I seem to recall December 27 as the hoped for date (that's when the Pony Express area should open according to something I read here).
Everything is open now but the segregated Moringside area, the true expert terrain reached by the Morningside lift or hiking up, the Pony Express runs, the up-mountain parks, plus a few small runs that need more of something. I know that sounds like a lot, but all the unopened areas except for the parks are on the periphery so you won't feel like you're running into "closed" signs all the time.
At least that's what I understand from reading several sources including this one.
Did you guys see this article in the Pilot re opening more terrain. There was also a Press Release by Mike that went out. By Saturday, about 96 percent of the ski mountain will be open to skiers and riders.
I just got back from Steamboat yesterday. Pony Express and Morningside are not open yet but pretty much everyting else is. Pony and Morningside could open any time. I can't believe they wouldn't open these for the holiday crowds. The mountain is in fine shape with more skiiable terrain than most folks legs will last for...
i think we are going to the Sheraton for the Christmas buffet. Others have suggested the Ore House, Cafe Diva alos. Yes book ahead of time. thats what i will be doing next week.
Usually kids don't want to wear the hood thing, but carry it in your pocket just in case. If it's really cold once you get on there on the slopes, I'll bet you big money that'll change.
Temps have been great for snowmaking and we definitely have more snow this year than we had last year. I wouldn't worry, we tend to get dumped on in December.
Here's a good article about late starts and how the season turns out.
I have been checking the cameras lately, and there does not appear to be alot of snow on the mountain, and not much in the forecast?
Getting nervous about our trip out December 18th. Anything to worry about?
I agree with the balaclava. If your boys are going to wear helmets, which they should, then you can buy a nice under helmet hat/balaclava, a must in Steamboat. The key to keeping warm on the mountain is layers. (and toe warmers!)
I ski with my boys every January in Steamboat (now 10 & 8) and they wear the whole kit every day since they stay up top most the whole day ... base layer top and bottom, fleece top (& bottom if it's Arctic cold), and down jacket. They used to wear...