Another four inches of snow has fallen over the past week so there is now enough to explore the trails on skis. I dusted off the adventure skis; shorter and wider that a x-country ski and made for breaking trail. I had the skis out only once last year and am hoping to bring them out more often.

After dusting off the cobwebs from skis, poles and boots, I ventured to the Biodiversity Trail. It was developed as an interpretive trail; one that is meant to hike and explore so it would never be groomed and track set for skiing. That is where the adventure skis come in to play.

The snow was deep and fluffy. Branches on the shrubs and trees held snowflakes like ornaments on shelves. Animal tracks crisscrossed the trails and ponds. There were imprints of moose bodies in the snow where they rested overnight.

The forest was a winter wonderland. The morning sun shone through the trees, casting a warm glow on the fresh snow. Blue jays squawked and squirrels chattered.

My first outing created a trail and the second outing the next day was to enjoy what I missed the day prior as I watched for fallen logs and debris that may have been hidden under the snow. The weather was perfect. After going over my trail a second time, I think I'll be able to take my classic skis out the next time.

The trail is short but it is perfect for someone who hasn't skied in a while. There is nobody zipping by and it allows for a slow, enjoyable pace where I can stop and enjoy the scenery without feeling like I'm about to get run over by the experienced skiers.

My goal is to get out at least 3-4 times per week with either skis or snowshoes. Today will be a rest day. The muscles that I haven't used lately are telling me that they need to recuperate.