April 1999
1998/99 Winter on the Grand Mesa
This has been the most difficult winter on the Grand Mesa for non-motorized users in over 20 years. Low snowfall and the lack of signs and maps have been a frustration for all users. Heavily-used cross country ski trails such as WaterDog, WestBench and Lake of the Woods had no signs indicating their non-motorized designation so machines and foot traffic hard packed the trails making them all but impossible for skiers to use. After many requests to Grand Junction District Ranger Connie Clementson, small signs finally went up at three trailheads in early March. The first ever winter recreation map is anticipated to be completed in May of this year.
Skiers are also concerned about an undeveloped backcountry area known as Deep Creek which is rumored to become a snowmobile "corridor" from Mesa Lakes Resort south and up onto the rim. Deep Creek has been one of the few backcountry areas enjoyed by skiers in recent years that is not yet overcrowded because of its rugged terrain. Used mainly by proficient skiers and snowshoers, Deep Creek has exciting steep slopes and few marked routes. Officials say that the Deep Creek snowmobile route has not been approved, but snowmobile use is increasing and during the past few months snowmobilers have permeated nearly all of Deep Creek, not just a corridor. Skiers are hopeful that the anticipated maps and more trailhead signs will resolve some of the problems for next year.