Mt Baker Area Skiing

 We're up in Washington staying with a friend of Mary's and skiing up at and around the Mt Baker ski area.

 The property where we're staying is beautifully nestled in the forest.

The first day we rode lifts at the ski area. Great little area with a laid back vibe. We found good snow and fine views. Mt Baker in the distance.

Day 2 we skied sidecountry. Sweet zone with lots of short steep shots. Good cold powder was found in the shady northfacing.

More views of Mt Baker

I was astounded by the number of backcountry travelers. At least a hundred snowshoers, mostly heading to Artist's Point and probably another hundred backcountry skiers/boarders. Everyone was friendly, having a good time. A real festive atmosphere.

Yesterday I went for a solo tour out in the same area.

Magnificent Mt Shuksan

I skinned up to a shallow col to ski this great bowl. Much fewer tracks here.

Great fun. Did three runs off the col.

Looking back to the col

Cool lighting in the afternoon with a little storm rolling in.

 Real nice day out.

Skiing in the Northern Owens Valley

 Been a while! Historic snowfall befell us late February and transformed Bishop into a snow town.

 The first wave came through on 2/24 with just enough snow to allow cross country skiing from our house.

The next storm came in that night providing great coverage. We had nearly 20" here in Wilkerson.

Touring for turns from the front door was truly special.

I took short drives to ski terrain I hadn't ever skied before and may never get to ski again.

From the house again. There were tracks in there!

Mine. It was better than it looks.

With increased stability I ventured into bigger terrain, but still very close to home.

Spent two days in a row in this canyon.

Someone beat me to it!

The best day was the last day. Same zone, different line.

Perhaps the best tour of the year thus far although it came with a price.

The next day we got a warm, wet deluge which washed all the low elevation snow away.

All good things come to an end.