Paragon Guides

The time between late Fall and Winter keeps me guessing. Will I be skiing good snow by Thanksgiving, or will I be searching for areas filled in by the wind or protected from the sun because the snow storms have been too small or too few for good accumulation? Do I wait patiently or carry a little anxiety on my shoulders as well as a pack? We choose our mindset, but not so with the snow. Some years we are blessed with early storms, good touring, maybe some turns on the appropriate slope. Other years we do what we can with what we have knowing that one good storm cycle can change everything.

This early season is like many in the past. Not so good in the backcountry, a couple runs of man-made snow at the ski areas. As for me, I will get out there, not with high expectations, rather with high anticipation for a hidden spot and hopes for future storms. I’ll scratch around mostly on north and east facing slopes testing my wind and sun theories, hoping for a few turns but content with the rhythmic “kick and glide” of “free-heel” ski touring.

All is not lost without deep snow. Even with only inches the whereabouts of resident creatures cannot be hidden. Perhaps my route will be the same as the coyote, mine most likely being more direct. I know my lunch is in my pack while the coyote must be intent on searching all possible lunch locations. What decisions has the snowshoe hare made this early season? Have they turned all white or been betrayed by their own anticipation of early snow. The same for the Ptarmigan, might they be embarrassed being all white when mottled would be the preferred fashion for this early season. Let’s not forget the mouse. His early season betrayal would be the missing snowy roof that should be hiding him from the Owl or Hawk.

There is much to look forward to. I’ll not try to fool you or myself. I will be happiest when all creatures including myself have shrugged off the “what if’s” of early season and our anticipation is only for another wintry day.

Donny Shefchik, Field Director