Jan 10, 2008, Castle Peak, Corn in January??

Well the amazing snow we had right before Christmas has now started to retreat due to warming temps, but that doesn't mean there isn't any skiing to be had. With the past week being warm and sunny during the day and cold at night we decided to take a chance on there being some corn snow. I know, corn?? in January?? Castle Peak is near Donner Summit and has a south/southeast facing slope below the summit. Although the hike is not vary hard, we did have to use some rock scrambling skills to get to the drop in point. When we got there about 11:30 the snow was looking good and ready. A nice firm layer under a couple inches of soft corn made for fun turns. I couldn't convince any of my friends to go for another lap, so I went it alone and the second run was even better!! If I can't ski powder I'll take some corn snow any day.