This morning the sky was clear, blue, and filled with sunlight. Conditions on Treeline Cirque, where man has made snow, offered skiers a winter pack. The surface was nicely groomed and had a soft topping this morning. Skiers left a cloud of snow behind them as they made turns down the center of Weasel Run. This action made for a nice photo opportunity given the low sun angle early in the morning that created long shadows in front of each skier and a cloud of snow blowing up behind them.
Today was the first day for ski teams to gather and begin their ski season. This created a more crowded locker room, as many families arrived for the first time this season. Our locker room has been very quiet until today. This arrival of ski team families also created the first lift lines of any consequence on Treeline Cirque. It was daunting from a distance, but the actual time in line was not that bad. It appeared that the lines on Gold Coast and the other lifts open at NAW valley were longer. Red Dog and Resort Chair indicated 5 to 10 minute lines on there app.
Lift Line at TLC
Lift Line at Gold Coast
Even though the terrain is very limited and mostly manmade, we were able to find small strips of somewhat untracked snow along the edges of Weasel Run. These short patches of snow made me feel as though I was making fresh turns in powder, and that made me smile.
A Few Soft Turns OFF The Groomed Area
Perhaps some of you have spotted a statue of Sasquatch. Big Foot, hidden in a clump of trees near the Chalet. I had never seen this statue before today. Most of the employees we asked about it had no idea what we were talking about. Thus, I cannot explain where it came from or why it is standing in the clump of trees semi hidden from view. However, I am sure it came from somewhere. I am sure there is a story for someone to tell. As you can see in the photo he seems friendly enough. He was willing to hold Mark’s hand.
Mark, Making Friends With Sasquatch
Parking was not an issue today as the lot did not fill up. However, you should not assume parking will be available on a holiday or weekend in the future. Thus, do not forget to make your parking reservation as soon as you can. Also, cancel it if you are not going to use it before 8am on the morning of the reservation. You do not want to receive a $100 fine. I understand they may already be giving them out.
Enjoy your day,
Andy
I managed a whopping 7000 vertical feet today over 4 hours of skiing. Certainly not my best… but in addition to shaking hands with with a Sasquatch I also achieved the “Double Around The World” badge. I also spent a lot of time looking up at Roundhouse today…
Awesome
You’ll never find me!
The Sasquatch was installed near the Chalet this fall at the request of the coaches for younger kids. It gives them a set place to meet off the well traveled path. The Sasquatch gives the something to throw snowballs at besides their coaches. That was the official answer today, and I saw teams there today, throwing snowballs at the Sasquatch.