Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Adventure: Skiing in June!
Summer is officially here and we're still making ski tracks! Our last trip into the backcountry was short but sweet. We returned to a spot we last saw covered in snow. Now that snow has melted away and the rivers are gushing! There was a lot of mud to walk through and rivers to cross but once we gained elevation we were able to find some great skiing. The snow was not quite as good as corn and not quite as bad as slush but fun was had never the less!
After a long lunch of brie, crackers and of course chocolate we spent nearly an hour watching the giant bowl before us. As the air began to heat up, so did the snow. Alone in this great space we were lucky enough to (safely) view two avalanches across the way. Tim even caught one on film! It was a magnificent and humbling sight to see...and definitely gave us some knowledge of the terrain and how to safely ski it! A very memorable moment.
After a long day of skiing, getting back to camp for a good meal and peaceful sleep was much needed. I slept better than usual in my new Marmot Helium Membrain sleeping bag! This bag is durable, warm and condenses into a very small stuff sack. I tend to sleep cold so for me this is a perfect spring/summer/fall bag. The Membrain fabric Marmot uses is both waterproof and breathable. I usually have a tough time regulating condensation but this bag stayed dry on the inside and out and kept me super warm and cozy! A bit of a splurge but definitely worth it if you are in the market for a new bag and plan on having a busy backcountry year.
As always, we're sad to see ski season coming to a close but there is still hope for one more trip. After we play High Sierra Music Festival June 30 and July 1 we're heading back to Yosemite and are bringing our skis just in case. Summer skiing! Break out the bikini tops :) I'll keep you posted. For now, check out Tim's latest video HERE!