It seemed pretty calm in the parking lot this morning, but up on the hill the wind was nuking on the peak. The wind report from Hidden Peak showed wind speed topping 70MPH, so the Tram was on wind hold for the morning session. The chairs were turning, so access to the upper mountain was happening and getting over to Mineral Basin was key to hitting those wind buffed lines that were building on aspects over there. The front of the hill was offering some wind transported dust that was filling in the low areas and piling up along some of the tree lines with consistency that was just what the doctor ordered. Traffic was fairly light and turnaround times were super fast. Temps were warm, but the wind had the chill factor going down, so adding layers and staying tight inside the shell was key.
Tomorrow, look for continuing windy conditions. We’ll have to see how it shakes out in the AM. Look for overnight transport of some of the loose snow to the collector aspects on the hill, which will offer continued smooth turning. The machine prepared lines will be offering the smoothest surfaces for the morning session. Be sure to dress for the wind with an eye to shedding layers as the day warms up. Visibility will be optimum and full detail on the mat will be great. Stay Frosty!!