About the course
Registration opens at 7:30 AM. Skiers will be able to hit the trail with a rolling start beginning at 8:00 AM. Assume it will be a full day event - most skiers complete the loop in 5-7 hours. The trail begins at approximately 1350' but after an initial climb, most of the loop is a clockwise circumnavigation of Camel's Hump at 2500' to 3000' elevation. The majority of the trail is extremely remote, with no easy bail out points. There is a mid-station about halfway around, near where the trail crosses the Monroe Trail. Hot drinks and snacks are provided, although skiers should plan to bring their own food as well. Due to daylight and safety concerns, all skiers should be past the mid-station by 1:00 PM, otherwise CHC volunteers will bring them down the Monroe Trail.
Most participants ski the loop on metal edged backcountry skis with fish scales and a lightweight backcountry boot, though we do get skiers on all manner of gear. Skins are not required, though many skiers find them quite helpful on some of the steeper sustained climbs. AT gear has been used, but is not recommended, since there are no big downhill sections and the equipment tends to be heavy. On the other hand, skinny Nordic skis are also tricky unless you are highly competent on them. The trail can best be described as a goat path - lots of ups and downs, and often quite narrow. As a side note, it is also one of the most scenic backcountry routes around, winding through terrain not easily accessible via any other route.
The ski concludes back in Huntington after a long but fairly mellow downhill, coming back down through the Nordic Ski Area trails. At the finish, skiers enjoy hot soup, sandwiches, cider, a fire pit and great conversation. We encourage folks to linger for a bit, rehashing the day and enjoying a mellow post-ski gathering
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the course?
It's a long ski (13 miles) and can take 5-8 hours depending on the conditions and the ability of the skier.
What is the trail like?
Our trail can perhaps be best described as a goat path; lots of ups and downs and mostly single track. The trail is tagged and operates in a clockwise rotation from start to finish. There is a mid-station near the half-way point where skiers can take a break to refuel, rest and, if in trouble, can get off the trail and be taken to safety.
What is the elevation range?
Elevation ranges from 1,200' - 2,900' and the trail passes through rugged, remote terrain. Most of the elevation gain is during the first hour or two of the ski with many shorter ups and downs as skiers wind around Camel's Hump.
What type of gear should I use?
Mid-width touring ski preferably with a metal edge, a three pin binding and a lightweight boot is recommended. Many skiers use skins for some of the more extended climbs. Nordic and telemark equipment have also completed the tour in the past.
What else should I bring?
Snacks and/or lunch, water, extra clothes and proper backcountry gear are essential.
Is this a race?
No. We all start as a group, and after that the pace is up to you. Sweeper teams will ensure no skier is left behind.
