November 20: Paradise, Mazama

Paradise was gorgeous. Arrived at the Longmire gate for the usual wait. I could tell it was first tracks time for many as the anticipation was high and the crowds were good sized. Drove up to Paradise after the customary later-than-predicted opening and headed down the road to fourth crossing then broke trail up the west face of Mazama. Trailbreaking was deep, but the blower-ish pow didnt give me too hard of a time. We were promptly followed be a swarm of skiers, half of which turned back to head up the creek (thanks  :)) Those who did follow were good company and we all kept it civil and conserved the pow for everyone. Conditions were fantastic powder turns, adequate coverage, and fun scrub brush slaloms. Hollers of joy filled the west face of Mazama on this day, at least when you werent choking on pow. Nice sunset for the final run and slog back up the road.