April 19, 2003, Crystal Mountain

First annual Crystal Mountain Back Country Ski Extravaganza.  Since Crystal Mountain closed last weekend, and fairly nice weather was predicted for Easter weekend 20 of us decided to head to Crystal Mountain for a Saturday ski party.  With the wide variety of terrain and the closed lift serviced area what better choice than that of the above mentioned.  As the group grew, we decided to make this into a real ski event.  Everyone brought their favorite snacks and beverages.  Also a BIG thanks to the younger, strong group who hauled in our beverage of choice, and to our DJ aficionado for the great music system and tune selection.  All of us skinned to the top of the Forest Queen run where we set the buffet table on the chairlift.  It was a feast fit for a king, with a variety of meats, salmon, fruit, cheeses, desserts, various snacks, and chilled beverages.  Several climbed High Campbell, while others climbed and skied Powder Bowl.  Leaving yet others skiing Downhill, C Mack, and various versions of those groomed runs.  Climbing back up, relaxing, eating, quenching our thirst and skiing some more.  After an 8 hour day of skiing, we returned to the parking lot at 5:00 p.m. and headed home.  Snow conditions were good with a dusting of new the night before.  Temps that evening had kept the snow in great condition for our first runs.  With the sun coming out in the early afternoon, the snow softened, but the skiing was still tolerable.  All in all it was a great day.  Our ski mascot "Jelly Belly"  enjoyed the feast and beverages too, looking very cool sporting her new "doggles".