Organizers of the Birchleg ski and snowshoe remain optimistic it will go ahead despite the depleted snowpack.
In part, they're counting on a return to colder weather, perhaps with some snowfall by Sunday when the event is scheduled to be held. But an extra step has also been taken.
"We were out there on Saturday and we groomed one half of the trails, just one side, leaving enough snow on the other side that if we had to we'd be able to drag some of that pack onto the trail to provide some good snow," said Norm Clark of the Hickory Wing Ski Club.
As a result, the 44th annual version of the event should be ready to go this Sunday.
Skiers are asked to show up at the box car parking lot five kilometres east of Tabor Mountain Ski Resort by 10 a.m. while snowshoers will start off from the moose viewing area five kilometres further east at 10:15 a.m.
(They can also show up at the city hall parking lot at 9:30 a.m. to carpool for a $3 fee).
A 10 kilometre loop suitable for classic-style cross country skiing has been set out. It includes a cut off that shortens the trip to six kilometres for those who prefer not to go the full distance. Snowshoers will start at the east end and head towards the box car
At the boxcar, there will be hot dogs and hot drinks from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants are asked to provide a donation to help with trail maintenance and they must sign a waiver.
For more information on the snowshoe, organized by the Caledonia Ramblers, call Tim at 250-301-8247. For the skiing, call Norm at 250-963-7417 or Val at 250-564-8293.
