April 24, 2008 Timberline

The drive from Bachelor to Timberline was on dry pavement after descending about 5 mles from the Mt. Bachelor ski area.  As we neared Mt. Hood, we could see the storm hanging around the volcano.  The Timberline access road was partially snow covered, and as we ascended the snowbanks became taller.  In some places as we neared the parking lot, we noticed cornices hanging over the roadway.  It reminded me of the walls of snow as you aproach the Mt. Baker ski area.  The overnight parking area at Timberline was deserted probably due to the blowing snow/blizzard conditions.  There were no views of the mountain tonight.  In the morning, it was still blowing, there was 5" of new and temps in low 20's.  We put on winter storm clothes and went out into the white room.  We used a Shell 2 for 1 coupon and paid $42 for our 2 tickets.  Lifts operate 9am-3pm.  Due to high winds, they only operated Stormin Norman express and the new Jeff Flood - Still Creek express.  There were a small number of hardy souls on the mountain today.  It was another great powder day.  The new chair is mainly in treed terrain which protected the snow and provided great visibility.  At 11:30, we were skiing a trail without a track on it.  It was a hooded, face gaiter and goggle day, with wind and falling snow freshening the slopes.  When we returned to the camper, we noticed most vehicles without 4wd had their chains on.  Imagine, a chain day at the end of April.   Now, we need to get over to Mt. Hood Meadows for the trifecta...