It's Groundhog Day. Time for The State of the Winter Address. How should one describe it? It started quite early with a snowfall in October that brought down trees and power lines. Then November came and it was quite warm. In December the flakes started to fly and conditions were getting good. By the time January arrived it was very good and there was promise of a fantastic nordic season ahead. Then suddenly there was a crash. The photo below sums up how the rains came January 17 and then again on January 24. Only the highest elevations and lake region held on to skiable snow. The snow cover maps showed the damage and the cross-country skiers had to get creative to find skiable snow. In spite of the rain and shrinking snow cover some remained and the last two weeks have shown signs of improvement. Personally, my longest road trip has only been about 55 miles to ski. However, for some PA residents the traveling to get to snow has been much longer. I think that is about to change as prospects this week look good right now for some snow in much of the state. I am staying positive and hopeful for snow in February and March. Another encouraging item this winter is the number of state parks setting classical tracks. This is good news and I hope skiers are appreciating this trend. I am happy to say, even with the heavy rains, that the state of winter in PA is upbeat. Phil saw his shadow today. There will be more opportunities for great cross-country skiing this winter. Get out there and enjoy it. H. P.

A young skier takes a tumble January 18, 2010