Chips opened yesterday, but I missed the opening, so I did a few Chips exploratory runs this morning to get a good look see at the pack over there. Snow making efforts have been ongoing on that side of the hill, targeting the high traffic areas and sections that have rock outcroppings that need a lot of cover. I stayed with the prepared lines closely, giving any idea of venturing to the untracked areas out of my mind. Many folks had began the process of further exploratory efforts, which seemed to focus on the fat lines staying clear of the edges. Smart move in such low tide conditions. Coverage was quite good on the prepared lines with no rocks to speak of anywhere I went. I did, however, take the traverse across the hill via Rothman’s Way and took the Wibere ridge to the return cat track to The Tram. Traffic was fairly light and the visibility was excellent with the Sun out.
Tomorrow, look for weather to have moved in as the next storm cycle begins with weather out of the South. With that direction, expect high density snow to add to the pack, with rain in the valley. I think this is the beginning a long cycle that will make up for a lot that we have missed so far. I don’t think for a second that The Yellow Jackets early aggressive behavior was not a strong sign for a big season. Visibility will be an issue, so stay with the prepared lines for the next while as the pack fills out and in. Still keep an eye for black ice in the lower Canyon, it was really shining this morning. Happy New Year!!!