We may still be in for some late season snow, but spring has arrived, and it’s time to reflect on the winter we had. It was a pretty dismal start to the year, as we didn’t get any early snow. Those of us who’ve been around the sport a long time knew not to get spoiled by the great mid november skiing we had in 2018 and 2019. This year was particularly late in coming around, as the first real snow fall didn’t arrive until New Year’s day. Spirits were lifted that day with the arrival of the new snow, but on that same day, spirits were deeply heartbroken by the sudden passing of Mike Cain. If you haven’t yet done so, please check out our community collection of thoughts honoring Mike Cain, and message us if you would like to add something.
After that first snowfall, something amazing happened that even the most optimistic skier would not have dared predict. We had two months of uninterrupted packed powder conditions, with little accumulations continually piling up and making the skiing better and better. I’m not sure how often a Blue Moon happens, but I’m pretty sure getting that kind of streak in the Champlain Valley is rarer. We then survived a little warm weather, and made it to March 10th before the trails finally gave way to the warm south winds.
In addition to the wonderful help from Mother Nature, the St. Albans rec department purchased some extensions for our groomer with the money we raised from the fall trail running series. This changed it from 4 feet wide to 6 feet wide, and it provided a much cleaner result. It was also a HUGE improvement to have Hard’ack open from 9 to 5 every day.
On February 28th, we were able to host a ski race open to anyone. Hosting a ski race is always stressful because the weather can destroy the best laid plans, and it was a little hairy going into it, but we hit the perfect weather window, and had warm sun and perfect skiing conditions. We had 38 racers, a mix of all abilities including former NCAA all americans, former VT high school state champions, and some people who normally stick to touring in the fields. There were smiles all around, and it really put us on the map in the wider ski community, so we can attract people for future events. In addition, we raised another $850 for future trail improvements.
I knew not to get spoiled by great mid-november skiing, and I know not to get spoiled by the unusual run of good snow we had this winter. Plans are in the works to do some trail work this summer to help us endure the meltdowns we typically get. Next winter, we hope to have some snow fences and harvest some snow to beef up the trails. If you want to contribute to this effort, just send us a donation with a note that says “grooming.”
Thanks to everyone that got out there and enjoyed the trails this winter. As the man responsible for grooming, it warms my heart to see people using them!
Tyler Magnan
