Green Belt
Trails Skied: 44, 45, 46, Glide Wax: , Grip Wax: -7 to -15
ROUTE: Did all of 44 and all of 45.
45: If you want to ski in this neighbourhood definitely start at Leitrim (P19). There were fairly decent skied-in tracks and you could actually ski. The only significant problem was the ice crust grabbing your pole basket as you broke through. Lots and lots of debris which made for some quick changes in speed. Overall 45 is fair with some good stretches.
44 (Davidson): You can ski it be there are many parts that are sheer ice where the track disappears. There are skied in tracks for about 70% of the trail but a lot of it is iffy. There is a huge amount of debris. Overall 44 is poor with some fair stretches.
TRAFFIC: One other car in both parking lots.
WEATHER: Except for a couple of open spots, the wind was not an issue. It was cold, but if you dress well, it shouldn't be a problem.
The National Capital Greenbelt has over 100km of trails and another 25km of recreational pathways, most of which are suitable for cross-country skiing in the wintertime. All of the trails are suitable for beginner and family outings. Some are now maintained by volunteer groomers; OWWT, BWT, SHE, Kichi Sibi.
ONSC grooms The Hornet's Nest (Tauvette street to Montreal Rd), Mer Bleue and Pine Grove Forest (the section off Leitrum Rd). Trails are classic skiing ONLY, no skating is allowed on these trails. The Hornet's Nest is groomed at least weekly and the others as time permits. Updated trail conditions are available at the snow phone; 613-837-SNOW.
