Author Topic: Colorado Snow Info (Read 1868 times)

jim-ratliff · « **on:** November 30, 2012, 09:22:54 am »

Lynn and I are heading to Colorado next weekend for our first days on snow for the current year and a day with Bob Hintermeister (hope I spelled that correctly) at Beaver Creek.

For those of you that are local, what's the early season looking like?
I have Fischer Progressors at 74mm, Head Peak 84 at 84mm, and Ski Logic Ullr's Chariots at 101 mm. What should I bring?
I assume that it wouldn't be a good idea to show up for a PMTS lesson with the 101mm skis?

bushwacka · « **Reply #1 on:** November 30, 2012, 04:30:30 pm »

move your trip to utah, Jackson hole or better yet the PNW. If a 74mm ski would be better than 101 ski on a trip I was taking, I wouldnt go.

I am in the same boat i am flying to Denver in early Jan. If it doesnt get better me and my girlfriend are driving to Utah or whereever the snow is.

epic · « **Reply #2 on:** November 30, 2012, 06:22:13 pm »

Quote from: bushwacka on November 30, 2012, 04:30:30 pm

move your trip to utah, Jackson hole or better yet the PNW.

or Stowe!

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #3 on:** November 30, 2012, 09:39:10 pm »

Quote from: bushwacka on November 30, 2012, 04:30:30 pm

move your trip to utah, Jackson hole or better yet the PNW. If a 74mm ski would be better than 101 ski on a trip I was taking, I wouldnt go.

I am in the same boat i am flying to Denver in early Jan. If it doesnt get better me and my girlfriend are driving to Utah or whereever the snow is.

Bushwacka:
Is this for your lesson with Harald? I didn't know that the fund raising effort had reached the target amount already?

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #4 on:** November 30, 2012, 09:49:47 pm »

Quote from: bushwacka on November 30, 2012, 04:30:30 pm

move your trip to utah, Jackson hole or better yet the PNW. If a 74mm ski would be better than 101 ski on a trip I was taking, I wouldnt go.

Amazing that what I think of as a wide ski is still a narrow ski to you.
Hard to believe that not that long ago my K2 Axis X's at 70mm were an All-Moutain ski.

HighAngles · « **Reply #5 on:** December 01, 2012, 03:37:51 pm »

opensnow.com

Looks like we'll get a bit of snow over the course of the next week, but that will only take things from absolutely abysmal to barely acceptable with less than 25% of only the groomers open at this point.

There's no point in skiing anything wide right now, so bring your race carvers.

bushwacka · « **Reply #6 on:** December 01, 2012, 05:25:50 pm »

Quote from: jim-ratliff on November 30, 2012, 09:49:47 pm

Amazing that what I think of as a wide ski is still a narrow ski to you.
Hard to believe that not that long ago my K2 Axis X's at 70mm were an All-Moutain ski.

only because noone knew any better 13 years ago.

Smart all mountain skiers were on fat skis since the late 1990s.... so seriously.....you were behind the time then:P

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #7 on:** December 01, 2012, 08:00:43 pm »

Quote from: bushwacka on December 01, 2012, 05:25:50 pm

Smart all mountain skiers were on fat skis since the late 1990s.

So you are saying I am in the "not fully informed" group?

Gary · « **Reply #8 on:** December 02, 2012, 08:27:31 am »

JIm given the lack of lots of snow....I'd take the 74's for carving skills and the 84's for playing! THe 74's will be lighter and quicker under foot me thinks.

Ron's out in Steamboat right now with his first few days on snow and although there's not much out there yet,....he's still making turns and enjoying himself.

My suggestion if you were going out there non lessons, I take the 84's and 101's....plenty of terrain coverage for those two.

Have a fantastic time.

I'm heading up to Calgary on the 13th for 4 days of skiing with Svend. We're planning on skiing Sunshine, Louise and our first trip to Kicking Horse. All 3 have been getting good snow but KH is getting more.

Enjoy!

G

ToddW · « **Reply #9 on:** December 02, 2012, 11:31:24 am »

Progressors will be best for first days on snow. You kids have fun out there.

PS there's fun spring skiing today in VT. I'll squeeze in some extra runs in your honor since you're holding out for turns at BC :-)

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #10 on:** December 02, 2012, 02:13:06 pm »

Gary:
What you said is my plan. 74'a for normal early season and for east coast, 84'a for all other western trips. Then next larger ski just in case.

meput · « **Reply #11 on:** December 02, 2012, 03:26:27 pm »

Ditto what Todd said.

Spring conditions at the 'loaf today, so I went "wide" - monster 78's. Skied my new KERS iSS's ('10/'11 NOS from Forerunner) yesterday. They were a hoot! There must be something wrong with me - I can find happiness with 66mm underfoot.

BTW this was day 9 for me on the season at the 'loaf. My goal for the season is to ski my age in days.

Have fun in Colorado and have fun.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #12 on:** December 02, 2012, 03:40:50 pm »

Meput:
Skiing 39 days isn't that much of a goal.

ToddW · « **Reply #13 on:** December 02, 2012, 04:11:10 pm »

Day 13 for me today. I aim to ski HH's age In days on non-rock skis and my nephew's age on rock skis. I skied icons yesterday and today to force fore-aft improvement. 0.5/4 -- what a hoot getting upside down on the scraped off patches. I haven't been on anything over 66mm yet, but will bring up midfats to leave in my locker next week for when Ullr blesses us.

meput · « **Reply #14 on:** December 02, 2012, 06:58:13 pm »

Quote from: jim-ratliff on December 02, 2012, 03:40:50 pm

Meput:
Skiing 39 days isn't that much of a goal.

In my dreams to be only 39.

HighAngles · « **Reply #15 on:** December 03, 2012, 09:47:02 pm »

So where in CO are you planning to ski (and when)?

midwif · « **Reply #16 on:** December 04, 2012, 08:36:47 am »

We will be stayine in the Wildernest area of Silverthorne and skiing this saturday thru wednesday.
Leaving wednesday.

Two and three years ago, we had amazing conditions at this same time. Not last year, as you know
Looking forward to being on snow, even with limited terrain and even if on the reviled groomers.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #17 on:** December 04, 2012, 08:51:55 am »

Quote from: HighAngles on December 03, 2012, 09:47:02 pm

So where in CO are you planning to ski (and when)?

First day (Saturday) at Breck finding our feet and acclimating to altitude after getting in at midnight the night before. The altitude thing is usually a challenge for Lynn.
Sunday is a lesson with Bob H. at Beaver Creek.
Monday and Tuesday to be determined. We have the Epic Pass so one of the Vail resorts.
Are you gonna' be out that way this weekend?

Svend · « **Reply #18 on:** December 04, 2012, 02:46:17 pm »

Quote from: Gary on December 02, 2012, 08:27:31 am

JIm given the lack of lots of snow....I'd take the 74's for carving skills and the 84's for playing! THe 74's will be lighter and quicker under foot me thinks.

Jim, I skied the Peak 84 last April at Banff for a full day. Morning refrozen corduroy (= ice...hard as granite); afternoon soft mush. I found them to have surprisingly good hold on the ice, and were pretty much unfazed by the soft spring snow too. A very versatile ski. Amazing edge grip on the ice, actually. No sensation of speed at Mach 3. Smooth and calm. Relatively quick edge-to-edge for an 84, but certainly won't be as snappy and quick as a Progressor...more measured and deliberate in it's turn transitions, but not ponderous, if you know what I mean. Some energy in the tail which can talk back in the bumps, but nothing you won't get used to after a run or two. Yet for all that, not demanding and easy to pilot. You will love them.

If you want the P-800's only for their edge grip on ice/hard snow, then the Peak will have no problem filling that need. OTOH, I have had my P-9's (70mm) in some soft fresh snow and spring mush, and they handle it remarkably well for a narrow ski...your P-800's should be OK there too.

LivingProof · « **Reply #19 on:** December 06, 2012, 07:13:36 am »

Jim,
The extended forecast does call for snow showers during the weekend, so here's hoping that the weather front lingers and gives up some pow. I presume you will take 2 pair of skis, so, the Fischers and the Heads get to make the trip. FWIW, during the first days, I much prefer narrow skis, but, the new Peak 84's, would be used.

Lynn,
Good luck with the altitude, Summit Co. takes it's toll on we ocean-level dwelling pilgrims invading the high country.

Have a great trip!

And, Happy Birthday to Jim. Only a couple of years ago, "When I'm 64" was favorite tune sometimes, sometimes one that I'd have wished to forget.

Gary · « **Reply #20 on:** December 06, 2012, 08:12:11 am »

Lynn....Diamox...pl ease...take 1/4 to 1/2 tablet, in morning and same before bed couple of days before and a couple of days into the trip....works like a charm.

I have the same problem sleeping above 7,000 feet and this prescription med really works.

G

midwif · « **Reply #21 on:** December 06, 2012, 08:45:34 am »

GARY
1/4 tablet is for wusses.

I have long experience with Diamox and need the recommended strength.

That, ambien and allegra with some sudafed thrown in are my Colorado cocktail mix!
(Not all at the same time)
Sounds exotic, eh?

Gary · « **Reply #22 on:** December 06, 2012, 09:49:59 am »

Wuss I am...ha!
Glad it works for you too Lynn....life saver indeed.

So who's making your cocktails?

midwif · « **Reply #23 on:** December 06, 2012, 12:17:50 pm »

ME!
Jim is a newbie drinker.
Turned to the dark side by myself.

Gary · « **Reply #24 on:** December 06, 2012, 12:24:25 pm »

You guys have a ball...and try to "remember" your holiday...

I'm heading up North to Banff...we'll have to compare notes and pics.

Have a great trip...enjoy!

G

FrankyDoodle · « **Reply #25 on:** December 07, 2012, 05:22:27 pm »

Best bet is Jackson Hole. They have a 51" base on the upper mountain and it will be snowing almost every day for the the next week. They will open up the tram this weekend giving access to most all the mountain. If you could change your destination, this would be a great choice. You also could run over to Grand Targhee, WY which has more snow than JH.

The storm track is changing for the next week and possibly through the new year to include the southern rocky's in the pattern. The NW, northern and southern rockies all should benefit from the new storm track. If you go to colorado, 86 the wide rides, bring your junkers or rent.

There are a few websites that give good information on powder chasing: opensnow.com, powerchasers.com, and a precipitation loop website that forecasts out 8 days: http://weather.rap.ucar.edu/model/displayMod.php?var=gfs_sfc_prcp&loop=loopall&hours=hr012

Gary · « **Reply #26 on:** December 09, 2012, 07:10:56 am »

Hi Frank....welcome to the site!

I really like the link you posted up....I've never seen that kind of satelite forecast before AND...it got me pumped as I'm heading up to Banff with Svend on Thursday, it's nice to see I may get a chance to use my fat boards...HOPING!

Jackson has been getting some great snow for sure. We're heading there in late January so it's nice to see they have such a great base.

Wondering what boards you've got on your shoulder in that pic and where do you ski mostly?

Thanks again and look forward to your posts,

G

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #27 on:** December 09, 2012, 09:37:49 pm »

14" at Beaver Creek last night, but amazingly little terrain open overall.
Much less open than this time last year, and that was pretty sparse.
Had a very good lesson with Bob Hintermeister today.

LivingProof · « **Reply #28 on:** December 10, 2012, 06:52:46 am »

Jim,

Thank Lynn for scheduling the powder during your birthday trip.

I was watching weather radar and it looked like the Vail area was catching the southern edge of the recent storm.

BTW, ski season in Pa. remains on hold due to some very warm, wet weather. I believe I will be the last of our group to actually ski this season.

epic · « **Reply #29 on:** December 10, 2012, 04:19:45 pm »

Quote from: jim-ratliff on December 09, 2012, 09:37:49 pm

14" at Beaver Creek last night, but amazingly little terrain open overall.
Much less open than this time last year, and that was pretty sparse.
Had a very good lesson with Bob Hintermeister today.

Don't know anything about the guy, but with a name like that, he must be good. I wonder what the literal translation of that is.

LivingProof · « **Reply #30 on:** December 10, 2012, 05:51:42 pm »

Quote from: epic on December 10, 2012, 04:19:45 pm

Don't know anything about the guy, but with a name like that, he must be good. I wonder what the literal translation of that is.

Epic,

LOL, Hinter = behind, meister = champion or master

Hmm, Harald is always stating that he speaks German, so, I just have to guess that he can supply a better translation.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #31 on:** December 10, 2012, 09:38:40 pm »

Quote from: epic on December 10, 2012, 04:19:45 pm

Don't know anything about the guy, but with a name like that, he must be good. I wonder what the literal translation of that is.

Living Proof -- LOL, excellent.

PhD, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Univ. of Massachusetts, 91

Sports Science, US Olympic Training Center, 82-84
Director Rehabilitation and Human Performance Lab, Steadman Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, 91-98
Ski Instructor, Vail Resorts, 98-Present
PMTS Instructor/Coach, 98-Present
Adjunct Faculty, Colorado Mountain College, 93-Present
Technology and Kinesiology Consulting, 93-Present

His contributions to PMTS are discussed in the forwards of several of the earlier books.

Svend · « **Reply #32 on:** December 10, 2012, 09:41:32 pm »

Quote from: LivingProof on December 10, 2012, 05:51:42 pm

LOL, Hinter = behind, meister = champion or master

Hmm, Harald is always stating that he speaks German, so, I just have to guess that he can supply a better translation.

Mike, I speak ze German. You are quite correct on both words. But just to clarify, Hinter is used as a preposition, as in "He is behind me" = "Er ist hinter mir", which is what my wife says every time we ski together.

It is not used as a noun. That would be Hintern, which means butt in German.

So now you know....just don't mix them up if you ever travel to Germany.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #33 on:** December 11, 2012, 01:28:53 am »

SVEND: Loved the clarification. So Bob's ancestor was a person of some power or notoriety, similar to what we would call a ' right hand man' or ' the power behind the throne'. How interesting.

Gary · « **Reply #34 on:** December 11, 2012, 08:59:53 am »

Hey Jim...Bob's got quite the credentials...

SO....what did you work on with Bob in your lesson?

Looks like more snow coming your way later in the week too, Friday and Sat looking good for fresh snow....keep us posted..

Best, G

ToddW · « **Reply #35 on:** December 11, 2012, 10:05:39 am »

Bob provides a different etymology. He is the master of ski technique tips and hints ... the Hinter Meister, master of giving hints. He always says this with a goofy grin.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #36 on:** December 11, 2012, 11:55:48 am »

Quote from: Gary on December 11, 2012, 08:59:53 am

Hey Jim...Bob's got quite the credentials...

SO....what did you work on with Bob in your lesson?
Best, G

Fundamentals!! Fore aft balance (more fore has always been a challenge for me). Becoming aware of how much more movement Is available with flexion. The goal for us was to review the foundation.

He is also very good at giving an overview of skiing and mechanics, which I found very interesting.

Gary · « **Reply #37 on:** December 11, 2012, 12:56:33 pm »

Good stuff Jim...I would agree how critical fore/aft balance awarness is....A GREAT tool for skiing eveywhere on the mountain.

Hoping you guys are having a blast.

Lynn doing OK with the altitude?

One of the most unusual experiences we had at Beaver Creek was on sunny late morning they were droping the rope on a previously unskied run. We were close by and went over to see 13 groomers lined up diagnolly. The ropes droped, the machines started down and we were right in their wake of this unbeliveable Burber Carpet snow...it was very cool, awesome to ski in and quite the sight

Enjoy, G

epic · « **Reply #38 on:** December 11, 2012, 03:01:39 pm »

Quote from: LivingProof on December 10, 2012, 05:51:42 pm

Epic,

LOL, Hinter = behind, meister = champion or master

Hmm, Harald is always stating that he speaks German, so, I just have to guess that he can supply a better translation.

OMG - that's what I thought. LOL

epic · « **Reply #39 on:** December 11, 2012, 03:03:24 pm »

Quote from: ToddW on December 11, 2012, 10:05:39 am

Bob provides a different etymology. He is the master of ski technique tips and hints ... the Hinter Meister, master of giving hints. He always says this with a goofy grin.

I think I'd spin it that way too.

LivingProof · « **Reply #40 on:** December 12, 2012, 07:03:13 am »

LP puts on the mod hat:

We've had some fun with Dr. Bob's last name, I think it's time to move past that subject as "respect for others" is a value in this forum. He's got quite a resume, and, my thoughts he would be considered over-qualified in a typical employment interview for a ski instructor.

I'd love to have him join our little group.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #41 on:** December 12, 2012, 03:23:34 pm »

Quote from: LivingProof on December 12, 2012, 07:03:13 am

... my thoughts he would be considered over-qualified in a typical employment interview for a ski instructor.

We discussed that, and as with many in Colorado, it's a life style choice. And, he clearly enjoys being a ski instructor even if a PhD isn't normally a job requirement.

epic · « **Reply #42 on:** December 12, 2012, 06:20:17 pm »

Does he teach fulltime, or anything close to it?

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #43 on:** December 12, 2012, 09:05:54 pm »

I don't really know, but I think he has a "day job" that he limits to 3/4 time to reserve time for teaching and consulting.
So I "think" the answer is no.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #44 on:** December 12, 2012, 11:53:42 pm »

I'm probably naive, but I was absolutely amazed at what a small percentage Vail ski instructors get paid when they deliver a full day private ( at $775, up to 6 people).
I'm used to the government "staff aug" type contract where the direct salary is roughly 1/2 the billing rate; and the gross margin covers benefits and leave. Ski instruction is clearly a different world.

jim-ratliff · « **Reply #45 on:** December 13, 2012, 08:38:17 am »

A nice and very worthwhile early season trip. Good to get on the snow, even if there wasn't much open.
I think Breckenridge had a total of 7 runs open -- but they were devoting a lot of energy (and snow making) to the DEW tour that is coming soon.
I think there was a total of about 16" of snow over the weekend, and the high at the top of Beaver Creek was -2 on Monday and Tuesday, and that was cold for us East coasters. Next trip is end of January -- I certainly hope we have some local snow options before then.

bushwacka · « **Reply #46 on:** December 16, 2012, 08:08:07 pm »

Quote from: jim-ratliff on December 12, 2012, 11:53:42 pm

I'm probably naive, but I was absolutely amazed at what a small percentage Vail ski instructors get paid when they deliver a full day private ( at $775, up to 6 people).
I'm used to the government "staff aug" type contract where the direct salary is roughly 1/2 the billing rate; and the gross margin covers benefits and leave. Ski instruction is clearly a different world.

from My understanding Vail pays less than stowe but is still amoung the best in the country. Aspen is one of the few places that actually approaches 50 percent of the take on private lesson.

News:

Author Topic: Colorado Snow Info (Read 1868 times)

FrankyDoodle