Asticou to Kingsmere and back via 5 and 15 with detours to trail 7 and Pink Lake.

I used to ski from Asticou more often and had forgotten how delightful these trails are, particularly on the return (more downhill) trip. The NCC site claimed there had been grooming, but we saw no evidence to back up this claim. In any case, the fresh snow made for fantastic, if slightly slow, conditions. It was great agility training, because the trails were absolutely PACKED with skiers of all abilities, many of whom would stop for a break in literally any spot (mostly halfway up OUR downhills, it seemed). The most fun part of the trip was a detour to the short but hilly trail 7 on the west side of the parkway. It was deserted and full of twists and little downhill bumps that reminded me that back country skiing can be a lot more fun than the groomed stuff! Also, the little short-cut trail which leads from 15 back down to 5 was in fine form - very little work, and a series of gentle bumpy downhills with the one short but steep run-out at the end.

Just a great day - so sad to now be awaiting a freezing rain storm. I hope that Demsis is saving their pennies for a solid few days of trail renovations.