Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Presidents Day at Snow Basin


While I doubt I spent even a minute of last Monday pondering my appreciation for Washington's cherry tree or Lincoln's walk to return a borrowed book, I did celebrate a day off work with a ski day at Snow Basin (located about 33 miles north of SLC).

Leading up to our day there, I heard mixed reviews about the resort and honestly didn't know what to expect when we arrived. By the time we were parked and suited up, we were in line for the (heated) gondola by about 10:30 a.m. Once at the top of the mountain, I spent most of the morning warming up with runs like Eas a Long, Bear Hollow, Powder Puff and Little Cat. I am sure by the names alone, you can determine my skill level. :)

However, after a delicious (yet, ridiculously over-priced) bowl of chili in the lodge, I was ready to expand myself during the afternoon. I began exploring runs like Needle's Run, Sweet Revenge and Wildcat Bowl. Again the names tell all. With literally no lines between runs and a fairly long run to begin with, I finished the afternoon feeling like I had skied my $51 worth and then some.

Cole and mom spent most of their time combing through several blacks and seemed pleased with the amount of powder. My brother, however, went exploring and ended up hitch hiking his way back to the resort.

For those of you who think Snowbasin is still a hokey, slow-paced mountain for Odgen locals who ski in their jeans, you will be pleasantly surprised by the extensive, well-groomed runs not to mention the beautifully renovated lodge. With a few more visits I hope to be cruisin' through Last Chance Loop!