Mt. Spokane Trails Groomed

While the downhill ski resorts are still begging for more snow, the groomer at Mount Spokane State Park was out Thursday to set the first tracks of the season for cross-country skiers.

A few skiers were already on the trails while the groomer was working.

“We were just going out to pack the snow on the cross-country trail system with a snowmobile, but we got up there and realized there was enough snow to run the big groomer,” said Pete Wood, park manager.

If the snowpack doesn’t deteriorate, Wood said the park will continue with a schedule of grooming Thursdays through Mondays.

A new trail constructed this summer around Quartz Mountain brings the park’s cross-country trail system to just over 14 miles or 24 kilometers.

Washington State Snow Park permits are required for parking at the ski trail parking area.

The permits can be purchased at Spokane area cross-country ski shops, The Inn at Mount Spokane and at the State Park office. Cost is $20 for a season or $7 for one day.

, DataTimes