Two events are planned (conditions permitting) at the former Dutch Hill Ski Area in Readsboro on Sunday, Jan 15. For snowshoers, we'll do a loop along the perimeter of the former ski area and explore some of the history of the area along the way. At the same time, intermediate and advanced backcountry skiers and riders can join a guided group that will be checking out the new glade that was cut this fall as well as trying out some of the old ski slopes. Don't get me wrong here – the ski area has not reopened! There are no lifts. But the former ski area is now part of the Green Mountain National Forest, and has been approved for non-motorized recreational use. DHASH (Dutch Hill Alliance of Skiers and Hikers), a Chapter of the Catamount Trail Association, has been working with the US Forest Service to clear slopes and glades to make backcountry skiing and snowshoeing (and even sledding) enjoyable. DHASH volunteers will be leading the two events on Sunday. Contact the tour leader to find out the start time and place. That way we will know who is coming and can contact you if we have to cancel due to lack of snow. The weather forecast is saying we'll have snow falling all day on Friday and Saturday, so we might have pretty good conditions. Bring lunch – both tours will last 4-5 hours.
For the snowshoe tour, contact Diana Todd at diana.r.todd@gmail.com or text 802-490-0210 (email is preferred). The snowshoe tour is being co-led by Bill Green. Some sections will be steep, so consider bringing ski or trekking poles for added stability.
For the BC ski/ride tour, contact Sam Bartlett at sam@bart-tech.com (put CTA in the subject line to get around filters) or call 413-834-0274. Note: this is not an event for beginners!