Daily Trail Report for 2.12.26.
Coming into Wilson, driving by the east fields Wednesday morning, I saw two moose browsing. The very icons of this weekend’s upcoming Moose Chase! While technically we do want to give them their space, not actually chase them, it is one of the spectacular things of cross-country skiing at Trail Creek—the opportunity to see these beautiful strong creatures in the winter.
Two moose at Trail Creek and the Moose Chase race course – come ski!
At a Glance
- A fresh recharge for some of the tracks
- Tech tip Thursday – Save our Soles!
- Why be a citizen Nordic racer
General Weather – a recharge of white
Mountain Weather is forecasting mixed snow showers and warmish temps. Prepare for potentially sticky snow and wet layers on adventures leading into the weekend. Overnight temps look great!
What’s Groomed Today?
Planned Thursday Grooming
Emily’s Pond and Stilson have gotten some snow but are not likely going to get enough… check the grooming page before you head out if you are looking for groomed surfaces.
Daily grooming
Groomers continue to balance when the snow falls and planned schedules. Always check the grooming page for the most current snapshot.
Tech Tip Thursday
What a delight to see the fresh snow recharging our winter wonderland with a little clean white. The temperatures could be a little cooler but we will take it! If the mix of fresh snow and wet are gumming up your boots, here is a tech tip from Scotty McGee, of Peak Performance. All photos from Peak Performance Archives.
Save Our Soles!
NEVER use your pointy pole tip on the soles of your boots to remove snow/ice.
This likely scratches the bases, making them much more prone to gather more sticky snow. Instead, try applying the following to the bottoms of your boots, and to your bindings: anti-ice spray, aerosol wax, or good ole PAM.
Also, you can use your ski tip to clean out ice or snow from under the bar in the front of the boot.
Post Moose Chase hot dog grill, looks good!
Why be a citizen Nordic ski racer?
For the post race hot dog clearly, because even if hot dogs are not part of your normal fare, wow are they tasty after a good cross-country ski.
Christian Otto grew up in Germany, raced in college in New Mexico, coached college racers and now supports the GTSSF Nordic program. He shared a few of thoughts on why he loves being a part of community Nordic racing.
Built-in community: Being a citizen racer in Teton Valley [or Jackson] means you’ve instantly got a crew—friendly faces at the start line, high-fives at the finish, and a small-town vibe where everyone cheers for everyone.
Fitness with a fun scoreboard: It’s the best kind of “stay in shape” because you’re training with purpose—pushing yourself, lining up against others, and watching your times improve week to week.
Nature as your race venue: You’re not on a treadmill—you’re out in the mountains and snow, breathing fresh air and soaking up the kind of scenery people travel across the country to experience.
Upcoming opportunities for fun
Moose Chase on Saturday
Whether you’re racing for speed, sharing the trails with friends, or just there for the smiles and post-race camaraderie, it’s a morning full of fresh air, great energy, and plenty to love. 
Grab your ski buddies, bring your Valentine, and join us for one of Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club’s most fun and festive community events. Everyone is welcome, and the stoke will be high.
Tuesday Night Nordic
A biweekly community XC ski race series for skiers of any ability.
Mark your calendars for February 24th at Teton Reserves and March 10th at Grand Targhee. Races start at 5:45 pm.
Skate or classic, all ages welcome.
Organized by Grand Targhee Ski and Snowboard Foundation for the community at large!
Nordic Nights – Skate Lessons
The first of four skate sessions are slated to begin Tuesday, Feb 17 at Stilson, and run at 4:30p for four Tuesdays.
As is likely readily apparent, the Peak Performance team will keep assessing conditions as we need adequate snow cover for grooming for the series to launch.
Meeting spot is at the west end of Stilson parking, near the (old) Transit Ctr Building.
West Yellowstone Rendezvous
Come be a part of the American Ski Marathon Series—North America’s longest-running and largest citizen’s racing and touring series, highlighting long distance ski events throughout the country. March 7, 2026.
And it is in our backyard on some phenomenal trails with excellent grooming.
