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Cross Country Snowmaking

CONSTRUCTION OF THIS PROJECT HAS BEGUN. 

  • The blue lines in the above map indicate construction locations from August 20 through late October.
  • As construction progresses, work zones will change. Be mindful of construction zones, and please keep out.
  • Snowmaking on trails will be available to enjoy early winter 2021.
  • Phase 2 of this project (Rough Rider Trail) is not approved at this stage.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT SECTIONS OF TRAILS ARE CLOSED DUE TO OPEN DITCHES.

CONSTRUCTION DATES INCLUDE:

  • Aug. 28 – Nov 1: Edge of Equestrian Center campus to near yellow gate (i.e. Northfork to Pony Express Trail).
  • Sept. 7 – Nov 1: Practice Hill area to the edge of the Equestrian Center campus (i.e. upper Night Hawk Trail) and Northfork trail from Equestrian Center to Intersection 2.
  • Sept. 29 – Nov 1: Alder Creek Road from end of paving to Moondance Hut
  • TUESDAY Oct 19 – The Alder Creek Rd (just beyond the access gate) will be CLOSED / RESTRICTED from 9am-2pm.  Please plan to avoid travel at this time, or expect delays.
  • TBD: Northern section of ACAC parking lot, Equestrian Paddock area.

All dates are subject to change. Please note that the contractor is planning to work seven days a week.

WHY THIS PROJECT?

  • Past seasons have seen little snow at low elevations, which affects TDXC and those who want to utilize this amenity.
  • This investment also protects key association revenue, which can stabilize overall dues and costs. After phase 2 completion, conservative estimates of $200,000+ ROI per low-snow season translate to less than five low-snow years to recoup investment.
  • Days of operation at TDXC (Average season length = 136 days)
    • 2017-18 (low-snow year): Open 65 days
    • 2014-15 (drought year): Open 31 days
    • 2013-14 (drought year): Open 80 days

WHAT ARE THE IMPACTS?

  • The acquisition of snowmaking capabilities will create more member enjoyment out of cross country winter trails all season long. Short-term impacts include construction that will be conducted during the summer months, which will not impact cross country ski operations. There will be minimal impact on summer trail use.
  • All earthwork trenching for required infrastructure will be conducted on existing soft-covered roads to minimize disturbance.

WHAT IS THE TOTAL COST?

  • The Board approved a budget for installation of the snowmaking system and purchase of snow guns not to exceed  $1,089,079.
  • Operating costs: We are budgeting up to $45,000 to make snow on a 3km loop for early season skiing and to ensure access to our great terrain all season long.

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