Quick report
Fine loop on the Summit's nordic trails. When the backcountry goes high and dry, nordic skiing is often fun. Such was the case today, especially at upper elevations (careful in Rockdale). Yesterday's NWAC weather forecast was spot on regarding the inversion and stout easterly flow. Winds reached strong in a narrow portion of the Rockdale valley; see photo for clouds pouring through the gaps. Cloudy east of the pass below ~3500' throughout much of the day. Cold in Cold Creek, warm, sunny, and windy in Windy Acres. Stunning to see Granite so dry. Off-trail snow was firm, sun/warming affected, largely boot-supportable. Surface facets sparkled in the morning, but they're mostly only a couple millimeters high. As the Summit begins to shut down alpine areas due to low-snow hazards and blocks uphill skinning, please advocate for keeping the nordic trails groomed and operating -- the trails in Cold Creek and higher are largely in great shape and the closest best option to Seattle. Those without passes searching for a long gentle skin may be interested in the "Shared Corridor" which appears to offer access to Windy Pass under the SUP.