Lack Of Snow Won't Stop Book Across The Bay

Snow conditions for Saturday's Book Across the Bay are not ideal but manageable, according to an event organizer.

Organizer Laurence Wiland said plows have been pushing snow onto the course to add extra padding for skiers, who will trek along a frozen Chequamegon Bay from Ashland to Washburn.

The snow is expected to be firm, making it very fast for skate skiers, he said.

For cross-country skiers, the course might get a little tricky. “We’ll do the best we can at setting track for striders, but we don’t have a lot of snow to work with, so striders may be looking at a good double-pole workout,” the Book Across the Bay website states.

Wiland said he's received numerous inquiries about conditions, and he refers people to the event's website for updates on course conditions.

Ice along the course ranges from 12 to 24 inches and is considered safe, Wiland said.

“We're definitely going ahead with everything as planned. There's plenty of ice out there,” he said.

The Book Across the Bay also includes snowshoers, though Wiland recommended using hiking boots with added traction.

Despite a lack of snow this year, Wiland said, conditions are actually better than last year when there was even less snow.