As our roundup of storm totals indicated, it’s been a hell of a week in the Wasatch! Two large storms went a long way towards improving conditions here in Utah. After shredding Snowbird for the past few days, I can tell you that the mountain has a very different feel to it, and I mean that in a very good way. Here’s a brief roundup of how a few spots at the Bird are riding after 42” of fresh Rocky Mountain powder.
Gad Valley Goodness
The lines through the woods off Gad 2 lift are finally filled in (for the most part). This week was the first time that I could point my board down runs like Gadzooks and S.T.H. without fear of being claimed by unseen deadfall or barely-hidden boulders. Black Forest and Organ Grinder areas still had plenty of fresh snow on 2/21. Overall, the runs where soft and smooth with the snow quality holding up very nicely thanks to the coldest temperatures of the season.
My favorite runs of the week found directly below the American Fork Twin Peaks, where the Knucklehead Traverse yielded deep, fresh laps all morning long. The snow was overhead on nearly every turn, and I had to force myself to explore other areas on the hill before I spent the entire day there.
Cirque Traverse much improved
The last time I headed out on the Cirque Traverse, I had my friend, Tim, with me. I felt truly bad for suggesting we give it a go, as each of us had numerous gouges to our bases. Well, that was three weeks ago, and I’m happy to say it’s a very different story now. The traverse is in fine shape, with only the standard amount of rocks and roots to negotiate on your way to the goods. The entire Cirque area is riding nicely, with all but the sketchiest of chutes primed and ready to be sent. For me, it’s always Wilbere Bowl or bust, and my favorite run at on the mountain provided me with enough leftover pow to elicit a few good screams.
Overall, conditions varied between deep, light powder in the shadows, hot pow in the sun, and soft, fast groomers on the main trails. The mountain is riding the best it has all season, and any lift will take you to an area worth making a few laps.
Yes, Ullr finally delivered a dose of proper Utah winter, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. For the first time this season, I can say that pretty much every line I would want to ride is now available. As the old saying goes, it’s better late than never!