The wind was knocking the heck out of the Star Cruiser this morning as I entered the Canyon. Wind in the parking lot was brisk and First Tram left on time with light traffic. The wind on the peak was gusting to 60 MPH and a heavy gust stopped me cold as I was just dropping into Regulator. The wind was moving what loose snow was available to places where it would stick to the mat, but other sections were stripped down to the very firm layer. With the wind and the very flat light, it was very difficult to discern variations in the slope, so I was using my inner averaging senses to make turns without regard to any visible indications. Nice touch for a training morning. By the time I got back down the Tram was down due to wind, so I retired to the Forklift Restaurant to assess the options.
Snow started falling around 9:30 AM with little accumulation as the wind blew the fresh cover to spaces unknown. Still, with the warm temps before the front, the new product will be sticking to the dance floor as this storm works the hill. Tomorrow, look for a small accumulation, still firm conditions on the hill, and a bit more traction underfoot. We’ll have to see how the visibility shakes out so keep your options open. See you there for another training day on the hill. Dial it up, Dial it in!!!