I had a beautiful drive on in to work this morning. I debated whether to take the back roads or not but I was short on time so I hoped for the best. My decision panned out nicely. Everything is covered in ice. Not just covered, surrounded and enveloped. And not just a thin layer either; it's thick. At times it was like I was in a video game or on a challenge course. I didn't bob and weave with my steering wheel, but I did duck my head a few times and pray that ice wouldn't come crashing down on my windshield. It was inevitable. It happened once near the end of my drive, of course 😉 but no harm done. I've driven this way a thousand times, plus a few more, but this morning's route was something new. If only I could have safely taken a video.
I know this doesn't really relate directly to skiing and it's not the usual introduction, but I wanted to share because it is applicable. We talk about weather, weather, weather, and this is a result of weather, not to mention winter. Skiing and snowboarding allows you to enjoy nature's gift of snow, and ice is another gift to enjoy… from a distance…if it's not on the slopes…or on the roads… you get the picture. And here's ^ a picture of one of my trees for those of you who aren't able to look out your windows and see what I'm talking about.
Okay, now onto business. There are a few resorts reporting natural snow overnight:
App – 1"
Canaan – .7"
Snowshoe – 1"
Timberline – .7"
Winterplace – Trace
I think we'll see the list ^ grow a little by tomorrow.
If you're still contemplating where to head this week, take a look below to see what's happening where and when.
Today and Friday at Massanutten are the last of their College Days, where any student with a valid ID can get an eight hour ticket for $30 and rentals for $20. Also, this Sunday is the last of their Scout Days, where scout troops can purchase a complete package for $50. Last but not least, they're featuring a PITCREW Massanutten Meltdown snowboard jam this Saturday for cash and other prizes. Oh yeah, and in case you were wondering, the recent Red Bull Rivals competition was "a big success with JMU retaining the crown from UVA and VT," according to Kenny Hess, Mass' Director of Sports and Risk Management.
At Ober, they're celebrating 50 years of skiing in Tennessee this Sunday and rolling back their lift ticket prices to the 1962 rate of only $5. In order to receive this discount, you'll need to bring five canned goods or non-perishable food items to donate to Sevier County Food Ministries. They'll also be hosting their last Sunday Session Freestyle Terrain competition beginning at 1 pm. And finally, we have another season pass special: from March 3rd through the 10th, Ober's 2013 – 2014 season passes will be available for the reduced price of $249 and are valid for the remainder of this season, as well.
Starting today, you can purchase season passes at Cataloochee online. This Sunday though is the big day (you have to purchase either in person or over the phone) — they're having a one day only sale, with prices starting at $199 for the 2013- 2014 season. They also have next season's rental pricing and a reduced deposit fee. For more information, call 828-926-0285 or send an email to [email protected].
Wolf is trying to encourage people to keep their equipment out with a late season special for groups of 15 people or more this weekend only. Lift tickets will be weekday priced at $29.
There you have it – the new events taking place between now and Sunday. Don't forget what we've already mentioned, including Snowshoe's big Military Weekend and their Ridiculous Pass sale that ends TOMORROW.
I hope you can all take advantage of these awesome offers and make the most of the last few (as in 5 or so) weeks of the season. For anyone heading to Snowshoe Friday through Sunday, see you on the slopes! And for everyone else, make it a great weekend!
Email me at [email protected].