Retro Ski – Sunday February 19, 2023

SKI THE BACK COUNTRY!

The Maasto Hiihto/Churning Rapids trail system encompasses a lot of territory that seldom see ski tracks all winter.  The Retro Ski is an opportunity each year to explore some of that country with like-minded friends and knowledgeable guides. There is no fee for this event, donations are always appreciated.

The route: Due to unpredictable weather and snow conditions, the route will be decided at the meeting point, the Hancock Four Seasons Chalet at the Houghton County Fair Grounds. If conditions are best for snowshoeing, we’ll snowshoe. So bring snowshoes if you have them but most likely we’ll be skiing.

The start point: We’ll meet at 1:15 at the Hancock Four Seasons Chalet at the Houghton County Fair Grounds, make a decision on where to ski and head out by 1:30. Our ski route may require a car shuttle or car pooling to a different trail head.

The reward: Usually we gather after the ski at a local restaurant for beverage, food and tall tales. Maybe yes, maybe no, due to Covid-19 TBD.

Never done a “retro ski”? If you’ve got wood skis, bamboo poles, knickers and wool clothing – perfect! You’ll be stylin’. If you’ve got modern equipment and clothing – don’t let that stop you from joining the group. All skiers are welcome regardless of ability or equipment. 

“No-guts-no-glory” does not apply. If skier abilities vary widely, we can split into two groups – an easy and an extended tour – and still feast together after all are finished. Our route will use groomed trails several times, so anyone wanting a shorter/easier tour may leave the group at one of those points and ski via set tracks to their starting trailhead. Yes, backcountry means breaking trail but don’t let that keep you home; we’ll have plenty of skiers to take turns at the front and no “real” retro-skier would mind if slower/tired/novice skiers follow their path. 

RSVP: Contact either Jay Green or John Diebel by 8 pm February 18th if you intend to enjoy this adventure so we have an idea of group size and ability to plan for. We appreciate the notification but if last minute developments free you to come, please hop on the skis and join us. Also call with any questions.

Jay: home 487-5411 cell 370-1400 email jbgreen45@nullcharter.net

John: 281-1486 email john.diebel@nullsbcglobal.net

Regardless of the weather we will be skiing; severe weather may just change the route and length. Hope to see you there!