Topo Mapping for Skiing

The up-down-up-down of skiing is an absolute joy.  But many of us who spend time in the mountains don't look at just the isolated strips of white.  We see the subtle changes in fall line, the elevational transitions of the forest, the directional aspects that determine snow loading and sun baking.  We see geology, geography, topography, ecology, history, and other -ologies around each bend.  It's the context of skiing that makes each day in the mountains unique and interesting.  I've never met a true skier who isn't fascinated with maps.  New technologies like GPS tracking apps on your phone and Google Earth add another dimension to the level of detail that can be explored.

Give Thanks for Whatever You Can Get

Cannon opened up the day after after Thanksgiving.  That's the way the plan to open and it's what we are counting on, but it hasn't always been the case.  The past few years have been a series of struggles.  But no point dwelling on the past.  On November 29, 2013 they opened up pretty strong.  And that was in spite of some pretty unfavorable weather the day before Thanksgiving.

There isn't a ton to report.  I mean it wasn't epic powder conditions.  But it was a couple of lifts and some of the better runs (Gary's and Rocket anyway).  I boarded with L on Friday.  That checked off one her goals for the season - getting out before the end of the year despite her busy work/school schedule.  I skied with Jamie C on Saturday - great to catch up with him after the summer.  And I skied solo on Sunday.  That gave me the chance to ride the lift with lots of strangers and catch the positive buzz that seemed to be going around.

5 days in for me at 3 mountains by Dec 1.  That's great start by my standards, so Cannon and I seem to be on the same page.

Some pics from opening weekend...

L in the middle of another perfect turn

Cannon Cliffs reminiscent of Half Dome

Opening day was made for Turkey sandwiches

Cannon plans to open on November 29th. I'm just going to hold my breath.

Priming the pump

The 2013-2014 season is out of the gates! I have couple of days in already at a couple of mountains. But (as usual) I really wasn't ready for it. The gear needs a tuning and the 'ol WF blog needs to be dusted off.

It's hard to run full tilt into the new season. Without at least quick look back at last year.

Yeah this happened....