Alpine Meadows announced today that they would begin limiting access to it’s slopes for backcountry skiers, boarders and hikers. The uninformed have suggested that somehow this decision is related to last week’s accident. The reality is that the snow making crew, trail crews and grooming crew need to be able to get work done to open the mountain. That presents a whole new set of challenges for workers and a new set of risks for people wanting to ski and ride.
Here’s the announcement, so far made only on Facebook:
Hi folks! We just want to be sure that you are aware that Alpine has closed uphill access to the mountain in preparation for the upcoming season and opening day. With snowmaking and grooming operations in effect, we have snowmobile traffic as well as groomers out on the mountain along with all of our snowmaking equipment (hoses, cords, etc.). Winter operations has begun, and with all of this going on, we need to keep public off the mountain. We know you are all eager to get out and get some turns in and we look forward to seeing you on opening day (Dec. 7…if not sooner!).
We’re glad to see mountain ops getting into gear for another season at Alpine Meadows. For those anxious to make turns in the expected new snow – you have a lot of choices for lift served skiing this weekend: Squaw Valley, Kirkwood and Sugar Bowl will likely offer the most attractive range of terrain. Northstar & Boreal will surely offer up intermediate terrain and park features. Further south, Mammoth continues to offer more terrain with each passing day.
There’s plenty of good coverage out there for backcountry skiers and riders too. Sierra Avalanche Center will be resuming full reports this week. With variable snow levels in the forecast, backcountry enthusiasts should always check the report and equip themselves with the proper equipment and knowledge…and make sure that your buddies also have the same.
BA at TahoeWeatherDiscussion.com is still calling for around 3 feet of snow in the next 5 days…hope it all works.