December 24-27, 2003, Holden

I spent Christmas at Holden Village, up Lake Chelan. This is a small community formerly a mining town, now run by the Lutheran Church. The community has a diverse populace, ranging from being active in social issudes, outdoor activities, and sharing talent in the arts and music.

The snow conditions were excellent with the town at 3200' just east of the crest. There are some great tours that can be done from there when the avalanche conditions are stable, from flat cross country treks up the valley to steep turns on the sides. 9000' peaks Bonanza, Copper, and Dumbell dominate the valley. Martin Ridge has many avalanche paths to watch out for, but there was good glade skiing in the forested margins. The most popular trip with the village staff is the west side of lower copper basin, but for the most daring, steep turns can be made down the mine tailings pile!

- Kevin

p.s. Pictures coming soon at
www.catdaddy.com/people/kevin/