Is it ski season already? The last four months have been a passionless slog through the fog. I missed October powder turns but it was for a good cause. We went back to Bermuda and I got my head straight (again). And as soon as I got back from sea level, I wasted no time heading for the top of a mountain, a place where I need to find myself more often. I have some big plans for this season, so let’s get it started.

Sunday River retained solid coverage despite a warm up and rain. The River uploaded guests to two trails: T2 and Upper Punch. A small park was setup at the top of T2 causing significant traffic issues due to parker goers yo-yo’ing. Word on the hill was that the skiing on Saturday was spring like. An overnight freeze fixed that but mountain ops had the guns cranking on all open trails and well beyond. The new man made mostly covered up the frozen hard pack.

The first run down T2 was full on winter with almost every gun blowing. The snowmakers relented and turned off every other gun making for enjoyable turns on the upper half of the trail and moderately to somewhat enjoyable turns on the lower half.

T2 was far better than Upper Punch where guns were positioned car wash style which required incessant goggle clearing stops. Upper Punch was a one and done trail and I doubt I’ll have a more miserable run this season. Glad to get that over with.

I opted to download via Lower Punch instead of the more conventional option. Below the mid-station was primo man made which degenerated into smile inducing hardships, mostly involving lack of vision and the occasional water bar chasm. Despite the rope, it was far better skiing and more enjoyable than the open upper section.

Guns were lighting up four other trails. For next weekend, look for top to bottom skiing via Locke and Barker serving three or four unique top to bottom routes.