And Snow It Begins

It's been a good long while since we've had a big early season dump. Amazing to see transformation.

As the storm cleared last Wednesday, Mary and I drove up to Aspendell for a little XC outing. Trailbreaking was hard, but the cruise down was solid fun. The nearby attractions (Table, Habeggars, Bishop Bowl etc.) still lack coverage for good touring, but they're close.

Friday I toured up in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The plan was to ski Lake Mary Ridge, but I spied a skin track going up Coldwater Creek, so I followed that. Winter!

The skiers who set the track seemed to be headed for big terrain and their path got into some funky/rocky terrain, so I pealed off looking for tree skiing. I found myself on top of a little knob with good views. Mammoth Crest in the Hammil zone.

Low and behold I saw where the kids were headed (everyone's a kid once you turn 60).

I took two great runs in the trees. Coverage proved to be a nonissue. Snow quality was excellent.

Yesterday I went for a longer tour up in the Sky Meadows area. The day started off grey and cold. with snow flurries. About an inch of new snow fell. Emerald Lake.

As the skies cleared the setting turned magical.

Blue Crag with spindrift.

I skinned up to a little col dividing Coldwater and Mammoth Creek drainages. Views down to Lake Mary with Mammoth Mountain behind.

Hippy turns in the bowl and on down to the meadows were superb. Took two!

 Even better skiing was found lower in the steep tree shots. Between the incredible skiing and the stunning scenery I'd call it an A+ day. What a start to the season!