filed under: maintenance best practices
NWT communties are connected by countless numbers of trails, though few of them are dedicated ski trails. With a little work, some equipment and know-how, ski doo trails, walking trails, cutlines, riverbeds, fields and lakes can be turned into quality ski trails. And it’s well worth the effort. Groomed and tracked ski trails are easier to ski on, easier to learn on, better to race on and a whole lot faster than bush trails. Groomed trails turn skiing into skiing!
by NWT Recreation and Parks Assn.
Within each section of this guide, you’ll find descriptions of these basic processes: the methods, the tools and some tips for each grooming procedure. This isn’t a recipe book, though, nor is it comprehensive. Ski trail grooming is part science, part art, part magic and a whole lot of experience. The more practice you get, the better you will understand how to groom in your neck of the woods. You’ll also probably encounter some unexpected challenges. Hopefully, the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) at the end of this guide will prove helpful. If not, trail groomers are usually a helpful bunch. If you don’t know any ski trail groomers in your region, call the NWTRPA Trails Coordinator for a list of possible contacts.
Published September 2011
Established in 1989, the NWT Recreation and Parks Association is works with communities across the NWT to promote healthy living through active recreation.
Volunteers for Outdoor Arizona Crew Leader Manual
This manual has been written to aid crew leaders working with trail work volunteers. It assumes the following priorities, in order of importance, for every volunteer trail work event: 1) Safety, 2) Enjoyment, 3) Quality product, 4) Productivity.
Colorado Trail Foundation Crew Leader Handbook
As a crew leader you represent the CTF. One of your main jobs is to convey the CTF’s thanks to the volunteers for their commitment to making and preserving The Colorado Trail as a national treasure.
Appalachian Mountain Club 2022 Outdoor Leader Handbook
Outdoor leadership skills can be developed and improved over time through a combination of self-study, formal training and experience. Leadership trainings are offered frequently by volunteers and staff of the AMC. The trainings range from a single day to a weekend. If you are looking for additional training, the AMC offers several courses each season through the Guided Outdoors program.
A Call for Expanding Trails Research
Trails research can help support trail management decision-making and funding by providing objective, quantitative information describing trail users, their numbers and demographics, preferences, and economic expenditures.
