June 15, 2012, Stevens Pass

Today was a beautiful sunny day.   When we arrived at the parking lot at Stevens Pass there were only 3 other cars besides several work vehicles.  We met a fellow who has a pair of Vector bc€™s like mine and just loves them.  There is still great coverage within 40-50 feet of the lodge.  Because of the work they're doing in preparation for the mountain bikers, several of the runs were inaccessible or at least not appealing.  We decided to climb up to the ridge by way of the Promenade run which took us to Skid Road just past the Tye Mill lift.  The snow was in great shape with few runnels or sun cups, firm with a few inches of corn on top, all of which made for good climbing.  We could tell that Zap is definitely getting stronger because he didn€™t need to use his ski crampons to feel comfortable and secure as the run got steeper.  He also is moving right along and didn€™t need to stop and rest quite as often or for as long as on previous climbs.  It was sunny and warm, but there was a light breeze.

After a nice lunch break on top where we enjoyed the views, we headed back down Skid Road.  We figure-eighted each other all the way down €“ damn that felt good!  The snow was fantastic.  Zap is finally skiing more like his old self: confident and relaxed and oh so graceful.  As usual making it look effortless.  At this point we are on intermediate slopes only, but for now this is great.

When we got back to the car, we met a couple from New Hampshire.  They have converted a Sprinter van to a camper van and are spending the summer traveling and skiing around the PNW.  If they see this post, send us a PM (personal message).