Scooted over to Saddleback for a few runs today: Delicious early-spring conditions, butter and suger corn, with a side of freeze-capped moguls and temps in the 40s to low 50s. Few folks skiing–it was almost too quiet.
Although I don’t mind T-bars, I’m thrilled that this one will be replaced next season with a fixed quad. That will open up the summit to far more folks, and with the addition of another double-black, it will make the terrain heading toward Muleskinner even better for experts. I skied America for the first time since it was widened, and what a change. I nominate it for National Scenic Byway status; widening opened the panoramic views west to Sunday River and Mt. Washington and north over the Rangeley Lakes. Wow.
Saddleback is closing Sunday; Sugarloaf is still aiming for May 4 or beyond. So resist the urge to store the skis and grab the clubs. You won’t regret it.
