Meet at Frisco Safeway at 9 AM. Park farthest from store. Spruce Creek TH is about 3.7 mi south of Breckenridge.Notify leader if driving directly to TH; arrive ready to ski by 10 AM.
Mike Moerk mike@moerk.org 719-659-1955
We will ski up the trail to the Mohawk Lakes trailhead then descend down the 4WD Spruce Creek Rd to complete the loop. The trail is a moderate climb through the woods. Some skiers prefer kicker skins, but it can be done with fishscales. We will return with a brisk downhill ride back to the TH. Intermediate backcountry downhill skill required.
Depending on the group, we may choose to make this an out-and-back, skiing back down the Spruce Creek Trail. This is more technical but the snow is often better on the trail than the road. Bring the usual: 10 essentials and clothing appropriate for the weather, trail lunch/snacks. You do not need avalanche gear.
Many skiers prefer using kicker skins for the climb, but I just use fishscales. Perhaps a little more work on the steep parts but more glide... either is doable, and it's really personal preference. It is a pretty steady uphill for 2 mi, with a few short steep sections. The first creek crossing deserves attention, narrow & deceptive under the snow cover. The descent on the road can be a pleasant and fast cruise, but if the snow is poor (choppy and uneven), it can be hard to get a consistent wedge. Descending via the trail often provides more consistent snow, and is a fun descent for a confident intermediate skier.