Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Snow falls on the GAT

Shilly Shally

Gatineau Park: P10 to Western (18 km)
P10: N45 31.141 W75 51.234
Western: N45 30.840 W75 55.045
Click here for a trail map.

I decided to take Wednesday off in order to make the most of the fresh snow before the weekend rain washed it all away. Marc joined me on this adventure making this his first chance to test out his new xc ski gear.

The morning started off with some sticky snow making our trip up Trail 3 a real lung burner. Technically some parts were more of a snowshoe walk than a ski. Still, the scenery was spectacular and I'm sure the doctor would give me two thumbs up for the cardio benefits.

The groomers were hard at work though with the heavy snow fall it was actually difficult to tell in spots. Regardless, their efforts are appreciated.

IMG_6640 Ski groomer

We started out with no real destination or plan and in the end we ended up skiing the reverse loop of my last ski trip to Western. P10 start to Trail 3, to Trail 1, and then from 1B down black diamond 9 to the Western Hut. A highly recommended route.

Marc tests out the new skis Ski rack at Western

These last few photos were taken only days apart and should give you a bit of an idea of the difference a fresh snow fall can make.

Trail 9 to Western Trail 9 to Western
Sunny day in the GAT White out


Update: The snow is wet and slowly melting but so far the rain is holding off.

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