Jerry's Snowblog

Tony Crocker is NASJA's "stat man" on the slopes. No crystal ball, but he knows the trends.

2012-02-05T14:32:00.000-08:00

All NASJA-West members have a particular talent and specialty. Most are writers, photographers, videographers, bloggers or authors...but he's the only member specializing in statistics of snowfall and tendencies at ski resorts and areas. Tony Crocker could talk endlessly about forecasts and predictions. He has about 30 years of documented regional slope coverages for over 100 ski areas in North America, and formulates predictions based on his research. At Schweitzer Mountain near the Canadian border in the panhandle of Idaho, Crocker outlined a less than optimistic snow projection for next month's NASJA National convention at South Lake Tahoe. Despite Tony's dour prediction, we're talking South Lake Tahoe regardless of the conditions. Night time temperatures remain acceptable for blowing snow and slopes are covered with plenty of groomed snow. It's going to be a great time and we might do some professional bonding. Many South Lake Tahoe entities have been planning for us. They are handling the cards that are dealt, but it seems NASJA journalists and corporates are not. The absence of natural snowfall at Tahoe area resorts puts the season on the clock, since late season powder does not translate into an extended ski season. Tony's data is available at FirstTracksOnline.com.

Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Idaho. Terry McLeod takes us into deep powder and trees.

2012-02-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

Following four incredible powder days at Red Mountain Resort and Whitewater in the Kootenay of BC, Canada...about half of our 24 NASJA-West delegates returned to the U.S. with a 2 day visit at Schweitzer. Naturally it snowed. While Tahoe resorts continue to do snow dances with little return, Schweitzer enjoys an abundance of powder. The Mountain, 9 switchback miles above the town of Sand Point in northern Idaho, remains a secret to most American's. Over 1200 acres of tree skiing challenges expert skiers and riders, with double diamond lines accessed by the resort's only T-Bar off of the Snow Ghost double chair...but sensational turns in the woods and glades are ever present from 8 of the 9 lifts at Schweitzer. Located in the Selkirk Mountain Range about an hour from the Canadian border, the vibe is casual. Two massive bowls dominate the landscape, and we're told the views are tremendous, but visibility was shrouded as it was for our Red and Whitewater Resort visits in Canada. Powder days will do that.
A recent development partnered Whitewater (15 minutes from the iconic town of Nelson in BC) with Schweitzer, so pass holders at each resort now receive discounts at their sister mountain.
Snowsports School Director Terry McLeod showed us the splendors of Schweitzer, with nearly 3000 skiable acres, and never a lift line. Schweitzer may be a secret to many American Skiers, but those in the know seem to want to keep it that way.
Other video blogs from our NASJA-West annual meeting are found at Jerry's Snowblog at www.12sportsonline.com. The North American Snowsports Journalist Association is a collection of about 200 writers, broadcasters, photographers, authors and other media type who focus on reporting of winter sports.

Whitewater Mountain Resort is in the heart of the Powder Highway in BC, Canada. Mike and Mary

2012-01-31T23:30:00.000-08:00

Powder highway indeed. Resorts along the Kootenay, Rockies Whitewater and Red are symbols of bygone ski areas, where the community supports world class skiing in their neighborhood. A secret to Americans, these mountains offer great powder and terrain with vacant slopes. And a lift ticket in the $60's. Those are tangible values. Their pulse for the sport is evident in the townships of Rossland and Nelson where the majority of adults own season passes. Plus they are Canadians! They are different than Americans. Better adjusted or something. Anyhow, the tree skiing today at Whitewater offered ego snow between perfectly spaced narrow and tall spruce. A triple and 2 slow double chairs with the bar between, opens up 1800 feet of world class terrain. No frills, just core value skiing and riding. Whitewater and Red are rare remaining community based ski areas. Spokane Washington, rather than Vancouver for Whistler is your air destination and the travel time to Red Mountain just over the Canadian border is a little longer than the drive to Whistler. It's also nearly $40. less per lift ticket.

Red Mountain Resort. A jewel of a ski hill in British Columbia Canada

2012-01-29T23:50:00.000-08:00

Tremendous steeps, abundant snow, major vertical, value and a skier first mentality is what Red Mountain Resort is all about. No pretense or frills, just great skiing in the classic Canadian community of Rossland. About a 3 hour drive from Spokane Washington just over the border, Red Mountain is a treasure with well over half of all adults from Rossland owning season passes. The ski hill is not marketed for US skiers and riders, so it remains a secret for Americans. Owner Howard Katkov has no interest in attracting corporate involvement which has been the trend at most North American Ski Resorts. Maintaining a community culture with soul and core values based on the skier rather than shareholders is "Uncle Howie's mission. Locals have adopted that moniker for him through his 8 years at President and CEO of Red Mountain Resort. But Rossland residents were skeptical of a San Diego attorney who happened to make it big in the cosmetic industry bringing in investors to run the hill. Their concerns have morphed into a family relationship with Howard's regime. Red Mountain Resort in extreme south central British Columbia within the Kootenay range offers 1700 skiable acres, access primarily by 2 triple chairs. Motherlode and Paradise lifts service major steeps, epic tree skiing, and wide open slopes. Saturday was a powder day at Red, yet there were never more than a few skiers or riders on any run all day long. Zero lift lines. A lift ticket is priced $40. below Whistler.
Today our NASJA Western Winter Summit moves to nearby Whitewater Mountain outside the historic town of Nelson. (North American Snowsports Journalist Association) Visit www.12sportsonline.com for Jerry's Snowblog report on this Canadian Ski Area. Our organization is comprised of writers, broadcasters, photographers, video bloggers and other Snowsports media. A sample of our coverage is found at: http://www.facebook.com/nasjawest. Tremendous steeps, abundant snow, major vertical and value is what Red Mountain Resort is all about. No pretense or frills, just great skiing in the classic Canadian community of Rossland. About a 3 hour drive from Spokane Washington just over the border.

Rossland BC Canada, home of the longest running winter Carnival in country. 115 years

2012-01-29T09:21:00.000-08:00

Rossland Winter Carnival is Canada's longest running winter carnival, 2012 marks the 115th year of celebration!

Winter Carnival has been the highlight of winter in Rossland for over a century. Olaus Jeldness pioneered the Carnival and kept it successful for many years. Olaus was also a grandfather of skiing in Rossland. For years the magic of the Jeldness name evoked "memorable stories of early ski events among the ski fraternity in the province." Largely as a result of his efforts, the "Royal Sport of Skiing" was firmly established in the Canadian West. Olaus is still honoured every year at Carnival. Rossland is also home to more Olympic medalists than any other community in Canada. Athlete of the century Nancy Green grew up in Rossland... topping the list with 5 podium appearances in her Olympic career. The town is also venue for Red Mountain, home of western Canada's first chair lift. The ski hill itself is a jewell. Tremendous steeps, spectacular terrain, always consistant snow coverage, and never a lift line. The resort has not been impacted by development, and retains a degree of "skier soul" that has been eroded at most ski areas thanks to real estate proliferation, corporate takeovers, and amenity driven strategy. More on the splendors of Red Mountain and it's unique character in our next installment on Jerry's Snowblog at www.12sportsonline.com.

National Ski Areas Association Western Convention at Squaw Valley USA

2012-01-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

When delegates from Ski Resorts, Snowsports manufacturing sectors and industry leaders planned Squaw Valley USA for it's Western Conference and Trade show, the energy to ski Squaw and do business there was off the charts. Since all attendees for the most part expert skiers, very few hit the wide open slopes. Squaw Creek Resort was the venue, but it's triple chair accessing about 1600 vertical ran with very little action. The trail was covered to perfection and groomed in a rippled corduroy pattern, but of course, the powder was manufactured by machines since it's been dry the past 8 weeks. At least it's been cold enough for snow guns to blow, but NSAA conventioneers used the extra time off the hill time to bond a bit more and address some pressing issues facing the future of our sport. Skiing in the backcountry is becoming so popular that "beyond the rope" deaths due to avalanches has increased at an alarming rate. An expert panel of avalanche experts, forrest service, and area operators shared the need for more explicit simpler signage to prepare the adventurers for what may lie ahead. Ski areas such as The Canyons in Utah, Canada's Kicking Horse and Wyoming jewel Grand Targhee have safety litigation cases pending. Meanwhile, ski areas want to access the best terrain possible for this growing market. Safety gates are the norm for passage into The Chutes at Mt. Rose, Mott and Killebrew Canyons at Heavenly, and other desirable extreme in-bounds steeps in Tahoe, but discussion of mandatory ability appraisal, equipment and other qualifiers may be required for out of bounds skiers in the future. Just me thinking here, but if an area chooses to market access...why not construct a single surface lift with an avalanche safety requirements where the gates are located. Power the simple lift with wind, solar, hydro or some other alternative energy, and post signage that encourages support of this sustainable project. There will be a continuing outcry for lift access backcountry skiing. Perhaps the above is a suitable solution in the future, and could help define liability. Other discussion sessions included Marketing in the Mobile Age (30% of population owns smartphone and 85% have cell phones) Sustainability issues, the Next Generation of Terrain Parks, Operational challenges during extreme weather, and general topics of how to grow the sport of skiing. Snowmaking, is saving this ski season in much of North America and 5 different snow making company's displayed their technology at the trade show. The delegates spent January 17-19 talking shop, but did not enjoy the splendors of Squaw on the hill.

Mid-January and Snowmaking is this winter's story in the Sierra. 8th straight dry week.

2012-01-13T17:54:00.000-08:00

Every clear day in the Sierra sets another record for least snowfall of any season for the Sierra. There's been virtually zero snow for 8 weeks at Lake Tahoe Resorts, with a chance of winter weather on Thursday. If indeed the locked in high pressure system moves out of Northern California, the first precipitation will be warm, but at least wet. Snow guns should be slope maintenance machines rather than season savors, but without the blowers, ski slopes would be bare and brown. Instead they are covered and groomed with precision. Most mountains have a 12-18" base of artificial snow, and Heavenly (featured here), Northstar and Mammoth in particular have made the most of the technology. It's hard to fathom how the few hours daily (when temperature dips below 30) can produce enough blown snow to cover miles of terrain, and maintain it's quality through the ski day. Truly remarkable. Skiers and riders are missing out on near perfect conditions for beginners and intermediates. Pass holders will wait for the natural POW, but lesser level sliders can improve on uncrowded slopes with enough runs to keep the smiles all day. Fair weather skiing is drastically under appreciated by the Snowsport masses...as Snowmaking continues to save this season, despite the longest dead winter dry spell in snow recorded history for Sierra ski hills.

Mammoth Mountain Marvelous. Seriously. Top to bottom with snowmaking.

2012-01-09T21:04:00.000-08:00

I'm blown away by blown snow at Mammoth. I had no idea 18" of artificial snow coverage could eliminate all obstacles and produce a surface of quality snow. About 20% of Mammoth Mountain is open, and all of those trails and runs find skiers and riders loving the conditions. Not icy or skied out. Cold at night and sunny by day with no crowds much less lift lines. With a couple more weeks of weird winter weather prevailing at Mammoth and throughout the Sierra... Tioga Pass is open though Yosemite. Bay Area skiers can get to Mammoth in a little over 4 hours. The scenic road through America's spectacular National Park, is always closed in Winter. Since the season never arrived in the Sierra it remains open. In fact, Tioga Pass has never been opened after January 1st. EVER. Everyday sets another record. Driving on this iconic roadway so deep into the winter season is beyond an anomaly.
At Mammoth Mountain, they fortunately have plenty of water to fire up the snow machines when the temperature reaches 29. Somehow, they are blowing enough snow cover over 500 acres, and expert groomers have their Cat Fleet ready when conditions are ripe to maximize the blowers product on the slopes. Just before Christmas , 5 weeks into the current snow drought I skied Northstar and was amazed how excellent the snow quality and coverage was on 15% of it's open mountain. http://youtu.be/BW_5WP0i8dI
Conditions across the country are generally terrible although the Rockies had a dusting today. Despite remarkable snowmaking efforts at many resorts, skiers are riders continue to wait for winter. Meanwhile, Whistler is rocking while Red and Whitewater in BC Canada are raging. Alyeska Resort in Alaska is doing well as well, but mountains in the lower 48 remain brown. Something's got to give...hopefully soon, but in the meantime Snowmaking is saving the season for those who want to cruise, stay off off-piste and enjoy Juneuary in the dead of winter.

Burn Out rocks without the obstacles on the backside of Northstar at Tahoe heading into Christmas

2011-12-23T01:16:00.000-08:00

How astounding that man made snow blown from guns can substitute for natural powder at Ski Resorts when mother nature takes a nap. Winter continues to slumber, with less than one inch of snow for the entire month of December. Early storms have given way to 28 consecutive days of dry, but somehow, someway Lake Tahoe Resorts plan to offer skiing and riding for this upcoming busiest week of the ski season. Visiting Northstar at Tahoe for the Grand Opening of the New Zephyr Lodge Restaurant and Promised Land Express chair, on Tuesday the view atop was brown and green with white trails that provided 2000 feet of vertical and nearly 2 feet of coverage...with very few rocks and other obstacles to be concerned with. Amazingly, enough of the mountain was open that pre-holiday crowds had plenty terrain, albeit not off-piste, to make turns and enjoy bluebird 30 degree weather. With the forecast remaining bleak, temperatures are cold enough for the snowmaking machines to be blowing and the snowcats flowing. The expert groomers and multi-million $$ fleet of snowcats manicure the slopes with precision and remarkably the conditions are holding up and nobody is complaining. As long as the temperature remains at least a couple degrees south of freezing, winter is saved thanks to technology. Those resort that have not invested in Snowmaking are hurtin' for certain. Vail resorts believes in keeping up with demand, and so far, it's newest acquisition of Northstar is setting the pace with sister mountain Heavenly on the south shore continuing to accomodate skiers and riders with man made snow. Vail's corporate Colorado based corporate counterpart of KSL which ownes Squaw and Alpine Resorts just 6 miles as the crows fly, are not as fortunate. Passholders are chomping at the bit, and holiday plans are being challenged. Having any semblance of operation through the holidays seems doubtful for most Lake Tahoe area resorts, but at Heavenly and from what I experienced, Northstar at Tahoe seems to offer the most, in view of current conditions and the prospect for winter weather. In Tahoe, when a storm comes, it usually deposits snow by the foot, so the Sierra Resorts just need one episode to get back on track. Locals remain cool, knowing when winter returns they will get first tracks, but it's the uncertain nature of nature that's playing havoc with planning, as resort operators work harder to literally produce something from nothing.

Snowmaking is saving the ski season for some Lake Tahoe resorts. Northstar at Tahoe sets the pace

2011-12-20T21:56:00.000-08:00

Pick any number of reasons to explain why Northstar at Tahoe has opened more skiable terrain than any other Lake Tahoe Ski Resort heading into Christmas. Certainly the skating rink and surrounding entertainment has generated enormous guest enjoyment in the Village, but it's the Mountain that will spread more Christmas cheer than it's neighbors. Squaw and Alpine, Vail Resort's chief Colorado corporate competitor surrounding Lake Tahoe does not combine for half the skiable acres as Northstar, despite being bigger mountains. The extensive snowmaking equipment adjacent to key runs, grooming and snow farming has set Northstar at Tahoe apart. There will be no natural white Christmas for Sierra ski resorts...and we can only hope the weather pattern changes before the first of the year to christen January with snowfall. It would seem mother nature is balancing the abundance of powder at Tahoe ski areas last season. This December has been dry as a bone. But to the rescue is snowmaking, and Northstar happens to offer the most skiing and riding with the best snow conditions.

Northstar at Tahoe invests $30 million on Zephyr Lodge and Promised Land Express Chair..plus

2011-12-20T17:51:00.000-08:00

Vail Resorts has injected new life and stature into their newest acquisition. Northstar at Tahoe invited about 100 media members Tuesday to debut much of that investment. Chief Operating Officer Bill Rock outlined the improvements after the press made fresh track turns at 7am..and before journalists enjoyed a morning feast at the new Zephyr Lodge Restaurant. The decision makers at Vail Resorts, purchased Heavenly on Tahoe's South shore last year, while the cash continues to flow in support of Northstar. With Christmas week upon us, fresh snow has been absent this entire calendar month, with no winter weather in sight. Traditionally, upwards of 25% of ski resort seasonal revenue flows between now and the New Year, but all Lake Tahoe ski mountains are in dire straights with only man-made snow covering slopes. Despite multi-million $$ snow making at most Sierra resorts, it can not keep pace with skier and rider demands. Northstar has more terrain open than any other Tahoe mountain, but since business is always "about the snow"...powder blown from guns falls short in satisfying slope sliders who ultimately pay for ski area developments with pricey lift tickets. Last season was epic in terms of snowfall. This year, accumulations of natural snow has been a bust so far. Northstar at Tahoe does boast an 18-24" base on about 25 trails that are open, which exceeds all other Lake Tahoe area resorts, with Heavenly a close second. When limited terrain becomes skied out at the busiest time of the season, the slopes become more crowded and remaining snow deteriorates. Despite the challenges, Northstar currently offers 2300 vertical feet of skiing...while the snow lasts. It's been plenty cold to run snow making machines overnight, with snowcats moving the manufactured powder to areas of need...but if temperatures rise during this busy holiday season, the prospect of a white Christmas becomes bleaker, and the value of investments for improvements gets weaker...at least in the short term.

Needing to open, Sierra at Tahoe operates this Saturday. The latest.

2011-12-14T20:24:00.000-08:00

It was bound to happen. No El Nino, La Nina, nada. Weeks without natural snow at Lake Tahoe ski areas, has resulted in extremely limited terrain at Sierra Resorts. Unlike last season when all resorts were in full operation in Mid-December, 2011-12 would not begin at Sierra Mountains without the millions $$$ invested in snow making. Northstar at Tahoe and it's Vail Resort sister Heavenly on south shore offer 9 and 12 chairs respectively. Squaw Valley also has 9 chairs running. Mammoth in the Eastern Sierra has been making snow continuously and has everything open on slopes where snow guns generate enough of a surface to ski. So there is a ski season, it's just artificial. There have been all too many dry Decembers in recent decades, and a White Christmas producing much needed Green for resort operators is not guaranteed. A dusting is expected on Thursday, but a clear forecast into next week is a scary prospect as the window for a "Winter Wake-up Call" before Christmas closes.

http://www.sierraattahoe.com/node/669#node-669

The Sierra needs some of this...and in a hurry.

2011-12-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

Nobody is in panic mode, yet, but the weather forecast during the next week calls for dry and clear conditions. At this time last season, Lake Tahoe resorts were dialed in with a deep natural snowbase and near full operation. For the short term, it would appear man made snow will be the skiing surface for most of this December. At least temperatures have dropped, so snow guns are blowing manufactured powder to layer slopes. Not ideal, but a least a limited number of runs are covered, as hopes for weekday operation continue to be dicey. Weekend snowsports warriors are making the best of very limited operations at Sierra Ski Resorts...but without the prospect of any significant snowfall in the next 10 days, Lake Tahoe mountains lack coverage needed to operate during the Christmas season, which represents about 30% of seasonal revenue. Ski resort operators are not sweating bullets, but it's getting are getting a little clammy under the collar.

High winds in the West blows out start of ski season. No new powder and too warm to make snow

2011-12-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

We can only hope conditions change and this video scene becomes reality.

The promising start to ski season has stalled for most ski resorts in the West, as clear skies, warm temperatures and high winds are causing havoc for snow sliders and ski area operators. Tahoe resorts seem to be the hardest hit, as December 1st finds Heavenly closed, virtually all other mountain lifts on wind hold, with the majority of slopes still waiting for any natural snowfall. Complicating efforts to open are seasonably warm night time temperatures which prevent snowmaking machines from firing up. It must be a couple degrees below freezing to produce manufactured snow, so the multi-million $$ producers of powder remain silent at Sierra Ski resorts. Adding to the dismal forecast is a predicted clear next 5 days at Lake Tahoe, but temperatures should drop after the winds subside so snowmaking efforts can resume.
At this moment the only skiing available is in protected frontside areas at Northstar and Red Dog at Squaw Valley. Mammoth Mountain in the eastern Sierra has several chairs running, and a deeper snow base than any Tahoe resort, but wind has curtailed much of the operation there.
Canadian resorts such as Whistler have a couple feet of natural snow base and the winds are not nearly as strong as in California, but it's too warm at mid-mountain to fire up the snow guns, and clear and dry is the word through the weekend.
In Washington, Crystal Mountain seems to be leading the nation, operating at nearly full capacity with 100 inches on coverage. Meanwhile, the opening of Whitefish Mountain resort in Montana has been postponed.

Jaime Schectman chats with John Haines of Snowbomb.com about Mountain Riders Alliance.

2011-11-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

Back to back weekends in San Francisco and Santa Clara, John Haines manned the microphone to orchestrate the proceedings at the Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard festivals. He worked the room, interviewing mountain resort reps, equipment pros, pumped the bargains and deals offered at virtually every booth or display, and also acknowledged Mountain Riders Alliance. John's Tahoe pal Jamie Schectman is the visionary for creating sustainable mountain playgrounds, and shared the gospel of an alternative to corporate strategies for establishing and operating ski areas. Manitoba Mountain in Alaska and Mt Abrams in Maine are two such areas that operate with the MRA model. This months issue of POWDER Magazine produced a feature on the projects, with SKIING and other mainstream publications are picking up on the movement.

Coop at Kirkwood one of dozens pitching their product and services at Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival in Santa Clara.

2011-11-14T22:55:00.000-08:00

Dozens of ski resorts in the West were pitching their product, offering discount passes, contests for lift tickets, and having quite the time visiting with thousands of ski and snowboard enthusiasts who attended the festival in Santa Clara last weekend. One such passionate representative, Coop from Kirkwood shared this.

Adam Baillargeon and High Five at Snowbomb.com festival in Santa Clara

2011-11-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

The Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival at Santa Clara Convention Center wasn't just about deep discounts on lift tickets and winter sports merchandise with dozens of Ski resorts in the West telling their tales for the upcoming season. The scene went beyond the non-stop contests and demonstrations, while beer and wine flowed from sponsors of the event...it also provided the forum for various ski culture movements to gain notoriety and support. One such cause is the High Fives Foundation. It's a Tahoe based non-profit dedicated to raising money and awareness for athletes with life-altering injury who have been part of the winter action sports community. Adam Baillargeon wasn't injured on the slopes...he had cancer. About 8 years ago following one of many surgeries, he was granted a "make a wish". Adam's dream was to ski with Squaw Valley legend Shane McConkey. Making turns with the icon McConkey who tragically passed in an accident a couple years ago was the catalyst for High Fives. Adam and Co-Founder Roy Tuscany are paying it forward. Vist http://www.highfivesfoundation.com. Check out Snowbomb.com while you're at it.

Jonny Moseley at Snowbomb.com San Francisco Ski and Snowboard Festival

2011-11-05T22:46:00.000-07:00

He's the Olympic mogul Golden Boy of Nagano, creator of "The dinner roll" and the original face of moguls ski racing, Jonny Moseley of Tiburon and now Squawlpine as ambassador for both Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows now under ownership by Colorado Company KSL. Moseley grew up skiing Squaw Valley on weekends.
The festival at Ft. Mason is a Snowbomb.com creation. It's founder Jim McAlpine annually assembles virtually every ski resort in the West, top manufacturers, clothing deals, goodies, free lift tickets, wine, demonstrations, $2.00 Tacos and everything a pre-celebration to the ski season needs to be. This weekend in San Francisco and next Saturday and Sunday in Santa Clara.
Go to Snowbomb.com for details.

2011-10-10T21:41:00.001-07:00

http://live.tetongravity.com/_News-Alaska39s-Manitoba-Mountain-Begins-To-Take-Shape/blog/5283855/75233.html?as=75233

A new approach to ski area development is on the horizon.

2011-10-10T21:40:00.000-07:00

http://live.tetongravity.com/_News-Alaska39s-Manitoba-Mountain-Begins-To-Take-Shape/blog/5283855/75233.html?as=75233

Mountain Riders Alliance is picking up momentum, as Manitoba Mountain comes closer to reality. MRA plans to development the ski area between Alyeska and Seward on the Kenai Peninsula with a sustainable mindset, affordable lift tickets, community involvement in the operation, and 10,000 skiable acres of backcountry terrain in addition to a thousand acre beginning and intermediate hill. 3 surface lifts with no frills to access Alaska's best skiing. Plus, the area will boast sunshine when Alyeska is in the shade. Gates will control the backcountry access, and skiers will need pre-approval to enter, either through a certification system or skills analysis.
The project has been on the drawing board for several years, and it will be at least two more seasons to get approval from Alaska "powers that be". But the process is underway, permits are expected and MRA founder Jaime Schectman and Project Manager Dave Scanlan are satisfying all requirements, and overcoming objections from a small but vocal resistance. Alaska is notorious for resisting change, but that is an element of the State's charm. Manitoba Mountain is directly off the highway, but will not have any structures. No hotel, restaurant or any real commercial enterprise will occupy the parcel. All Services will be portable.
Backcountry skiing is the fastest growing segment of the ski market, and MRA with Manitoba Mountain will provide a model area for adventure enthusiasts, and at the same time create a family model for snowsporters in the region, with an abundance of blue and green terrain.

Vail Resorts takes Epic Mix into future with photos

2011-09-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Newly purchased Northstar at Tahoe, Snowboard icon Shaun White, and EpicMix..the second generation are now part of the ever expanding family of Vail Resorts. Northstar becomes White's home mountain, complete with a new custom 22' halfpipe, plus a $30 million expenditure on upgrades and improvements this season. Last year, Vail purchased Heavenly Mountain Resort on the South Shore at Lake Tahoe, so the Colorado ski company is putting it's snowprint in the Sierra, expanding it's "Experience of a Lifetime" mantra. Banking on another monumental snow season, Vail Resorts is allocating $90. million this year at the two Tahoe Resorts, Breckenridge, Keystone, Beaver Creek and Vail. With the World economy continuing in disarray, it remains to be seen if this investment is prudent or folly. The Epic Mix pass is a vital element at all 6 Vail Resorts, and now, in addition to tracking vertical feet and other aspects of pass holder's experience on the hill...photos will be captured and shared in social media. Professional photographers are stationed at each mountain, and with RF technology will deliver images to the users computer and mobile device. By scanning Epic Mix passholders and guest lift tickets, Vail Resorts hopes this next generation will revolutionize how skiers and riders take and share photos. VR CEO Rob Katz proclaims "Last year's introduction of EpicMix brought together the digital and physical experience on our mountains without anything getting in the way of true enjoyment...this season, we're re-imagining how guest photos are taken, stored and shared delivering a groundbreaking way for skiers and riders to capture their experience". The Epic Pass, now in it's 4th season provides unlimited and unrestricted access to all Vail Resorts Mountains (including A-Basin), priced at $649. which is recognized as one of the best season pass values in the industry. The photo experience element is part of the package.

NASJA cruises through the waters of Resurrection Bay. Seward, Alaska.

2011-03-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

Following an adventure in Fairbanks, train ride to Anchorage, skiing at Alyeska, The Iditarod ceremonial start, and countless other Alaskan activities, our North American Snowsports Journalist Association national convention concluded with a tour of the Kenai Peninsula and a ride on the Chugach vessel. The stunning drive from Anchorage to the harbor along the Seward Highway had a "wow" factor at every turn. The Glacier cruise lacked the sight of crashing glaciers into the bay, but the Dahl Dolphins, soaring Eagles, sun bathing Seals and other wildlife creatures made for fascinating viewing. We also had a respite from the cold but sunny conditions that have been a constant through our Alaska experience. Temperatures warmed into the 30's, so standing outside on the various decks was the place to be despite the choppy sea. Our photographers were challenged capture the scene in the rocking conditions, but an array of images can be found on our NASJA Snowsports Facebook page and much of the entire experience can be viewed and read at www.12sportsonline.com. Just click the snowflake.

Norman Vaughan. A hero to Alaska and epic explorer

2011-03-06T03:02:00.001-08:00

He made it to his 100th birthday and Norman Vaughan will live for centuries in Alaska lore. The great man, who had a mountain named after him in Antartica for his dog sled conquests with Admiral Bryd in the late 1920's is a legend for his services dating back to 1925, when he left Harvard to bring medical supplies to Newfoundland. The same year, a diphtheria epidemic paralyzed the small town of Nome, Alaska and dog sled teams made the famous Serum Run to save the community. Years later, Norman Vaughan recreated the life saving mushing journey which has been run every year since 1997. 39 years ago the Iditarod 1049 mile dog sled race was born, and Vaughan mushed his first of 13 Iditarods at age 72. He also drove a snowmobile from Alaska to Boston, competed in the 1932 Olympics, and at age 88, he climbed the 10,000 foot mountain named in his honor near the south pole. His wife Carolyn (40 years his junior) is still active in Alaska and Africa projects, and is one of the hosts for our NASJA National convention at Alyeska. Today on the streets of Anchorage the ceremonial start to the Iditarod was part of the festivities as 62 teams paraded in front of thousands. Lance Mackey mushes for his 5th straight Iditarod win starting Sunday.

Pre-Iditarod action in Anchorage. Running with the Reindeer party

2011-03-06T00:06:00.001-08:00

The 1049 mile dog sled extravaganza begins Sunday, but following today's ceremonial start to the 39th running of the Iditarod race into Nome, Downtown Anchorage was the site for the annual "Run with the Reindeer" that attracted thousands of wackily clad fun loving folks being chased by a half dozen reindeer, to the delight of a spectators lining the street in the capital of our 49th state. Alaskans from points near and far, plus other visitors payed for the privilege to parade in costumes and stay just ahead of the onrushing horned creatures of "Santa" fame. Not exactly the running of the bulls at Pamploma, as the risks were minimal and the laughs were many. More like the Bay to Breakers in San Francisco without the "live" animal element. Temperatures were in the high teens, so it was certainly bearable for the participants...many of whom were close to bare themselves.

Mountain Riders Alliance co-founders Jaime Schectman and David Scanlan

2011-03-05T01:24:00.001-08:00

They are skiers with big plans for a new ski area in Alaska with a minimalistic approach. Their mission is to create sustainable mountain playgrounds, with the prototype targeted on the Kenai Peninsula. The mountain is named Manitoba, with plans for 3 surface lifts accessing 1000 acres of inbounds skiing and 10,000 acres in the backcountry. It will be a 3-5 journey, but the groundwork is underway. It's foundation rests with involvement from the local communities of Moose Pass, Cooper Landing, Hope/Sunrise, Girdwood and Anchorage about an hour drive to the North. In fact, those local townspeople will share in the ski area's ownership. David and Jamie outline the project in the this video, and the MRA co-founders have mobilized a strong team to support their movement. The local communities need a stimulas in the winter, and Manitoba Mountain, could be that stroke of genius, in the heart of Alaska's Chugash Mountain Range.

Alyeska Ski Resort. Overlooking Turnagain Arms. Alaska only functioning Ski Resort

2011-03-02T01:04:00.001-08:00

Arriving from Anchorage early afternoon, there was still time for 4 hours at Alyeska. Smaller than Kirkwood in the Sierra with 500 more vertical feet...Of piste skiing was not on our radar, but groomed trails and softening moguls as the day progressed made for fine turns with few on the slopes. The Tram rises 2000 vertical from Hotel Alyeska, and accesses most of the mountains' terrain. All double diamond runs were closed today, as sunshine and cold temperatures have made those slopes bullet proof. Plenty of coverage, but it's been over a week without snowfall, and the forecast continues to call for sun, so the splendor of the Chugash Mountain Range can be seen with distinction. We skied till 5:30, when the lifts closed, and now continue to wait for a look at the Northern Lights. There have been several Aurora Borealis sightings tonight, but not when we've been looking. Wavering beams of mostly green light have been spotted in the northern sky but not in spectacular fashion. A 5am this morning, the scene was colorful and lasted about 10 minutes we're told, and should the sky light up, thanks to magnetic particles exploding from the sun into our atmosphere, we'll get a wake up call and race outside of Hotel Alyeska for a potential glimpse of the phenomena. It's midnight now, but our clothes to brave the zero degrees outside are ready to be worn should that Northern Lights call come in.

Alaska day in a minute. Pipeline, Museum, Ice Sculpture but no Northern Lights

2011-02-28T16:07:00.001-08:00

On a frigid Saturday morning in Fairbanks, we made a cameo visit to The Alaska Pipeline, followed by a tour of the museum at the University of Alaska. Early artifacts, stuffed wildlife, historical displays, and everything Alaska was on display. From there, it was off to The World Ice Sculpture competition until the 20 below temperature became too much to handle. Upon returning to the hotel in Fairbanks, we watched Todd Palin finish 2nd in the Iron Dog Snowmachine race...and yes, Sarah was in the crowd. We had hoped to see the Northern Lights since it was plenty cold and clear...but alas, no Auroura Borealis on this night.

Alaska Railroad journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage with NASJA

2011-02-28T10:38:00.001-08:00

It was nearly 30 below zero when our NASJA delegates boarded the train for our 11 hour trip through the Alaska wilderness. We traveled beneath towering mountains, above frozen rivers, beside caribou and moose, and through the mid-section of our 49th State. Stopping dozens of times along the route for photo ops and waits for wildlife to cross the tracks, we were graced with a clear cold day for excellent viewing inside the cozy rail coach. We passed within 45 miles of 20,000 foot Mt. McKinley, the highest Peak in the U.S., but the only clouds we saw all day were those that obscured sight of this Alaskan natural wonder. Our host on the trip was Harry Ross who has a 44 year history as an Alaska Railroad Conductor, and the subject of a documentary produced by PBS which aired on KQED. Harry is also a jazz and blues singer, and we'll present his rendition of
"Misty" in a future post. Along the way, we passed Wasilla, Alaska...home of Sarah Palin and the headquarters of the Iditarod Dog Sled Race. Ms. Palin was not at home. We saw her the previous night in Fairbanks to greet husband Todd who finished 2nd in Iron Dog Snowmachine Championship which concluded in front of our hotel. About a dozen active journalists of the North American Snowsports Journalist Association will be producing stories on that race, the World Championship of Ice Sculpting, a visit to the University of Alaska Museum and the Alaska Pipeline from our brief stay in Fairbanks. Now in Anchorage, another couple dozen NASJA press members will join us for our annual convention that begins Tuesday at Alyeska Ski Resort about 45 minutes south on the Seward Highway. Next Saturday, it's the start of the Iditarod in Anchorage with a Glacier Cruise scheduled for Sunday, so plenty more reports, stories, and interviews and videos upcoming from the Great State of Alaska.

Jaime Schectman and David Scanlan. Their mantra is Maintoba and the method is MRA

2011-02-26T02:46:00.000-08:00

They are co-founders of Mountain Riders Alliance, a different approach to guiding Snowsports into the future...and perhaps saving it. Absolute backcountry junkies, others of similar passion embrace Jamie and David's thought of lift accessed out of bounds skiing in the Chugach mountains for cheap. The 8000 acre, 2500 vertical Manitoba Mountain in question, is proposed to offer a beginner and intermediate front side, with gated entrances into the backcountry.

http://www.mountainridersalliance.com/

Jamie provides the ideas as visionary and knows how to share them, while David executes the ideals as Project Manager. With his dreadlock hair and articulate presentation David Scanlan, a local from one of the small towns called Hope is a pillar in his community and well known in Anchorage. Today he successfully got the go ahead from the US Forestry and State of Alaska to move forward. It will be a very slow process, but there is a clear path to achieving success in this first of many planned projects in North America. MRA with anticipated cooperation from all the entities, including nearby Alyeska Resort, who stands to benefit when the global skier discovers what Manitoba has to offer.

http://www.mountainridersalliance.com/

Details of the Mountain Riders Alliance, history of the Manitoba Ski Area, facts of the project, overview of the ski area with plans to sell shares of ownership to it's customers...the local community skiers and riders on MRA website.

With winter business not thriving in the area, it would seem a reason to create jobs and make people happy would be a good thing. But Alaska does not want outsiders to influence Alaska. Dave Scanlan is accepted locally, and I do believe he can convince the powers that be that Manitoba Ski Area Restoration Project will serve it's citizens. Expanding winter activity in the Chugach mountains does not seem to be on the radar. This project would activate businesses that thrive in the summer but have no reason to stick it out during the winter. And the ski area will be sustainable. The power needed to move 3 surface lifts will be generated by wind and hydro. A clean conscious model for future ski areas, and a direction for the ski industry to head. The Mountain Rider's Alliance believes skiers will embrace riding surface lifts to access helicopter ski terrain. And make a profit serving fellow ski tour enthusiasts who are addicted to powder.

We will be following the journey of MRA at: http// www.12sportsonline.com. Click the Snowflake for Jerry's Snowblog.

2011-02-06T20:39:00.001-08:00

What happens when the real estate model for a ski resort fails? In the case of Moonlight Basin, it's a win for skiers and riders who visit the Montana mountain and it's fully appointed exquisite lodging options and dynamite skiing.. while it remains open. The resort took a loan of nearly $500 million it can not repay. The loan agent was Lehman Brothers, the bankrupt financial institution. As a result, hundreds of exquisite townhouses, condos, mansions, and even log cabins remain unrented and mostly unoccupied. Progress is being made toward securing private investors who will take over the unpaid loan, get Lehman Brothers out of the equation and work with the powers that be at Moonlight Basin to complete it's master plan which includes a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course on the 8000 acre prime real estate. The financial dilemma Moonlight Basin faces translates into a tremendous ski experience for snowsports enthusiasts who take the journey to Moonlight, which stands next to neighbor Big Sky Resort near West Yellowstone in the Gallatin mountain range. The ski hill features about 2000 skiable acres, 4100 vertical, some epic double diamond terrain and dozens of beginning and intermediate trails. The beauty of the region is breathtaking, but since Moonlight Basin has more supply of "The Goods" than demand...prices across the board from lift tickets to lodging are less than comparable ski resorts. There are many theories as to Moonlight Basin's future. Some think it will go the way of Tamarack Resort in Idaho, which shut down operations but eventually found a bank to support a Thursday-Sunday operation. Moonlight Basin of course hopes to find a sympathetic investor to join forces and facilitate it's optimistic plan. Still other believe (and this probably is the leading scenario) that Big Sky will eventually find financing to assume Moonlight Basin and create one giant ski area. East West property management has a stake in MB, so it's possible they'd be interested in becoming a bigger player, and combine forces with the Boyne Corporation that owns Big Sky Mountain Resort. Mid-summer would appear to be decision time.

Big Sky Montana. A ski resort by newsman Chet Huntley

2011-02-03T23:28:00.001-08:00

Along with financially plagued neighbor Moonlight Basin, Big Sky Resort creates America's biggest lift serviced ski area. The Mountain at Big Sky is known for both it's extreme double diamond skiing off the tram at Lone Peak, and it's wide open green level runs down below. Adjacent to Big Sky Resort is a monument to the affluent. Club Yellowstone, perhaps the World's most exclusive ski area. Completely owned by it's residents (Bill Gates and Warren Miller among them) Club Yellowstone is private will all the amenities. It employs 600, in a community of part time residents. CY is easily viewed from Big Sky, but we observed only a handful of skiers the entire day. A 2000 acre ski area with tremendous terrain...wide empty virtually every day of the season. Yet all 8 lifts will run. Big Sky is private as well...without any lavishness. About an hour drive from Bozeman in the Gallatin Mountain Range...Big Sky is the biggest skiing in America that far too few have discovered.

Snowcreek Resort. An Oasis townhouse development in the shadow of Mammoth mountain

2011-01-18T22:25:00.001-08:00

Close to the "action" of Mammoth Mountain, yet comfortably away from all the activity is a lodging property that offers everything for skiers, families, and groups of friends. Snowcreek Resort is a townhouse community complete with all the comforts of home...a very exquisite, tastefully appointed, and comfortable home with inspired designs, roominess and custom touches. The 2-4 bedroom lodgings in a most majestic setting are appointed with large rooms designed with unique timber. Kitchens are gourmet, with stainless steel appliances. Extensive stone work adds to the flavor of Snowcreek Resort, with artistic craftsmanship. In short, the designs are stunning and the layout is large. Huge walk-in closets, wood burning fireplaces, luxury bathrooms and comfortable living areas are all part of Snowcreek's signature. The townhouses are certainly upscale, but affordable. http://www.snowcreekresort.com/reservations/search.htm is a place to start when planning a vacation to Mammoth Lakes in any season. Free taxi service if you fly into the nearby Mammoth Yosemite airport and free use of Snowcreek's complete athletic club and spa is part of any package. Complete Snowcreek Resort information is available at:
www.SnowcreekPropertyCompany.com. Visit www.12sportsonline.com and click the snowflake for video and blog reports

Northstar at Tahoe

2011-01-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

The recent arrival of a Ritz Carlton Hotel on the slopes...the ski resort being purchased by Vail Associates...an active village scene with shops and a skating rink, and recently opened diamond terrain has skyrocketed Northstar at Tahoe into a supreme winter sports destination. Near Truckee on highway 267north of Lake Tahoe, the 4 season resort continues to improve it's operation and offerings to customers. Certainly the Ritz and new luxury condos appeal to the deep pocketed...but it's the season pass holders who benefit most from the winter wonderland. Now that Vail Associates purchased the resort from Booth Creek, a season pass includes Heavenly Mountain Resort on the South shore of Tahoe. The "Epic" pass also includes Vail's 6 Colorado ski hills, and for this year, Sierra at Tahoe is also in the mix...although Sierra remains a Booth Creek property. Northstar still maintains it's family flavor, but with the 2000 vertical feet of diamond skiing and riding in the Lookout Mountain area...the high speed quad Martis Camp lift provides some of the best skiing in the Sierra for expert snowsporters. On powder days it's as good as it gets. Yesterday's rain however made the slopes super firm today.

Heavenly Mountain. Tahoe's duel state ski resort introduces Tamarack Lodge.

2011-01-13T22:59:00.001-08:00

One of the World's most unique Snowsports destinations is Heavenly Mountain Resort. The ski hill encompasses 4800 acres in California and Nevada, overlooking spectacular Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley. Expert skiers and riders are challenged by a steep long mogul run down the face on Gunbarrel in the Golden State...with Mott and Killebrew Canyons on the Silver State's side of the mountain. Intermediates can make turns on dozens of screaming groomed runs, and Heavenly is known for it's tremendous learning center with plenty of beginning areas. Snowboarders have numerous terrain parks, to challenge, but the terrain isn't exactly favorable for riders who are faced with long slow traverses going from State to State. The Gondola from South Lake Tahoe Stateline transports skiers and riders 2000 vertical feet, where the new Tamarack Lodge is the focal point. There is a tubing park and zip line for other snowsports enthusiasts and the scenery from just about anywhere is breathtaking.

Kirkwood...Still has a wilderness feel with modern day adventure

2011-01-13T21:44:00.000-08:00

39 years ago, Kirkwood opened as the Sierra's only wilderness ski area. Kirkwood is also the last ski resort mountain to open in all of California. Off highway 88 about 45 minutes south of Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood boasts the highest base elevation of any Tahoe area resort at 7800 feet. The resorts 2300 acres offers everything from double diamond cornices and chutes, to an expansive tame beginners area and an abundance of intermediate cruisers. One of the few Tahoe mountains with more riders than skiers, Kirkwood has 3 terrain parks and a boarder cross course plus 40 kilometers of cross country trails. On Tuesday in snowy blustery conditions, some of our NASJA (North American Snowsports Journalist Association) board members made some turns in the steeps with Mike from Kirkwood's media relations department.

Sierra at Tahoe. A ski resort with the future of the sport in mind. GM John Rice champions sustainabilty

2011-01-13T16:15:00.001-08:00

Sierra at Tahoe on Highway 50 on the way to South Lake Tahoe has had several owners over the years, but remains a singular destination unlike any other ski resort in the Sierra. Years ago, a family owned Sierra Ski Ranch and refused to serve beer. The resort sold to Booth Creek a couple decades ago as one of 11 ski hills owned by the holding company, but now, Sierra at Tahoe is the lone ski resort operated by Booth Creek. Through it all, friendly service, values and attention to the environment have been a constant. The driving force toward the future of the 2000 acre trail oriented mountain is General Manager John Rice. The progressive Rice has been involved in Resort operation most of his life, and has turned down many offers to run larger and more prestigious mountains. John's sense of purpose and progress is evident in the practices the resort employs. Sustainability and a green mindset is at the heart of Sierra at Tahoe. John Rice has assembled a staff that shares his vision. Recycling is as ever- present as the spectacular views atop it's 360 BBQ restaurant. Kirstin Cattell provides the geography lesson in this video of the stunning scenery from the deck.

A look at Mammoth from 11+ thousand feet.

2011-01-08T15:44:00.001-08:00

Not only does Mammoth Mountain feature more skiable terrain than any other California ski resort, the scenery is just as spectacular. Dan Hansen of the MM resort PR department shows the view. On this bluebird day, the area from Fresno to Yosemite was viewable with the remarkable Minaret Peaks as a backdrop.

Snowpark art at Mammoth Mountain

2011-01-08T15:14:00.001-08:00

Virtually all ski mountains now have at least one snowpark, and most resorts feature several areas for skiers and riders to launch, jib and style, as terrain park technology continues to keep pace with the demand. One of the more unique examples is at Mammoth Mountain located near Canyons Lodge. Josh Chauvet is a Snowpark pioneer and has created a literal work of art between the trees. Dan Hansen explains in the video.

skiing Mammoth Mountain with Dan Hansen in PR

2011-01-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

The North American Snowsports Journalist Association for the West region enjoyed 3 glorious days of sunshine with mid-winter snow conditions at Mammoth mountain in early January. Hosted by Snowcreek Resort, our 15 delegates were lodged at the comfortable townhouse development a couple minutes from the hill. Our business meeting at Snowcreek's athletic center addressed the challenges we face as journalists in an era of social media explosion...but during the day, we made turns at California's most spectacular ski destination in the Eastern Sierra. Mammoth Mountain has 3500 acres of skiable terrain, and is enjoying it's snowiest early season on record...dating back to 1951, when founder Dave McCoy installed a single rope tow. Now, nearly 60 years later, Mammoth is a World Class Resort and the 95 year old McCoy is still going strong.

Why drive to Mammoth when you can fly?

2011-01-08T12:44:00.000-08:00

With Tioga Pass closed every winter through Yosemite, skiers and riders from the Bay Area faced a long drive to experience Mammoth Mountain. Not anymore! A 55 minute flight from San Jose saves at least 6 hours travel time, and considering the cost of gasoline, the $66. one-way fare seems more than reasonable. Upon arriving at the Mammoth Lakes airport, Mammoth Taxi service is there for transportation to your lodging destination.

Heavy winds and nasty weather causing havoc at Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts at noon Sunday 12/19.

2010-12-19T12:39:00.001-08:00

Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort
Here are the facts: The top of a tree broke off and fell, hitting the West Bowl chair line just before 11:00 a.m. this morning. There were a few minor injuries sustained but nothing that couldn't be handled by our Ski Patrollers. We closed the resort due to the heavy winds - which are only getting heavier as the storm continues. Thanks for everyone's patience while we shuttled everyone out of West Bowl.

Mt Rose Ski Tahoe
Hwy 431 currently closed; Ponderosa is the only chair currently running. I suggest staying warm and cozy wherever you're at- the snow will stack up tonight!

Temperatures have raised 5 degrees in the last 1.5 hours and wind gusts just hit 147 mph on top of Alpine Meadows

Heading home from Whistler and ride to Vancouver

2010-12-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

Getaway day came too soon from Whistler. 90% of my 6 of 7 days on the slopes were at Blackcomb, and the sun was pretty much a no show. 7th Heaven had the best light and on the mountain, and endless options, so the humungous bowl leading into trails and trees became a daily ritual. Solar Coaster is another express quad chair that services more tame terrain, and laps off the 1800 vertical slope were standard, as was the spectacular area accessed by Glacier Chair. The T-Bars were not in operation, so hiking was the only way into Blackcomb and with the flat light due to early season and high latitude 2 hours north of Vancouver...I passed. Thing is, with constant fog and no frame of reference skiing on a totally white glacier, it's appeal was suspect. In the Village, business was slow, there were zero lift lines, and all mountain folks are hoping for a spike in activity starting this weekend through year. After that who knows. Aftermath excitement from the Olympic Games has not translated into profit as yet. The ski industry is suffering as a whole, but Whistler Blackcomb, developed by Intrawest (the same company that made capital improvements at Mammoth and Squaw Valley and then brokered them) is indeed North America's largest Ski Resort. The prices for lift tickets, food and other necessities (like beer) are extremely high, and the Canadian and U.S. dollars are now on par, so there are no bargains to had...except for experiencing North America's best Snowsports venue. There were some lodging specials during my stay, but from now till New Year's "forget about it". I made my annual birthday pilgrimage for the 12th straight year, but for the first time, it rained from top to bottom 12/12 which became my rest day. Visit www.12sportsonline.com and click the snowflake for all Snowsport video blogs.

Birthday pilgrimage to Whistler ended with outstanding day.

2010-12-15T17:07:00.001-08:00

A little snow, a bit of sun, and tremendous conditions overall for my final day on the slopes. Again, I stayed on Blackcomb all day, and didn't shoot much video (bandwidth issues to upload would impact anyhow) but skied to the very end. Lifts close at 3pm in December considering Whistler's high latitude, so I made turns to the very end. Once again, lift lines were non-existant, and snow quality excellent as temperatures were -8c in the Alpine (high teens) with little wind. This weekend should kick off the Christmas crush, but if any mountains can handle the holiday, it's Whistler and Blackcomb. Their "stats" are unrivaled in North America as shared during reports this past week, plus Canadian hospitality, (though most lift ops are Australian) from the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics is genuine and sincere. It is expensive here. Expect to pay more for meals, lodging and yes, lift tickets...but the experience (especially early season with great conditions and no crowds) is worth the extra fare. Click the snowflake at www.12sportsonline.com for Snowsports video blogs all season long, and www.whistlerblackcomb.com.

Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is #1 for skiers and riders, but some of the best terrain remains closed.

2010-12-14T21:02:00.001-08:00

Peak Chair remains closed at Whistler, so skiing at Blackcomb wins out. Very few areas in North America can compare to one lift accessed area called 7th Heaven. Above the trees for about 1000 vertical feet, the massive bowl offers spectacular lines to access the trails below. From the top, the view is Whistler Mountain (when clear enough), and the area normally provides the best light for early season skiing and riding. Showcase and Horstman T-bars remain closed, so those seeking the experience of Blackcomb Glacier must hike to get there. Spanky's ladder off of Glacier chair is the most direct and shortest climb to drop in the 7 mile run. Since skiing on glacier snow offers no trees or rocks for contrast...with dicey visibility, it's instant vertigo. Today, 6 inches of fresh overnight on damp pack made for ego snow. Carving was easy on Tuesday, and it's snowing tonight. Another 10cm or 4 inches is predicted. As for Whistler and it's charming village, the mountain is spectacular with 4000 skiable acres, Expert terrain off Peak and Harmony chairs, great cruisers and one of the best learning centers in the industry. The Olympics were staged this calendar year on these very slopes, but that is not the buzz. In fact, there's surprising little Olympic memorabilia. These two side by side mammoth mountains are by far and away North America's finest. Each with a mile vertical, perfect lift system where lines rarely exist, more glaciers, bowls and over 200 trails. Layers of fog are always hovering it seems, but taking a line near the trees provides the needed contrast. Oh, didn't even make it to Whistler today...content to take different lines down 7th Heaven. Took some steeps after lunch off Glacier chair, but the day belonged to Blackcomb. Solar Coaster is the other main quad that runs down the spine between the two epic areas. One more day on the hill for me, then it's back to Santa Cruz..for a day, before driving to Heavenly for a function this weekend. www.12sportsonline.com. Click the snowflake.

The day after it rained. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains get washed. Firm today, more pow Tuesday

2010-12-13T16:48:00.001-08:00

Yesterday's rain made for some firm conditions on all but the highest terrain, where shin high heavy snow blanketed 7th Heaven. Minus 5 in the Alpine kept damp powder in tact. There were untracked stashes all morning, getting heavier as the day progressed. New snow is on the way. 5-10 cm overnight is predicted, but 3 inches of fresh will be welcome on the 5 foot base softening things up a bit. Made a late afternoon ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, after a day in 7th Heaven. Today had the most light on the mountains, but hopefully before departing Whistler Wednesday there will be moments of sunshine captured on video. Visit www.12sportonline.com, or snowbomb.com.for other DV posted.

Rain to top, internet upload snafu. Happy Birthday to me.

2010-12-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

I'LL TAKE IT!!

The thought of cooler air and up to 50 cm. ( a couple feet) of new albeit damp powder awaiting in the Alpine. I am pumped for tomorrow. Monday holds much promise, but 12/12 on the slopes was washed away. A blanket of rain, stretching the entire mass of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains..nearly all of it's 8000 skiable acres were rained upon. It happens! Old enough to know tomorrow is another day. age 59. Just another day in winter. The change from snow to rain erased the white layers caked on every Whistler Village tree. In the high Alpine it's another story. Tonight's fresh on the 6 foot base gets me excited. another story. Tonight's fresh on the 6 foot base gets me excited.
My handheld DV recorder is getting a workout, but recent attempts to upload material shot on the mountains fail on this server from Whistler. I'll keep trying.
My blogs are rarely written in first person singular...and usually have a video to support them, but next year on this day I'll be 60. Hard to come to grips with that. A step slower for sure, but not enough to influence my sports passions. Just thankful for another year. Freedom. For choosing to ski, play baseball, golf, cycle, body surf, and feeling alive. Enough reflection. I missed skiing on my birthday which is the source of my pilgrimage for the past 12 years. The streak ends, but it would have been a wet uncomfortable day with sticky snow and a better chance for a costly mistake. So discretion was the better part of vallor and watching the Steelers and 49ers win, when I'd normally be making turns was a fine substitute. Some ventured on the hill, (and had my video uploads been processed as usual, you'd see and hear their comments) and were not happy (yet cheery they've been on the hill) considering an early season lift ticket sets you back $70., and a saturated body would be the result. Been there, done that.

No video. Uploads not happening from Whistler.

2010-12-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

It's snowing heavily in the Alpine as I write this report on my birthday eve. Another 2 feet of powder will greet skiers and riders at Whistler and Blackcomb on Sunday. Tomorrow is also the birthday of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Dedicated 2 years ago, the 24 passenger cabins began spanning the 2.8 mile Cable. It takes 11 minutes, and dangles almost 1500 feet above Fitzsimmons Creek on it's way linking the side by side mountains. I'm hoping for a clear day to shoot video from the engineering marvel, but visibility has been lacking since arriving on Wednesday. Tonights heavy snowfall may turn to rain in the Village by morning, but it will be heavy powder in the Alpine. Tree skiing on the upper mountain should be epic for this birthday boy. Less than a year ago, most of the Olympic Alpine events were staged on these very slopes.

Glacier Chair opens at Blackcomb. 7th Heaven hopefully on Saturday

2010-12-10T19:20:00.001-08:00

A little dusting overnight added to the 20cm. (1 foot) which blanketed slopes the previous 24 hours at Whistler, and now with a 5 foot base, full operation of both stupendous mountains should be just around the corner. No lift lines to speak of, means burning thighs for the fortunate few who are enjoying tremendous early season conditions at North America's most expansive ski resort. Glacier Express opened today for the first time this season, and hikers climbed to areas where T-bars normally access. Surface lifts servicing Horseman and Blackcomb Glaciers are yet to crank up, but that could change this weekend.

Whistler Blackcomb. Powder day Dec. 9. Great start to ski season in Canada.

2010-12-09T22:10:00.001-08:00

Opening day of my annual birthday pilgrimage to Whistler was rewarded with non-stop freshies on the slopes. At barely over 1000 feet above sea level, rain is quite common in Whistler Village. But upon reaching the Alpine, it was all snow...and plenty of it. The snow base at Whistler-Blackcomb is nearing 5 feet, so virtually all obstacles are covered for skiers and riders. 25 centimeters, about a foot of powder has fallen in the past 24 hours and more is on the way. While the Sierra is enjoying a tremendous early season for snowfall, it's the norm here about 2 hours north of Vancouver. W/B is North America's most expansive mountains. They stand side by side with each boasting over 4000 skiable acres. Numerous bowls, Glaciers, superb tree and glade skiing, and an outstanding lift system is just part of the Whistler-Blackcomb story. In the course of the next week, I'll post daily reports from the mountains, with video and prose. Today, visibility was lacking, so the splendor of the resort, and it's signature Gondola..Peak 2 Peak was shrouded. Spanning 4.4 Kilometers (about 2.8 miles), linking the two giant ski hills, dedicated on my birthday 12/12 two years ago... the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is suspended nearly 1500 feet above Fitzsimmons Creek in mid-span on a ride that takes 11 minutes. Today's highlight was a sensational glade run called "Where's Joe". I didn't see a soul while making turns through the trees as constant snow fell. This gem of a run is accessed from the trail heading toward 7th Heaven, which was closed today but should be open this weekend. Solar Coaster at Blackcomb offered plenty for this reporters first ski day of the season.

Powderhound buddy Brad Gilbert shredded some early season freshies in Colorado. Visit his link for the story

2010-11-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.glutenfreesnowboarder.com/

Curtis Fong gives his take on buying new ski boots.

2010-11-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

As most skiers know, your boots are the most important piece of
equipment. They must fit snug, as well a comfortable, but must
also allow your foot / ankle to be in a natural position. Most importantly,
allow you to be centered, plumb lined from the center of your knee
cap down.

Technica has always had a good reputation for making performance
boots, although you don't see them as prevalent in World Cup and highly
competitive events. Consult your local ski shop to see what boots are
made to accommodate wide and high arch. I think Technica is one of
those brands. I would not order site unseen unless you try it on to make
sure if fits your needs. So trying it on is also key.

I tried on the new Salomon / High Performance race boot, thinking that
it would be much stiffer for my needs, but the backs were too high and
and felt too much pressure around the tops. I went to the model one
down from this and backs weren't as high, felt just like my old boots
and once I put my foot bed in it, it fit like a glove...

There are a variety of devices offered that can help customize the fit
such as moldable foot beds ( I use a Super feet Cork molded Footbed,
as I have flat feet). There are also custom moldable boot liners and
donuts for around the ankle area, etc. So, the lesson here is no matter
what boot brand you purchase, always check the fit with a Certified
boot fit pro at your local shop.

Salomon has a series of boots that are branded "CS" which stands for
Custom Shell where, when heated, the shell is also moldable to give
more space, allow for bone spurs and different variations of your feet.
There may be other companies producing a boot with this capabilities
as well.

The key is, try at least 3 different boot manufacturers and models
according to your needs before purchasing. Do not make price the
consideration for purchasing (company store discount). Fit, comfort
and performance are what you should consider. If you achieve these
goals, the price of the boot is an investment to guarantee years of
comfort and performance on the slopes.

Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival in San Francisco. 2 Feet of snow expected.

2010-11-08T10:34:00.001-08:00

Virtually all of the ski resorts in the West were represented, as were ski and snowboard brands like Solomon, Rossignal, Atomic and Burton. Merchandise and apparel was sold at up to 70% off. Contests for trips and lift tickets were conducted every hour. There were demonstrations, new gadgets, and an abundance of wine and beer....everything you'd expect at a Ski and Snowboard Festival was presented this weekend at Ft. Mason in San Francisco. If you missed it, the party moves to the Santa Clara Convention Center November 13-14. We had a chance to chat with a few of the Ski Resort. Mammoth on the eastern slopes of the Sierra, a couple hours south of Reno not only has upgraded lodging options like Snowcreek at the base of the Western United States largest ski mountain, but also now has partnered with United Air for direct service into Mammoth from the Bay Area. Folks have been flying around Mammoth for years, but now it's time to use a plane. Big news around Lake Tahoe finds Vail Associates buying out Northstar...adding the resort on the North Shore to become the sister mountain of Heavenly at Stateline Southshore which was acquired by Vail a couple seasons ago. Julie Mauer who started in PR/Marketing at Northstar 25 years ago, is now VP of Marketing and talks about the new Epic Pass in the video. It rained most of the day in the San Francisco Sunday, and 2 feet of fresh snow is expected at the higher elevations for all Tahoe resorts, with openings planned for Thanksgiving. Further North in British Columbia, Canada Whistler/Blackcomb following it's hosting of the Olympic Games already enjoys nearly 3 feet of coverage and will open prior to Thanksgiving. Last November, the massive side by side ski and snowboard mountains set records for snowfall, and with El Nino anticipated this early season, major dumps of powder are being predicted again. Check out the 3rd night free package available at many Whistler Village properties, but the offer ends Nov. 15th. Alpine Meadows, Sierra at Tahoe, Squaw Valley, and Sugar Bowl all have special deals that can be found by visiting www.12sportsonline.com Snowsports page. Perhaps the best steeps in all of Tahoe are found at Mt. Rose...Reno's local hill. "The Chutes" offer heart pumping lines through gated entrances that feature pitches of up to 55 degrees on a 1500 vertical foot slope.

Vail Associates buys Northstar at Tahoe. Heavenly now has a sister mountain on the North Shore.

2010-10-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

The Ski industry has experienced tough sledding in recent years primarily due to a down economy, but considering a declining number of ski resorts in North America, skier visit days going down and expenses going up...Vail Associates seems to be bullet proof and impervious to the conditions of the day. Skiers and riders could care less about corporate matters, but those in the know will be buying Vail Associates lift ticket jewell, The Epic Pass. Essentially equal to the cost of 8 days of skiing a season...if you are a double digit guy or gal, with plans to ski Colorado and Tahoe this season, the Epic Pass is a no-brainer. Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone are 5 of Colorado's finest. Heavenly at south Lake Tahoe was added to the Epic package last year, and now with Northstar at Tahoe in the mix for unlimited skiing and riding on the north shore the deal that expires November 7th for $629. is the best season pass available. As a bonus, Sierra at Tahoe is included, although the resort on highway 50 near echo summit will still be run by Booth Creek Resort Properties, the company that sold Northstar for $63 million. Northstar at Tahoe has recently spent millions on a pedestrian village and expanded lodging...not including the new Ritz on mountain hotel completed last November. With individual day lift tickets the most expensive way to spend a day on the hill, snowsports enthusiasts now have a tremendous variety and value option if plans includes skiing or riding in the Rockies and Sierra 9 or more days this season. Our friend Julie Mauer who 25 years ago worked in Northstar's PR department will now be marketing VP forVail Resorts and oversee both new acquisitions at Lake Tahoe, so Vail will be in tune with "local knowledge".

A look inside Ft Mason at 2009 Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival in San Francisco

2010-10-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

Greetings fans of Snowbomb.com, and welcome to Jerry's Snowblog. As President of the North American Snowsports Journalist Association for the West Region, I was asked by Snowbomb guru Jim McAlpine to contribute a presentation focusing on various resorts in the Western U.S. and Canada that compliments Snowbomb's Tahoe driven perspective. Dozen's of ski resorts from the West will be represented the first two weekends in November at The Ski and Snowboard Festivals in the Bay Area presented by Snowbomb.com. Video blogs will be posted in this space throughout the season, originating "live" from San Francisco and Santa Clara to kick off the ski season. In December, we'll travel to Whistler/Blackcomb where I predict the best early season conditions in North America will be featured. In early January, Mammoth Mountain and the awesome Snowcreek Resort will be covered, while late in the month we report from the annual SIA Convention in Denver. (Snowsports Industries America) This winter's trade show extravaganza previews everything that's "hot" in the industry from apparel to equipment. Ski clothing legend, 91 year old Klaus Obermeyer will be one of my guests. In February, expect remote video blogs from Winter Park, Colorado, The Canyons and Deer Valley in Utah, plus coverage of the FIS World Cup Freestyle Championships. In March, our NASJA National Convention at Alyeska, Alaska will provide some terrific material, which happens to coincide with the iditarod dog sled race which mushes off from Anchorage. So we have a lot on the "remote" agenda this season. We'll also present opinions and share information about the challenges faced by ski resorts...discuss how our industry is dealing with global warming, the economy, sustainability and what's being done to keep our sport fun and affordable. I'll be directing you to websites and links which provide followup to the video blogs posted here and offer snow news you can use. I invite you check this space regularly throughout the ski season, and feel free to offer comments and suggestions.

SkiUl8R,
Jerry Hoffman
12 Sports Productions
NASJA-West President
mediaman1212@me.com

NASJA visit Sun Valley. Idaho's epic ski resort entertains Snowsports journalists from all over North America.

2010-03-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

The North American Snowsports Journalist Association held it's annual convention this past week at Sun Valley Idaho. The historic mountain resort which has hosted some of the World's most famous people since 1937...produced many Olympic Champions..and is perhaps the best groomed ski hill on the globe, was the perfect venue for writers, photographers and electronic media gathering stories, images and reports. We enjoyed sessions with 81 year old climbing legend Lou Whittaker who led the first American team to summit Mt. Everest's north wall, and Bill Fosbury who revolutionized high jumping with his "flop" technique winning gold at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Both athletes make their homes in Sun Valley. We made turns with hotdog-freestyle legend Wayne Wong who along with Anton Wilson are pioneering the revolutionary Anton suspension ski system. About 60 journalists from North America enjoyed the splendors of Idaho's premier snowsports resort on the hill, the ski town of Ketchum at the mountain's base, and stayed at the Inn and exquisite Sun Valley Lodge. Free "Mountain Rides" bus service runs regularly from the Village to the slopes.

Sun Valley, Idaho. A ski hill legend since 1937.

2010-03-24T23:48:00.000-07:00

America's most historic ski resort is hosting the North American Snowsports Journalist Association for it's annual convention. The NASJA membership meeting totals about 60 writers, photographers and bloggers from across the country. Some of plan to ski our age in thousands of feet tomorrow on Wayne Wong's new revolutionary Anton suspension ski. There's a 3200' vertical run off Challenger chair, and I intend to do loop it 16 times. That experience will be posted on Friday.

Brundage Mountain in McCall, Idaho. Shore Lodge a landmark...great Northwest resort retreat

2010-03-23T05:58:00.000-07:00

Near the middle of Idaho, an undiscovered ski hill delivers great terrain and today 5 inches of fresh powder. Brundage Mountain Resort has 1800 vertical feet of variety for skiers and riders who mostly come from McCall Idaho and surrounding parts. Boise Snowsporters make the 2 hour drive, and know they'll get plenty of runs on a day trip. For those visitors who stay in town, the Shore Lodge is the spot for a high end experience in a home town setting. The DeBoer family owns Brundage Mountain resort and has been a community leader for over 100 years, with plans to have expand...but will wait till the time is right, unlike the botched Tamarack resort that is bankrupt in nearby Donnelly. Brundage lift tickets are $30. less than Tahoe resorts. Flights from Oakland on Southwest to Boise are non-stop and available cheap. The flight is a little over an hour, then it's a two hour drive north along the Payette River.

Alex Bilodeau won Canada's first Gold medal of these Olympic Games. 6 days on the slopes and in the atmosphere of Whistler

2010-02-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

I'm back in Santa Cruz, but the party will continue through Sunday's closing ceremony at Whistler and Vancouver. What a tremendous experience. I did not have a full media credential for access to the main press center and 1 on 1 interviews with Olympic athletes...but skiing daily, capturing some of the sights, scenes and sounds plus Whistler Media House press conferences provided a taste of the Olympic Games. So many incredible performances and stories. Alex Bilodeau in today's video blog won Canada's first gold in the moguls with a spectacular run and credited his brother who is physically challenged with his inspiration.

Bode blows up on first GS run, as the U.S. failed to medal in an Alpine event at Whistler. Winter weather has returned.

2010-02-23T22:39:00.000-08:00

For the first time in an Alpine event, the US team did not medal. In fact, Bode Miller who owns a Gold, Silver and Bronze at Whistler DNF his first run, and the best Ted Ligety could do was 9th. Still the USA leads the medal count with 26, followed by Germany's 23. Host country Canada stands in 5th with 11 podiums, but got a boost on the ice when it's hockey team clobbered Germany 8-2 to advance. Meanwhile in women's figure skating, Canadian Joannie Rochette placed 3rd in the short program just 3 days after the death of her mother. 2 U.S. women advanced. Following a day on the slopes in the snow, it was on to the sliding center to take in the women's bobsled heats one and two. The Canadian team of Kaillie Humphreys and Heather Moyse cling to a .13 second advantage over Americans Erin Pac and Elena Meyers heading into Wednesday finals. It's the Giant Slalom for the women as well with Lindsey Vonn and Defending Olympic Champion Julia Mancuso of Squaw Valley..each with a pair of medals so far, looking to add to that total. Emily Cook also takes flight Wednesday in her quest for gold in the aerials.

Oh Canada! The icon Nancy Greene coached the Whistler Kids and revisited 25 years of her past.

2010-02-23T00:30:00.000-08:00

Nancy Greene owns Olympic Gold and Silver from the Grenoble France games in 1968, and won 17 World Cup titles in her career that ended at age 25. From that point on, she's become an icon for Canada dedicating her life to developing ski racers, creating Sun Peaks resort in the BC interior and representing Canada in everything she does. Named the Canadian Women's athlete of the 20th Century, Nancy shares that honor with Wayne Gretzky. Greene and "The Great One" both carried the Olympic Flame that signaled the start of these Olympic Games at the opening ceremonies.

Bode Miller gets gold to complete his set, and Canadian hockey is set back by Team USA. Canadian puck fans are down but not out.

2010-02-22T00:31:00.000-08:00

Bode Miller was outside the top-5 after the Downhill portion of the Super Combined, but nailed the slalom to bring home the Gold...to complete his medal set at these games. The reserved ski racer from New Hampshire showed little emotion despite the enormity of his accomplishment. Perhaps because he has two more events to compete. Meanwhile, in Whistler village the afternoon and evening belonged to hockey. Red Canadian hockey gear was everywhere. The support could not pull the favored Canadian team through. USA prevailed 5-3.

Vonncover games continue for Lindsey with bronze in Super G. United States continues to dominate in Alpine events at Whistler.

2010-02-21T01:49:00.000-08:00

Lindsey Vonn picked up another person medal and the 21st USA podium visit with a 3rd in today's Super G. Sunday it's the men's combined with Bode Miller and Ted Ligety two of the favorites. U. S. Alpine skiers have won 7 of the 15 medals awarded so far at Whistler. Tonight we'll capture some of the Canadian passion for ice hockey as Canada plays the US...

USA hauls in 20th medal of games. Alpine team owns half of all medals awarded at Whistler. Bode Miller and Andrew Weinbrecht on Super G podium.

2010-02-19T23:37:00.000-08:00

Bode Miller captured his second silver and Andrew Weibrecht bronze as the United States Alpine team continues to dominate at Whistler. Of the 12 medals awarded thus far, the Americans have captured half. The Dave Murray Super G race course got slower and slower as the sun beat down so it was a huge advantage to ski early. 64 racers had one shot at the course. Sksel Lund Svindal of Norway won the gold.

Julia Mancuso scores second silver. Squaw Valley's own goes for Gold in the Giant Slalom on Saturday. Lindsey Vonn went down in the slalom combined.

2010-02-19T00:29:00.000-08:00

I missed Thursday's Alpine action at Whistler arriving late, but got a taste of Whistler Village and attended Julia Mancuso's press conference following her 2nd place finish in the combined. The 25 year old from Squaw Valley has been battling back pain and other setbacks, but she rose to the occasion finishing 2nd to Lindsey Vonn in the downhill yesterday, and was solid in both the downhill and slalom today, where Vonn fell on her slalom run. Julia goes for her third medal of these games on Saturday in her strongest event..the GS. She won gold in Torino 4 years ago, and now owns three Olympic medals which is more than any other Alpine skier not named Bode Miller. Bode races Friday in the Men's Giant Slalom.

Wayne Wong is into the Anton Suspension System..and the ski kicks ass. A day on the slopes at Winter Park with the original hotdogger.He no longer do

2010-02-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

He no longer does his "hotdogging" moves in the moguls, but at 60 still skis them effortlessly. The man who popularized freestyle skiing in the 60's has another passion in 2010. He is pioneering a new Anton Suspension System. He and creator Anton Wilson would rather the moniker ASS not be used, but the idea does kick ass. While Wayne spent time above the snow in his moguls performance days, now he believes staying on the snow is the key. The engineering of the system uses a 164cm Elan Ski and builds a balanced suspension system, designed to keep the entire ski surface on the snow more consistently than sidecut skis which are now in vogue.

Mike Goot is Mr. marketing for K2 Skis. He sees a new ski revolution on the horizon. K2's "Baseline" he predicts is the future.

2010-02-01T20:05:00.000-08:00

The Global marketing manager for K2 skis took a moment at the SIA trade show in Denver to share the latest in ski technology. Mike Goot is passionate about improving ski performance. like Klaus Obermeyer and winter clothing. The blending of rocker and camber is the key according to Mike, which is called baseline. Visit www.12sportsonline and Jerry's Snowblog for more from the SIA Trade fair in Denver and the On-Snow Demo at Winter Park where most of the hard goods manufacturers provide demos to those of the industry and the media.

Klaus Obermeyer spoke with 12 Sports Productions at Snowsports Industries America Trade Show in Denver.

2010-02-01T07:42:00.000-08:00

He's the most important Snowsports clothing creator that the ski industry has ever known. 90 year old Klaus Obermeyer is still going strong, and I had the chance to chat with the great man at the Snowsports Industries Association Trade Fair that ended today in Denver

Snowsports Industries America. The SIA trade show dominates Denver in late January.

2010-01-31T00:18:00.000-08:00

It's an industry only trade show, not open to the public. A chance for retailers to plan next season and for media to get a preview look. The Colorado Convention Center is the site for this year's Snowsports Industries America event...coming to Denver for the first time, after decades in Las Vegas. Ski clothing icon Klaus Obermeyer introduced his new bamboo line, and everyone has a story to tell. Sunday is the final day of the SIA and we'll capture more then.

A look at Alyeska resort in Alaska

2010-01-11T09:52:00.000-08:00

Alaska's premier and basically only ski resort is Alyeska in the town of Girdwood, about a 45 minute drive south from Anchorage. It rained upon our arrival at Alyeska and continued for almost 2 days. It was not snowing atop the mountain, which rises to only about 2500 feet from it's virtual sea level base. Atlanta Georgia was registering lower temperatures than this Alaska ski resort, so when temperatures did drop, the snow froze and the surface became quit slick. Followed by a couple dry days, conditions improved.

A look at Alyeska resort in Alaska.

2010-01-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Norman Vaughn and his wife Carolyn are Alaska legends.

2010-01-10T23:43:00.000-08:00

Carolyn Vaughn was a girl from Georgia 40 years younger than her husband to be, when she met Norman. Mr. Vaughn had 60 years earlier reached the summit of many Antarctica mountains on Admiral Byrd's Expedition to the South Pole. When the couple met in Atlanta, Norman Vaughn was looking for someone to train his dogs for one of his many Ididarod races. Carolyn made the move to Alaska, and helped Norman race in Alaska's Great Sled Dog race into his 80's.

Snowmachining near Alyeska resort in Girdwood, Alaska.

2010-01-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

It's called Snowmachining in Alaska, while the lower 48 prefers the description Snowmobiles. Outside Alyeska ski resort in Girdwood, 7 journalists, 3 guides and 2 mountain representatives spent the morning Friday exploring limited trails. We had hoped to venture up to numerous glaciers remaining in the area, but lack of snow prevented our adventure from visiting those areas

2010-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

It's called Snowmaching in Alaska,while the lower 48 prefers the description Snowmobiles. Outside Alyeska ski resort in Girdwood, 7 journalists, 3 guides and 2 mountain representatives spent the morning Friday exploring limited trails. We had hoped to venture up to numerous glaciers remaining in the area, but lack of snow prevented our adventure from visiting those areas

Alaska Wildlife at Conservation Center on visit to Alyeska

2010-01-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

A visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center after a morning of skiing in the rain at Alyeska. It's been raining for days at Alyeska Ski Resort with temperatures in the mid to high 30's. Mid-January..Alaska..Rain. Oh well, plenty of other things to do including a visit to a Wildlife Center.

Heavenly gears up for Christmas week.

2009-12-21T22:02:00.001-08:00

Heavenly gears up for Christmas week.

2009-12-21T21:47:00.000-08:00

The views of Lake Tahoe from the Heavenly Gondola are spectacular, and expansive looks of the Lake are seen from both States and from many of the runs. The Ski Area now owned by Vail Resorts has plans for a new lodge on the hill above the Gondola, and other advances that previous ownership..the now defunct American Ski Corporation never dreamed of. Heavenly has the most skiable acres of any Lake Tahoe area resort, and is making a huge push to provide an improved skier and rider experience. With the Gondola at south shore providing the ride up to 8500' from Lake level, the number of cars in lots on both the California and Nevada sides have been reduced, while patronage increases. The Mountain's efforts to go "Green" is a priority and it seems to be paying off.

Non-stop powder dump today at Blackcomb Dec. 16th. Fresh tracks every run.

2009-12-16T22:39:00.000-08:00

The biggest storm of the month blanketed Whistler Blackcomb with about 2 feet of snow in the Alpine today. It wasn't exactly dry powder, with the temperature barely below freezing but fresh tracks on every run was the order of the day. Boarding the Blackcomb Excallaber Gondola at the 8:30 opening, the snowfall intensified through the morning. After drying off and inhaling a chicken tahoe at Rendevous Lodge, it was back out for more until the lifts shut down. Glade skiing was the best call, with the abundance of new snow, great visibility and zero competition for any line of choice. With the highest chairs Glacier and 7th heaven closed due to high winds, it was an easy choice to stay in the trees off Solar Coaster and Crystal chairs. In The Spirit is the longest glade run on the mountain, but is seldom open as conditions within get a little dicey with the streams, fallen branches and other obstacles...but today, everything was covered and turns were made in solitude.

Start of Storm at 7th Heaven at Blackcomb. Arctic air replaced by powder.

2009-12-15T16:43:00.000-08:00

The 10 centimeters of fresh snow that fell overnight was tracked out quickly this morning, after weeks of dry weather with arctic air. Warmer temperatures and more snow is predicted for tonight. Skiing today was in flat light for the most part and better than dust on crust, but some slick spots developed as the day progressed.

PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola linking Whistler and Blackcomb is an exceptionally smooth ride. It's also the World's longest free span and highest suspended.

2009-12-13T23:02:00.000-08:00

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola turned one year old yesterday, and I took the 11 minute ride back to Blackcomb at the end of the day. Each of the 28 Gondolas along the 2.7 mile ride linking the two magnificant mountains trasports 28 people, but our cabin had but four...a couple from Vancouver, myself and a gentleman named Mike from Serbia who now lives in the United States. Mike has been at Whistler for over a month and won't return home till after the Olympic Games. A veteran of 8 Olympic telecasts, Mike works with international broadcast announcers as a technical facilitator.

A birthday ski at Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains on 12/12. Phenominal day on the slopes at the site for Alpine events at Winter Olympics

2009-12-12T18:05:00.000-08:00

An exquisite 12/12 at both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains as the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola provided the transportation to both. Today marked the one year anniversary of the P2P Grand Opening and my 58th. There was snow in the Alpine and sun above the treeline. It remained cold, but not nearly as frigid as it's been throughout most of December. With the Winter Olympic Games 62 days away, the World will get a vivid look at North America's #1 Ski Resort. The highest and longest free span Gondola will also get plenty of play on NBC-TV as most of the Alpine events will be staged at Whistler. This International destination resort features over 8000 skiable acres, a half dozen Glaciers, tremendous hospitality on the hills and in the pedestrian village and breathtaking beauty...when visibility allows. Amazingly, with the Winter Olympiad only 2 months away...ski slopes are not crowded and lift lines are non-existent. As a result, some incredible bargains for lodging are offered at www.whistlerblackcomb.com.

Friday December 11th at Blackcomb. A new weather pattern is developing and more fresh snow is accumulating after weeks of sun and extreme cold

2009-12-11T19:06:00.000-08:00

Boarded the Blackcomb Gondola Excallaber at the
Village mid-morning, and the journey progressed from clouds to flurries and eventually snow at Mid-Mountain. The cold and sunny cycle that followed record breaking
snowfall in November appears to be history with more snowy weather expected this weekend.
Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola's Grand Opening. We'll take a ride to celebrate the engineering marvel's birthday and mine as well.

Whistler Blackcomb was cold, sunny and firm on the slopes today. Skiers and riders enjoyed epic Snowfall in November, but no dusting so far in Dec.

2009-12-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

November broke all records for snowfall at Whistler Blackcomb in BC, Canada, where in a little over 2 months, the Alpine events of the Winter Olympic Games will be staged. The World will see a pair of incredible mountains side by side and the historic PEAK 2 PEAK gondola that transports visitors between the pair of ski and snowboard slopes. The 28 passenger gondola debuted one year ago Saturday (on my birthday) and has been running ever since. Today however, was all about safety, as crews practiced evacuation techniques in the highly unlikely event of a needed rescue.

While Whistler is enjoying phenominal early season conditions..resorts in the Sierra are waiting for the first major dump of the season.

2009-12-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

Winter in the Sierra may finally arrive on Sunday, as a wet weather pattern lasting 3 days is expected. Let's hope so! While a few Lake Tahoe area mountains have opened with very limited operation, overall El Nino has not been a factor. It's certainly been cold enough to blow snow, but mother nature has not been cooperative. Whistler Blackcomb in BC, Canada set outrageous snowfall records for November, but this month is off to a dry start at the venue where the World will be watching Alpine events in February's Winter Olympic Games.
Squaw Valley USA which hosted the Games in 1960 is celebrating it's 50th anniversary and 60th in operation. At the moment, only 5 lifts are running at Squaw. Sugar Bowl, the oldest Lake Tahoe resort at the summit of Highway 80 will open this weekend, with hopes the anticipated storm will allow for mid-week skiers and riders. Meanwhile, on the south side of the Lake, Heavenly has 7 chairs running, Kirkwood opens today and Sierra at Tahoe tomorrow. For a complete rundown of all the resorts in the Sierra, my buddy Curtis Fong, The Guy from Tahoe has his site: www.bikeandskitahoe.com running with daily updates.

Early season air:

Warren Miller's DYNASTY premiers at Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz. New approach without Miller's distinctive voice works with Jonny Moseley as host.

2009-11-25T00:22:00.000-08:00

For 60 years Warren Miller has presented and narrated unquestionably the most recognized ski movies annually. This year's DYNASTY edition is without Miller's folksy story telling style. Jonny Moseley now voices the mind boggling segments. The Marin native and Tahoe legend who won gold in Olympic Moguls anchors the film that has Warren Miller type "bits", but presented in a high adrenaline music driven movie. The scenes are as always spectacular, with Moseley opening DYNASTY featuring Sugar Bowl's downhill icon Daron Rahlves carving incredible lines at insane high speeds. Extreme air over Lake Tahoe opens the flick, with Jonny getting into the act, but Rahlves is the skiing star of the show. Phenominal mono-ski action by disabled skiers, tributes to Klaus Obermeyer and Mike Weigle, outrageous rail rides, and a remarkable look at skiing with natives of Northeast China highlight some of the script. DYNASTY plays again Wednesday Nov. 25th at The Rio, and for a taste...www.12sportsonline.com. Scroll down Jerry's Snowblog for a peak at the trailer.

Sugar Bowl opens Wednesday Nov. 25

2009-11-24T17:06:00.001-08:00

Snowiest November ever at Whistler. Epic early season conditions.

2009-11-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

The abundance of snowfall this early season at North America's #1 rated ski resort is "SICK". Over 10 feet of base with light deep powder surface and the snow just keeps on falling. This historic month of November still has a week left, as snowfall records are broken by the day. Whistler Blackcomb have opened nearly all of it's 8000 skiable acres, as the British Columbia mecca for skiers and riders, and Alpine events home for the upcoming Winter Olympic Games is off to a beyond epic start. Oh Canada!!

The Ski Season is underway, with Whistler Blackcomb setting a phenominal early season pace.

2009-11-18T23:00:00.000-08:00

Whistler Blackcomb enjoys a 6 foot base with 40cm of fresh over the past two days, making the home for Alpine events at the upcoming Winter Olympic games the best skiing in the World at this moment. The mammoth side by side mountains opened two weeks early thanks to the abundance of new snow, and more terrain is being opened by the day. Meanwhile, in Colorado, Loveland has been open for a couple weeks, and Tahoe resorts such as Heavenly, Kirkwood and Mt Rose will be running the lifts this weekend.

Whistler has 6 feet of base and 40cm of fresh as it keeps on snowing at site of Winter Olympic Alpine courses

2009-11-18T20:50:00.000-08:00

Andre Ward is ready for the biggest challenge of his perfect Olympic and Professional boxing career

2009-11-16T20:10:00.000-08:00

Andre Ward is counting down the days. The press conference is Wednesday, Friday's weighin is but 4 days away, and fight night at Oracle in Oakland now 5. The Olympic Gold medalist has been antsy for a couple weeks now, and plans to unleash the full measure of his fury against Mikkel Kessler in the final first round match of the Super 6 supermiddleweight tournament. Already in the winner's circle are Arthur Abraham and Carl Frock, and despite fighting at home, Ward is posted as the underdog by boxing progrosticators. He wasn't supposed to win Olympic Gold in Greece when he fought in a heavier weight class. He hasn't lost in nearly ten years since his early amateur days. He and trainer/G-D father Virgil Hunter have a certain mojo that is undefinable. Andre insists Virgil is a world class trainer. So called "experts" have disagreed for years, yet Ward keeps on winning. Their connection extends beyond the squared circle. Kessler as well puts his faith in his "second dad" and head trainer Richard Olsen who has coached Mikkel since age 13. Hunter had Andre in the gym at 6 years old.

DYNASTY. Warren Miller's 60th anniversary film comes to Santa Cruz.

2009-11-14T22:56:00.000-08:00

Celebrating 60 years of filmmaking, even though now Warren Miller lends only his name to the movie, the tradition continues without Warren's folksy narration. Jonny Moseley of Olympic mogul fame and Northern California's bump legend voices the film. The cast includes Sugar Bowl's Daron Rahlves who cuts some monumental downhill lines, other Olympic and Extreme skiers and riders, and of course Moseley himself. This trailer gives you a taste of what's in store November 24-25 at the Rio theater in Santa Cruz.

Whistler/Blackcomb to open this Friday. It's dumping now, and expected to continue. El Nino has hit BC, Canada. Olympic Site blanketed with powder.

2009-11-10T22:22:00.000-08:00


	Whistler Alpine Recreation Forecast
Alpine recreation forecast for the South Coast Mountains issued by Environment Canada at 2 PM PST Tuesday 10 November 2009. The next mountain forecast will be issued at 5 AM Wednesday. Synopsis..An unstable onshore flow will bring a series of weak disturbances across the Whistler region tonight through Wednesday. Whistler - Blackcomb. Tonight..Periods of snow. Alpine low near minus 6. Snowfall accumulation 10 to 15 cm. Freezing level lowering to the valley bottom this evening. Mountain top winds southerly 40 to 60 km/h easing to southwest 20 km/hr overnight. Wednesday..Periods of snow. Alpine high minus 2. Snowfall accumulation 10 cm. Freezing level near valley bottom in the morning increasing to 900 metres in the afternoon. Mountain top winds southwest 30 km/h easing to southeast 20 late in the day. 5 Day Trend..A weak ridge will build over the South Coast on Thursday bringing drier conditions to the Whistler region. By early Friday the ridge will shift eastward allowing a frontal system to bring snow to the long area. Another system will spread snow to Whistler Saturday. Thursday.. A mix of sun and cloud. 30 percent chance of morning flurries. Snowfall accumulation trace to 2 cm. Freezing level 900 metres. Friday.. Periods of snow. Clearing late in the day. Snowfall accumulation 10 to 15 cm. Freezing levels 900 metres falling to valley floor in the afternoon. Saturday.. Snow heavy at times developing. Windy. Snowfall accumulation 20 to 30 cm. Freezing level 800 metres rising to 1500 m in the afternoon.

Winter Olympic Games 90 days away at Whistler. All systems are go for the gold

2009-11-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

It continues to snow at Whistler-Blackcomb in B.C. Canada which once again enjoys the best pre-season snowfall totals in North America. November 26th is the scheduled opening, but the lifts and Gondola's may start moving earlier. This past weekend at Ft Mason in San Francisco, ski resorts of the West gathered as part of the Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival to pump up snowsporters for a visit to their resorts. Whistler, which will host most Alpine events at the Winter Games in mid-February had marketing guru's Stuart Remple and Erik on hand in San Francisco and spoke about the upcoming Olympics, the early snowfall, and excitement connected with the upcoming season.

San Francisco Ski and Snowboard Festival. A Snowbomb.com presentation.

2009-11-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Thousands of Ski and Snowboard enthusiasts jammed Ft. Mason in San Francisco this weekend, for the 2nd annual Snowbomb.com Ski and Snowboard Festival. Dozens of ski resorts from Western North America set up displays, gave away goodies, and fired up fans of winter sports. There were great deals on equipment and clothing...contests for great giveaways, drawings for freebies and some freestyle cycling and skateboard entertainment as well. The brainchild of Snowbomb's Jim McAlpine, this years event was held on a beautiful weekend, unlike last year when it rained like mad. In case you missed San Francisco's festival, the action moves to the Santa Clara Convention Center next weekend for a repeat performance for folks in the south bay.

A look at the Valle Blanche Glacier in Chamonix, France. It's melting at an alarming rate.

2009-10-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

A few years back, I visited France, Italy and Switzerland on a ski adventure. We skied over glaciers that still remain, but have dramatically been affected by global warming. The Valle Blanche Glacier is posted here, not to remind us of situation which is indeed grave and could spell the end of skiing and riding as we know it before the end of this century...but to signal the beginning Winter with hopes that an El Nino season will bring megameters of snow to our Sierra slopes and provide a long season and tremendous runoff as a result. The month of October has already dusted Lake Tahoe Area resorts 3 times with powder, and snowmaking operations are ready to go when sustained temperatures below freezing allow for a consistent supplement to mother nature. Loveland in Colorado became the first ski resort to open this season, as they started running chairs on October 7th...their earliest opening in 40 years. Tahoe resorts are hoping for a pre-Thanksgiving experience. To get ready for that holiday and the rest of the season, Snowbomb will once again present the San Francisco Ski and Snowboard Festival Nov. 7-8. The following weekend, the event moves to Santa Clara. Skiers and riders can take advantage of many free lift ticket offers, freebies galore, the latest equiptment, super deals and other attractions to get everybody fired up for the season ahead.

2009-10-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Warm weather storm drenches Sierra.

The snow level rests on the highest Peaks at Sierra Ski Resorts, but early rains are a better indicator than early season snows which always are followed by Indian summer days. This mid-October storm is unlike the past 3 seasons when early excitemen...t evaporated. Winter storms in the Sierra are often ushered in by a warm front. Hoping to stay in a wet pattern and maintain it when the temperature drops. Meanwhile, as the winds blow it's a winter wake-up call. With the Winter Games coming to Vancouver and Whistler in February 2010, Snowsports in North America could get a monumental boost with early and often dumpage. Our Lake Tahoe area resorts desperately need Thanksgiving weekend to be their latest openings without interruption through the season. To open and then scale back drastically or close entirely, which has been the case all to often in recent seasons, is a pattern 2009-10 must avoid. Bring on El Nino, and let it hang around a while. Read More

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Northstar at Tahoe adds the Ritz-Carlton on the mountain. Opens December 9th.

2009-10-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

Members of NASJA-West were treated to a preview look of the new Ritz-Carlton under construction, but scheduled to open in about 2 months. The high end hotel sits at 6900' and will offer nearly 200 rooms and all the amenities. The project is coming in under budget and on time, thanks to sales of fractional ownerships that go for a quarter million dollars, and solid financing despite these challenging times. Bridget led our hard hat tour through the property.

Historic Snowboard event coming to Northstar at Tahoe

2009-09-03T16:03:00.001-07:00

NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE™ RESORT SELECTED TO HOST ULTIMATE BOARDER CHAMPIONSHIP
3rd Annual Board Sport Triathlon to Kick-Off March 13-14, 2010 at Popular North Lake Tahoe Resort

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TRUCKEE, Calif. - Aug. 31, 2009 - Today, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort announced it has been selected to host the snowboarding events of the 3rd Annual Ultimate Boarder Championship, March 13-14, 2010. The Ultimate Boarder Championship, the board sport triathlon, is a one-week competition focused on showcasing the talent of athletes who can conquer the arts of snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding. The event was created in response to the growing popularity of snow, surf and skate industry, and is recognized as a way to promote healthy, athletic lifestyles among young people.

An event designed for participants of all ages, Ultimate Boarder encourages professional and amateur athletes from around the world to compete for the Ultimate Boarder title and a prize purse of almost $60,000. The event will be open to male and female solo competitors, as well as teams of three, with each participant competing in one of the three disciplines. And, new this year, the event will include a youth division that will crown the first Ultimate Boarder in surf, skate and snow under the age of 16.

Historic Snowboard event coming to Northstar at Tahoe

2009-09-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE™ RESORT SELECTED TO HOST ULTIMATE BOARDER CHAMPIONSHIP
3rd Annual Board Sport Triathlon to Kick-Off March 13-14, 2010 at Popular North Lake Tahoe Resort

TRUCKEE, Calif. - Aug. 31, 2009 - Today, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort announced it has been selected to host the snowboarding events of the 3rd Annual Ultimate Boarder Championship, March 13-14, 2010. The Ultimate Boarder Championship, the board sport triathlon, is a one-week competition focused on showcasing the talent of athletes who can conquer the arts of snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding. The event was created in response to the growing popularity of snow, surf and skate industry, and is recognized as a way to promote healthy, athletic lifestyles among young people.

An event designed for participants of all ages, Ultimate Boarder encourages professional and amateur athletes from around the world to compete for the Ultimate Boarder title and a prize purse of almost $60,000. The event will be open to male and female solo competitors, as well as teams of three, with each participant competing in one of the three disciplines. And, new this year, the event will include a youth division that will crown the first Ultimate Boarder in surf, skate and snow under the age of 16.

Winter has returned to Blackcomb, with 15cm of fresh overnight and more on the way. It may be Cinco de Mayo but the ski season rages on at Whistle.

2009-05-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

The video above was shot during an extreme cold snap earlier this season, but today, for Alpine skiers and riders it's mid-winter conditions on the hill. Whistler mountain is closed, but Blackcomb remains open and the there's powder to be had on the 5th of May.

Little Cottonwood Canyon gets hammered with late season storm. Memorial day closing targeted for Snowbird leading Utah with 612 inches to date

2009-04-27T23:44:00.000-07:00

Snowbird Passes 600 Inches Thanks to Late April Storm
longest season in Utah stretched to memorial day

Snowbird, Utah – Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort surpassed the season-to-date snowfall total of 600 inches for the second straight year thanks to a 15 inch storm over the weekend. The Little Cottonwood Canyon resort is the only one in Utah still open for spring skiing and snowboarding. With a total snowfall of 612 inches and a mid-mountain base of 137 inches, there should be ample snow to ride on through Memorial Day.

“The mountain is remarkably still in mid-winter form,” said Snowbird President Bob Bonar. “This season we experienced the resort’s second-earliest opening ever, and we are excited to push the season through May and possibly beyond thanks to all this March and April snowfall.”

Snowbird has received more than 100 inches in five out of the last sixth months, a feat that has only occurred four times in the last 60 years. April alone has deposited 132 inches, more than double the monthly average of 65 inches.

Snowbird is currently offering reduced price tickets of $62 that include the Aerial Tram, Little Cloud, Mineral Basin Express and Chickadee for the extended spring riding. Lifts will operate daily, April 27 through May 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. From May 11 through May 25, the Tram, Little Cloud and Mineral Basin Express lifts will operate on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, conditions permitting. Snowbird’s last day of winter operation is slated for Memorial Day.

Snowbird summer activities will begin June 13, including the new Wasatch Mining Company Gemstone Mine, Aerial Tram, Peruvian Chairlift and Tunnel, Alpine Slide, four-station climbing wall, ZipRider, Bungy Trampoline, Mechanical Bull and Inflatables. Visit www.snowbird.com for more information and the full Festival summer lineup.