Since I'm an SS "homer' perhaps we can keep our SS love (and hate) in one thread for this season.
Look what my buddy just sent me .......
And so it begins. Portable snow guns moved out of storage
Snowshoe’s Early Season Pass is available. $109 gets you unlimted access from opening day til Christmas.
Details here
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
Since I'm an SS "homer' perhaps we can keep our SS love (and hate) in once thread for this season.
Look what my buddy just sent me .......
And so it begins. Portable snow guns moved out of storage
Temps may hit 32 Sat night and next week so look for gun testing to start soon!
Got an email from Ikon with opening dates for the east. Snowshoe projected date is Nov. 22.
marzNC wrote:
Got an email from Ikon with opening dates for the east. Snowshoe projected date is Nov. 22.
FWIW, last year they did manage to hit the target opening date on 11/21 with 2 blues, 1 park, and if I remember correctly all of hootenanny and maybe log slide. Really ended up being one of the better opening days in a while, weather helped them some, but I'm sure the new snow makers made a difference
rbrtlav wrote:
marzNC wrote:
Got an email from Ikon with opening dates for the east. Snowshoe projected date is Nov. 22.
FWIW, last year they did manage to hit the target opening date on 11/21 with 2 blues, 1 park, and if I remember correctly all of hootenanny and maybe log slide. Really ended up being one of the better opening days in a while, weather helped them some, but I'm sure the new snow makers made a difference
No, it was 14 trails....
http://www.dcski.com/forum/95441
Snowshoe talk is the sole reason I visit this site. Wonder if there are enough of us to make a sub forum viable.
A couple friends stayed in my condo this weekend and sent me these ......
Certainly not a powder day. It's always nice to see those first flakes to get the blood flowing.
Bonzski wrote:
First flakes are falling now!
I'll get this webpage cleaned up one day but here's all the SS cams on one page. 2 thumbs up for snow
SS WEBCAMS 
Neat! Snow before Halloween!
OpenSnow has 4 cameras linked to the Snowshoe webpage. May need to be a subscriber to see them. But the annual fee is pretty low. Includes Silver Creek.
Or just go here for free:
2019.2020 WINTER EVENT SCHEDULE
NOVEMBER 22 Official Opening Day (weather permitting)
NOVEMBER 28 -30 Thanksgiving Weekend Celebration
DECEMBER 13 Silver Creek Opening Day (weather permitting)
DECEMBER 14 Park Jam present by Smith
DECEMBER 14 Winter Brewfest
DECEMBER 15 WV SKI FREE DAY
DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve Celebration (The Connection, Split Rock Pool, Kids Kountdown, Big Top, Hoots and Village Plaza)
JANUARY 4-5 Burton Women’sSnowboardCamp
JANUARY 11-12 Burton Kid’s Snowboard Camp
JANUARY 11-12 SARA (Southern Alpine Racing Association) U10-U14
JANUARY 17-19 Martin LutherKing Weekend
JANUARY 25-26 HEAD Women’sSkiCamp
FEBRUARY 1-2 SARA (Southern Alpine Racing Association) U-16-U19
FEBRUARY 3 Cupp Run Challenge
FEBRUARY 8 Progression Session
FEBRUARY 14-17 President’s Weekend
FEBRUARY 19-21 SWRA (South Eastern Winter Reps Association)
FEBRUARY 21 Winter Gala presented:by Snowshoe Foundation
FEBRUARY 22 Berming Man
FEBRURARY 29-March 1 SARA (Southern Alpine Racing Association) U14 Championship
MARCH 7-8 Homegrown Music Festival & Crescent Ski Council-Private Race
MARCH 13-14 Ballhooter Spring Break Festival
MARCH 15 Silver Creek Closing Day
MARCH 21 Snowshoe Pond Skim
MARCH 22 WV SKI FREE
MARCH 28 End of Season PassHolderAppreciationParty
MARCH 29 Last day of ski season
Is there usually a demo day at Snowshoe in December? How about January?
Will we see snow gun testing this weekend at the Shoe?
Friday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 28.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 39.
Saturday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 28. Blustery.
Sunday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 33. Breezy.
Sunday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 26.
Snow Guns Blazing at the SHOE ----- Shavers Webcam
Snowshoe all in as expected. Good to see HV and 7S rocking this AM. I'm heading to the Pittsbugh airport this AM and it's friggin cold around here.
I'm surprised to see Siver Creek running several guns. They already tested those last week. They usually do not open until a couple weeks after the basin.
Whale watching at the Shoe
Homer or not, the snow cams are looking good. SS is always the most reliable bet in the DC metro area. Love the south montain (soaring eagle lift). Camp 99, Sawmill and Widow Maker are calling.
So I booked a trip to the Shoe after Thanksgiving. (WOOT!) We will stay in Expedition Station. The question arose as to whether the snow making guns might be loud when on at night and mess with our sleep if we are in a room on the slope side.
Anyone have an opinion on this? It's not too late to request a room on the other side. TIA
Keith_Moon wrote:
... snow making guns might be loud ...
REAL L-O-U-D...sorta like camping in a puptent on an airport runway!!! LOL
You will definitely hear them. More importantly, you'll hear the groomers at 5 - 7 AM. They are pretty loud when they back up with that safety beep.
I smile when I hear them. That means you are close to the slopes !!
So, are they less loud on the village side?
You can hear them, but it's more of a white noise and I actually like the sound of the fan guns. The kicker is the cats that sometimes have the backup alarms, I think they try to avoid grooming skidder overnight but sometimes weather or snowmaking means it needs an early morning grooming.
I think they have ear plugs available, but honestly it's going to be much quieter than any hotel near a road or airport and if you don't mind white noise you probably won't notice it. Village side you likely won't hear them at all, but on a busy weekend you would hear them at all, but you get the village noises.
SS flexing their "Guns"
Snowshoe started pushing out the whales today. Of course the weather looks shitty for opening day on Friday.
And, of course, it looks like an overnight freeze into Saturday GAH
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
Snowshoe started pushing out the whales today. Of course the weather looks shitty for opening day on Friday.
Anybody wants to take over my reserved two bedroom at Silver Creek Lodge, Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort, West Virgina. Silver Creek Lodge is where the night slopes are open
It is 1 standard bedroom with spacious loft at 2nd floor. Official description: "These units have a full kitchen, living area with a sleeper sofa, 1 enclosed bedroom, 1 bedroom in the loft area. Two bathrooms, electric fireplace, washer/dryer and a balcony."
Checkin 12/20
Checkout 12/26
I can add your name to the checkin names, then you pay snowshoe directly, $1325 tax included. (currently no more sales and no more room available, similar rooms will cost at least $2000
Snowshoe opens Friday! This is a great video showing the effort to bring the Cheat Mountain Snow WhLes to submission in time for opening day!! https://youtu.be/Uc64T54zVZE
Enjoy!!!
MorganB aka The Colonel
I see people SKIING/snowboardin on their webcams right now (Thursday)!!! Jealous moment
Timothy.grasso wrote:
I see people SKIING/snowboardin on their webcams right now (Thursday)!!! Jealous moment
SS opened the slopes to ski patrol, volunteers and staff from 12 - 2 today.
Opening day update. The morning was ugly with a capital U. Fog, rain, wind and 40*. The snow was in excellent shape.
By 2 PM the sun peeked out and by 4 PM the temps dropped to 32.
Limited pics:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5AyPuXgvR7/
Found this instagram post which has what appears to be an employee memo breaking down some of the new changes for Snowshoe in 2019-20. Hits on a couple of different things but for me the highlights were...
- Shifting of retail spaces in village. Starbucks moves over to the 4848 spot at the bottom of rimfire. Signatures&Sweets moves into the old starbucks spot. 4848 moves to expedition. FullTilt moves to shavers.
- Lodge at the base of the mountain is now all employee housing.
- cosmic tubing
- But IMO the biggest news is... improved verizon cellular and wifi service. The whole being cut off from everything was cute for a little while but we have reached the point where something had to be done.
-
4848' is next to the depot, in the old full tilt. Full tilt moved to the old signatures in expedition. As far as I can tell there were no changes at shavers. I believe this was mostly driven by a desire to increase the size of Starbucks
I don't know if I need a carrier update or not, but I'm still not seeing Verizon, WiFi does seem expanded though, but that happens before UCI in September.
One big thing missing on that list is the brewery that opened up near silver creek over the summer!
Verizon service has been delayed.
rbrtlav wrote:
4848' is next to the depot, in the old full tilt. Full tilt moved to the old signatures in expedition. As far as I can tell there were no changes at shavers. I believe this was mostly driven by a desire to increase the size of Starbucks
I don't know if I need a carrier update or not, but I'm still not seeing Verizon, WiFi does seem expanded though, but that happens before UCI in September.
One big thing missing on that list is the brewery that opened up near silver creek over the summer!
Yesterday when I was in the Parking lot accross from the bus stops I got a very string signal from AT&T.
I did not know SS sold a night only lift ticket. Anyone else? Scroll down just below the 3 day pass rates. 49 bucks.
https://www.snowshoemtn.com/plan-your-trip/tickets-and-passes/lift-tickets
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
I did not know SS sold a night only lift ticket. Anyone else? Scroll down just below the 3 day pass rates. 49 bucks.
https://www.snowshoemtn.com/plan-your-trip/tickets-and-passes/lift-tickets
Wow, that's new. Haven't seen any promotions or ads so thanks for heads up.
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
I did not know SS sold a night only lift ticket. Anyone else? Scroll down just below the 3 day pass rates. 49 bucks.
https://www.snowshoemtn.com/plan-your-trip/tickets-and-passes/lift-tickets
Any idea what time the night rate will start at Silver Creek? Massanutten starts at 4:00 but I know of ski areas where the night ticket starts at 3:00, 5:00, or 6:00pm.
3-for-all lift tickets went back on sale at 8am this morning!
Bonzski wrote:
3-for-all lift tickets went back on sale at 8am this morning!
Maybe too many people were paying attention for Cyber Monday. As of about 10am there is a notice that 3-for-All is having "technical difficulties" but it's being worked on.
padjaski68 wrote:
Just curious did something happen over at Silver Creek? Webcams is down and the still photo shows a backhoe in foreground. Snowmaking line blowout?
I was wondering the same but have heard nothing. That webcam is still off line. And I wish they'd adjust that one at Arbuckle's. It's been pointing at a door for about a week now.
Why doesn't Snowshoe have any cams on the Soaring Eagle area? Or do they and they just aren't up until the terrain is opened?
ultragib wrote:
Why doesn't Snowshoe have any cams on the Soaring Eagle area? Or do they and they just aren't up until the terrain is opened?
Hoot's would be a great place to mount one facing Widowmaker and the lift.
But the good news is that Snowshoe is under another winter weather advisory today / tomorrow so the webcams will be going nuts again.
My buddy on Safety Patrol captured this pic.
Blue Don, like the picture of the Dane!
Silver Creek cam is back live making snow! Wish I could go this weekend but next weekend is looking good, too
I witnessed snow making on all of Cupp Run and Upper Shays today.
Blue Don, What is your site with all the SS cams on it, including yours?
MorganB aka The Colonel
The Colonel wrote:
Blue Don, What is your site with all the SS cams on it, including yours?
MorganB aka The Colonel
It's now a redirect from our HOA website - www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
Correction: @Bonzski told me last night that they were making ski on LOWER Shays as well.
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
The Colonel wrote:
Blue Don, What is your site with all the SS cams on it, including yours?
MorganB aka The Colonel
It's now a redirect from our HOA website - www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
Correction: @Bonzski told me last night that they were making ski on LOWER Shays as well.
Yup. As I was leaving yesterday it looked like the whales on lower Shays had been pushed out making edge-to-edge coverage.
WV residents can ski free at Snowshoe on Sunday, December 15, 2019.
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/winter/snowshoe-wv-residents-ski-free-dec-15-2019/
The cam at the base of the Western Territory is operational!!!
https://evovision.citynet.net/snowshoe/cam2.cfm?feed=11&isMobile
The Colonel wrote:
The cam at the base of the Western Territory is operational!!!
https://evovision.citynet.net/snowshoe/cam2.cfm?feed=11&isMobile
Don't settle for just one when we have them all wrapped up in bow. It's a simple mobile site we built a few years ago and added a redirect from our HOA site this year.
Snowshoe anounced on their facebook page that cupp run and upper shay's will be open on Saturday. Can't wait to get out there.
Anyone there today? Was WT open? If so, how was it? Saw Silvercreek is open? Any reports?
Was there yesterday for a day trip. WT was open with edge to edge coverage on Upper Shay and Cupp. Spring lake condition after the rain in the morning and still pretty good coverage on sides 3pm-ish.
Yes, the snow held up nicely despite the morning drizzle. Turned to light snow early afternoon with heavy squals in the evening. The added 1" made Sunday's conditions even better, and the afternoon clearing with sun completed the weather turn-around. Cupp & Shays were indeal mix of firm and soft with light crowds, even in the afternoon. Lower Shays has wales again so look for that to open soon.
The tubing park at Silvercreek is now open. Went under the radar but they gave the park an update for this season, adding colored LED lighting, party deck, etc.
I found this on reddit. "Interactive" trail map that hi lights open trails and lifts. The developer is going to add some zoom features for PC and MAC. I'll be curious to see the updates. It's supposed to sync with the SS trail report each day.
https://skisnowshoe.neocities.org/map.html
It zooms pretty well on mobile if you access it via this mobile site
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
I found this on reddit. "Interactive" trail map that hi lights open trails and lifts. The developer is going to add some zoom features for PC and MAC. I'll be curious to see the updates. It's supposed to sync with the SS trail report each day.
https://skisnowshoe.neocities.org/map.html
It zooms pretty well on mobile if you access it via this mobile site
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
Hey guys, developer here. Glad you liked the site, Don. Happy to take any other suggestions here as well.
The site actually loads the lift/trail status each time it's refreshed (all within your browser), so there's no server/data for me to maintain and it should always be up to date.
Haven't been to Snowshoe in 10 years but excited to get back there early Jan!
got2surf wrote:
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
I found this on reddit. "Interactive" trail map that hi lights open trails and lifts. The developer is going to add some zoom features for PC and MAC. I'll be curious to see the updates. It's supposed to sync with the SS trail report each day.
https://skisnowshoe.neocities.org/map.html
It zooms pretty well on mobile if you access it via this mobile site
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
Hey guys, developer here. Glad you liked the site, Don. Happy to take any other suggestions here as well.
The site actually loads the lift/trail status each time it's refreshed (all within your browser), so there's no server/data for me to maintain and it should always be up to date.
Haven't been to Snowshoe in 10 years but excited to get back there early Jan!
That's pretty cool. Is there an API for the trail report or did you have to scrape the site?
Couldn't find a documented API but there's a nice JSON feed.
The mountain report page on Snowshoe's site is powered by https://www.mtnpowder.com/, which looks like Alterra's central weather/status system. https://mtnpowder.com/feed?resortId=2 shows all the status info I needed, but there are also some specific links like this one on lift status: https://mtnpowder.com/feed/2/lifts
11 AM on Monday, sitting at work I peeked at the Boathouse web cam and there are massive lines to Ballhooter.
Then I took a look at Silver Creeks web cam. I literally saw 4 people standing there and NO ONE in line.
I'm heading to the 'Shoe tomorrow for a few days. Any first hand reports?
Keith_Moon wrote:
I'm heading to the 'Shoe tomorrow for a few days. Any first hand reports?
My son's family was at SS from Dec 26-Dec 30. They were amazed with conditions given the weather. Gave great kudos to the Shoe snowmakers, groomers, and mgt. for a fantastic job.
since then I have noticed that Shays has closed and reopened, and a couple trails at Silver Creek have closed.
MorganB aka The Colonel
Hi All-
We are headed to Snowshoe this weekend with our kids and so bummed about the weather forecast. The two days we'll be skiing (Fri&Sat) are both in the 50s and 60%+ chance of rain! Has anyone skied in rain before? Is it dreadful or do-able? Just want to have any idea of what to expect - it's my 4 year old's first time and want to prepare for what to expect. At least the lines won't be as long....
CB
Personally, I find it deadful. Sitting on a ski lift soaking wet is NOT my idea of fun. I have SS plans this weekend as well. I'm going to watch the weather closely and make a game time decision Thu night.
I remember when my kids were young and came back to the condo cold and wet. It pretty much sucked. Maybe ski on the better weather day and do the Big Top / Pool on the rainiest day????
Perhaps we'll get lucky and the rain won't be too bad. C'mon Mother Nature, enough with this rain !!!!
I lke to wear latex gloves under my ski gloves when it's raining. That way my hands don't get cold & wet when my ski gloves soak through. Works like a charm.
CB,
skiing in the rain is fine, take duct tape to tape to cover the seam down the center of ski boots , have yellow lenses for goggles to improve visibility, do not wear anything cotton especially socks, extra light waterproof layers gloves etc that you can switch into during breaks assuming you're staying on the mountain. Get a can of some waterproof silicon/ water-guard and spray any gear you have ie jackets gloves ski pants, get rain suits Columbia makes good ones, Have your 4 year old stand on a piece of cardboard that you can drag across your carpet at home to improve his balance along with ice skating. the rain melts away the soft corn snow so it's not so heavy , makes it easier to turn, kind of like skiing on the moon sometimes, better to be out there then not skiing , as a kid I skied often in the rain in Vt, have fun!
We were at the 'Shoe from Wednesday evening until this (Sunday) morning.
Wed-Thu were fine, but Fri-Sat were pretty soggy until about 3:00 Saturday when it started snowing again.
I wish we could have stayed another day as it snowed all last night and was still dumping as we left today.
Looks like these next few days will be good with another wet weekend coming up - ugh.
My 10 year old daugher skied her first ever black diamond runs and was scoffing at their (lack of) difficulty by trip's end and my 11 year old son skied his first double black (Lower Shays). I'm really proud of both of them.
It's great to see your children gain confidence skiing on difficult terrain. Despite the wet conditions going skiing is better than not going and the more days with varying conditions allow us to get better. When it's icy or with hardpack conditions those black and double blacks don't seem so easy. Kind of a roller coaster season so far hopefully we can settle into some extended cold and get in some great skiing this year.
Skiing in the rain: ah yes, the surface can be very good. With good gore-Tex your core can stay completely dry. It has to be cleaned and treated approximately every 30-40 days of use. REI and others sell Nik Wax products, one called Tek Wash, and a second for renewing the water repellancy. The gore Tex membrane will pass water both ways. Ideally it passes vapor outwards driven by body heat. Water will pass inwards if the outer fabric loses its repellent treatment by picking up dirt which is inevitable through use. If water beads on the fabric, you should stay dry.
the biggest problem with skiing in the rain is glove gauntlets. They must be tucked inside your sleeves. If they are outside, the water will run down the sleeves directly into the gloves. Soon they'll be soaked and then the water will wick up the sleeves to your core - not fun. I buy gloves without gauntlets, just a small cuff. My storm jacket has wide sleeves with Velcro tabs that can be tightened down over the glove cuffs to seal out wind, snow and rain.
Growing up in the mid-atlantic, I am certainly not picky. Especially considering if I can find time to get on the slopes 6-8 times a year then it is a great year. That said, there is really nothing worse than sking in the rain. The only thing worse might be sking in the rain....at night.
Just returned from a 5 day family trip to Killington. First time on a big mountain. The weather did not cooperate with rain and freezing rain. Most lifsts were closed on 12/30. Got 8" of fresh snow on our last day so the trip was not a complete wash.
It has been a few years since I've been to SS but am planning a trip this month or next. Im not going to try and compare Killington with Snowshoe, but in some regards SS. SS is deffinatly the best bang for the buck in the mid-atlantic in my humble opinion.
Favorite conditions are first tracks on cordoroy with packed powder and off piste 1'-3' fresh powder skiing in the trees or in bowls. Second favorite is boiler plate or hardpack icy cold. I can deal with rain it slows everything down and like Denis mentioned Gore-Tex keeps you dry. The wet glove issue happens so it's handy to hold on to old gloves so you can swap out. All of my gloves are Gore-Tex but it's the one thing that gets wet regardless.
Things that make skiing less fun are when mashed potatoes appear. That makes everyone ski a little more squirrelly. The worse conditions by far are high gusty winds most times with very cold temps. I've skied when the wind chill is pushing -50. It's not that fun. Usually get in an hour or two go in get warm then decide that tomorrow is another day.
I have a dilemma. For various reasons, I haven't been able to get any mountain time so far this winter. I fly to Aspen on the 18th. I'd really like to get some turns in before I get there. Normally, I wouldn't mind spending my first few hours at a big mountain taking it easy and getting my legs back. But it's an active period out west, and there's a reasonable chance my first day of the season is a powder day in Aspen (I know, cry me a river). I'm concerned that if there's powder, my "eyes will be too big for my stomach" and I'll be unable to resist going big right away, which may not be the best idea. So for that reason, I'd like to get out at least once before I fly.
The dilemma is that this weekend is my best opportunity, and the weather report is ... not good. Without the trip looming, there's no way I'd even consider going to Snowshoe. What would you guys do? Any reason to prefer Saturday over Sunday or vice versa? A non-Snowshoe alternative would be to try to get up to Liberty/Whitetail for night skiing sometime next week, but a) the weather report for next week looks just as bad, and b) I worry very little will be open after several days of warm temps and rain.
Local conditions from this weekend to just before you leave will tease you and will be like an appitizer that just doesn't satisify. Sunday looks like the best day at Snowshoe with temps around 40 with little rain and decreasing clouds. Not sure about the resorts locally but the night option should be in play even if temps stay above freezing.
Have you been working out preping your legs for this season? If so, great. If not, then do some balance, thigh work, and stretch so your ready to go BIG! Being older I would keep in in the lower gears first day or so and stay as efficient as possible conserving your muscles and energy to make the most out of your time out west. Have a great time!
I'd take Sunday anytime because the crowds taper starting late morning and especially this weekend given the forecast for Saturday.
dwm8a wrote:
I have a dilemma. For various reasons, I haven't been able to get any mountain time so far this winter. I fly to Aspen on the 18th. I'd really like to get some turns in before I get there. Normally, I wouldn't mind spending my first few hours at a big mountain taking it easy and getting my legs back. But it's an active period out west, and there's a reasonable chance my first day of the season is a powder day in Aspen (I know, cry me a river). I'm concerned that if there's powder, my "eyes will be too big for my stomach" and I'll be unable to resist going big right away, which may not be the best idea. So for that reason, I'd like to get out at least once before I fly.
The dilemma is that this weekend is my best opportunity, and the weather report is ... not good. Without the trip looming, there's no way I'd even consider going to Snowshoe. What would you guys do? Any reason to prefer Saturday over Sunday or vice versa? A non-Snowshoe alternative would be to try to get up to Liberty/Whitetail for night skiing sometime next week, but a) the weather report for next week looks just as bad, and b) I worry very little will be open after several days of warm temps and rain.
Obviously I'm totally biased, but if you were willing to drive to Massanutten, lapping Diamond Jim all day on Sat would probably give you more turns than going to Liberty or Whitetail at night. Lift 6 never has line more than a few minutes. The vertical off Lift 6 is just over 800 ft. Total vert at Mnut is 1100 ft. On weekends, the Mid-Mountain Grill is open by the parents of race teams so can get a hot lunch without going to the base. If you stayed in Harrisonburg overnight, DJ is lit and open until 10pm.
Mnut has built a pretty deep base on DJ. That's why it's been open ever since Opening Day. It was still full side-to-side coverage a few days ago after the hot week around New Year's.
Sunday is always less busy. But given the forecast, snow conditions might be better Sat. I'll be finishing off a week at Mnut. We had a very good time in the fresh snow today. :-)
dwm8a wrote:
I have a dilemma. For various reasons, I haven't been able to get any mountain time so far this winter. I fly to Aspen on the 18th. I'd really like to get some turns in before I get there. Normally, I wouldn't mind spending my first few hours at a big mountain taking it easy and getting my legs back. But it's an active period out west, and there's a reasonable chance my first day of the season is a powder day in Aspen (I know, cry me a river). I'm concerned that if there's powder, my "eyes will be too big for my stomach" and I'll be unable to resist going big right away, which may not be the best idea. So for that reason, I'd like to get out at least once before I fly.
The dilemma is that this weekend is my best opportunity, and the weather report is ... not good. Without the trip looming, there's no way I'd even consider going to Snowshoe. What would you guys do? Any reason to prefer Saturday over Sunday or vice versa? A non-Snowshoe alternative would be to try to get up to Liberty/Whitetail for night skiing sometime next week, but a) the weather report for next week looks just as bad, and b) I worry very little will be open after several days of warm temps and rain.
Just suck it up and go skiing for 4 hours sometime this weekend. Do the shortest drive since it will be wet and lousy everywhere. Do more than one day if possible. Don't worry about where, just go out.
If you don't, you won't get as much out of your Aspen trip. No matter what shape you are in, you want to be on the slopes at least once to get all the micro balance muscles exercised. You'll be stiffish after the first day no matter where you go - get it out off the way so you'll enjoy your vacation more.
Ive got a Taos Ski Week trip planned for the 25th, and I'm already a bit worried that I haven't got as many days as I need. And I've got 9 days on you already (in CO, VT, NH, NY and CT.) I'll be out there the next two weekends regardless, cuz I need the ski miles.
DWM
head to Killington, get there for a couple free runs at the end of the day Saturday, then ski Sunday, with 3 covered lifts it's better in wet conditions, all that vertical will help prep you for your trip and it's only a a few more hours then driving to SS
Thanks for all the thoughts - very helpful.
Bonzski, you make a strong case for Sunday instead of Saturday - better weather, fewer people. My concern is that the weather on Saturday will be so bad that trails that are important to me (e.g., Lower Shay's) might be open on Saturday but not Sunday. The current weather - recent snow plus good snowmaking temps - mitigates that concern somewhat. But that may not be enough to overcome 60 degree temps and hours upon hours of rain on Saturday. Curious whether you think they'll be able to keep Lower Shay's open (I'm assuming they'll be able to keep Cupp open, which may be enough for me to pull the trigger and just go).
Western Lift is down today due to high winds. No one on those slopes right now.
My 2 cents - I would assume they are blowing snow like crazy (you can see a hint on th ewebcam) in prep for the MLK holiday weekend
I'm heading down tomorrow night and plan to ski SS on Friday, take a "rain check" on Sat and see what things look like Sunday AM.
Note that Massanutten ski slopes are not open on Tuesday evenings. Snow tubing is open on Tues evenings.
dwm8a wrote:
Thanks for all the thoughts - very helpful.
Bonzski, you make a strong case for Sunday instead of Saturday - better weather, fewer people. My concern is that the weather on Saturday will be so bad that trails that are important to me (e.g., Lower Shay's) might be open on Saturday but not Sunday. The current weather - recent snow plus good snowmaking temps - mitigates that concern somewhat. But that may not be enough to overcome 60 degree temps and hours upon hours of rain on Saturday. Curious whether you think they'll be able to keep Lower Shay's open (I'm assuming they'll be able to keep Cupp open, which may be enough for me to pull the trigger and just go).
I skied Cupp & Shays most every afternoon between Christmas & NYD, then again last weekend. Even to my surprise it survived several cycles of rain, fog & sun while rarely having low temps below freezing. They've been blowing every gun on all mountains since Sunday morning. Add the 9+ inches the past 3 days. It will be fine Sunday.
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.4016&lon=-79.9942#.XhZF-iROmaO
This is the official NOAA Charleston WV Office forecast for Snowshoe.
MorganB aka The Colonel
The Colonel wrote:
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.4016&lon=-79.9942#.XhZF-iROmaO
This is the official NOAA Charleston WV Office forecast for Snowshoe.
MorganB aka The Colonel
That NOAA station is at about 3800 ft. I believe the one below is one of Snowshoe's stations at 4800 ft. Not sure about forecast reliability but I have compared it to my weather station on my deck and they are within one degree.
https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/KWVSNOWS15?cm_ven=localwx_pwsdash
Opened several more trails, count increased to 40.
The Colonel wrote:
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.4016&lon=-79.9942#.XhZF-iROmaO
This is the official NOAA Charleston WV Office forecast for Snowshoe.
MorganB aka The Colonel
The NOAA link and daily forecast was extremely accurate for the end of February & beginning of March snows we received a couple years ago. It seemed the daily 18-24" snow forecast totals came true! This link and the Wunderground (Bear Cub's Den In Station-elevation 4820') are the 2 most useful links. I like the 10 day forecast WU provides. They update the forecast a few times a day so sometimes it's a teaser based on the current models that show big snows only to dissapoint later on. Of course the reverse is also true.
Shotmaker wrote:
The Colonel wrote:
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.4016&lon=-79.9942#.XhZF-iROmaO
This is the official NOAA Charleston WV Office forecast for Snowshoe.
MorganB aka The ColonelThe NOAA link and daily forecast was extremely accurate for the end of February & beginning of March snows we received a couple years ago. It seemed the daily 18-24" snow forecast totals came true! This link and the Wunderground (Bear Cub's Den In Station-elevation 4820') are the 2 most useful links. I like the 10 day forecast WU provides. They update the forecast a few times a day so sometimes it's a teaser based on the current models that show big snows only to dissapoint later on. Of course the reverse is also true.
The NOAA forecast is for Snowshoe area, however the current conditions, etc are for Hot Springs, VA. I find WU forecast to be the least accurate but like the real-time & historical data you can view.
Bonzski wrote:
Shotmaker wrote:
The Colonel wrote:
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.4016&lon=-79.9942#.XhZF-iROmaO
This is the official NOAA Charleston WV Office forecast for Snowshoe.
MorganB aka The ColonelThe NOAA link and daily forecast was extremely accurate for the end of February & beginning of March snows we received a couple years ago. It seemed the daily 18-24" snow forecast totals came true! This link and the Wunderground (Bear Cub's Den In Station-elevation 4820') are the 2 most useful links. I like the 10 day forecast WU provides. They update the forecast a few times a day so sometimes it's a teaser based on the current models that show big snows only to dissapoint later on. Of course the reverse is also true.
The NOAA forecast is for Snowshoe area, however the current conditions, etc are for Hot Springs, VA. I find WU forecast to be the least accurate but like the real-time & historical data you can view.
Also like the NOAA (winter weather) probablistic snow/ice information>
I live south of Chapel Hill, and have tried several different ways to get to and from Snowshoe.
They're all about 5.5-6 hours/300 miles more or less.
This past trip I discovered I like going through Marlinton better than through Cass.
Next time I'm considering trying Route 311 from Roanoke to White Sulfer Springs, and then up 92, which I remember being a more or less flat road.
Has anyone used Route 311? I'm wondering how that is.
TIA
Keith_Moon wrote:
I live south of Chapel Hill, and have tried several different ways to get to and from Snowshoe.
They're all about 5.5-6 hours/300 miles more or less.
This past trip I discovered I like going through Marlinton better than through Cass.
Next time I'm considering trying Route 311 from Roanoke to White Sulfer Springs, and then up 92, which I remember being a more or less flat road.
Has anyone used Route 311? I'm wondering how that is.
TIA
Going thru White Sulfer Springs after Martinsville and Roanoke is how I went to SS. It's been about 10 years but I doubt much has changed. Learned the route from SkiSE folks who live in the Triangle. I took my daughter to the SkiSE SS Summit a couple times. I stuck with I-64 and US220 instead of RT311, especially for the return trip driving in the dark.
Keith_Moon wrote:
I live south of Chapel Hill, and have tried several different ways to get to and from Snowshoe.
They're all about 5.5-6 hours/300 miles more or less.
This past trip I discovered I like going through Marlinton better than through Cass.
Next time I'm considering trying Route 311 from Roanoke to White Sulfer Springs, and then up 92, which I remember being a more or less flat road.
Has anyone used Route 311? I'm wondering how that is.
TIA
I live in Roanoke and we never take 311 as a shortcut. It's 2 lane, twisty and goes over several mountains.
The common way to Snowshoe from Roanoke is US-220 to I-64 to 92 at White Sulphur Springs. There's a couple of variations possible on that route, but that is the easiest.
marzNC wrote:
Keith_Moon wrote:
I live south of Chapel Hill, and have tried several different ways to get to and from Snowshoe.
They're all about 5.5-6 hours/300 miles more or less.
This past trip I discovered I like going through Marlinton better than through Cass.
Next time I'm considering trying Route 311 from Roanoke to White Sulfer Springs, and then up 92, which I remember being a more or less flat road.
Has anyone used Route 311? I'm wondering how that is.
TIA
Going thru White Sulfer Springs after Martinsville and Roanoke is how I went to SS. It's been about 10 years but I doubt much has changed. Learned the route from SkiSE folks who live in the Triangle. I took my daughter to the SkiSE SS Summit a couple times. I stuck with I-64 and US220 instead of RT311, especially for the return trip driving in the dark.
Keith don't fool yourself, US 220 north of Roanoke is smooth and beautiful, there is a nice family Italian restaurant in Iron Gate, and 92 is so much better than 219 - just try them both in a blizzard. truuuuuuust me.
I was not suggesting 219 over 92. My route would take 39 to 92 to White Sulfer Springs. From there last time I took 64 to Clifton Forge to get to 220, but it's not very direct. If there were a way to go directly southeast from White Sulfer Springs and not have to take 64 east to Clifton Forge, I'd like to do that, but from the comments here it sounds like 311 isn't really any better.
I'm tempted to just go up 77 past Winterplace and Beckley even though it's about 40 more miles, since it's mostly highway driving and I can just bomb it.
I do this drive locally on a regular basis. From Roanoke, 220N to 64W to 92N, then through Cass, is the way to go. It's the fastest, has the most flat roads & passing lanes, and keeps you out of the upslope until the bitter end of the drive. In a performance vehicle, I can maintain a 60-70 mph average. Only the last little bit after Cass is seriously twisty, and that's also when you typically encounter snow-covered roads when the upslope snow machine is running.
Going farther west, say up 77 past Winterplace, will eventually put you on slower roads and in the upslope.
Keith_Moon wrote:
I was not suggesting 219 over 92. My route would take 39 to 92 to White Sulfer Springs. From there last time I took 64 to Clifton Forge to get to 220, but it's not very direct. If there were a way to go directly southeast from White Sulfer Springs and not have to take 64 east to Clifton Forge, I'd like to do that, but from the comments here it sounds like 311 isn't really any better.
I'm tempted to just go up 77 past Winterplace and Beckley even though it's about 40 more miles, since it's mostly highway driving and I can just bomb it.
No reason to go up I-77 when headed to SS from the Triangle. Certainly won't take less time overall.
My first trip to SS we started by staying in Princeton and skiing Winterplace on Friday first. Then ended up driving during snow flurries in the dark to the Snowshoe Inn. That took a loooong time. Was very glad that we were not staying up on the ridge.
The19thHole wrote:
I do this drive locally on a regular basis. From Roanoke, 220N to 64W to 92N, then through Cass, is the way to go. It's the fastest, has the most flat roads & passing lanes, and keeps you out of the upslope until the bitter end of the drive. In a performance vehicle, I can maintain a 60-70 mph average. Only the last little bit after Cass is seriously twisty, and that's also when you typically encounter snow-covered roads when the upslope snow machine is running.
So you take 92 to 66? And you feel that way is better than going through Marlinton and Slaty Fork?
The mileage/time is reported to be a wash on Google.
I will say I was struck how many more actual grocery stores and gas stations there were on the Marlinton/Slaty Fork route as opposed to Cass, so if we forgot some food staple we could buy it on the way.
I didn't take 92 this past trip but I do remember it as being pretty flat.
The last twisty bit after Cass doesn't bother me - I reckon it's the price of going up a mountain. But if I could avoid other twisty parts I'd like to do that.
marzNC wrote:
Keith_Moon wrote:
I was not suggesting 219 over 92. My route would take 39 to 92 to White Sulfer Springs. From there last time I took 64 to Clifton Forge to get to 220, but it's not very direct. If there were a way to go directly southeast from White Sulfer Springs and not have to take 64 east to Clifton Forge, I'd like to do that, but from the comments here it sounds like 311 isn't really any better.
I'm tempted to just go up 77 past Winterplace and Beckley even though it's about 40 more miles, since it's mostly highway driving and I can just bomb it.
No reason to go up I-77 when headed to SS from the Triangle. Certainly won't take less time overall.
Yeah, I know the time is about the same per Google. But I can drive 80mph on I-77 and my wife gets somewhat car sick on windy roads, so I-77 is appealing on that basis. Winterplace is actually the closest ski area to us time-wise - being right off the highway it's so easy to get to.
I take 92 up to 66, through Cass. It's a much straighter and faster road with some passing lanes and no towns other than Cass itself...assuming you don't need to stock up on anything in Marlinton. You also stay out of the upslope.
Cass has one small general store, but going this way your last opportunity food & fuel is in White Sulphur Springs. It's probably the best way to go if you have passengers that might suffer from car sickness as well.
More than once I've gone this way at 6am on a cold Sunday morning, from White Sulphur Springs to the parking lot at Snowshoe, without seeing a single car in either direction.
Buy the wrist bands for your wife they really do help>
https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Band-Wristband-Anti-Nausea-Acupressure-Sickness/dp/B001F731N0
Good call. My folks have some of those because they go on ocean cruises a lot. My wife used one last month and it seemed to work.
Not sure what will happen with this rain but SS was an absolute delight today. Sparse crowds and spring like conditions with soft snow.
Upper and Lower Shays
Keith_Moon wrote:
The19thHole wrote:
I do this drive locally on a regular basis. From Roanoke, 220N to 64W to 92N, then through Cass, is the way to go. It's the fastest, has the most flat roads & passing lanes, and keeps you out of the upslope until the bitter end of the drive. In a performance vehicle, I can maintain a 60-70 mph average. Only the last little bit after Cass is seriously twisty, and that's also when you typically encounter snow-covered roads when the upslope snow machine is running.
So you take 92 to 66? And you feel that way is better than going through Marlinton and Slaty Fork?
The mileage/time is reported to be a wash on Google.
Way, way better. Load up on gas and grocery in WSS if you must, Apple Market on the corner where you turn onto 92. You can get Alleghany radio network on AM on the way up. That last twisty bit after Cass is actually driving up the mountain, turn right at the top into the resort.
Good pic of lower shays up there.
Good to see so much snow cover there, anyone remember the Psychocross mountain championship races they held there years ago? Skiers and snowboarders together in same race at snowshoe
Great snow coverage - thanks for sharing those photos, Blue Don. It looks like there’s enough snow to withstand quite a bit of rain. I’ll be down there tomorrow (Sunday) to see in person.
SS First Hand Sat 1/11/20
January is the new March for Spring Skiing.
As of 4:30 PM NO RAIN. Very warm 52*. The 9" of snow is all melted. Only snow around is on the trails.
Basin was very foggy but good this AM. Spruce is showing some wear. Gandy, Skip Jack and Grabhanner have plenty of snow. Some of the connector trails are rough. We did not do Soaring Eagle area today. Can't speak to the greens / park over by powder monkey.
Cupp is in GREAT shape. Upper Shays is in GREAT shape. Lower Shays is showing some wear. The Upper Shays cut over to Lower Cupp is really thin. Once you got below the fog line, visoin was just fine. Sun even peaked out a couple times after lunch but the clouds rolled in quickly.
Cupp and Skip Jack were the best runs today.
Upper Cupp
Upper Shays
Lower Shays
Skip Jack
Thanks for the first hand report Blue Don. Hope to get there next weekend. Typically i avoid holiday weekends but with the weather being what it is, i can't be picky.
Sunday was actually a great day to be at SS. No rain at all (though there was some slight mist between 9-10am) and the weather must have scared the crowds away because very few people were there. I rode the Ballhooter lift *by myself* at around 1pm. On a weekend. In January.
It was cool (high 30s) and cloudy in the early morning, and very sunny and warmer (high 40s/low 50s) when I left at 2:30. I did laps on the Western Territory from 9am until about Noon, when my legs started to transition from "ordinary tired" to "too tired to do what needs to be done." Both Cupp and Shay's started out a bit crispy in spots and then softened up over the course of the morning. Cupp was solid top to bottom. Upper Shay's is in trouble unless they make more snow soon; all the traffic is funneled to skiier's left on the descent either to Lower Shay's or the cutoff to Cupp, and the skiiable lines got fewer and fewer as the morning went on. Lower Shay's was great - nice soft bumps had developed by mid-morning, and very few people were skiing it. By the time I moved over to the Basin side around noon, it was getting a bit too soft for my taste. The Basin was what you'd expect given the weather - soft choppy conditions - though the absence of traffic made it really fun.
All in all, a good day. I'm very glad I went. I'm sure the sore legs I have right now will pay off next week in Aspen.
dwm8a wrote:
Sunday was actually a great day to be at SS.
You're welcome!
I just missed you leaving WT as I went in just after noon. Overall, Cupp was better but the soft bumps on Lower Shays were worth dealing with the short narrow section on upper.
Lower Shay's was great on Monday. Bumps were very soft and easy to ski. A few areas the snow was thin but overall it was the slope to be on!
I find it pretty incredible that Snowshoe opened Western Territory as early as they did and have kept it open through this warm and rainy weather. Big contrast to some of the other resorts which are currently shuttered for the week.
Kudos to them.
That $4MM they spent a couple years ago on snowmaking has really paid off. We were talking this weekend about how they were able to actually expand trail count with a rather small window of snowmaking temps after the first of the year.
Here we are in mid Jan and there is not an inch of natural snow on the ground from the Carolinas all the way to Western NY. It just sucks.
dinozaur wrote:
I find it pretty incredible that Snowshoe opened Western Territory as early as they did and have kept it open through this warm and rainy weather. Big contrast to some of the other resorts which are currently shuttered for the week.
Kudos to them.
Indeed. When we were there after New Years Day off the top of my head I'd say the Western Territory runs were overall the best at the whole resort.
Lower Shay's is a fairly wide run. It's impressive to see how many new tower fan guns are located there and how closely they are placed from each other. This was a very smart decision!
does anyone know the details of this reported skier death?
https://unofficialnetworks.com/2020/01/13/skier-dies-at-wv-resort/
kemperski wrote:
does anyone know the details of this reported skier death?
https://unofficialnetworks.com/2020/01/13/skier-dies-at-wv-resort/
Our GM shared a similar article with me on Friday. It happened on Sunday, Jan 5 at Silver Creek. She heard it may have been cardiac related. Very sad.
It better news, winter appears to return on Thursday. Incredible that they still have 41 trails open. They must hide snow in a warehouse and truck it in
Here's a WV news resport about the 70yo.
https://www.wvnstv.com/top-news/70-year-old-man-dies-at-snowshoe/
" . . .
On Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020 a 70-year-old skier was found unconscious on an intermediate ski slope in the Silver Creek area. Members of the Snowshoe Ski Patrol responded to the scene. They provided initial care, including CPR and other emergency medical interventions. He was then transported to an ambulance from Shaver’s Fork Fire & Rescue.
The man was transported to a local hospital where he later died. A Snowshoe representative told 59News they are not releasing the man’s name because of guest privacy. They also said there are no known witnesses to the actual incident.
. . ."
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
It better news, winter appears to return on Thursday. Incredible that they still have 41 trails open. They must hide snow in a warehouse and truck it in
Do you think Snowshoe would ever consider a Snow Factory? Could be leased to start with. That's what Mt. Van H did for the cross-country trails up in Lake Placid to make sure that early season clinics could happen. Also a ski resort in Australia has one to get a headstart on snowmaking before it cools off enough for standard snowmaking.
It appears the anticipated cold weather has gotten to Snowshoe!! Great time to be there, firm snow and sparse crowd!
Snow making should resume soon making for a grand weekend!!!
Get there!!
MorganB aka The Colonel
What's up there today? Ballhooter isn't moving but the lift at Silvercreek is.
Keith_Moon wrote:
What's up there today? Ballhooter isn't moving but the lift at Silvercreek is.
The shaver center cam shows the fixed grip running -- maybe ballhooter being detachable is on wind hold -- looks like strong gusts judging from the banners
kemperski wrote:
The shaver center cam shows the fixed grip running -- maybe ballhooter being detachable is on wind hold -- looks like strong gusts judging from the banners
^^ BINGO ^^
This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of northeast West Virginia. Windy conditions with gusts up to 45mph can be expected starting this late morning lasting into the evening. Flying debris and downed trees/power lines are possible.
How many trails open today at Snowsoe? Whitetail has only 1 trail open from the top
we are heading back to Killington soon, perhaps the week after MLK week
What's going on there now? On the Ballhooter webcam I see lifties bashing each chair as it goes by (to try to knock ice off?) but there are no other people there - ie nobody in line or on the slope. There ARE a ton of people up top on Skidder Slope. What's up?
Edit: And now 15 minutes later it's super crowded, like you'd expect.
Bad day at the 'Shoe...all detachable quads were closed, I heard due to ice. Checking the cams, Western is still closed but I think Ballhoooter is running. The winds were non-existant until right now, when we are seeing some strong gusts. This morning we went out and did a few laps on Grabhammer lift, the temp was 20 degrees, but it was raining lightly, and freezing on the pavement - and the seats of the lift. It was a very light rain, and didn't really get us wet, except for my butt as I thawed out the ice on the seat on each trip up. The lift line at Grabhammer finally got to be unbearable so we came in for an early lunch at 10:45. the rain stopped around 10, and we were planning to head over to Cilver Creek after lunch, but just took the dogs out and it is very windy and raining again - still 20 degrees, too. My son and I decided to wait it out a little bit; not really worth it at this point. IHopefully it turns into snow, we have seen no accumulation so far today.
Holy crap - it's 20 degrees but it's raining?
Keith_Moon wrote:
Holy crap - it's 20 degrees but it's raining?
I mean, how does that happen? The parking lots are a sheet of ice. We left our skis up in the village, so we just decided we're going out at 3:30 to finish the day; hopefully the crowds should be down by then.
eggraid wrote:
Keith_Moon wrote:
Holy crap - it's 20 degrees but it's raining?
I mean, how does that happen? The parking lots are a sheet of ice. We left our skis up in the village, so we just decided we're going out at 3:30 to finish the day; hopefully the crowds should be down by then.
Warm air above you but cold surfaces and surface air. It does suck. Actually got 1-2 in in DC before it turned to sleet/rain. Not too much icing, knock, knock.
Looks like today is much better.
Bonzski wrote:
Wow talk about turnarounds, yesterday afternoon was about as bad as it gets with rain & sleet freezing on contact. I looked like a fresh crispy creme @ 230. Then temps rose to high 30s until midnight when the bottom fell out. Today it's windy and cold with steady snow.
Huddle up and keep warm.
YES - 6" of real snow falling from the heavens when only about an inch was predicted yesterday coupled with great snowmaking laying it down makes for a great day of skiing. Was on the snow from 9:00-4:45 yesterday! Cheat Mountain Magic it is indeed. I am now weighing my options as the extended forecast yesterday was calling for a wet weekend on the 25th & 26th. It now appears that next weekend could bring another 6"+. The big movable guns were laying out some whales to expand the trail count. Here to a solid end of January and better things to come in February for all!
Based on the webcams and the weather forecast it is definitely looking positive for the next week or so.
If you need to waste 64 seconds of your life, here's a timelapse of the top of Ballhooter on MLK from 9A to 5P.
Yes, it is extremely slow at work today .....
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/winter/mlk-timelapse-january-20-2020/
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
If you need to waste 64 seconds of your life, here's a timelapse of the top of Ballhooter on MLK from 9A to 5P.
Yes, it is extremely slow at work today .....
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/winter/mlk-timelapse-january-20-2020/
This was great. Where is that webcam available?
CryptKeeper wrote:
This was great. Where is that webcam available?
Here's the redirect link to the site. Select webcams on the top left, then select Ballhooter Cam.
http://www.snowshoemtnlodge.com/mobile
I'm going to start collecting a timelapse at least a few times a week and then compare conditions over the season. I have a few clips dating back to 2017. I wish I had archived more.
that really is great, made me a little cold just watching it
Also was unaware of the Western territory lift cam, good resource
On Monday, the stick guns were blowing snow like crazy on Camp 99, there were HUGE 15 ft tall whales whales every 20-30 feet, and the trail was open. My son and I didn't find it until about 3:30, but we did run after run there; it was so fun making huge turns up the side of a mound of snow or skiing up and dropping down the backside. They weren't the usual low, long, whales that I usually see, they were more pyramid-like than I've seen from snowmakers, but that made them waaaaayyyy more fun to shred. The only downside was that the snow blowers were still on when we were there. Also, it really made things difficult for many skiers. There was only about 10 feet of 'flat' snow on the left side of the mounds, and a lot of skiers ended up eating it right there, making it tough for others to get around them. Luckily there weren't too many people over there, the traffic tends to be kind of light on camp 99.
I've never skied anything like that before.
Was there earlier in the day on Monday. First run down was a combo of left side skiing and angling up and over the "pyramids". It was a very different experience one that I have never had before. The second and last run (although I wish I could have stayed longer) was started at an angle then straight and over the top. About mid way down the whale which appeared to be the largest but not by much I managed to get some good air. My approach was conservative as I didn't want to get too much air as the next whale wasn't that far away and the rest of the slope off to the side was too variable to trust for controlling my speed. It was a blast not sure if any slope at SS will set up quite like Camp 99 did that day.
Shotmaker wrote:
Was there earlier in the day on Monday. First run down was a combo of left side skiing and angling up and over the "pyramids". It was a very different experience one that I have never had before. The second and last run (although I wish I could have stayed longer) was started at an angle then straight and over the top. About mid way down the whale which appeared to be the largest but not by much I managed to get some good air. My approach was conservative as I didn't want to get too much air as the next whale wasn't that far away and the rest of the slope off to the side was too variable to trust for controlling my speed. It was a blast not sure if any slope at SS will set up quite like Camp 99 did that day.
I wasn't comfortable flying over the whales, not knowing if there was a 'yard sale' on the other side, but they sure were fun!
Am I dreaming or is their actually snow in the forecast this weekend at the Shoe? I'm so used to rain and fog that I had to pinch myself.
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
Am I dreaming or is their actually snow in the forecast this weekend at the Shoe? I'm so used to rain and fog that I had to pinch myself.
From the webcams it looks great right now.
Keith_Moon wrote:
From the webcams it looks great right now.
...... Until the power went out on the Mountain around 2 PM ..... still out as of 5 PM
I just heard the power was out on the mountain. The power was out on Wednesday aftenoon also. Does anyone know what's going on?
I see that it is raining/snowing on the radar.
It came back in around 3:30. They gave 1 day vouchers good any day of the rest of the season. Hopefully mon power fixed the real issue this time, but customer service seemed to handle it well.
Feb 1-2 was probably the best weekend so far this season. Several inches of snow caked on everthing gave a nice winter vibe (finally) and the trail surfaces were excellent. Mini pow stashes were found Sun morning on JHook & Camp99, add the sunny skies it felt a bit like being out west. Now, back to the weekly rinse and repeat.
Do any of the shops (ski shop in main village or ski shop @ Top of the World) have Demo Skis to rent?
ultragib wrote:
Do any of the shops (ski shop in main village or ski shop @ Top of the World) have Demo Skis to rent?
Check with the MAC (in the village, close to Ballhooter lift) and Snowcreek Sports (intersection of Snowshoe Dr. & Silvercreek parkway, and next to brewery)
If you start right when they open you should be able to get in some runs on the basin side before Ballhooter gets too crowded.
Based on my experience you should be able to lap any run you want to at Silver Creek all day, even on the busiest Saturday.
Thanks to both of you who responded about the MAC. I didn't know the name of it. But there it is on their site, that they demo skis. Good to know! https://www.snowshoemtn.com/things-to-do/shopping/the-mac
Today's trail report has upper and lower shay's closed. Any intel as to why? Any reason to think they won't open over the weekend after temps drop and some natural snow falls?
Also, what's the latest/best intel on snow for this upcoming weekend? Weather underground shows snow overnight on both Friday and Saturday nights. I'm trying to decide between Saturday or Sunday on the hill and the forecast I have doesn't seem to declare either a clear winner.
A buddy of mine was there this week and said he saw a lot of thin spots yesterday. I saw it was open this AM but they must have decided later to close it. I'm curious if the date and time stamp on the bottom left is valid / accurate.
https://report.mtnfeed.com/snowshoe.html
Snow is falling right now at the Shoe. This weekend looks to be good - wish I was going!
dwm8a wrote:
Today's trail report has upper and lower shay's closed. Any intel as to why? Any reason to think they won't open over the weekend after temps drop and some natural snow falls?
Also, what's the latest/best intel on snow for this upcoming weekend? Weather underground shows snow overnight on both Friday and Saturday nights. I'm trying to decide between Saturday or Sunday on the hill and the forecast I have doesn't seem to declare either a clear winner.
What did you decide?
We picked Sunday. Trail report says
they got 6" last night. Hopefully we get a few inches tonight
Looks wonderful on the cams right now!
https://mountaintopcondos.com/snowshoe-webcams
From the extended forecast it looks like the next three weekends will all be pretty good.
SS Ridiculous Pass goes on sale 3/5 for 279 good from 3/5/20 til end of 21 season
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
SS Ridiculous Pass goes on sale 3/5 for 279 good from 3/5/20 til end of 21 season
Any word on the Ikon Pass? We're gonna try to upgrade to that for next season.
Keith_Moon wrote:
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
SS Ridiculous Pass goes on sale 3/5 for 279 good from 3/5/20 til end of 21 season
Any word on the Ikon Pass? We're gonna try to upgrade to that for next season.
Look for info for Ikon in March. Last year there was a $30 discount for returning Ikon holders.
marzNC wrote:
Keith_Moon wrote:
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
SS Ridiculous Pass goes on sale 3/5 for 279 good from 3/5/20 til end of 21 season
Any word on the Ikon Pass? We're gonna try to upgrade to that for next season.
Look for info for Ikon in March. Last year there was a $30 discount for returning Ikon holders.
I wonder if they will give me a discount as a current Snowshoe Ridiculous Pass holder?
Anyone know why Sawmill and Flying Eagle have not been open this year?
I think I read that there was a pipe problem at Soaring Eagle, but what about Sawmill?
The Colonel
The Colonel wrote:
Anyone know why Sawmill and Flying Eagle have not been open this year?
I think I read that there was a pipe problem at Soaring Eagle, but what about Sawmill?
The Colonel
I think remember seeing that Sawmill was open at least for a short period.
The Colonel wrote:
Anyone know why Sawmill and Flying Eagle have not been open this year?
I think I read that there was a pipe problem at Soaring Eagle, but what about Sawmill?
The Colonel
IMHO, it appears SS is focusing on maintaning what they have. They were blowing snow on Shays top to bottom ALL day today (Saturday). There were guns running all day in certain spots all over the mountain today. The weather is killing these resorts and they are doing everything they can to survive.
Keith_Moon wrote:
I think remember seeing that Sawmill was open at least for a short period.
Not sure about that as I usually hear about it being open through the grapevine or when checking the trail report. I haven't seen that it opened this year. Looked over that way when going to Camp 99 but only grass and no snow. Usually try to get over there if some fresh powder has fallen or when things soften to get in the bumps for a few runs.
We "tried" SC on Saturday. IMO, it was a total waste of time. Great for beginners but for int - adv skiers, there are really only 3 trails open there - Bear Claw, Fox Chase and Spur. The Cascade lift was running slower than Powder Monkey and stops at least twice on each ride up. Flying Eagle lift was pretty slow as well.
Our group has the Primo addon so Ballhooter lift line is not an issue for us. The slopes were crowded so we thought SC would be a better option. All 4 in our group agreed that we would rather mamage the crowds than ride those 2 lifts so after 4 runs, we returned to the basin.
It seemed the mountain was at full capacity this weekend with main & TOW parking lots filled up. But basin liftlines Saturday afternoon were more average than expected, especially after hearing the morning reports. Maybe the Berming Man competition on Spruce had something to do with it. Sunday was awesome, lapped up Cupp & Shays. Lwr Shays had a large soft bump line on skiers right (groomed left). Definitely a goggle-tan weekend.
Which is better over the mountains in wet weather: from Harrisonburg to Snowshoe, or from Staunton to Snowshoe??
Thanks, MorganB
I am at Snowshoe, the rain held off making for a great ski day, albeit a bit slushy and variable surface! The big news is the snow forecast for SS by the Charleston Weather bureau for tonight, tomorrow Thursday evening and Friday has changed to HEAVY SNOW warning with 4-8 inches tonight and 1-3 on Thursday. Temperatures are going to drop like a rock tonight, and forecast very cold for the future. Flatlanders, get up here and enjoy!
MorganB aka The Colonel
The Colonel wrote:
Which is better over the mountains in wet weather: from Harrisonburg to Snowshoe, or from Staunton to Snowshoe??
Thanks, MorganB
Curious to know, which route did you take? I took Staunton to the Shoe last time in wet weather and personally, I would not recommend it.
Well, dang! It's snowing now. Check out the webcams. Everything is white. Haven't seen that much this "winter".
ksampson3 wrote:
Well, dang! It's snowing now. Check out the webcams. Everything is white. Haven't seen that much this "winter".
....... and a quick peek of the webcams shows the ice has closed the HSQ Lifts this AM
Ballhooter is open and getting crowded for a Thursday. Snow is steadly developing and streaming from Cincinnati and being dumped on the Appalachians! With 6" overnight another 4" today and a few more forecast overnight & tomorrow will give us a good foot dump. If your not here skiing over the next few days I scratch my head ¿
SkiSE has over 140 folks headed to Snowshoe for the annual SkiSE Summit this weekend. Most signed up a while ago but I bet there are some late deciders.
Conditions yesterday @ 215pm reported by SSE
Bonzski wrote:
Conditions yesterday @ 215pm reported by SSE
He's using that GoPro Max. We need to get that in our arsenal for next season !!
Shotmaker wrote:
Ballhooter is open and getting crowded for a Thursday. Snow is steadly developing and streaming from Cincinnati and being dumped on the Appalachians! With 6" overnight another 4" today and a few more forecast overnight & tomorrow will give us a good foot dump. If your not here skiing over the next few days I scratch my head ¿
Easily the top weekend to be there this season. Just when you thought it was ending, the Cheat mtn magic kept it snowing all day Saturday. Then Sunday was a blue-bird day staritng cold and warming through the day, had to shed layers as the laps went by.
Yes, Thursday, Friday and Saturday were the best days of the season. The delayed openings of the High Speed lifts actually helped keep the snow fresh all day long. So much fun!
I left at noon on Saturday due to hurt ribs.
Never seen Ski Patrol shoveling the snow out of Ballhooter??
JimW,
Ribs?!? What happened!?
MorganB aka The Colonel
Yea, I was able to fine the only ice on the whole mountain and fall. Top left side of Skipjack on the edge in between the groomer and the side powder. Ice rocks hurt! I was going back this weekend but will need to hold off and hope i'm good for ballhooter weekend.
Looks like this is where you want to be skiing again this weekend. NWS calling for up to another foot on snow starting early Friday morning through Saturday am. Then we will have bluebird conditions. Hope you all can make it!
Shotmaker wrote:
Looks like this is where you want to be skiing again this weekend. NWS calling for up to another foot on snow starting early Friday morning through Saturday am. Then we will have bluebird conditions. Hope you all can make it!
I'll be there with my new Ridiculous pass. Just hope I won't have any problem driving Saturday morning.
jimw wrote:
Yea, I was able to fine the only ice on the whole mountain and fall. Top left side of Skipjack on the edge in between the groomer and the side powder. Ice rocks hurt! I was going back this weekend but will need to hold off and hope i'm good for ballhooter weekend.
Know the pain! Hopefully you heal faster than I did two years ago when a speeding and not looking ahead snow boarder plowed into me at the bottom of Cupp with no warning breaking four of my ribs, two in two places. Long 6 month semi recovery!
Anyone know a projected closing date for SS?
Snowshoe will close on Sunday, March 29th.
11" reported! Snowed all day yesterday and still snowing now. Will turn into bluebird later today with a great day on Sunday especially in the am.
Alterra announces $223M for 20/21 capital projects here
Snowshoe not mentioned in the presser, hoping the Powdermonkey lift replacement still a go, among other things.
Only about one-half of the Alterra owned resorts are shown as having improvements before next season.
When does the $279 ridiculous pass go off sale?
The Colonel wrote:
When does the $279 ridiculous pass go off sale?
According my email, one more week from today (3/11/20)
wgo wrote:
Looks like Soaring Eagle lift is currently closed? anyone have any info on that?
Per today's snow report:
Soaring Eagle lift is closed for maintenance, our mountain ops team is working hard to reopen the lift and it's associate trails as soon as possible.
Pass sele ends 31/9 and the Ikon 4/23
Soarying Eagle lift has had problems the last two weekends. Two weeks ago was ice which was expected and last weekend they had to run it off of the generator until they could get a part.. I don't know why but it's has been problematic for them. Please let us know, once it's up and running.
SS canceled the Ballhooter concerts, etc ....
Skiing and riding are operating as usual.
Altered Corp. has suspended skiing and other activities at all of its owned resorts including Snowshoe!!!
Vail has done the same at all of its resorts!!
Think about it, hard to maintain a "safe" six foot difference between people on or in line for a ski lift, as well as restaurants, etc. at ski resorts!
7Springs has announced closure of ski operations during the week!
New Perfect Timberline has cancelled its press conference for next Tuesday. Instead they will put out their plans to revive TL on social medial and press releases next week!!!!
stay well and safe DCSkiers!!!
MorganB
aka The Colonel
Wow, from the webcams SS is now getting (or has just gotten) even more snowfall. Cruel irony...
WV is now the only state (IDK about Alaska and Hawaii) with no reported Corona cases.
Keith_Moon wrote:
WV is now the only state (IDK about Alaska and Hawaii) with no reported Corona cases.
We've been practicing social distancing since 1863!
Bonzski wrote:
Keith_Moon wrote:
WV is now the only state (IDK about Alaska and Hawaii) with no reported Corona cases.
We've been practicing social distancing since 1863!
People are selling t-shirts with that message now: "You stay in your holler; I'll stay in mine."
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
The Colonel wrote:
When does the $279 ridiculous pass go off sale?
According my email, one more week from today (3/11/20)
The $279 price will remain until further notice.
Asked snowsnoe about the ridiculous pass sale on Twitter on got the following:
"The Ridiculous Pass Sale is paused for now. At this time we are not sure when it will resume and when the price jump will occur. Stay tuned. If you're ready to purchase, you can call us at 877-441-4386 to buy now."
I am not sure what they mean by saying the sale is paused but then also saying we can call to buy now...maybe they are just referring to online sales being paused.
https://www.ikonpass.com/en/local-passes/snowshoe-mountainLink on ikon is still valid
This morning, the SS website said they have suspended the price jump date on our Ridiculous Pass Sale until further notice.
Now they redirect you to the Ikon website and it says the 279 is good until 4/1/20
I relunctantly renewed my Ikon Base Pass for 20/21. It damn well better snow next year.
Blue Don 1982 wrote:
...I relunctantly renewed my Ikon Base Pass for 20/21. It damn well better snow next year.
My concern is that this virus is under control by then. I bought a season pass to Laurel for next season, downgraded from the 3 resort Highlands Pass. I'll wait on any national super pass. I had Ikon base this year and began to consider a drive to Snowshoe for this past Monday then the extent of the pandemic became apparent. I would not have traveled even if Snowshoe had not shut down.
Yesterday was "supposed" to be the last day of ski season at the shoe. I think it was close to 70* there. There's no way they would have made it until 3/29/20.
Maybe next year ........
Snow today up on Cheat Mountain. Yer killin me!
Snowshoe is now closed until at least July.
Gncc removed the dates from the post... I'm guessing snowshoe took issue with it as the July thing might not be official
rbrtlav wrote:
Gncc removed the dates from the post... I'm guessing snowshoe took issue with it as the July thing might not be official
GNCC may have jumped the gun on their first post. I'm hearing from our HOA no offcial date other than they are closed in May and no large gatherings in June.
i wonder what is the latest date for measurable snow at the Shoe. Here we are on May 12, 2020.
Met some friends there for MTB last weekend. Bike trails were again in great shape even after the needed rain Friday & Sat eve. Patti Duncan (Pres) mentioned in a newsletter the summer biking traffic is setting record #s. Lift lines were a little long Sat, non-existent Sunday (probably due to race events). Masks are required to ride the lift, and on Ballhooter you're required to off-load your own bike.
I noticed some new water lines being installed from lower ballhooter up knot-bumper. The Mountain Lodge complex is undergoing a complete exterior remodel and construction of new complex next to Courdoroy Inn has continued, as well as a new employee housing building across from Leatherbark. Top of the World condos building is getting repainted also. Good to see COVID hasn't detered all projects.
I wish people were doing a better job "holding on" to the disposable masks they are providing.... a lot of them seem to be finding the ground or trees before the top of the lift. I also saw a few people deliberately ignoring the masks rules in the lift line (and talking about how they were doing so). Most people were respecting the rules, but obviously not everyone.
I wonder if the scanners support a way to flag people for not following the rules, this is likely going to continue to be a problem during the winter where they may have to restrict capacity. In my opinion littering and not following simple mask rules warrants a single warning and then pulling of the lift ticket. If the masks are what is allowing them to stay open... people need to follow the rules whether or not they agree.
Put Security at the bottom of open lifts. Remind folks that they must be wearing a mask...once, then deny them entrance to lift. A walk back up the mountain should give them plenty of time to think about following the rules.
Put Security at the bottom of open lifts. Remind folks that they must be wearing a mask...once, then deny them entrance to lift. A walk back up the mountain should give them plenty of time to think about following the rules.
Just to clarify, the lifties are vigilant about requiring a mask covering mouth & nose to load and unload, @rbtlav observation (and I agree) was some people waiting in line are lax and I will admit I caught myself at times when it wasn't crowded. Then too, a few time I forgot to remove my mask after unloading and found myself breathing through a mask while on the trail....it's hard enough!
Bonzski wrote:
The Mountain Lodge complex is undergoing a complete exterior remodel
here's a little montage of the progress. Ya, I know LONG overdue but let's not beat that horse here.
ML RENO VIDEO
BD, looking forward to the ugly duckling getting a make-over!
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