February 23, Blackcomb, Major Freeze Thaw Day

Years of early Alpine starts had prepared me well for this "freeze thaw" adventure at Whistler Blackcomb. I cannot speak of the earlier, icy experiences in the day, but I'm sure everyone got just what they were looking for. By the time I got to the top of Seventh Heaven, it was in the mid 40's without a breath of wind, or a cloud in the sky. It was perfect corn all afternoon long in the warm sun. It was so good, that I had the great idea to take my bride on some steep skiing near Lakeside Bowl! Her exciting descent, reinforced my opinions of my good judgement and guiding skills! After she left early.....I finished off my day with a fine, shady run down Secret Bowl. (Gotta keep the edges in shape) Actually, despite what the ski patrol sign had said, it was better snow than Glacier Drive - which could be best described as boiler plate. I took the scenic Peak to Peak back to Seppo's where I rehydrated and waited for the Patrol to kick us out. As usual, by that time we got to ski first tracks on the fresh late afternoon groomers all the way down to Chic Pea - where the track went sadly uphill. The Dave Murray, Pony Trail route to the bottom of Creekside was very soft - but still rock free! Another good, easy half day at Whistler (22,000 vert).