Skinning up Punta Bardini
Sunrise made it look like the freight train of storms that rolled over the top of the Eastern Sierra Nevada this week had passed. A clear, blue sky showed its sunny face, so together with some new friends from Mammoth, we charged to Punta Bardini for a little backcountry skiing.
This little tree shot sits literally right outside town and is a favorite during, or immediately following, big storms. We knew we would be sentenced to some hard labor laying a track in but the idea was embraced after 5 days cabin bound.
As new friends were the company, time flew on the ascent as we got to these Mammoth locals. Andy Bourne, one hell of a strong athlete. Dave Page, a well known writer whom I am getting to know via mutual friends, and Joe & Lorenza Walker who is originally from Cortina d’Ampezzo, very close to our home in the Dolomites. Everyone rotated on trail breaking duty like a good cycling team takes turns pulling in a group.
Unfortunately the storm was stubborn in releasing its grip on us and our blue sky gave way to gray with big snowflakes – no matter, by that time we were on top.
And the descent – in two meters of new snow…? Primarily slow motion but with moments of bliss when it got steeper. Powder, bottomless powder. The East Side is set for quite some time with a healthy snow pack.
Joe Walker skiing Punta Bardini
Andy Bourne skiing powder on Punta Bardini
Andy Bourne skiing powder on Punta Bardini
Andy Bourne, who says the Sierra don't get powder?
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