NWT communities 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.
Established in 1989, the NWT Recreation and Parks Association is works with communities across the NWT to promote healthy living through active recreation.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail: Trail Stewardship Notebook
posted Mar 27, 2024
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail (NST) is a thousand-mile footpath highlighting Wisconsin’s renowned Ice Age heritage and scenic beauty. The Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) and its partners can shape users’ experiences. As stewards of the land and the Trail, we can help users develop a connection with the land and create a sense of wonder — even pique their curiosity enough to further explore the Trail.
posted Nov 25, 2023
This white paper provides collected best practices on winter bikeway maintenance as seen in US cities and around the world. The paper covers snow removal from bikeways, different types of de-icing surface applications and their advantages/disadvantages, and best practices for winter maintenance prioritization and scheduling. The paper also includes a brief discussion on innovative winter maintenance techniques either in use or in development.
Winter Maintenance Resource Guide
posted Nov 25, 2023
Who is responsible for winter maintenance—property owners or government agencies—and what are the challenges?
posted Jul 15, 2022
For trails to be considered “sustainable” they must meet these recreational needs while providing adequate protection to the environment while minimizing trail maintenance.
622 views • posted 08/17/2020
