This past week a crew consisting of Skiing Operations Manager Clair Isrealson, Guide Yvan Sabourin, Tail Guide Amy Ross and cat drivers Chad Hamilton, Nathan Heeley and Jonathan Peterson ventured into Catland to observe the snow conditions and build the roads used by the snowcats during the season. They weren’t sure what they would find and were pleasantly surprised to find a good early season snowpack.

On top of that it was perfect snow conditions for building roads. The snow was easy to mold and conditions were such that once the roads were put in the snowpack firmed up like iron each night. Clair remarked that it was the “Best road building mission,” ever undertaken by NEH. He furthered explained, “Grandpa’s, a road that has historically taken 3-4 days with a crew of 5 shoveling to put it was accomplished in just over a day.”

While the cat drivers worked to put in the extensive roads used to drop off and pick up skiers and boarders, Yvan was busy making snowpack and avalanche observations. While the alpine observations were limited he was able to say confidently that skiing is excellent down to our regular pickup areas. He reported finding a full solid base covered with powder that would make for great turns.