Early morning on Independence Pass, Colorado.
Yes, we’ve had a good winter here in the western Colorado Rockies. Winds in March and April blew in a few dreadful dirt layers but recent storms have reset the snowpack to spring corn conditions that are reminiscent of the good ol’ pre-snirt days. The road over Independence Pass opened last Thursday and since then all sorts of backcountry travelers are enjoying this glorious zone. Parking areas are packed, but abundant coverage allows folks to fan out like gentle waves on a pond.
Whether the objective was social or solitude, the Rockies delivered with forget-me-not blue skies over blankets of sparkling white glisse. But like icky fuzz growing on a dish of moldy leftovers, the snirt is spreading quickly with our warming weather trends. We’re happy to see folks enjoying this precious time, however fleeting it may be.
Lots of ways to enjoy beautiful terrain. This threesome was skate skiing the Lost Man Loop. (Click all images to enlarge.)
Creamy corn.
Alpine breezes like a kite.
After climbing a peak, balmy temps make lounging on the corn field quite luxurious.
Frequent race partners, Dave & George, enjoy a day without a starting gate.
Sweet way to spend mother daughter time — Julie and Sarah.
Lou points out future objectives.
Catching up to friends.
Alpine flight.
Psyched for another lap.
Yeehaw!
Saturday’s après ski barbecue at the hairpin turn.
Never can get enough. The Mercedes makes a nice table for future trip planning.
WildSnow Girl, Lisa Dawson, is the luckiest girl in the world. Also known as Mrs. WildSnow.com, she tests whatever gear she wants. She gives the WildSnow family of websites the feminine voice.
