The weather pattern flipped from high and dry to the beginning of a good cycle that will last all week. I am visualizing a long stretch of snow coming up that will become a legend in the future. Hold that thought!!! The snow started falling as the first Tram hit the peak, where the wind was working to add the fresh dust to the corduroy surfaces that were on tap for the opening bell. The light was very flat, so sticking close to the tree lines was key to getting that reflected light on the surface a bit. The grooming crew did a great job with the warm snow that was happening yesterday afternoon, making the traction and consistency very predictable and trustworthy. The snowfall became heavier, and the accumulation on the pack became very soft, and the medium density stuck to the old surface, making the cushion feel really nice underfoot.
Tomorrow, look for an unsettled day with the front doing some strange movements between warm and cold. I expect some variable precipitation, still marginal visibility, some overnight accumulation and a very interesting morning to be on deck to begin working the installment as it comes in. Check the run reports for the grooming efforts and get that smooth feel. Off trail is going to be firm with a lot of rumble, and interference patterns standing up in the lines. They will be tough to discern in the marginal visibility. I still expect rather light traffic, but there may be a bump in attendance with the new product. IBBY!!!