Finding The Balance

Hello from an in-between seasons day here in Steamboat.  Is winter sticking around or is it turning to spring?

Today has an interesting mix of seasons, light conditions, snow conditions and temperatures on the mountain.  But no matter what season or condition we are having it is always a good time in Steamboat.  After checking the forecast this morning, I expected to be greeted with sunny skies and fairly comfortable temperatures on the mountain today.  I think those conditions are headed our way in a few hours, but this morning still felt like winter was trying to hold on at the top of Storm Peak.  The cloud cover is thick, the wind is blowing a bit and there is still soft snow everywhere and if I didn't know any better I would guess it was winter. 

But you can see spring is on the horizon - blue skies are slowly coming our way breaking through those clouds and letting the sun bring up the temperatures.  The forecast high for the mountain today is a balmy 37 degrees, so don't read the first half of this report and throw on your winter gear; I have a feeling you will need light layers and sunblock in just a few hours. 

The groomers were great this morning; especially up high resembling more winter like conditions.  The snow is carving soft and predictable allowing skiers & riders to open up fast turns on the soft corduroy.  We had fun turns down runs like Storm Peak, Sunset, Rainbow, Cyclone and Buddy's; a nice thank you to our grooming team for laying down a carpet of smooth carving goodness for everyone to enjoy.  We noticed as you got below the top of the Gondola elevation that the snow changed a bit resembling a more spring like snow; a little more firm and fast.  Every run we had was a blast, but I would suggest searching out your favorite turns higher up on the mountain.  There is still plenty of fresh left from yesterday throughout the mountain in the trees, but I think you will be happier with the turns up high if your goal is powder - the cold temperatures have kept the snow a little lighter and less spring-like the higher in elevation you are.

Pick of the mountain today is Centerfield - it is rarely groomed and the snow was great first thing.  It was a popular run this morning and got skied fast!

I think it will be feeling a lot like spring in just a few hours, so keep your eye on the weather and dress accordingly.  The next few days look to be sunny and toasty warm so get ready for some great spring days on the mountain. 

Have fun up there and be safe.

Kevin Olsen

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