The snowpack is well below normal and serious dumps have been few and far between. Skiing of late has ranged from wet and sloppy to hard and icy. So what is the devoted skier to do? 

Think spring,of course; but abandon all thought of planting peas or tomatoes. Instead, prepare for excursions to the mountains in April and May. A marvelous change in snow conditions occurs as days lengthen and temperatures rise: the snowpack consolidates, the surface firms and the warmth of spring produces a lovely layer of corn snow that makes turning a breeze. Icy fingers and toes are a distant memory and even late risers have time for a respectable tour before darkness intrudes. Best of all, you can follow the melting snowline up the mountains and into fresh territory. Jefferson Park, Tam McArthur Rim and other magic destinations are once again within reach for day tourers. So enjoy the spring, revel in the meltdown and keep on skiing.

We will try to list tours for April and May in the Newsletter, but scheduling can be difficult in springtime as snow conditions and personal schedules become more variable. We will facilitate impromptu tours by developing a phone/email list of skiers that are interested in spring and summer touring. Bob Young has volunteered to serve as the information hub for this group. If you are interested in leading or joining spring tours, send your phone number and/or email address to Bob and we will publish the list in the April Newsletter. Then keep in touch with Bob for the latest spring and summer tours. Hopefully, this will give everyone the opportunity to extend their skiing into the warm season.