From the Hill: Wow at Bear Paw Ski Bowl

From Byron Ophus

WOW! That could be the whole story for this week. More than a foot of new snow covered the slopes of Bear Paw in the weekdays just prior to the weekend opening.  

Several volunteers drove to the hill Friday, knowing that significant preparations would be needed prior to opening Saturday morning. After shoveling snow at home all week no one looked forward to the unenviable task of shoveling snow from the deck of the Yellowsnow Club. What a pleasant surprise. Someone had arrived early. The deck was almost completely clear of snow, wood was split for the woodstove and there was a fire already warming the lodge. Thanks, JB.

Saturday opened with downhiller's eager to hit the powder that covered the 18 to 32 inch bullet proof base. Skiers enjoyed powder, machine groomed powder and some windblown crud above the tree line. The wind threatened operations but never forced a shutdown. It did, however, greet patrons with a blast of cold air as they neared the upper unloading ramp. The cold wind was a stark reminder that we live in north-central Montana and that it is winter. Still, the cold wind and the small amount of windblown crud did not dissuade skiers and shredders from seeking the powder of the North Bowls and Four Souls. 

The wind was unrelenting Sunday. The ride to the top was a white-knuckle experience. Brave skiers and shredders who ventured to the top enjoyed packed powder in the bowls. Those who challenged the face found the meaning of windblown crud. The warm weather softened snow especially where the sun shone. Only when the shadows lengthened late in the afternoon did the snow firm and become a little less welcoming.  

The food concession was busy satisfying the hunger of the skiers and boarders. Eaglecreek Ski Patrollers were way too busy performing the duties for which they were trained. 

A possibility of snow in the forecast and cool temperatures will ensure plentiful snow for the coming weekend and for the foreseeable future. So, raccoon the eyes, rack the boards, rack up some runs, rack up some fun and ski knee deep cheap at the steep and deep.