When I originally wrote this in March 2020, the pandemic was barely a pandemic, and Colorado’s governor hadn’t yet shut down the ski resorts. By the time I was ready to publish, skiing had abruptly ended for the season and this post was shelved. Two years on, I think it’s still relevant, although maybe for […]
United States
Skiing After Dark: Night Skiing Tips and Suggestions
In 1936, failed mink farmer turned ski area operator Clare Bousquet had a big idea. Working in partnership with General Electric he mounted floodlights on poles at Bousquet Mountain, Massachusetts, flipped a switch, and illuminated a 750-foot ski run for night skiing. And while took it nine years for another area to turn on lights — […]
Looking Forward, Looking Back as We Anticipate Ski Season
It’s been a long, hot, smoky summer in the West. Apocalyptic, depressing, and tedious are words that come to mind. So when I looked out my window on Saturday morning, taking in the blue sky and a hint of yellow outlining the brilliant apple green of aspen leaves, I felt a tingle of excitement. Winter […]
15 Reasons to Ski New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle
Austria has the Weisse Ring. Italy has the Selle Ronda. New Mexico has the Enchanted Circle. While Europe’s famous ski circles are connected by piste and lift — and are skiable in one day — when you ski New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle you’ll need a car to complete the route and at least three days […]
An Inside Look at Avalanche Mitigation from the Alta Ski Patrol
Since 1941, Alta Ski Patrol has been keeping skiers safe on some of Utah’s steepest and most beautiful skiing terrain. Their work often involves early mornings, stormy weather, and tremendous responsibility. Eighty women and men currently serve as Alta Ski Area patrollers. On big snow days, up to 60 may be working the mountain. This […]