Fun in the Snow

There is no question that the conditions are challenging. We obviously need to pray a lot harder or smarter than we have been so far, and maybe brush up on the rain-dance moves or something cause we need a lot more snow on the ground. Fast. Looking at the forecast, Friday may be a bit hopeful and after that the whole of the following week. None of it looks like major precipitation yet but 1) as we get closer the percentage chances may increase, and 2) it makes it look like the high-pressure system that has put a lid on incoming systems for some weeks now may finally be crumbling. So here is to hopin... 

In the meantime, there is still room for some fun in the snow skiing facets on the north-facing. The catch is that the approaches are now getting quite long for first tracks on good cover although, on occasion, that can be resolved too (see below). Here are some pictures (click to enlarge). 

One really cool way to resolve the "excessive approach" issue...

...and get you on the top in no time.

Andrew getting into a big plate of deep fluffy stuff.

Your's truly enjoying some too.

Andrew doing his magic in the steep and deep.

Skiing the Facets in Silver Fork

 When facets are deep and the only layer two good things occur: 1) You get to ski light and fast powder, 2) you don't have to be so darned paranoid about avy danger. So that's just about the only the good news with these conditions that are offering a really poor start to the winter. The less good part is how much approaching you have to do while avoiding, as best as possible, anything facing south. This is true of both the approach and the exit. Bottom line, if you want untouched good lines you need to be ready to travel 4 - 5 times as much distance as you ski. If you are willing to do that, you will be rewarded with both first tracks and solitude.

The pictures are from yesterday in upper Silver Fork.

We found first tracks on looker's right, from
under the rocks to the trees.

Mike farming turns...

...as well as your's truly. By the time we were done, that whole
 side was ploughed. Hard work but somebody gotta do it!

Mike enjoying a lunch break in the sun.

To the left our exit tracks.