January 30, 2012 Summit Central

The telemetry, Mountain Pass Report and Ski Report were pretty clear – it was a soggy morning.  Normally, I wouldn’t go up but after reading Scotsman’s report on Sunday at Crystal I thought I would be open to skiing 32 degree fresh snow.  Plus I needed to take my mind off an upcoming meeting with a surgeon.  I arrived at Silver Fir lift at 8:30 and it was 32 degrees and maybe snowing but more likely drizzling.  One other vehicle pulled up and he stalled around in his vehicle longer than me.  They started loading at 9 and I was the only person in line.  Yeah, there is a message here.  After about 5 lift towers, the temperature dropped 1 degree and it was snowing.    At the top of the lift, the surface was slightly crusty but softened to a “smoothie” texture once down 100 feet.  The ungroomed trails had 3” of smoothie that skied like mashed potatoes.  The groomers had about 2” of the smoothie snow and it was really enjoyable for carving and cruising.  Once at the base, the flurries were still wet but I was sitting on my neoprene “butt warmer” so the moisture never penetrated my seat.  After an hour and a half, it was time to get back to the city.  I must admit it was rather pleasant in a different way.    I swung by Hyak and West and did not notice anyone touring.

I'm glad I provided you with some motivation. Skiing in the rain is " like fun but only different". An acquired taste like haggis and Velveeta although using a neoprene butt cheek is cheating IMO.