We had an interesting start to the season weather wise. December snow had us splitting local classics and riding powder long before the lifts opened. Over the Christmas period we then experienced biblical rain to the top which had a lot of us wondering if we were going to experience a re-run of seasons past.
Small amounts of snow then fell periodically, followed by a stubborn high pressure system. The benefit of this for us was that the snowpack stabilised enough for us to explore new lines in our own backyard.
The most fun was an ascent of the Mont Du Grange to ride the East face. It is a 1000m vertical ascent (give or take) followed by a 45 degree descent through rocks and narrow couloirs. Not something you want to get wrong because once you drop in blind you’re in it it for the whole ride. Thankfully the first turns weren’t on scoured ice and the snow became sublime. Check out the little edit that Rider Social team member Jem popped together.
Since then it turned cold, real cold, and then it started dumping. When this happens it means you are getting waist deep turns in the fluffiest and lightest champagne powder of Japan or Canada quality!
Looking out of the window as I write this post it is still absolutely sending down huge amounts of snow outside. This has got us to thinking that if the weather is kind long term this season then we might look at running a couple of long weekends in early May!
Ride safe people and catch you soon.