WINTERSPORTS -- Ah, the first weekend of spring. The cross-country skiing trails at Mount Spokane State Park were in very good shape on Sunday, March 20, even though only 20 vehicles were in the snow-free parking lot at Selkirk Lodge.

The groomer had set perfect tracks and skating decks on much of the trail system. The snow was softening by 11 a.m. in the brilliant sunshine, but that meant skiers simply got a better workout as the afternoon wore on.

Grooming will continue through March.

Spring weather is perfect for groups and especially novices to take advantage of warm temperatures and the on-mountain rentals for cross-country gear from the Fitness Fanatics trailer at Selkirk Lodge.

John Drumm of Fitness Fanatics said the portable ski shop would continue to be open on grooming days, Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at least through March.

"After that, we'll play it by ear," he said.