Machickanee Cross Country
Ski Trails

Oconto County, WI

Trail System

The Machickanee Cross Country Ski Trails were originally planned and developed by local skiers in the Oconto County Forest with the cooperation of the Oconto County Land , Forest , and Parks Committee. The current trail system has resulted from the efforts of many volunteers who have donated their time, money, and energy since 1978. In 1982, the Machickanee Cross Country Ski Club was formed to organize those efforts.

The trails lead through a series of forest types, including red pine plantations, coniferous swamps, oak ridges, and birch and aspen stands. They undulate through topography ranging from creek bottoms to ridge tops. Numerous hills and curves of various slopes and lengths make this course a challenge for the intermediate to advanced skiers.

The Machickanee Cross Country Ski Trails also include a beginner loop that can be enjoyed by skiers of all ability levels.

Current Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions as of 2-27-10
We received about 4" of new snow Tuesday night. The trails were groomed Friday morning. Warmer than predicted temps on Friday afternoon created some spotty sticky conditions. High winds overnight brought down some more oak leaves. The trails were groomed again on Saturday morning. Temps are predicted to be around 32 degrees Saturday afternoon, so the track should hold up pretty well. Skiing should be very good for the Candlelight Ski tonight. If necessary, the Blackberry Ramble will be regroomed just prior to the Candlelight Ski.

Best skiing will be with waxless skis treated with MaxiGlide or silicone. That will minimize any snow or leaf sticking. One skier this morning was using blue hard wax and reported no problems and said the skiing was very good.

Ski Tips
Waxless skis need to be waxed! Waxless refers to the kick area only. The glide area (tips and tails) are no different than waxable skis and need to be waxed. Unless you do a lot of skiing, waxing the tips and tails once a year should be sufficient. You can also use a silicone or similar spray, but that is very temporary. Contact us if you would like your skis waxed. We can also teach you quickly how to do it yourself. Otherwise, bring your skis to a ski shop to have it done.

When skiing down bigger hills, take one ski out of the track. This does a couple of things for you. First, it widens your base and makes you more stable going down the hill. Second, it gives you the ability to snowplow to control your speed and to turn. If you see a left hand turn coming up, take the right ski out of the track and vice-versa for a right hand turn.

If you would like a free lesson to help you with your technique or for skiing those hills, give us a call at 920-846-2965 or send us an email at rtabar@centurytel.net.