Spring Fest: Sunday River Style

You can smell it in the air. The season is at the point now where you no longer need your gloves on to walk around downtown Boston. The temperatures are warming and the rivers swelling. Sugar shacks all over the North Country are in full swing. Not bad times to go skiing—Conditions are Very Good!

As we watch the numbers of open areas dwindle on Snow Country there are some that will remain in operation for many weeks to come. These are the resorts that dedicate the most time and energy to their snowmaking operations. The pay off this spring = deep bases of soft corn snow which skis best in the afternoon.

Ski Patrol having some fun with a potato cannon atop White Cap

The cultivated snow sticks around the longest. That is the primary reason the Ski Guru set his sights on Sunday River this past weekend. They make as much as anyone else in the game. They also treat it correctly. So, when I got out on the slopes this Saturday it was no surprise to find soft, edgable spring conditions on all of Sunday Rivers 90+ trails.
throwing around snow on White Heat

Sure there is nothing to been seen (except for some sandbanks) while making the journey north these days, but it has pretty much been that way all season. By now I have gotten used to it and accept it, you know what they say, “It is what it is.” The flip side of the coin is that much of the terrain that was bulletproof all season is now very suitable. So embrace the situation and get out with a group of friends. You will have a grand time in the sunshine.
This is exactly what was found at Sunday River this weekend. The skiing was tremendous, Spring Style. Trails like White Heat still have base depths that can only be measured with yardsticks. Kicking snow up on every turn was the norm. It was a blast! All over the mountain people were in very good spirits. The cold air that brought anguish to some is long gone; break out the shell and the shades!
We hit most of the resort on Saturday, but due to the early start (and some post sking obligations) we never got over to Oz or the Jordan Bowl as they opened the terrain in the afternoon. Bummer! Nonetheless, slopes like Vortex, Quantum Leap and Agony provided plenty of thrills. There was also much to be seen as the Sunday River faithful brought their A game’s out this weekend. Unlike most places this mountain caters to everyone and all types can be seen on the snow. The quick run down includes a Monoboarder (core), someone employing the ole Norwegian art of telemarking with on long pole and various sightings of Day Go and Denim. Much to this Guru’s chagrin we did not spot anyone skiing in a full suit of Under Armour and a scarf (I may have to do it myself).
the S.G. in full on spring mode making a special guest appearance on Sunday River’s RSN channel

Folks, the reality of the ski situation are that the parking lots will be mud and the woods are a memory of days past. BUT the Barbeques on the Decks and Nightlife are what you should be focusing on during your next few ski trips. It has not been the most blessed of seasons from a weather perspective. Fear not, the resorts that made the snow will flourish. Undoubtedly, we are currently experiencing the best conditions of the season. Take spring for what it is and always will be. Get up to the mountains and enjoy.
Burgers and Brews at the White Cap base lodge

Spring Skiing Fundamentals: You have to stay strong and aggressive even though you may have the tendency to relax given that you can ski in a t-shirt and spring gloves. Careful, if you fall and have exposed ski you can get some nasty snow rash, akin to road rash. Do not make that mistake though. Keep on top of your game, turn aggressively. It is very easy to pick up speed quickly in the corn and before you know it you will be OUT OF CONTROL! Take a good look down the hill, pick spots, and dump speed accordingly. As the snow melts all sorts of obstacles (ice, rock, mud and slush) will show their ugly heads. It is all part of the challenge and you can handle it if you take the run at your own speed and act as a cautious and courteous skier. Enjoy yourself out there and be safe, it is not the time of year you what to get yourself or someone else injured.
In summation, Sunday River was awesome! The place never disappoints. It lived up to the snowmaking prowess and then some this past weekend. The scene was a down right party, Maine style. Tons of people with smiles on their faces made the atmosphere intoxicating. Take advantage of all the hard work and effort the resorts have done to put a quality snow surface out there in the next few weeks. You will not be disappointed that you made the trip.
Think Corn Snow,
Photos ~ S.G.
tons of huge hits in the Terrain Park at Barker Mountain