November 20, 2012, Lower Alpental

Dawn Patrol was in full swing today. I desired snow but not crowds or out-of-pocket expenses beyond coffee and gas. Weather data showed recent and new snow at Alpental. Arrived 6:40 AM, and headed up. The lower portion just above the lodge still contains MANY open-water sites. However, they are all pretty crossable on the descent, if you pick your spots.

Didn't have alot of time, so knew that getting to the top was not an option. However, DID tour up in the woods below and between Snake Dance and Felsen. Lots of good uphill lines in those woods. Had the place all to myself; even the area employees didn't start making noise until after 8 AM. Made a few creek crossings just below the cliff bands, just for sport, and emerged about halfway up/down Lower Nash.

Skiing was NOT epic; more like manky late spring stuff. (My new term is "Half-frozen school paste"...). But, turns were had, in a mix of survival and somewhat balanced fashions. Back to the car by 8:40 to drive back to town in the numerous deluges falling from the sky. No trouble with holiday traffic. Good fun, at any rate...