Hello Everyone:

Yesterday, February 20, 2023, the FOSM Trails Maintenance Crew hiked the length of Switchback Trail and the portion of Challenge trail between the Ellis parking lot and the 10K South junction. Due to a general lack of new fallen tree reports, yesterday’s hike was what we refer to as a “voyage of discovery”. We did not discover any problems. We did discover some excellent conditions for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. As is usually the case in the Sandias, there was variation in the depth, but there was plenty of coverage, even in the places that tend to be windblown. The only measurement taken, using a Pulaski handle, came in at about three feet. At starting time of the hike, the temperature at the Crest was in the low 20’s and a brisk wind provided quite a chill. There was an overcast and ground fog most of the day that dissipated at lower elevation. These trails/trail sections are clear. Although Switchback had seen some use, there were few tracks on the Challenge section.

Yesterday’s crew consisted of Byron Garner, Rav Nicholson, Jerry Pekarek, Jamey Browning, David McCreery, John Cooper and Bob Lowder.

Please see attached Word document for photos and additional narrative. Both photos by Jamey Browning.

Thanks,

Bob L.