With two major snowfalls before Christmas, the outlook seemed good for snow sports in northern Michigan this winter.
But recent temperature swings mean cross-country skiers will have to keep waiting.
There was two feet of snow in parts of the region just a week ago – and trail groomers were hard at work.
But after multiple days of rain and temperatures around 50 degrees, that snow base has all but disappeared.
Brian Beauchamp is with TART trails – a group that grooms three different trail systems for classic and skate skiing in the Traverse City area.
"We’re down to mostly dirt. Obviously skiing is not an option right now, but the trails are still there. And that’s the best way to beat the effects of perma-gloom weather is to get out there and experience the majesty of the woods, regardless of the conditions."
There are some minor snow showers in the forecast for this week, but it’ll take several more inches before the Nordic ski season really gets rolling.