The thick fog broke open as soon as I got to the mouth of the Canyon, where the morning was ultra clear and still, signaling another day of extreme rippage. The Grooming crew out did themselves by punching out some of the the best pitches the hill has to offer. While Mineral Basin called with bright Sun and wide open groomers, I was drawn to the front side of the hill to take advantage of the 3000′ of vert. and the velvet smooth perfection of the cold snow grooming. To say that these runs were perfect, does not even come close to how delicious the quality really was. It is a case of – You had to be there- to have any idea of the delicate quality of the hydrovelvet that was just there for us to enjoy. I would have pulled out the Wings again to fly the Buff, but I opted to throttle back to a slower pace and get more turns out of the hill. It is like fine wine, it is pointless to chug it, rather a sip, a taste, a savor, is the best way to absorb as much of the complexity such perfection provides. I know, it is only Groomers; I hear that every day, and I just wonder how one can pass up the opportunity to dig deep, savor the turn, and the way the snow feels as the edge arcs through it. As the day progressed the bright Sun really began to heat up the direct exposures out in Mineral Basin, making them soft and approachable, but overnight temps. will crust them over for the AM. Depending on the weather tomorrow, those exposures may or may not thaw out, so be aware of that issue. On the Plaza it looked more like a spring day, as the very warm afternoon invited dropping a layer and bask in the warmth of the Sun. Tomorrow, look for the Groomers to, again, be the place to get things rolling, but the North facing off trail is shaping up nicely with dry chalky texture to enjoy. The hill is prime for additional product, and some is on the way, so make some turns for me, if you would, and I will be back on Sunday. Peace Out!!!
HYDROVELVET
1-07-11 by dave