Today, after three days of snowfall, was the time to take out the skis. The first of the season is always a special occasion. Of course, there is the anticipation and trepidation. There is enhanced enjoyment in the evening before in preparing the gear and making sure the ski bases are okay, the skins are clean, and the backpack is ready. These things are pretty routine for most outings, but on the first tour of the season, it's all just a bit more festive feeling.
Given that we just emerged from a major storm system that dropped up to three feet of snow and stopped just a few hours before my tour started, avalanche terrain was out. In the Taos area that means you go to the Williams Lake Trail. You start at about 10,200' and go to 11,200'. It's a five-mile roundtrip and the whole trail is on the flat, removed from any steep slopes. It's not the most exciting destination and it is overpopulated, but today, it offered one to three feet of powder and a total glistering winter wonderland.
Here are some pictures.
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| View of Taos backcountry 1/2 |
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| View of Taos backcountry 2/2 |
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| Williams Lake at about 11,200' |
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| First break and transition spot of the season. |
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| Loki the Magnificent |
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