Get out there and enjoy it!

It's always fantastic when days off from work correspond to deep snow and mild temperatures, but sometimes the elements just don't cooperate. Today was one of those days.

Instead of boring you with arm-chair speculation about weather patterns in the area, let me summarize by saying the conditions were pretty much $h%t, and are likely to stay that way for at least a few more days. Crusty snow, howling winds, and bone-chilling cold were just a few of the obstacles encountered today.

That's the bad news. The good news is that even on a day like today, when you're wearing every thermal layer you own, the wind is trying to peel several layers of skin off your face and it feels like your skiing down a thinly disguised chalk board, the amount of enjoyment that can be had on a pair of skis in the mountains is nothing short of incredible. 

There is an endless list of potential weather/snowpack complaints. None of these matter. The feeling of freedom and adventure in the mountains is independant of weather and snow conditions. Sure the thrill of the descent might be greater given some fresh powder, or perhaps warmer temperatures might make for easier layering but in the end, the same sensations of absolute freedom, independance and adventure remain. 

Here are a few pictures from today's adventure up to West Ymir:

Jordan McTaggart