Hwy 20- Gate-to-Gate Tour?

I don't typically weigh-in on these threads, but a co-worker brought this one to my attention. As Lowell indicated we first skied Hwy 20 in '78 on classic touring gear. Having not heard of any other reports I imagine that was the first ski. Over the years as skate skiing technology/technique developed I started to consider that what was once a tour might be doable in a day. I made a couple of crossings a few years back; always in the spring just before the highway opening. Timing is everything in my opinion. I think it would be a big project to kick and glid your way across; especially if there was new snow. When I ran into Craig I had skied from the west on perfect corn on the sides of the remnant snowmobile roadbed. Due to snow melt and the fast work of the Hwy workers I did bike the first 6 miles of the crossing, which should be expected. I made the return ski the next day. In planning I figured a 12 hour trip, but brought light bivy gear in a fanny pack just in case. As it turned out I had the highway totally to myself in both directions.......excellent without snowmobiles, but committed if you don't make it. In the end under near ideal conditions it took 6 hours to go east and 4 hours to go west. I went at a steady pace, but certainly didn't try to kill myself so I could fully enjoy the experience. In retrospect someday I hope the Methow folks put on an event 'Escape the Valley'. I believe at racing pace it could be done in 2 hours, but for the rest of us mortals it's a cool place for 'FLOW'.

Is there anything you Skoog brothers haven't done? I think you might be giving Fred Beckey a run for his money.... <br><br>thanks for all the useful info and links-<br>cheers