGill campground. I think it it 4 miles to Nordic Base and it was fantastic taking the road which was covered by 3 feet of packed snow. One person coming with me then had 3 pin XC thin skis and had no problem.
I'd say if in any doubt, come up and try it. I think you may like it. And come early if you come up on a holiday or weekend! The large numbers of snow players can be overwhelming.
Yuzo
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