Before the winter began, I decided that I wouldn’t get an annual pass for the cross country skiing trails at Eastman. Instead, I figured I could make do with mostly free areas and an occasional pay-for-a-day experience. This decision seemed even wiser with the delayed snow. Regardless, I still want to make sure I make the most of New Hampshire and Vermont winter sports! With that goal in mind, I got concerned with the forecast of higher temps (and, possibly, rain!) for tonight. So, with even more urgency than yesterday, I raced to find a place to ski after work this afternoon. Fortunately, I discovered last winter that the Hartland Winter Trails (VT) were free - they are only about 25 minutes from my home. With limited daylight available, I left home after finishing work early (1445). After driving to this ski area (used I-91, started skiing at 1510), I was able to squeeze in 90 minutes (3 miles) on the (ungroomed) trails before it got dark. I had to make my own tracks in a few places but the whole experience helped me continue to learn about my new Rossingnol EVOs. It was snowing throughout the time I was there and I only saw a few other folks (snowshoes and classic skiers). I was finished at 1640 and headed back towards my condo (via US-5). I stopped in West Lebanon to do some shopping at Hannaford and Shaw's. The wintry weather kept getting worse (roads not very good) on the way home. Arrived at my condo by 1800. Very glad I got another day on skis before a potential snow melt. Crossing fingers that the forecast will be wrong - c’mon snow (not rain)!
