Hello Everyone –
I don’t think I need to tell you how tired I am of people on Facebook speaking out about how much they are enjoying the mild winter we have been experiencing throughout the region this season so far.
My response to all the non-winter lovers has been, “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow”. If looks could kill over the internet, I would be pushing up daisies right now, but ask me if I care. Well that was last week; now things have really changed haven’t they?
Unless you have been under a rock the last couple of days you know that for the most part there is fresh (and lots of it) snow on the slopes everywhere. There is from nearly a foot in the mountains of Maryland and West Virginia to a half a foot in the western mountains of Carolina. Now those same people on Facebook that were raving about the mild winter, surprise here, are complaining that winter has returned. Well I say I’m glad to see it might finally be here. Along with the fresh snow came much needed cold temperatures and that means the snowmakers at all of the resorts, with or without natural snow, haven’t been sitting around drinking coffee. It would be an easy assumption that the slopes are in the best shape they have been in all season.
Most importantly for the industry folks, the snowfall didn’t just occur in the higher elevations, but the folks in the lowlands experienced some of their most significant snowfall so far this year. And that ain’t saying much, but snow is snow and is always the case, when it’s snowing in their backyard, it makes them think about playing in the white stuff. Now the only thing different between last week and this week is what is right in front of them. Darn, human nature, not being able to see the forest for the trees. I mean yes, the slopes are in better shape, but there was snow on the trails last week and the week before, just because it wasn’t right in front of you doesn’t mean you need to break out the golf clubs this early.
Now if you don’t believe me, remember that four-legged rodent turned meteorologist says we are going to get another six weeks of winter. Well that was about two weeks ago meaning the best skiing and riding (duh?) of the season is now upon us. Pick your poison folks, it is now out there for the taking, no excuses. Like my wife said the other day “just go outside and play already.” Words of wisdom there from a very wise (don’t hold the fact she married me against her) person.
Finally, you have probably read on this website that there will be SkiSoutheast Summit at Snowshoe Mountain the weekend of March 2, 3 and 4. Mike has extended his annual invitation to yours truly and to his surprise I have accepted and will be ready to make some turns with everyone. Looking forward to seeing you there.
That’s it for this week, just remember whether it be cold or whether it be hot, we’ll weather the weather, whatever the weather will be. Think about it! See you on the slopes.
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Joe Stevens, a member of the southeast ski industry since 1990 is a regular columnist for skisoutheast.com and serves as the Communications Director for the West Virginia Ski Areas Association.