New Year's Day!

I spent my Sunday out backcountry skiing at Snoqualmie Pass. It's only about 20 miles from my house and it's super easy to access. With the dearth of snow all over the US I assumed it was my responsibility to go skiing for all the poor Utahns out there. So I did.

Fresh powder AND a waterfall!

We could have just taken a lift up and skied some already tracked out snow, but we were determined to find  some freshies. Tim showed up right at nine am, which is incredible if you think about a typical New Years Eve Party. Lauren and I were close to being ready so off we went!

Amazing sundog, later in the day.

We enjoyed perfect conditions on the way, a bit of wind on the Snow Lake Divide Pass and some clouds in the afternoon. Nothing to complain about. We also got this amazing sundog that foretold the copious amounts of fresh snow we are currently receiving.

Chair Peak 

This here peak, Chair Peak, is one of my objectives this winter. I'd like to climb the N. Face and ski a couple different lines on it. Looks like it might go soon...

Tim enjoying the goods.

Tim needed stress relief from some particularly arduous job training he's going through. He vented by taking the lead and breaking trail pretty much all day. Hope it helped!

Enjoying the sunshine.

Lauren is honing her backcountry skills and is quickly mastering the "kick-turn". She also looks sexy in her ski gear.

The Result of Our Efforts: Fresh Tracks!

We skinned a lot and were rewarded with some amazing turns in an amazing location. Almost makes the constant rain worth it! It's currently puking snow in the mountains and I'll be on Mt. Rainier all next week doing a winter mountaineering seminar, so stay tuned! More adventures to come!