January 17, 2018 Crystal

Second day in a row traveling up on a ski bus. Today was surprisingly good for the forecast and lack of snow. All the upper lifts were closed due to winds (and an anticipated lack of clients?), but unlike yesterday it was warmer overnight and softened up more during the day. There was a dusting of new, but the warm temps smoothed over the skimpy layers of fresh from the last two nights, and the under-crust softened some in the midday hours. A quick trip down to the ski service shop for a hot wax really helped! With not many options to choose from on FQ, I skied the refrozen bumps with their funny little cover of grippy, carveable mank on detours from the screaming groomers.
Felt cool for the temps (30s) due to the damp, steady winds, but visibility was crisp and there was no rain at the area while we were there. Super-empty in all lots and on the hill, even with the limited choices of lifts.