Skiing Bolton Valley (Day 37/Indy Day 29)

Skiing Bolton Valley

Sunday, March 22nd, 2026

Runs: 17

Distance: 14.73 miles

Elevation: 13,524 feet

Max Speed: 31.8 mph

Avg. Speed: 13.8 mph

Moving Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes, 59 seconds

Total Time: 4 hours, 18 minutes, 46 seconds

It was another wet/snowy night and nobody was setting an alarm. I ended up waking up around 7:00am, and after meticulous weather-checking decided I'd drive by Bolton Valley and see how it was looking to me. I left Emma's a little after 8:00am, same time as Ray, and made my way down the slushy roads toward Richmond and Bolton. US-2 was in rough shape, but I figured I'd made enough progress that I might as well commit to the drive! The access road was, as expected... puckering. My car held her own well though, with not a single slip or skid. I parked at the Timberline Lodge and got my Indy immediately. It was lightly snowing and the snow looked GOOD. Sarah wasn't sure if she thought I was brave or stupid to tackle that access road in this weather, but I'd soon be glad I did! I had one goggle issue that was quickly resolved with the hand dryer, and then I was off to the races!

Alpine Snow Report

Sunday, March 22nd, 2026

7:54 Update: Vista lift is running today!

Today is shaping up to be a nice day for skiing. Temps are in the upper 20s, which is ideal for keeping the snow in great condition, and light snow showers are moving through to keep things fresh throughout the day.

We're still expecting around 6 to 8 inches over the next 24 hours, with a few inches falling today and more continuing overnight into tomorrow. That should set up soft turns now and a fresh reset by morning. Conditions are skiing nice with a nice layer of new snow on top, so coverage and quiality are both in a really good place.

Lifts are spinning until 4 tonight. See ya soon!

Runs 1-6

Run 1: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Sure Shot - Timberline Run

[1.07 mi; 3:34; 955 ft; 31.8 mph max; 18.0 mph avg]

Run 2: Timberline Lift - Upper Tattle Tale - Lower Tattle Tale - Timberline Run

[0.99 mi; 4:05; 997 ft; 25.9 mph max; 14.5 mph avg]

Run 3: Timberline Lift - Brandywine - Lower Brandywine - Timberline Run

[0.95 mi; 4:11; 978 ft; 26.1 mph max; 13.6 mph avg]

Run 4: Timberline Lift - Brandywine - Intro - Spellbinder - Timberline Run

[0.80 mi; 3:40; 991 ft; 27.4 mph max; 13.1 mph avg]

Run 5: Timberline Lift - Brandywine - Intro - Showtime

[0.73 mi; 3:02; 981 ft; 25.8 mph max; 14.4 mph avg]

Run 6: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Lower Villager

[0.59 mi; 2:15; 387 ft; 22.9 mph max; 15.8 mph avg]

The Vista was down most of the day yesterday, but I was thirlled to see it was spinning today! I decided since it was almost fully open, I'd ski all of the open Timberline side before scootching over to the main side. I did have my Indy in my pocket, which made the RFID scanner mad, so I poved my Bolton pass to my arm pocket (which I didn't know I had), and it made all the difference! Run #1 was up Timberline and down Upper Villager, Sure Shot, and Timberline Run, and I knew it was going to be a fun day of tee's and hee's! The snow was soft and NICE. 

Run #2 went up Timberline again (I'd also like to point out that I didn't share a single chair on Timberline) and down Tattle Tale and Timberline Run, which was just as fun as Sure Shot, but steeper and longer with a few bumps. The bumps had a few ice bulges, but nothing of problem, and I was still giddy!

Runs #3 and #4 were two of my favorites on this side. #3 followed Brandywine to Lower Brandywine. Brandywine was soft and bumpy and fun, and Lower Brandywine had only a few tracks and bouncy bumps (and again, a few sketchy spots due to the thaw/freeze, but all fun). Strong snow/graupel was falling during this, which kept things moving nicely too! #4 was down Brandywine, Intro, and then to Spellbinder, which felt like the steepest du jour on this side (according to SteepSeeker, Tattle Tale is a little steeper), and had some sketchier bumps to navigate, but overall was still just a blast.

My final two runs on this side were down the liftline, which had a nice combo of bumps, cords, and speed, and finally I rode Upper Villager to Lower Villager, bringing me to the delightfully not-busy main side.

Alpine Snow Report

Sunday, March 22nd, 2026

9:38 UPDATE: Rope drops all over! Thanks to our ski patrollers, we've got lots of new terrain for today. Get out there and have some fun!

Runs 7-11

Run 7: Vista Lift - Vista Glades - Sherman's Pass - Bull Run - Sleepy Hollow - Moose Run - Glades - Primer Loop

[1.16 mi; 6:51; 1,027 ft; 24.2 mph max; 10.2 mph avg]

Run 8: Vista Lift - Spillway Lane - Spillway - Sherman's Pass - Glades - Primer Loop

[0.93 mi; 4:26; 1,020 ft; 26.5 mph max; 12.6 mph avg]

Run 9: Vista Lift - Hard Luck Lane - Hard Luck - Moose Run - Glades - Primer Loop

[0.93 mi; 4:32; 1,020 ft; 25.6 mph max; 12.4 mph avg]

Run 10: Vista Lift - Hard Luck Lane - Vermont 200 - Sherman's Pass - Bear Run - TFR - Primer Loop - Beach Seal

[1.02 mi; 4:42; 1,020 ft; 30.2 mph max; 13.0 mph avg]

Run 11: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Five Corners - Timberline Run

[2.02 mi; 9:27; 1,617 ft; 26.5 mph max; 12.8 mph avg]

The snow continued on and off for the next few runs, even showcasing some views here and there! My only real goal now was to hit the main steeps and the Vista Glades, and anything else would be bonus! Run #7 was down the aformentioned Vista Glades, which for lack of better terms, absolutely ripped. Even the spots that were clearly the mountain bike course skied so nicely, it was a blast! I continued onto Sherman's Pass and then onto Bull Run, which brought me to a barely-tracked entrance to Sleepy Hollow, which was... fine? Heavy, wet, fresh snow and very few tracks had my legs and brain a little lost, but I survived! This spat me out onto Moose Run and then into the lower stretch of Glades, which is always a favorite of mine.

Run #8 was down Spillway, which was in good shape! I continued onto Sherman's Pass and did all of Glades this time. Run #9 was more of the same, but I hit Hard Luck instead of Spillway. Both were wonderful and fun! I also giggled at accidentally landing at Glades again after Run #9 - I didn't mean to, as I was just randomly skiing down, but I enjoyed it for sure!

Run #10 was a new one for me - down Hard Luck Lane to Vermont 200, which was closed last time and had a "thin cover" sign today. It did not ski thin cover, though. It was fun! Narrow, bumpy, kind of like Parmanchene Belle or Golden Smelt at Saddleback, super fun - definitely a new favorite! Only bummer was the snow had changed to sleet, which froze on contact higher up, so I was a bit... crusty now.

I hopped back on the Vista for Run #11, sharing with a guy from western New York. The Vista stopped for a few minutes with us on it while it was sleeting/freezing onto us, and we both were worried it was a repeat of yesterday. After a few minues of casual chit chat (and him taking a swig of his flask), the lift started moving incredibly slowly, and I noticed that they were not loading any more chairs. Bummer! I took this one as a sign to ski back to Timberline and regroup. Cobrass was fun and very variable, and the rest of the run was easy peasy.

Alpine Snow Report

Sunday, March 22nd, 2026

1:10 UPDATE: Vista is currently on hold for a mechanical issue. Our team is working on resolving the problem. Stay tuned for updates.

Runs 12-15

Run 12: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Lower Villager

[0.68 mi; 3:10; 367 ft; 27.0 mph max; 12.9 mph avg]

Run 13: Mid-Mountain Lift - Beach Seal

[0.31 mi; 1:19; 325 ft; 24.7 mph max; 14.1 mph avg]

Run 14: Mid-Mountain Lift - Enchanted Forest - TFR - Primer Loop

[0.45 mi; 2:11; 322 ft; 26.1 mph max; 12.2 mph avg]

Run 15: Mid-Mountain Lift - Bear Run - Primer Loop - Cobrass Run - Bear Run

[0.54 mi; 2:14; 358 ft; 25.2 mph max; 14.6 mph avg]

I thought about calling it, but I wanted to give the roads (especially the access road and I-89, which had a decent backup on it when I checked) time to calm down, so I ran inside the Timberline Lodge for a bathroom break and swapped out my soaking wet mittens for dry ones at the car before getting back to work! I decided a nice side quest would be to ride every chair before I left (Wilderness was not running on this day, sadly). I took the Timberline Lift back on up and followed Villager all the way back.

From here, I got three runs in on the Mid-Mountain Lift. #13 I shared with a dad who I rode the Vista with earlier - he did not get stuck on the Vista. I skied down Beach Seal, which is short but consistently wonderful. #14 was solo and I went down Enchanted Forest to TFR and Primer loop, whicih was nice a and soft the whole way. I tried to get to the top of Snowflake, or at least see how close I could get), on Run #15. I followed Bear Run and cut through to Primer Loop and Cobrass Run, but could only see the top of Snowflake, too high up to skate to, so I followed Bear Run the rest of the way down.

Alpine Snow Report

Sunday, March 22nd, 2026

2:40pm UPDATE: Vista will be closed for the rest of the evening.

Runs 16-17

Run 16: Snowflake Lift - Foxy - Lower Foxy

[0.31 mi; 1:14; 276 ft; 27.6 mph max; 15.2 mph avg]

Run 17: Snowflake Lift - Timberline Lane - Timberline Run

[1.26 mi; 5:05; 886 ft; 28.5 mph max; 14.8 mph avg]

I skied over to Snowflake lift and followed Foxy to Lower Foxy first, which was a nice, mellow run, and wrapped up my day taking the Snowflake Lift to Timberline Lane and Timberline Run. I was sopping wet by the end of this journey, but it was a super fun day! I will always be a big fan of Bolton Valley, and some day I'll make it on a day with 2' of fresh snow, I swear I will!

My drive home was long but not too slow, thankfully. I got gas station lunch and wiggled all the way back to Boston, landing around 6:30pm. Ray comically said "WHERE did you go?!" since he'd been home for hours at that point! He was starting to ask about buying skis and an Indy Pass for next year... 

Map of Bolton Valley

Skiing Bolton Valley (Day 6/Indy Pass Day 6)

Skiing Bolton Valley

Friday. January 2nd, 2026

Runs: 22

Distance: 19.62 miles

Elevation: 17,385 feet

Max Speed: 32.8 mph

Avg. Speed: 11.3 mph

Moving Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes, 48 seconds

Total Time: 6 hours, 57 minutes, 31 seconds

Back at it! It was the final Friday of the holiday vacation and I was planning to visit Jay for at least one day, and when Sarah asked if I wanted to ski Bolton Valley with her, how could I say no! She drove up the day before, but I was in ZERO state to be driving on January 1st, so I woke up at sunny 4:00am for a nice, long drive! I ended up making fantastic time (I left ample time becuase I-89 is famously unpredictable - it was in shockingly good shape with only a few flurries near the height-of-land near Montpelier). I did a quick power nap at the rest stop near the NH/VT border, but not for long because it was very cold and I didn't want to keep my car idling and the single-digit high temperatures didn't bode well for a comfortable nap!

I made it to the parking lot around 8:15am, and Sarah was not far behind! We got our Indy tickets, got booted up, and got to it soon after lifts started spinning at 9:00am!

Alpine Snow Report

Friday, January 2nd, 2026

Were rolling righ tinto 2026 with classic mid-winter conditions at Bolton Valley today. We picked up a little dusting of snow since yesterday morning, with some light flurries sprinkling down again this afternoon to keep things fresh. Expect mostly cloudy skies and cold temperatures in the single digits. Overall, it's shaping up to be a solid winter day to get out and make some turns.

Big news: Timberline is opening today! Yay! We'll be starting the day with Villager, Sureshot, and Timberline Run available. We expect to drop some more ropes throughout the day over there after patrol takes a peek. Note that there will be no unloading at mid station.

Cold temps will help preserve the snowpack, groomed trails are skiing and riding well, and there are still plenty of soft pockets to be found across the mountain. For this weekends events, Saturday we are hosting the USASA Northern Vermont Series Race, plus the Fireside Music Series from 6:30-9:30 PM with the Seth Yacavone Band to keep the stoke going after a day on snow. Then on Sunday the USASA racing continues, followed by Trivia Night at the James Moore Tavern from 6:00-8:00 PM - bring your A-game and win bragging rights.

Lots of fun on the menu for the weekend. Bundle up, enjoy the winter vibes, and we'll see you out there. 

Runs 1-3

Run 1: Vista Lift - Alta Vista - Sherman's Pass - Bear Run

[1.19 mi; 4:01; 1,079 ft; 31.0 mph max; 17.7 mph avg]

Run 2: Mid-Mountain Lift - Beech Seal

[0.44 mi; 2:14; 377 ft; 26.7 mph max; 11.9 mph avg]

Run 3: Mid-Mountain Lift - Enchanted Forest - TFR - Primer Loop

[0.47 mi; 2:31; 354 ft; 21.3 mph max; 11.2 mph avg]

Everytime I've been to Bolton Valley, the Vista Lift got busy quickly, so we decided to hop on that chair first thing! We took Alta Vista to Sherman's Pass to Bear Run, which was a wonderful warm-up run. I always forget that ski mountain ratings aren't universal - Alta Vista does not feel like the same genre of blue that the blues at Jay Peak are! Bear Run popped us out at the bottom of the Mid-Mountain Lift, so we decided to hop on there for #2 - skiing down Beech Seal, which was a wonderful run where I got to practice my proper turns. We joked about hitting the rope tow, but opted to ski down to the Wilderness Lift next... only to realize it wouldn't open until 10:00am! We had to schlep back uphill, Sarah went in to use the bathroom, and I hopped back on the Mid-Mountain Lift and scratched my way through the icy Enchanted Forest and TFR (frozen bumps!) before meeting back up with Sarah at the Vista.

Runs 4-5

Run 4: Vista Lift - Spillway Lane - Spillway - Spillway Exit - Bear Run - Primer Loop - Beech Seal

[0.96 mi; 4:29; 1,083 ft; 32.8 mph max; 12.8 mph avg]

Run 5: Vista Lift - Hard Luck Lane - Hard Luck - Moose Run - Primer Loop

[0.94 mi; 5:26; 1,079 ft; 28.5 mph max; 10.3 mph avg]

Next, we wanted to get the steep runs in before they got scraped off. Run #4 brought us down Spillway Lane to Spillyway, which had an impressive pitch! I felt a moment of personal growth - seeing that run from the Vista used to TERRIFY me. It was still a little daunting at the steepest, but I knew I could get down no problem! I think I'm even starting to get better at making proper turns on steeper stretches... at least it's starting to feel better and less skiddy! We finished it up with Bear Run, Primer Loop, and Beech Seal.

Run #5 was back up the Vista and down Hard Luck Lane and Hard Luck - which I would have adored if the snow was better! Spillway was in great shape, but Hard Luck was pretty scratchy. I tried to mimic Sarah's trademark tight turns, which did help a bit! I'd find for most of the day, MOST of the ice was only bad when I wasn't distributing my weight properly. Always getting better! We then dipped into Moose Run, which was... fine? Ungroomed and hard, which wasn't fun, but I think it was overall good for me. We wrapped up with an easy final trip down Primer Loop. 

In writing this, it's really fun to reflect on the progress I've made in the past year. Less than a year ago I was up at Magic Mountain and their natural snow runs had maybe a few bumps each and I STRUGGLED on them, but now I'm only complaining because much more advanced runs aren't pleasant, which really is huge (especially since I'd be hitting plenty of bumps tomorrow at Jay... more on that later!). 

Runs 6-8

Run 6: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Lower Turnpike

[1.16 mi; 8:03; 1,066 ft; 21.1 mph max; 8.7 mph avg]

Run 7: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Cougar - Old Turnpike - Wilderness Woods - Lower Turnpike

[1.18 mi; 5:29; 1,073 ft; 25.1 mph max; 13.0 mph avg]

Run 8: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Lower Crossover - Coyote - Lower Wilderness - Abenaki Trail - Primer Loop

[1.37 mi; 9:25; 1,079 ft; 25.1 mph max; 8.7 mph avg]

NOW it was time for the Wilderness Lift! The Wilderness Lift and I have some beef - the past few times I'd ridden it my ski had gotten caught and/or fully popped off, and it was FINALLY time to redeem myself! Thankfully, I DID redeem myself, and the slow, ancient Wilderness Lift and I were no longer fighting. Run #6 was down the looker's left side of the mountain - Peggy Dow's to Old Turnpike to Lower Turnpike. Upper Peggy's was wonderful, the headwall was awful, all of Old Turnpike was frozen, unpleasant bumps, and Lower Turnpike was back to wonderful! Sarah dipped into the Wilderness Woods for a bit - we met up later. One beast at a time! We also dodged a wild amount of uphill travelers.

Run #7 was a bit more adventerous! We took the narrow "chute" that parallels the headwall on Peggy's and followed Peggy Dow's to the mid-station, where we skated over to Cougar. It started off looking good, and then it got bad! A 10-ish foot wall of ice... yikes! Sarah, being the wonderful friend she is, coached me through it. I was just going to either side-slip or send it around the side, but Sarah traversed a mid-section of the glacier and then went into a jump-turn. That gave me the confidence needed to also cut across the ice, but I did not get a turn in, but it was fine - worst part over! The rest of Coyote was actually nice with medium-soft snow (and of course, hidden ice below) - a nice challenge! From there, we kept the fun going and dipped into the lower Wilderness Woods, which was... fine. My technical skills were totally fine for these woods, but the mountain bike park of it all had the woods mostly tracked out and full of endless narrow, banked turns. I just didn't feel like I was getting that much better since I was just in the trough the whole time and not really practicing my turns... oh well! Once out of the woods, we took Lower Turnpike back to the lift.

Run #8 was back down Peggy Dow's to Cougar, which had more frozen bumps and a few crevasses... fun isn't the word I'd use, but we made it down! We hit Lower Wilderness, which was medium-natural and fun, and Abenaki Trail, which brought us right back to the lodge for a potty break.

Runs 9-13

Run 9: Vista Lift - Vista Glades - Sherman's Pass - Swing - Work Road - Lower Wilderness - Abenaki Trail - Beech Seal

[1.22 mi; 6:53; 1,060 ft; 22.1 mph max; 10.7 mph avg]

Run 10: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Five Corners - Timberline Run

[1.88 mi; 7:45; 1,696 ft; 30.0 mph max; 14.6 mph avg]

Run 11: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Sure Shot - Timberline Run

[1.08 mi; 3:48; 1,030 ft; 30.6 mph max; 17.0 mph avg]

Run 12: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Lower Villager - Lower Foxy

[0.63 mi; 2:27; 423 ft; 24.1 mph max; 15.3 mph avg]

Run 13: Snowflake Lift - Foxy - Lower Villager

[0.30 mi; 1:32; 276 ft; 25.2 mph max; 11.6 mph avg]

Thankfully there was a minimal breeze all day, which made the single-digit temperatures bearable. After our break, we wanted to hit the Vista Glades before getting over to the Timberline side, which opened for the season today!

Run #9 was up the Vista and into the Vista Glades, which had a nice new sign for Vista Peak. The glades proper are extremely open, and only a little icy/scrapey! I had a good time, Sarah had a medium time. I love how pretty these glades are. I also love how they're right at my skill level where it's just challenging enough, but not terrifying. Once out of the glades, we flew down Sherman's Pass to Swing to Work Road to Lower Wilderness to Abenaki Trail to Beech Seal - it's fun wiggling down the resort with all these criss-crossing trails. 

Run #10 brought us down to Timberline. Cobrass was ICY, but windy and fun! Five Corners was in good shape (and more fun than I remembered!), and Timberline Run was long and peaceful (and full of families). Run #11 was the loop around Upper Villager, Sure Shot, and Timberline Run, and Sure Shot was in fantastic shape - one of my favorites of the day! 

Run #12 brought us back down to the main side, but we accidentally bottomed out at the bottom of the Snowflake Lift (which isn't really a bottoming out), so we hopped on that for one more run down Foxy and Lower Villager before lunch! Like a menace, I tried to avoid skating uphill by ducking the rope, and somehow both of my skis popped off? The lifty laughed and shook her head, thankfully. Back at the lodge, Sarah had some chilli and I had my favorite rice ball for lunch - we were a bit chilly!

Runs 14-15

Run 14: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Cobrass Lane - Spillway Exit - Bear Run - Primer Loop - Beech Seal

[1.32 mi; 6:16; 1,102 ft; 23.0 mph max; 12.6 mph avg]

Run 15: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Cobrass Lane - Deer Path - Deer Run - Sprig O' Pine

[1.18 mi; 6:40; 1,106 ft; 24.2 mph max; 10.7 mph avg]

We were curious about the double-black run "Preacher," but I was feeling super hesitant to dive in, so we decided to take Cobrass down to Cobrass Lane to see if we could stake out the entrance and exit before making any decisions. I was complaining about how icy Cobrass was, but Sarah seemed relatively unbothered, so in my psychotic over-analyzing technique-focused brain, I started to make tigheter turns and really focus on weight distribution and edge angle (even on the flatter stuff), and boy, it really did make a difference - thanks Sarah! The entrance of Preacher seemed unsigned and basically a woods run, and the exit seemed more of the same - I wasn't feeling overly interested, especially at this point in the day (thankfully Sarah was feeling the same).

We did see some blue woods off of Cobrass Lane, so Run #15 was more of the same, but we dipped into the Deer Path woods, which were fine. Mostly tracked out with evidence of mountain bike trails, so... the same as it's been all day really. Fun, though! I also fell the second I entered the woods, comically. Killing it!

Runs 16-17

Run 16: Vista Lift - Alta Vista - Sherman's Pass - Bear Run - Primer Loop

[1.21 mi; 4:56; 1,115 ft; 27.6 mph max; 14.7 mph avg]

Run 17: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Bull Run - Bear Run

[1.36 mi; 11:07; 1,053 ft; 25.7 mph max; 7.3 mph avg]

We were starting to wind down for the day, but still having fun! We were also starting to get a bit chilly - there was now a breeze and the sun was dimming. There would have been a STUNNING sunset behind the clouds, but we still got some nice pastels. Run #16 brought us down Alta Vista, which was pretty glacial at this point in the day, and then we just followed the easiest way down, which was a treat! 

Our final run down the Vista Lift was Sherman's Pass to Bull Run, which we somehow evaded all day - it was in wonderful condition and such a fun run! We both loved it, and felt very satisfied putting a bow on the upper mountain for the day. Now the problem was that I was way too close to 20 runs to call it for a day. We did a quick warm up/bathroom break, and then started our final pod of runs. I got one solo run, which meant that we needed at least four more for Sarah to hit 20. Off to the Snowflake Lift!

Runs 18-22

Run 18: Snowflake Lift - Sprig O' Pine

[0.37 mi; 2:18; 236 ft; 23.5 mph max; 9.6 mph avg]

Run 19: Mid-Mountain Lift - Bear Run - Primer Loop

[0.47 mi; 2:01; 354 ft; 23.0 mph max; 14.1 mph avg]

Run 20: Mid-Mountain Lift - Beech Seal - Primer Loop

[0.33 mi; 1:36; 325 ft; 22.2 mph max; 12.4 mph avg]

Run 21: Mid-Mountain Lift - Beech Seal 

[0.39 mi; 1:50; 361 ft; 26.8 mph max; 12.9 mph avg]

Run 22: Mighty Mite - Mighty Mite

[0.17 mi; 2:59; 52 ft; 8.9 mph max; 3.3 mph avg]

Run #18 was up Snowflake and down Sprig O'Pine and then we scooted over to the Mid-Mountain Lift to finish out strong! Tragically, we got stuck for a few minutes and had to make jokes about freezing to death and getting eaten by wolves... It was really pretty watching the mountain's night skiing lights light up in front of us, and the sunset colors popping behind us. #19 was down Bear Run and Primer Loop, #20 was down Beech Seal and the last bit of Primer Loop, and finally #21 was a full run down Beech Seal, which was really skiing well! Visibility was rough with our normal goggles on, so we happily called it there...

...BUT I proposed we cap the day off with a real last run down Mighty Mite - the handle tow, which was actually a delight. We rode up, got off a little early due to carnage at the "top," and held hands back down to the lodge - it was so dumb and fun!

We didn't do a proper apres because Sarah was driving back to Boston, but we did the usual apres chit-chat and snack. I ordered a pizza for pickup from Stone's Throw near Emma's house, and we eventually parted ways. I had a big day at Jay in store for tomorrow!

Map of Bolton Valley

Skiing Bolton Valley

Skiing Bolton Valley

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

Runs: 10

Distance: 9.41 miles

Elevation: 8,100 feet

Max Speed: 27.4 mph

Avg. Speed: 11.9 mph

Moving Time: 47 minutes, 27 seconds

Total Time: 3 hours, 7 minutes, 18 seconds

Sadly, it was now officially the last day of break. We got up around 8:00am to get a DELICIOUS breakfast at Rustic Roots in Shelburne, VT with Kyle and Gabby, and then we went our seperate ways. Gabby and Kyle went over to Burlington and then the Ben & Jerry's factory, and Emma and I decided we'd get a few more laps in at Bolton Valley! We parked at the park and ride and then Emma's car (thankfully) made the drive up the dreadful access road, and I'm glad she did, because it was snowing up there! We parked in the Timberline lot since the upper lot was full, and got a great spot thanks to an English guy leaving early. We fully suited up at the car, got our Indys for the day, and headed right to the lift!

Snow Report

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

Folks, it's just too good out there. No Sunday scaries allowed!

We were showered in another 2-4 inches of snow overnight and we'll be seeing some more flurries throughout the day. Some light winds pushed some of that into the trees towards the top of the mountain overnight, which means the good are still in the woods.

We'll be seeing mild temps again today with a high of 24. Truthfully, this is just about the 'warmest' it's been all season which makes for really comfortable days on the mountain. Great for the kiddos and lessons ;). 

Conditions are feeling soft and cushy on groomed trails, with tons and tons of powder throughout the woods. If today is anything like yesterday, and it will be, it's going to be one of the best days of the season.

Keep an eye out for Babe Force in the backcountry today as they continue to shred it up. Be sure to stick around after the lifts close at 4 for Trivia Night in the James Moore Tavern. Have fun out there! We know we will.

Runs 1-3

Run 1: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Lower Villager - Lower Bentley

[0.66 mi; 3:16; 410 ft; 20.9 mph max; 12.2 mph avg]

Run 2: Snowflake Lift - Sprig o' Pine - Bear Run

[0.30 mi; 1:20; 259 ft; 21.4 mph max; 13.6 mph avg]

Run 3: Vista Lift - Alta Vista - Sherman's Pass - Bull Run - Enchanted Forest - Primer Loop

[1.14 mi; 5:26; 1,004 ft; 26.9 mph max; 12.6 mph avg]

After getting on the Timberline Lift, which pinched my calves so badly I thought skin was ripped off, we made our way up past the mid-station and up to the top. We first thought we'd go to the Wilderness side and then work our way back. We followed Upper Village to Lower Villager, both skied wonderfully with fresh, soft snow, and then Lower Bentley, which was even less touched and just delightful. Only bummer was that Lower Bentley spits out way below the Vista Lift, and the nearest lift was the Snowflake, which still required some upshill shuffling. We shrugged our shoulders and decided to work smarter not harder and got on the Snowflake Lift (installed in 1966 along with Mid-Mountain and Wilderness), and then followed Sprig o' Pine to Bear Run. 

We still hadn't made it to the Wilderness Lift, so we decided we'd work our way across and ride every chair as our silly goal. Next up was the Vista Lift! We were joined by two strangers - one of which was chatty. Unfortunately, I couldn't chat much, because something about the vibrations of the chair awakened a beast inside of me, and by that I mean I had to POOP. We got off the chair and when discussing where to go my only answer was "DOWN." We followed Alta Vista to Sherman's Pass, both of which were fun but not fast enough for the budding emergency. From there we hopped on Bull Run and did a quick jaunt through the beautiful but louge-y Enchanted Forest to Primer Loop and then I RAN into the lodge's basement to christen that toilet. The drowned burger bit back. 

Runs 4-7

Run 4: Mid-Mountain Lift - Glades - Primer Loop

[0.42 mi; 3:01; 361 ft; 21.3 mph max; 8.3 mph avg]

Run 5: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Upper Wilderness Woods - Lower Wilderness

[1.16 mi; 5:53; 1,024 ft; 20.3 mph max; 11.8 mph avg]

Run 6: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Lower Crossover - Coyote - Unmarked Woods - Work Road - Lower Wilderness - Abenaki Trail

[1.27 mi; 6:46; 1,020 ft; 22.2 mph max; 11.2 mph avg]

Run 7: Mid-Mountain Lift - Glades - Primer Loop

[0.37 mi; 2:47; 351 ft; 16.5 mph max; 7.9 mph avg]

After that crisis, we were back! Snow was continuing to fall and we hopped onto the Mid-Mountain Lift. At the top, we turned a sharp left and went on the trail called "Glades," which was actually just a bump run with 3ish trees - it was actually delightful and became our pick of the day! It was quiet, super snowy, and fun to practice on. I kept talking to myself and accidentally sent it over just one bump, no more! We followed Primer Loop down and around to the Wilderness Lift after.

The Wilderness Lift and I have some long-standing beef, as I had a hell of a time on it last March. Twice my ski got caught on the ground and another time my ski fully popped off - not sure if it was the guy bumping the lift or if I was just too relaxed with my ankles, but it was NOT a good time. Thankfully, today was much better. The lifty immedaitely complimented my pants and bumped the chair perfectly for our long, slow, lovely ride up. At this point we had both agreed we didn't really need to hit anything too steep and our goal was just to explore. We followed Peggy Dow's down to Old Turnpike, which was in rough shape. Super scraped off or super snowy with no in between - I did launch out of my skis at one turn when I wasn't expected the variable conditions. In the spirit of exploration, Emma brought us into the Upper Wilderness Woods where I... survived! Made it out fine, but did not perform very well. We followed Lower Wilderness back to the chair.

Run #6 followed Peggy Dow's again, with a goal of making our way to the top of the Mid-Mountain Lift to hit Glade (we were unsuccessful). We took the little chute to bypass the headwall on Peggy Dow's and then made our way to Coyote, which was fun and fully natural. Emma dipped us into some unmarked woods, which weren't great, but fine. From there, we followed Work Road to Lower Wilderness to Abenaki, back to the Mid-Mountain Lift.

Instead of trying and failing to find it from the top, we just hit Glades again from the Mid-Mountain, which was again, delightful. I was back to linking turns - yay! We were both ready to get back on the Vista to check out the Vista Glades, so off we went!

Snow Report

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

1:05 PM Update: We're upping our snow totals for today from 2-4 to 4-6 with these fresh flurries. More to come throughout the week and we're stoked for it!

Runs 8-10

Run 8: Vista Lift - Vista Glades - Sherman's Pass - Swing - Work Road - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.19 mi; 7:00; 1,027 ft; 21.8 mph max; 10.2 mph avg]

Run 9: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Five Corners - Timberline Run

[1.96 mi; 8:44; 1,673 ft; 27.4 mph max; 13.5 mph avg]

Run 10: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Sure Shot - Timberline Run

[0.95 mi; 3:06; 968 ft; 26.5 mph max; 17.7 mph avg]

Run #8 brought us to the Vista Glades which were a damn treat! Soft, bumpy, only a few scrapey rocks, and super beautiful. Also, well within my skill-set. I had to stop a couple times just to look around and actively think about where I was going, which is a good thing! Again, we waited to find Glades from here, and did not succeed. We got onto Sherman's Pass, then took Swing, Work Road, Fanny Hill, and finally Abenaki Trail. Good effort!

We were getting COLD now, so we decided to work our way back to the Timberline side. We got back on the Vista and somehow got on our own chair (they didn't have a lifty pairing people up, so the folks in front and behind us all made groups of four, leaving just the two of us - no complaints! Also, the lifties put up a whiteboard that read "Who is better at keeping chairs on the lift? Bolton or Attitash (Vail)" which got many laughs! From the top we followed Cobrass, which was super fun! Super variable conditions, from packed powder to glare ice to massive bumps - it kind of felt like a final exam for the week! We had a blast though. Next, we turned onto Five Corners. One of the "GNAR" rules we made for Jay Peak was "When you smell weed, loudly say "I didn't know they had skunks here,"" in honor of something Emma's mom genuinely says whenever she smells the devil's lettuce. We did that, LOUDLY, and then skied past the two middle-aged men sharing a joint. It seemed like they did hear us, but got a chuckle out of it, thank goodness! From Five Corners we continued onto Timberline Run for a nice, long route back.

At the chair, I was starting to feel the Sunday Scaries™ and we were both cold, so we called two more skip the last. We got the chair to ourselves again, it was still dumping snow, and we were in store for a lovely run. We got our pole picture at the top of Upper Tattle Tale, and then made our way over to Sure Shot for a nice cruiser. We exchanged "I'm gonna rip the shit out of this run"s and "I'm a better skier than you"s and eventually landed back at the Timerline Lodge, which had a bar in it! Naturally, we stopped for a quick apres, before the long journey home.

In reflection, this was one of my favorite February breaks ever. I skied with so many different friends, I got so much better, and it's just such a gift to spend 9 out of 10 days on a mountain. The season's not over yet, though!

Map of Bolton Valley

Skiing Bolton Valley

T-one day until the eclipse! Our day got started with a planned craft and unplanned... The planned craft was spraying bleach around a plate on a black t-shirt to make eclipse shirts (it worked!), and the unplanned craft was my Jell-O shots... more on that on my next post... After our crafts Gen and I drove down to Bolton Valley, which has become one of my favorite ski spots! My lovely CRV made it up the access road like an absolute champion, we got our passes, and were on the snow just after lifts opened at 10am. 

Snow Report

7am Update: Happy Sunday Funday and Total Eclipse Weekend at Bolton Valley. Snow continued lightly for much of the day yesterday, keeping things fresh out there with nearly 3 feet of snow over the last three and a half days. A pretty trememdous way to head into this momentous occasion with Mother Nature with the the snow clouds now giving way to sunshine and (hopefully) building right through tomorrow's spectacle in the sky around 3:30... We're so excited about it, we're gonna do some dancing with DJ Fattie B from 1-4pm (outside, weather permitting, but TBD). 

        Today we plan to pick up with lifts and trails where we left off yesterday with warmer temps, drier skies and that bright yellow thing in the sky coming back out to play... We'll run 4 lifts - Vista, Snowflake, and Mighty Mite from 10am to 5pm and Wilderness 10:30am to 5pm. Tomorrow we plan to run a similar lift mode, but with Timberline in place of Wilderness and will spin Vista until 6pm to help folks spread out their departure a bit as the roads could be crowded just after the moment of truth if all the hype proves true. Today we expect to have about 80% of our terrain and tomorrow closer to 90% with all trails served by open lifts on each day.

Runs 1-5

Run 1: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Bear Run

[1.34 mi, 6:10, 997 ft, 25.2 mph max, 12.8 mph avg]

Run 2: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Bull Run - Mouse Hole - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.20 mi, 3:36, 994 ft, 31.2 mph max, 19.8 mph avg]

Run 3: Vista Lift - Cobrass - Cobrass Run - Bear Run

[1.13 mi, 4:34, 994 ft, 31.5 mph max, 14.6 mph avg]

Run 4: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Bull Run - Mouse Hole - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.14 mi, 3:51, 1007 ft, 27.5 mph max, 17.0 mph avg]

Run 5: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Swing - Work Road - Coyote - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.28 mi, 6:21, 1063 ft, 28.4 mph max, 12.1 mph avg]

Our first five runs were all on the Vista Lift - the one lift (excluding the rope tow) that I've never been on! It is a quad, and the culture of Bolton valley is that no chair goes un-filled, which was fine. It was a shockingly bluebird day with excellent views towards Lake Champlain and the ADK, along with frosty trees up top and full snow cover! We took some photos at the summit area, including a classic "Emma Photo" - stabbing both poles into the snow and looping the phone camera in the straps - which came out blurry. Our first was was going to be the easiest way down via Sherman's Pass, which was truly lovely. A few sharp turns and overall gentle grades mixed with beautiful scenery - just lovely! Only downside was many people, especially children, so Gen and I split for the second run - she did a repeat, and I turned off at Bull Run to hit Mouse Hole, my beloved Fanny Hill, and Abenaki Trail. The snow was fresh and felt great! We even got to watch a toddler not ski away from the lift unloading zone, a woman ran the kid over, causing the adult's ski to pop off. The dad of the child was curious at the child, the woman was crying, and the dad of the child made the child carry the adult-sized ski back to the woman and apologize. Iconic!

Our third run was more challenging - down Cobrass - with steeper sections and choppier snow, but the views and surroundings continued to be beautiful. I could tell that this trail would get bumpy in a few hours, so we did not come back becuase we are #lazy. Run four was a repeat of run two, and we got fancy on the fifth by taking Swing to Work Road to Coyote, which started as more groomed but ended up being frozen and bumpy at the end, but landed back on the lovely Fanny Hill. Only complaint were the children, but they're kind of part of the deal here, and that's okay! We went to the car to shed some layers and use the bathroom, and then we were off to the Wilderness Chair!

11am Update: Gorgeous bluebird day out there with warm temps and soft snow. You may want your sunscreen for this daydream. If the "Upper Lots Full" sign is out at Timberline, park there and the bus will bring you up. We'll have Timberline Lift spinning for Eclipse Monday.

Runs 6-8

Run 6: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Lower Turnpike

[1.18 mi, 4:35, 1001 ft, 25.3 mph max, 14.6 mph avg]

Run 7: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Lower Turnpike

[1.21 mi, 4:05, 1001 ft, 27.2 mph max, 17.2 mph avg]

Run 8: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Wilderness Liftline - Lower Wilderness - Abenaki Trail - Lower Fanny Hill

[1.20 mi, 5:01, 968 ft, 26.3 mph max, 18.3 mph avg]

Wilderness Lift time! I was excited to head back over here as I simply loved the trails last time. Also, having no line was nice. Also, not having to share the chair with strangers was nice, too. I was a bit clumsy getting on the slingshot of a chair - my ski even got caught on the ground below, but we were soon heading up on the beautiful, rustic, slow chair. Up top we took the uphill route down, which is truly just lovely and fun. A bit flat at first, but followed by a narrow chute and some steeper banked turns (note: I'm writing this after skiing Haynes at Jay, so steep is definitely subjective), and ending with a nice cruise through the groomed woods. 

My second lift ride was humbling embarassing. I, again, was a little clumsy getting on the lift, my ski got caught again, but this time it fully popped off and they had to stop the chair for me - first time for everything! The lifty was insanely kind and even popped my ski back on for me (I basically begged for him to put me out of my misery and hand it to me, but he insisted on getting it back on, which was definitely the right move for many reasons). Following the humiliation, we had another great run down the same route.

The third and final lift ride was better... I said flat out to the lifty "this is my redemption," and my foot got caught again. After HOURS of introspection, I think I was sitting down too low to catch the chair, which ran higher than normal, so I was tipping forward... awful. Either way, I yelled in anger, he said "are you okay," I said "yes I'm just being dramatic," and I vowed to never return. To keep myself in check, I took the bumpy Wilderness Liftline down after Peggy Dow's, which kept my tail in between my legs. In an act of solidarity, Gen's calf cramped up after this run, so she took a break. 

12:30pm Update: DJ Fattie B is firing up on the tavern deck shortly to keep the vibes flying high. Gorgeous bluebird day out there with warm temps and soft snow. You may want your sunscreen for this daydream. If the "Upper Lots Full" sign is out at Timberline, park there and the bus will bring you up. We'll have Timberline Lift spinning for Eclipse Monday.

Runs 9-10

Run 9: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Swing - Work Road - Coyote - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.17 mi, 3:49, 1004 ft, 28.2 mph max, 18.3 mph avg]

Run 10: Vista Lift - Sherman's Pass - Swing - Work Road - Fanny Hill - Abenaki Trail

[1.18 mi, 4:17, 1024 ft, 28.2 mph max, 16.0 mph avg]

Final two runs were back on the Vista Lift. The first was without Gen and I humbly repeated my stint on Coyote, which was starting to soften up. The lower mountain was transitioning to sticky snow, which also kept things interesting. I found Gen at the bottom and she was ready for our last run, taking Sherman's Pass to Swing to Work Road to Fanny Hill to Abenaki, which was excellent. A great way to wrap up our morning - and as a reward, we bought souvenirs and rice balls!

End of Day Stats: 10 Runs, 12.02 miles, 10,049 feet, 31.5 mph max, 47:20 skiing, 3:37:37 elapsed.

Map of Bolton Valley Resort (2024)

Skiing Jay Peak & Cannon Mountain

Day #15, and it was one of my favorites! We got just over two hours of sleep and were out the door by 3:00am heading toward Jay for the sunrise service/free tram ride. I was shockingly awake for the drive, which is especially impressive considering I was abstaining from caffeine (I did not trust my bowels after two days of heavy, creamy pasta meals).

Jay Peak

Snow Report

Day 124a: Early Word (6:20a)

        It's looking like a bright and sunny Easter here at Jay Peak with our Sunrise Tram Service finishing up, an All-day Easter Buffet at Alice's Table and an Egg hunt for the kiddos at noon over at the waterpark. That west wind is still existent but has diminished generously and should hopefully allow us to run most lifts today.

        We'll see a high of 37 degrees and with lower temps at night causing the snow to re-freeze, the upper mountain conditions will continue to take on a frozen granular consistency this morning before that sun softens things up to more of a playful corn snow through the afternoon.

        Confidence is increasing in a possible "long-durration" April winter storm that would hit us roughly Wednesday through Friday. The verdict is still out on how much snow we'll see and we don't want to jinx it, but things could get deep here at Jay once again next week.

Run 1: Tram - Northway - Goat Run - Queen's Highway

[2.02 mi, 7:25, 2100 ft, 35.2 mph max, 16.3 mph avg]

I landed to the parking lot right at 4:00am, which was a bit stressful because I hadn't parked Tramside since my very first day skiing over two years ago. I figured it out, went for a walk to scope things out, and decided I had a bit of time to sit in the car. I eventually got dressed and carried my gear over to the Tram around 4:30am, which got me in line to make it on the second Tram of the morning. I was joined by Emma's coworker/my new friend Elizabeth, which made for a fun morning of chit chats. Riding the Tram for the first time in the dark was not for the faint of heart - it truly felt like we were going to fall into the abyss every time we went past a tower, but thankfully we made it up in one piece. There was free hot chocolate and coffee, but tragically I forgot my Irish Cream... next year! We met up with Emma on the ridge to watch the beautiful, but cloudy sunrise, and then we had to wait until the service was over to ski down. 

Following the service, we booked it out of the building to grab out equipment. There were just a few people ahead of us, which made for some really excellent skiing. The views were even more breathtaking than usual - the Northway from the top to the Flyer is really a lovely trail that gives you the "top of the world" feeling. I screamed "ARE YOU KIDDING ME" at the views numerous times. The curves on Goat Run that usually leave me humbled were simply a delight to ski down, and we took a pit stop at the Green Mountain Boys junction to say to Emma who was working very hard making sure the downhillers don't get into any mischief. 

The second half of our run brought us to Queen's Highway and then back to the Tramside Base. I've never loved a run this much - only thing that comes close was skiing America at Saddleback, but this was just two miles of freshly groomed snow with literally no one else around (turns out many people hang out up top for a while before skiing down). Elizabeth and I went back and forth on whether or not we'd stay to ski some more, but the four hour drive home got me moving (I also pressured Elizabeth into coming to the Eclipse with us) - maybe I'll stop at Cannon since it's LITERALLY on the highway? I made a reservation just in case.............

Cannon Mountain

Mountain Report

        "I tell you, we are here on earth to search for easter eggs at Cannon, and don't let anybody tell you different." - Kurt Vonnegut

        Happy Easter Cannon Family! The Yeti took it upon himself to hide easter eggs all over the Tuckerbrook area. They are filled with ful little toys and easter stickers! Big kids, keep your eyes peeled for the golden egg! It could be hiding anywhere on the mountain and stuffed inside is a two-night stay at the Woodstock Inn & Brewery and two 24/25 Cannon Lift Tickets. The hunt is on as soon as the lifts are open! Don't forget, spring ticket rates are in full effect, adult tickets are just $79. See below for more details and pricing

        The Groomers were out on 47 trails overnight. You can expect machine groomed, loose granular conditions across the mountain. Clouds will be clearing into the afternoon and temps are expected to reach into the high 30's at the base. So we expected surfaces to soften up towards the end of the day. Groomers have been working hard to get trails into the best possible shape after this weeks thaw/freeze cycle and each day the trails get a little better. For the best conditions get here early to enjoy the fresh crospy cords!

Runs 1-2

Run 1: Peabody Express Quad - Easy Link - Big Link - Middle Ravine - Lower Ravine

[1.16 mi, 3:29, 1378 ft, 34.8 mph max, 19.9 mph avg]

Run 2: Peabody Express Quad - Easy Link - Big Link - Middle Ravine - Lower Ravine

[1.04 mi, 3:11, 1312 ft, 32.8 mph max, 19.6 mph avg]

Well, as expected, I couldn't resist stopping in for a few runs at Cannon. It also perfectly split up my ride from Jay Peak to Boston. Thankfully, I knew my way around the base area now, so I pulled in, used the bathroom, suited up at the car, and got right on the slope! I got right to it from the Peabody Express Quad, hidding Easy and Big Links, Middle Ravine, and Lower Ravine. I'm not sure if its just becuase I was on day three of skiing or the conditions were better, but I felt like I was doing a MUCH better job at it! Also I was cruising faster than usual, which felt very fun. Also, less death cookies. I was delighted to see no lines or crowds, either!

Runs 3-4

Run 3: Peabody Express Quad - Cannonball Quad - Tramway - Middle Cannon - Rock Garden - Mickey's Margin - Gary's

[1.57 mi, 5:42, 2198 ft, 27.5 mph max, 16.5 mph avg]

Run 4: Zoomer Triple - Mickey's Margin - Lower Cannon

[0.54 mi, 2:27, 571 ft, 24.1 mph max, 13.3 mph avg]

For my third run, I ended up deciding to go big! I took the Peabody to Cannonball Quad all the way up - it was snowing up top! Also quite windy, but not as bad as Friday. I flirted with hitting the Slalom or Upper Ravine, but decided to stick with a trail that I knew, especially since I knew I'd see a great cloud-less view of Mt. Lafayette! The Tramway skied very well, and I enjoy how wide it is. From there, I last-minute decided to conitnue all the way down Middle Cannon, Rock Garden, Mickey's Margin, and then dreaded Gary's, who I overall felt better about, but still not thrilled. This was a fun, long run - getting as close to a tippy-top to tippy-bottom as I could. Note for next time - with my current skills, I could have gone to the bottom of the Tuckerbrook Area to lose a few more feet of elevation. Technically the Mittersill Base is lower, but there's no direct downhill connection from the Cannon Summit.

Run #4 was a non-glamorous run from the Zoomer Triple to Mickey's Margin to Lower Cannon - I cut off of Mickey's too early, went over a sheet of ice, and then a patch of bare ground, which landed me on my bottom. Getting back up, I started to skid until I sat down again. Not glamorous! Thankfully, not damaged either. Just humbled. 

Runs 5-8

Run 5: Peabody Express Quad - Cannonball Quad - Taft Slalom - Upper Ravine

[0.76 mi, 3:21, 909 ft, 23.6 mph max, 13.7 mph avg]

Run 6: Cannonball Quad - Upper Ravine - Middle Ravine - Lower Ravine

[1.65 mi, 4:59, 1998 ft, 29.2 mph max, 19.9 mph avg]

Run 7: Peabody Express Quad - Cannonball Quad - Tramway - Big Link

[0.63 mi, 2:26, 932 ft, 25.8 mph max, 15.5 mph avg]

Run 8: Cannonball Quad - Taft Slalom - Upper Ravine - Middle Ravine - Lower Ravine

[1.71 mi, 6:08, 2057 ft, 31.3 mph max, 16.7 mph avg]

Runs 5-8 were all from the summit and all VERY fun! #5 was an exploration lap of Taft Slalom and the lower Upper Ravine. Taft was FUN. Wide, just steep enough, with EXCELLENT views - I could even see where I started my day at Jay from here! The lower stretch of Upper Ravine was fun and easy, but definitely get some speed toward the end as it flattens out a bit. Run #6 explored the full Ravine trail. Upper Ravine was a little intense in the amount and frequency of curves, but could be fun on a second try. From there, the Middle and Lower Ravines were just as fun as they were before. 

My penultimate run was to revisit the Tramway down to Big Link - I forgot that I do not care for the steepness nor iciness of Big Link... And my final run was a super fun run of Taft Slalom to the Ravines. My heart wanted to keep going, but the "Sunday" of it all pushed me back to my car to pack up shop and head home. This was a VERY fun, fulfilling weekend of skiing and friendship - and I'm SUPER excited for the eclipse next weekend!

End of Day Stats: 9 Runs, 11.09 miles, 13,458 feet, 35.2 mph max, 0:39:58 skiing, 1:46:12 elapsed.

Map of Jay Peak Resort (2024)

Map of Cannon Mountain (2024)

Skiing Bolton Valley

Ski Day #14! Emma was taking an "off-day," so I headed back to Bolton Valley to do some exploring with more open terrain while she rested. The drive was super easy and I made it just before lifts opened. The forecast for the higher mountains was WINDY, but thankfully the lower mountain areas of Bolton were rather unscathed. Wilderness and Vista started the day on hold, which encouraged me to head over to the Timberline area.

Snow Report

7am Update

        Sound the corn horn (lightly) this weekend with freezing temperatures overnight and warming temperatures (and some sunshine) as the day progresses, which typically leads to that legendary spring corn we all know and love. Conditions should remain firm in the morning hours at most elevations, but expected to loosen up a bit in the afternoon as temps rise and peeks of sunshine do their thing. We expect the softest/corniest conditions down at lower elecation (and warmer) Timberline the earliest and persisting at lower elevations in the main base areas as we ski into the sunset with lifts until 10pm for the last time this season. Hard to believe this is already the final weekend of March, and thus begins our April left schedule on Monday which is daily lifts from noon to 7pm (though we'll spin lifts 10am to 6pm on Eclipse Monday 4/8).

        Today we plan to spin all 6 lifts with 60+ trails (though Patrol will have the final word as always). Groomers for the win in the morning and ungroomed natural terrain expected to be the winner by mid afternoon at lower elevations. And then rinse and repeat for Sunday funday with a similar setup currently forecasted.

        And don't look now, buuuuuut... have you heard we could see anywhere from one to three feet in a long duration snow storm next Tuesday to Thursday? Sure sets us up real, real nice for Eclipse weekend next weekend AND hitting our planned closing date of April 14. Sorry if you'll have to navigate the roller coaster of corn snow, Bolton Beach days and pow days over the next couple of weeks, but we feel like you can handle it. #SorryNotSorry.

8:30am Update: Vista and Wilderness are currently on wind hold.

        First lift for top-to-bottom skiing an driding anticipated this morning is Timberline at 9am. Hopefully we'll get the upper mountain lifts back by mid morning, but stay tuned with that refresh button as always... current forecase calls for those wind gusts at the top to subside a bit over the course of the morning, but Mother Nature can be unpredictable in the mountains - see this week's forecasted one to three foot snow storm for further evidence of this phenomena. We'll keep you posted.

Runs 1-6

Run 1: Snowflake Lift - Timberline Line - Timberline Run

[1.21 mi, 5:16, 896 ft, 26.7 mph max, 13.8 mph avg]

Run 2: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Timberline Run

[1.32 mi, 4:36, 1033 ft, 28.8 mph max, 17.3 mph avg]

Run 3: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Sure Shot - Timberline Run

[1.08 mi, 3:35, 978 ft, 25.3 mph max, 18.2 mph avg]

Run 4: Timberline Lift - Intro - Showtime

[0.77 mi, 3:44, 1040 ft, 26.2 mph max, 12.3 mph avg]

Run 5: Timberline Lift - Intro - Showtime

[0.69 mi, 2:42, 961 ft, 26.4 mph max, 15.4 mph avg]

Run 6: Timberline Lift - Upper Villager - Lower Villager

[0.71 mi, 3:24, 407 ft, 23.1 mph max, 12.6 mph avg]

The first half of my morning was spent in the Timebrline area, which was delightfully unpopulated. My first run was up the red Snowflake Lift to Timberline Line and Timberline Run, which was a nice, long warm up run. There was one steeper section as Timberline Run joined Sure Shot, but it was nice to get some speed for a short while. My second run was another lovely longer run following the Timberline Lift to Upper Villager to Timberline Run. It was chilly up at the top of the lift, but overall conditions felt good! Snow was hardpack/frozen, but was nothing compared to Cannon yesterday. 

I decided my next step would be to hit Sure Shot, a short blue that acts as a short cut of my previous run. It was groomed, a bit steep, but fun and wide! Afterwards, I decided I would push myself a bit more, and hit the short black trail "Intro" to Showtime. I felt okay doing this because it was the lift line and I could see the trail as I went up the lift, which wasn't anything steeper than I'd previously done - I think it's listed as a black because it's narrow, winding, and there's lift towers to dodge. The headwall into Showtime truly felt the steepest (and iciest), but overall it was a fun run! I texted Emma about my accomplishment and did a second lap of this run, which went smoother. Finally, after a LONG lift ride (I think someone fell down at the chair base), I checked the snow report and saw that the Wilderness Lift was opening, so I did a nice commuter run back to the main base area to discover the Wilderness Lift.

At this point in the day I have met my cast of recurring characters - the snowboarding dudes and the hot mess adult family. Snowboarding dudes are exactly what they sound like - older group (40s I'd guess) of snowboarders who are just a little obnoxious but not in a bad way. Hot Mess Adult Family is also what you'd expect - a hot mess adult family who appear to be learning how to ski together. It was a journey watching them struggle down Showtime.

9:30am/11am Updates: Vista is currently on wind hold.

        Timberline, Mighty Mite, Mid Mountain, and Snowflake lifts are off and running as scheduled with Wilderness expected to join them at 10am. Brisk start to the day, but looking forward to warming temps, sunshine and decreasing winds as the day gets on here and anticipate teh currently firmer conditions will start to loosen up on natural, ungroomed terrain for that classic spring corn at lower elecations by late afternoon if we get enough sunshine over the course of the day. On the way to find out - come on up to get down!

Runs 7-11

Run 7: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Lower Turnpike

[1.21 mi, 4:56, 1050 ft, 24.8 mph max, 14.7 mph avg]

Run 8: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Lower Crossover - Coyote - Work Road - Lower Wilderness - Abenaki Trail

[1.39 mi, 6:23, 1056 ft, 24.7 mph max, 13.1 mph avg]

Run 9: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Lower Crossover - Fanny Hill - Lower Fanny Hill

[1.30 mi, 5:04, 1024 ft, 28.1 mph max, 15.4 mph avg]

Run 10: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Old Turnpike - Lower Turnpike

[1.22 mi, 3:51, 1043 ft, 29.5 mph max, 19.0 mph avg]

Run 11: Wilderness Lift - Peggy Dow's - Lower Crossover - Fanny Hill - Lower Fanny Hill

[1.31 mi, 5:05, 981 ft, 27.2 mph max, 15.5 mph avg]

Phase two of the day was spent on the Wilderness Lift, which I LOVED. Another old double lift that moves glacially slow, but leads to a nice network of relatively uncrowded trails. My first run was down the uphill route, which seems to have become my go-to since its almost guaranteed to be the easiest way down. The route, Peggy Dow's to Old Turnpike to Lower Turnpike, is super fun and not to challenging. Definitely get some speed off the lift because Peggy starts pretty flat then comes to a fork - one groomed and narrow and one ungroomed and steep - I FOOLISHLY took the ungroomed way first and it sucked. The Turnpikes were wide, easy, and fast. Loved it!

Back on the Wildnerness Lift, I seemed to have reunited with the Snowboarding Dudes. We all watched the Hot Mess Family try to go down the lift line, but struggling with the ungroomed terrain. Dude #1 shouted "it just gets worse, you should turn around," so they did. My second run was less glamorous - I took Peggy's to the uphill-both-ways Lower Crossover to Coyote, which was ungroomed and FROZEN. I somehow made it out unscathed, but yikes. From there, I followed the easy Work Road to Lower Wilderness to the lovely Abenaki Trail, where I had to dodge a ski school group.

Run #9 was my last new route of the day, and my favorite! Peggy's to Lower Crossover to Fanny Hill to Lower Fanny Hill. The Fanny Hills are wide, groomed trails where I felt safe to catch some speed - just really fun skiing! #10 was the uphill route again, and I finished my morning doing the Fannys one last time. I truly would have stayed longer, but the Wilderness Lift was getting dreadfully slow (my perception, that is), and Emma and I had plans to go to the Banff Film Festival in Burlington that night with her work friends, so I NEEDED to get home in time for a nap. Overall, this was a really fun morning, and I'm excited to visit again to explore Vista!

End of Day Stats: 11 Runs, 12.22 miles, 10,476 feet, 29.5 mph max, 0:48:36 skiing, 3:05:54 elapsed.

Map of Bolton Valley Resort (2024)

Skiing Cannon Mountain & Bolton Valley

Ski Day #13 for me! I truly am shocked and delighted it's gotten this high. I had a long weekend with Good Friday off, so I took the chance to hit Cannon for the first time, and then I would meet Emma while she technically chaperoned her school's ski club at Bolton Valley later in the day. My alarm went off at 5:45am (a full hour+ later than usual!) and I was off to Cannon!

Cannon Mountain

I find I get very anxious/nervous whenever visitng a new mountain, but never in the bad way. I knew Cannon has a reputation of being hard and icy, but I also reminded myself I don't have to do anything I don't want to do, and I have the necessary skills to make it down, even if it takes a nice, long time. I started my day in the older-feeling Notchview Lodge to redeem my Indy and use the bathroom, and I ended up booting up in the car. I then discovered the newer-feeling Peabody Lodge, where I found a paper trail map and watched the die-hards wait in line for first chair.

Mountain Report

        "Skiing Cannon is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical." - Yogi Berra

        Cannon is no stranger to thaw and freeze cycles. Temps were in the 40s yesterday but slowly dropped overnight. That makes for challenging grooming conditions for our team bu thte perfect opportunity for oyu to work on your skiing technique and skills. Temperatures are colder today with teh chance for snow showers across the mountain throughout the day.

        The Groomers were out on 47 trails overnight. You can expect firm, fast, and variable conditions across the mountain. Any ungroomed trails will remained closed. All glades will stay closed until temperatures increase and things soften up. Mittersill Summit will also remain closed today, but you will be able to access the trails off the Valar T-Bar.

        Blizzard Splash Pond, scheduled for this Saturday, has been CANCELLED due to cold, windy, and snowy conditions.

Runs 1-6

Run 1: Peabody Lodge - Brookside

[0.23 mi, 1:38, 141 ft, 13.7 mph max, 8.3 mph avg]

Run 2: Tuckerbrook Quad - Raven Ridge - Huckerbrook - Brookside

[0.51 mi, 2:44, 282 ft, 17.2 mph max, 11.1 mph avg]

Run 3: Tuckerbrook Quad - Deer Run

[0.30 mi, 1:30, 289 ft, 22.9 mph max, 11.9 mph avg]

Run 4: Tuckerbrook Quad - Rabbit Path

[0.36 mi, 2:12, 292 ft, 17.8 mph max, 9.9 mph avg]

Run 5: Tuckerbrook Quad - Turkey Trot

[0.31 mi, 1:28, 285 ft, 21.5 mph max, 12.8 mph avg]

Run 6: Tuckerbrook Quad - Raven Ridge - Huckerbrook

[0.31 mi, 2:01, 154 ft, 17.8 mph max, 9.3 mph avg]

Respecting the aformentioned anxiety, I decided I would start in the beginner "Tuckerbrook" area, which is just below the main Peabody Lodge. My first run was a ski down to the Tuckerbrook Quad, which was FROZEN corduroy that vibrated my whole body - this would be interesting. I decided I'd do a bunch of runs, hitting most of the main trails one run at a time, from skiers right to left. Raven Ridge to Huckerbrook to Brookside was flat and easy, and then Deer Run was surprisingly narrow and steep. I missed Fox and Bear because of families. Next was Rabbit, which was fun! Still very frozen, but a bit steeper and wider than Deer. I ended my short stay in this area with Turkey Trot, which was similar to Rabbit Path, just shorter. There was no lift line at 9:15am, and this was my first experience with the pass scanning guns they have at Cannon - basically you point to where your pass it and they scan you like a grocery store cashier. Interesting! I was impressed how far they could scan, or maybe they just did the action for fun. My sixth and final run in this area was my return to the Peabody Lodge via Raven Ridge and Huckerbrook.

Runs 7-13

Run 7: Peabody Express Quad - Middle Cannon - Rock Garden - Gremlin

[1.08 mi, 5:13, 1375 ft, 24.8 mph max, 12.4 mph avg]

Run 8:  Peabody Express Quad - Easy Link - Big Link - Middle Ravine - Turnpike

[1.20 mi, 5:28, 1348 ft, 28.6 mph max, 13.2 mph avg]

Run 9:  Peabody Express Quad - Easy Link - Big Link - Middle Ravine - Turnpike

[1.25 mi, 5:32, 1371 ft, 31.2 mph max, 13.6 mph avg]

Run 10: Peabody Express Quad - Easy Link - Missing Link - Lower Ravine - Chute

[1.08 mi, 4:34, 1368 ft, 25.1 mph max, 14.2 mph avg]

Run 11: Peabody Express Quad - Middle Cannon - Rock Garden - Gremlin

[1.09 mi, 4:57, 1375 ft, 23.9 mph max, 13.2 mph avg]

Run 12: Peabody Express Quad - Middle Cannon - Rock Garden - Lower Cannon

[1.11 mi, 6:27, 1378 ft, 19.5 mph max, 10.3 mph avg]

Run 13: Peabody Express Quad - Middle Cannon - Mickey's Margin - Time Zone - Lakeside

[1.35 mi, 7:32, 1453 ft, 22.4 mph max, 10.7 mph avg]

My next and longest bit of runs were off of the Peabody Express Quad. I was definitely feeling nervous based on the previous hard/icy conditions and Cannon's reputation, but I knew I could take my time. I thought of doing the Ravines first, but I could clearly see Gremlin from the lift and decided I'd go that route, and it was... fine. A little steep, very icy.  My biggest takeaway was that these runs are BEAUTIFUL but terrifying since it looks like you're skiing over a cliff (you're not). The next two runs were much more enjoyable - Easy/Big Link to Middle Ravine with a cut-through to Turnpike (the main headwall was closed, but the lower part was open). I was able to get some speed and ski like I knew what I was doing. I did discover the dreaded "death cookies," which were a bummer, but thankfully I escaped rather unscathed. I did have my one and only fall of the day when I stopped to check my trail map - I simply failed getting out of "pizza," my ski popped off, and suddenly I was sitting... oh well!

Next up I was going to do a redemption run on Gremlin, which was... fine. I wasn't too thrilled with it, but I guess I did a better job? Afterwards, I stayed on Rock Garden and hit Lower Cannon, which was MUCH more enjoyable. Only downside was how hard and icy the trails were, but I enjoyed how wide they were. Finally, I read that "Gary's" was a good intermediate run on the "front five," so I attempted (and failed) to ski it. I ended up on Mickey's Margin (correct) and then Time Zone (incorrect) - both of which I enjoyed. From here, I could hike back up to the Peabody Express Quad or follow Lakeside to the Zoomer Triple, which I did. Tragically, Lakeside bottomed out in a dirty, muddy slush pit that I had to slog through to eventually hit the triple. 

Runs 14-15

Run 14: Zoomer Triple - Mickey's Margin - Gary's

[0.54 mi, 3:12, 643 ft, 21.1 mph max, 10.0 mph avg]

Run 15: Zoomer Triple - Mickey's Margin - Time Zone

[0.56 mi, 2:44, 564 ft, 29.5 mph max, 12.4 mph avg]

The Zoomer Triple definitely felt more tucked away, and my pass didn't get scanned down here. My first run after the lift was actually hitting Gary's, which was... rough. Very steep, very icy, very wide though? I don't like not seeing what's ahead of me, so I went very slowly with VERY wide turns. Thankfully no one else was tackling frozen Gary at this point. I eventually got speed at the bottom to make it back to the Triple, and then I followed Mickey's Margin to Time Zone back to the Peabody, which was a fun, fast run.

Runs 16-17

Run 16: Peabody Express Quad - Big Link

[0.15 mi, 1:00, 200 ft, 16.0 mph max, 9.1 mph avg]

Run 17: Cannonball Quad - Tramway - Big Link - Missing Link - Middle Ravine - Turnpike - Lower Ravine

[1.62 mi, 7:40, 2044 ft, 31.1 mph max, 12.7 mph avg]

The cloud ceiling had finally lifted, so I decided I'd make a go at the tippy top! I took the Peabody up, followed Big Link to the Cannonball Quad, which was steeper than I'd like - I'll definitely be sticking to Easy Link from now on. The Cannonball Quad was cold, windy, but very pretty. There was a lot of rime ice on the chairs, and the trees were fully frosted up top. The wind was blowing the snow like sand in the sahara, too. From the top, I read that Tramway was a good intermediate, so I headed that way and was STUNNED by how magnificent Mt. Lafayette and the Franconia Ridge looked from up here. The trail drops down past the tram house on a steep/icy headwall - it was so windy up here that the wind was actually pushing me backwards, which was... interesting. The Tramway itself was a lovely trail. A little steep, but super wide and beautiful. Eventually, it landed at the top of the Peabody, so I followed the Middle Ravine to Turnpike route I'd grown to like back to the base lodge. I was definitely feeling a high after that run, but I had to continue my drive up to Vermont - thankfully, I'll be back in a few days!

Bolton Valley

Another ~2 hour drive under my belt, I was now at Bolton Valley to meet up with Emma as she "chaperoned" her ski club. I made it to Bolton, got my $35 pass (the first time I paid for a pass this season!), and found her just as she was finishing up her first run with her work friends, and also just as the Vista Lift closed - tragic!

Runs 1-2

Run 1: Mid Mountain Lift - Bear Run - Primer Loop

[0.46 mi, 2:46, 338 ft, 19.4 mph max, 9.9 mph avg]

Run 2: Mid Mountain Lift - Bear Run - Primer Loop

[0.54 mi, 3:26, 258 ft, 20.1 mph max, 9.5 mph avg]

Since the Vista Lift was closed, we hit up the rickety Mid Mountain Lift, which was equally charming and terrifying. Safety bar was required (my rules) as I felt like I would slip out at any moment. We skied with three of her friends on easy, beginner runs, which was fun! I've never skied with more than just Emma and Gen before, so it was a fun, new experience. The snow was very wet and heavy, which made for a WILDLY different skiing experience than Cannon.

Runs 3-4

Run 3: Snowflake Lift - Snowflake Bentley - Lower Villager

[0.34 mi, 2:16, 285 ft, 18.0 mph max, 9.0 mph avg]

Run 4: Snowflake Lift - Foxy - Lower Villager

[0.37 mi, 2:35, 302 ft, 20.7 mph max, 8.5 mph avg]

After their runs, the folks who worked today were done. Since I paid a whole $35, I decided I'd get a couple more runs in. I went over to the other rickety lift, the Snowflake Lift, for my last two runs. The first was Snowflake Bentley to Lower Villager, which was bumpy and less-traveled at first, and then flat and easy. The second was a blue, Foxy, which was rocky and frozen and terrifying, but got me enough speed to get through Lower Villager. After these two runs, I decided it was also time for a hot dog, so I packed up shop. Overall a nice, short afternoon!

[UPDATE FROM THE FUTURE] Apparently one of my families from school was also at Cannon this day and saw me! It's hard to be a celebrity... 

End of Day Stats: 21 Runs, 14.76 miles, 15,847 feet, 31.2 mph max, 1:16:56 skiing, 4:11:59 elapsed.

Map of Cannon Mountain (2024)

Map of Bolton Valley Resort (2024)