State of the Mountain

A couple of skiers discuss their lines on a bluebird day in Sun Down Bowl on Jan. 31.

As sparkling and magical as everything looks when deep blue skies illuminate fresh snow, it was none too warm on Vail Mountain Thursday.

The 10 or so inches that fell earlier this week have settled in most places – pretty customary when the slopes endure the 80 mph gusts we’ve had this week.

The north-facing slopes are the way to go to find the softest stashes, as the south winds blew a ton of drifts back there.

If deep powder is what you’re after, try Snag Park in Northwoods and even some easterly aspects in the bowls – Ricky’s Ridge in Sun Down and Genghis Khan in Tea Cup. Also, you’re sure to find all kinds of patches to plant deep powder turns on the far side of Mongolia Bowl.
Be wary, however, as the snow can be deceiving. It may look like a thick, luscious, untouched blanket, but the minute you cut a carve into it, you’ll hear the unmistakable scrape of windblown crust.

Worry not, though. Mother Nature has us covered. Forecasts are calling for more snow tonight and Friday morning and it could all add up to a good eight or nine inches. The temperatures Friday are also supposed to – maybe not skyrocket – but lift gradually into the teens and then the upper 20s by the weekend.

So bring your layers and your powder boards and get ready for more snow. As the wind is going to continue to leave its mark, wear your gators, face masks and windproof jackets.