Ask Now: Is Mitchell Park getting winter recreational trials?

Is there a rumor you'd like tracked down? Geoff Bruce answers some of the mysteries of life in Brookfield and Elm Grove and helps solve everyday problems.

A resident asks: While walking in Mitchell Park this week, I noticed sections of grass recently mowed as if preparing for a cross-country ski trail. They had no signs or other indication that this is the case, though. Is the city planning to start a cross-country ski trail at Mitchell Park?

Answer: The recently mowed portions of Mitchell Park were not done in order to prepare for a new cross-country ski trail. Rather, they were done as part of preparation for a high school cross country meet.

While those sections of grass will not be becoming new ski trails, the city does have some offerings in that department.

"As weather and snow conditions permit, the city grooms trails at both Wirth Park and Mitchell Park," Brookfield Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry Bill Kolstad said.

Information regarding those trails is available in the department's seasonal activity guide, which is mailed to all residents and is available online.

There will be 1.5 miles of double-tracked trails at Wirth Park. The trail begins near the flagpole by the warming house.

Mitchell Park's trails measure between 2 and 3 miles along the Fox River and woodlands. The trails begin at either of the hiking trail signs located near the south parking lot.

Email your questions to Geoff Bruce at gbruce@jrn.com.