December 29, 2002, Hurricane Ridge

It was a crowded day at our secret stash near Hurricane Ridge (there was one other person).  After fifteen years, this mysterious spot remains lightly used.

Conditions were similar on the more popular slopes near the Hurricane Ridge ski area.  Approximately 6" of light snow had fallen on top of a firmer base, which unlike Saturday did not break through.  Perhaps the colder temperatures Sunday helped to tighten things up a bit.  We were skiing on the south and easterly aspects, which held up all day long.  The best spots were those slightly sheltered from the day's steady breeze.  Slopes were stable for most of the day, however, the wind was starting to work the southern slopes towards the end of the day and the possibility of slabs on exposed slopes probably increased after we got down.

Fun turns on some nice light powder and blue skies -- it almost felt like winter.  The Olympic views and those of the Cascades were spectacular.  Coverage in the Olympics looks pretty good, with most areas skiable.

Somber news from the Cascades - such news touches all of us...

Bill G