Early Season Ski Report

location: St. Mary's Glacier
date: November 11th, 2011

   There is snow to be had in the high mountains, although it is hard enough to find. This season, I was blessed with a new pair of touring skis, the Black Diamond Aspect ski. My older, heavier planks begged for groomed pastures. To test the new setup, I decided to make a trip to St. Mary's, where there is always snow to be
found.

   Although there was little enough snowpack, the touring was pleasant and the weather was sunny and fine. Fully mounted, my setup was a few pounds lighter than last season, and it was very noticeable on the up-hill. I was able to get in a few laps up and down the snowfield before heading back.
   The terrain at St. Mary's isn't very extreme, but it is accessible and very encouraging. The title Glacier is something of a misnomer as well. Colorado is not known for it's glaciers, as we are too far south. Instead, St. Mary's is a 'snowfield' which remains in some part throughout the entire year.
   Thats right kids, even after A-Basin closes, you can still shred the slush here...

View from the top

   Looking out into the James Peak Wilderness from the top, I longed to see much more snow. As can be seen in the photo above, it was slim pickin's on the way back down before drifting back into the main snowfield below. But not to worry, there will be much more snow coming soon as we get further into the cold season. I know I am crossing my fingers.

earn those turns!