Sorry this is a bit late but hopefully it will still be useful.
Skied both Skate and Classic Saturday afternoon and per Todd's Saturday update the skate lane at Lime Creek is in great shape. Level, solid, fast over 85% of the track and just a little soft in a few spots. For this Des Moines area skier the best surprise may have been the fact that the walkers and dog excersisers actually respect the groomed trails by staying to the edges or off it completely!
As for the classic track, the Praire Loops that are groomed with the skate lane are in good condition. Washed out it a few spots from overzealous skaters and in some corners but for the most part the track is deep and well set. Temps were around 12F so my kick wax was Swix V30 Blue which was great for all but just a few hills open to the wind were the track was icy. The Woodland Loops were trashed for the most part. Between the walkers and lack of snow since the warmup and rain the woods were a pretty tough ski. Not a complete wreck but it required quite a bit of concentration.
Sorry to ramble but folks, if you have not made the trip to Lime Creek I heartily recommend you give it a try. It is a big park, the grooming is top notch, they have great snow, the people are friendly. This is more than worth the 3 hour round trip (from Des Moines) for a day of skiing. Or, stay the night and get 2 days in. Food and lodging are very reasonable in Mason City.
