The return to the ski season is getting very close, and my trip  to the peak today gave me the first stirrings of anticipation.  The Twins were shrouded in clouds with a light dusting looking promising out in Little Cloud.   It was very cold on the peak, with a stiff breeze that made my light fleece woefully insufficient against the temps. that shouted that Winter is coming.  We were able to walk across the new deck to the stairway out to the main area, which was a treat after watching all the work being done to get it finished before this all moved in.  The new deck furniture is in place and is just waiting for the first time that the faithful will be able to hang out and enjoy the high elevation ambiance that this out door deck will provide.   It was Trick or Treat day and the Plaza deck looked festive and was getting busy as I came down from the peak to get my lunch and the Forklift, which I just love to visit and visualize the season that is quickly approaching.  Here is a shot of the gang that was ready to greet the kids who will be coming to get the goodies that await.   Behind the crew is the new snow safety device that is new for this season and a first in the Canyon.  It uses Oxygen and Hydrogen to create a blast to stabilize the pack after a dump.  It will be interesting to see how it works, however, it will be placed way up on Superior, but if you look closely you will be able to make it out.  It is cool to have it right here for an up close look at the device.  A more significant impulse is predicted for early next week, so perhaps we will get a bigger dose of the Essence.  I am dancing as hard as I can.  Syrup won’t stop ‘ EM!!

We enter the last stretch on our way into the new season, which promises to be a great one if all the prognostications come true.  I have noticed that the Yellow Jackets have been very aggressive for the last 6 weeks and that has always been a good sign to me.  Up on the hill, there was a light dusting that was delivered earlier this past week.  Here is a shot of the Twinswith a taste of things to come in the near future.  The peak has been freed up from all the construction gear and the new structure is looking sleek and put together, with the deck furniture ready to be placed.   I can’t wait to get a look inside, as I have been told the view of Mineral Basin out the back is stunning.  Here is a shot I took today.  It sure has come a long way this Summer.  The Chili Bird Showdown was held today and word was out that it was great and hard to pick just one. as they were all so good.  I had to bail from the festivities to get things done here at the Trailer.  While I was on the deck I stopped by the Forklift to say Hi to the gang.  Here is a shot of Kayla who always has a huge smile and is bringing the joy full time.  Also, Margo and Nicole were on deck and working hard to get all the details put together for the big push.  They, too, always have  a smile and welcoming spirit that makes anytime I sit down feel like home.   I will be looking forward to my breakfast tradition for the Season.  Click on the Snowbird Secrets banner at the top of the page and read a chapter and order your copy today.  It is only $2.99 as an E download, and it will be the next best thing to hard workouts to get ready for the season.  Wax ’em up folks it won’t be long now.  IBBY!!!

Time is flying right along as we build up the slide into the Winter Season.  The leaves are beginning to fall, the temps are cooling, but are still above normal.  It sure is nice to get a bit of extended Summer feel.  I took a Tram the other day to stand at the same point I will occupy when I step off the for the first run. Just trying to see the future.   Here is a shot of Mineral Basin looking South.  This terrain is stark and steep, but when it is covered with the goods, it is going to be MMMM MMMM GOOD!!I ran into Ed and Caroline, who were leading a tour off the peak.  It is great to touch base with folks who are so in tune with the Mountain and it’s Currents.  The weather was really perfect, and even a sweater was really not needed at all.  I was scoping out all the lines and noting the high spots and grassy lines to visualize the internal imaginings that become reality when it is time to get down to it.  The peak facility is being worked on hard.  All the heavy equipment has been taken down, the last of the external panels will be complete soon.  The guard rails are going in, with the stair case almost complete.  Here is a shot I got from a much closer point.  I met this gentleman on the peak, who was doing recon for his group that may be coming out next July.  I think he will be hard pressed to find a better place to be for an event.  I got my new Dynastar Cham 97’s and I am stoked.  Soon I will  be able to put them to full use.  Look for the Snowbird Secrets site by clicking on the banner.   The book has the insights that will prime you for the steep and deep, and it is only $2.99 as as an e version.  Don’t for get to hit realskiers. com right there on my links page.  Jackson is pumping out some very insightful information on  equipment, procurement, and context that is invaluable.  Get ready, it will happen fast.  Don’t bink!!   Syrup Won’t Stop ‘Em!!