We really thought we would get skunked today, not for snow – but for howling winds and driving snow – low vis, cold, the return of winter. Our days of skiing corn are a thing of the past. Janine was totally irritated. The woman wants warm, sunny days. But, our friend Stuart was a motivating force for us to drive to Mammoth and have a look at the backcountry options. We went, we parked – whiteout. At this point in the day a poor decision was made, only the point and shoot was along for the ride.
90 minutes later, as we neared the small summit of Punta Bardini, things began to look better. Just in time for the skins off & off zippers up, the sun broke through, the wind ceased to roar and we were all smiles. Two laps later we were at the car, wow, maybe the best powder of the Sierra backcountry year – on March 31. Happy happy spring.
Facts & Figures: about 18 inches of powder above the town of Mammoth Lakes. Steeper slopes, >30 degrees, we saw some slabs cut loose, heads up. Everything is super wind affected thanks to the 120+mph winds we had. Powder is out there but get it while you can.
Janine on the cold & grim skin up
Janine encouraged by blue sky and distant views of the Eastern Sierra
Janine further inspired by what she sees
I can't believe I stopped so much to shoot
Janine happy she at least brought the red jacket for the point & shoot photo shoot
Guess who?, lap 2
Janine making her signature "Swiggles"
We came, we skied, we left some graffiti
Dolomites Tour Operator
Those are really perfect squiggles. Looks so fun.