Skiing Like a Madman

Well, I have officially graduated to moderately competent in cross-country skiing. I've been out in the snow for the last three weekends running, and am feeling pretty confident. I even went down a pretty hairy hill with bumps and all sorts of unevenness and didn't even break anything. Heck, I didn't even fall down.

The last two weekends I went to Ray Benson Sno Park, which is in Santiam pass between here and Bend. It is a bit of a drive, but the trails are great, as are their shelters. The only downside is that there are snowmobile trails. Nothing breaks up the tranquility of skiing through the woods more than unmuffled two-stroke engines spewing noxious gases. Aren't these things meant for transportation in the Yukon??? Ah, outdoor adventure for those averse to exercise. Don't get me started on Jet Skis.

This week I have started initiating trips for the UO outdoor program. Basically, you plan a trip, post it, and people sign up to go. The program gives the trip initiator (i.e. ME) free gear rentals. Score! They also have large vans you can rent, so if you get a big group you can all share the costs of transportation.

I am planning on taking a group night hiking up the Butte this week, and next week I am taking a group up Eagle's Rest to do some star gazing. I'm hoping someone has a telescope they can bring along.

In February they have Kayak practice sessions at the pool, so I am going to try to get competent at kayak rolls so I can suggest a sea kayak trip to the coast. I had planned to do some kayaking in the Sound last year, but didn't end up going. Looks like if I plan it right, I can do it this summer for a lot less than I expected to spend last time.