January 5, 2006 Crystal Mt.

After 59.8 miles of peaceful driving, I arrive at the upper lot to broken blue sky and balmy temps. Is it spring already? <br><br>On the chair @ 8:50 am, Rex @ 9 am. Strong upper winds were threatening a shut down of the upper mountain. Black skies, billowing clouds, and strong winds made for an intimidating scene. The lower half of Mt. Rainier was basking in sun , while the upper half had a blanket of clouds wrapping around like a tornado. <br><br>Snow was powdery dust on the north side of Green Valley Bowl, to mashed potatos and gravy off left of Bear Pits, to wind blown, crusty buff in the trees off Break Over. Every condition you could imagine was there and every snow formation and sculpture was being built. <br><br>Made for an intersting day and a need for fat skis. <br><br>No crowds. No lines. <br><br>Upper mountain shut down @ approx 11 am. 50 mph winds +. One more warm day and then back to normal cool temps.