Another Blue Bird Daze in the Notch

 

 

 

With the end of the ski season fast approaching, 2007-2008 has proved to be one of the best on record.

 

In lieu of climate change, Franconia Notch has received over 20 Feet of snow this winter and spring.

 

I was lucky enough to personally indulge at the 20 foot mark this past weekend.  For starters, over 10 inches of fresh powder had fallen in Franconia Notch, NH on Friday the 28^th of March.  The forecast called for another 3-5 inches overnight ending Saturday sometime in the morning

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Typical of the area, Weather forecasting is a difficult task since Franconia Notch is well known for its harsh conditions, severe wind and cold.  As with any outdoor adventure, proper protection from the elements can make or break your day at Cannon Mountain.  Most first timers notice two things right away&  Helmets and large hoods on your jacket to cover your head.  They soon find out why when a typical microburst blows through the area.

 

As I approach Concord, NH, my cell phone came alive with those who also have the sickness known as "POWDER FEVER".

 

 

One by one, ski buddies from far and wide reach out with one thought in mind, fresh tracks, , knee high powder in the white room.  The white room is a term used to describe skiing in high and light powder. 

 

 

As planned, we all arrive on time to pick up the first lift to the top.. 

 

One by one they arrive, The Mayor of Cannon Mountain, Rockland's own Tommy Hurley, The Boogman from Bedford, NH, Barb and Bill, Tumbull, Pistol Pete Halloran, John "Buffy" Chamberlain, and many more.  In total, 11 skiers with over 800 days of skiing this year, go at it.

 

 

Unlike most days, waiting on the slow poke is out of the question.  Nothing personal, all about the "POW"

 

 

 

 

Just as predicted, the day offered EPIC conditions and not a frown in the crowd.  The snow continued all morning and left us with snow so light and fluffy..a day of days.

 

By 3pm, the slopes cleared out and we made our way into the lodge to share stories of glory and an occasional adult beverage.  Needless to say, this day was one for the record books.

 

 

Some of us were lucky enough to have an overnight pass for another day on the slopes on Sunday.  Unlike the previous day, we were blessed with blue sky and not a single cloud.  Driving north from Lincoln, NH back to the notch was a worthy sight. 

 

The morning sun shines first light on the west side of the Notch.  Its profile once held the states greatest ambassador, The Old Man of the Mountain.  His presence has been missed by many.  When he welcomed us to the notch, his clarity was our indicator of the day's weather ahead.

 

 

 

During the night, the crew at Cannon turned our powder playground into a freshly groomed, corduroy grained paradise.  

 

For those of you who love to ski, Cannon Mountain is one mountain you need to visit.

 

"GRIP AND RIP"

 

Visit Jeff White on the web