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Headline RSS FeedVail has "Epic" year: a review of one of the great seasons in memory
April 16, 2008 — Webster's Dictionary defines epic as, "extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope.” This has definitely been an Epic year, so here’s a few reasons why.
THE EPIC BLUNDER:
In that case, we saw an epic blunder come from the climatologists at C.U. Boulder, when they predicted this season as being one of the driest on record. One man was even quoted saying he wasn't going to bother buying a ski pass.
I bet he did after the New Year.
We at RealVail, however, called for a big snow year in 2007-2008 (as can be verified by clicking here, to read where Boyd called for, "A banner snow year.").
OK, so enough honking of our own horn, let’s get back to task at hand.
EPIC SNOW, EPIC SPRING:
With Vail receiving over 450 inches of snow by closing day, powder days turned into powder weeks, and the last week of the season brought more that 20 inches of January-type snow.
The long term forecast for the rest of April and into May looks to be the same: unsettled.
We could see snow/rain showers all the way into the middle of May, great news for you "river rats".
Temps will, of course, increase as the weeks go on, but with all of the snow pack at the highest elevations, rafters and kayakers could be surfing the Eagle and Upper-C well into the summer months.
EPIC ROAD CLOSURES:
An "epic" number of road closures were also seen this year as I-70 from Vail to Denver closed numerous times, stranding drivers in cars and shelters, and tragically some lost their lives. It’s another reason to think very seriously about our famed corridor, and the future of more traffic in the high country.
EPIC PARKING:
An "epic"parking problem pestered pedestrians and skiers alike as the North Frontage Road seemed to be full every weekend and powder day. And it seems that it will only get worse as; you guessed it, the "Epic Pass" will bring in more skiers to Vail and the Beav'.
Although the Generals at V.R.I. seem to think that the crowds will now be spread out over many weeks instead of the popular holidays, many locals agree that the 2008-09 season may well be our busiest season in history.
EPIC EYE-OPENER:
January, 2008 brought with it an "epic" eyeopener to all snow-riders. Two men lost their lives in the back country of Vail known as the East Vail chutes. The accidents, only two weeks apart, reminded us that we are always at the wrath of Mother Nature, and that complacency in uncontrolled areas can be fatal.
EPIC SNOW PART II:
Of course the most "epic" topic of the season was the snow. As stated before, Vail received over 450 inches of snow, and after a delayed start to the season, by early January many of us had already skied 10 plus powder days. And it didn't stop snowing until the 11th of April, leaving us with one festive weekend of spring skiing.
As for the next season, we have to wait until October to see what kind of weather patterns are consistent, and of course we will be watching our buddy El Nino out in the Pacific Ocean.
EPIC GLOBAL WARMING:
Also, regarding the whole global warming issue, if we can have winters like we did in 2008, everyone should be driving H3's, and SUV's.
EPIC GOLF:
Just because the powder is gone, “Powder Predictor” will not be. I’ll just be changing my M.O.
I will be writing blogs about the many golf courses around the valley and what they have to offer. Until then, have a great Mud season and happy spring.
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Map courtesey of the National Weather Service
The 'Year of Big Snow' continues at Vail and Beaver Creek
April 7, 2008 —
Snow is falling as I write at both Vail and the Beav’, with moisture continuing well into the evening.
Vail reported three inches this morning (April 7) and it looks like we could have another powder day on April 8. Look for at least another 3-4 inches overnight.
As for the rest of the week there are cold storms lined up in the Gulf of Alaska, each heading our way. Tuesday looks clear with cooler temps; 15-25 on mountain with winds gusting in the 20s. Our next storm arrives Wednesday during the day and will continue through the day Thursday.
We could see significant snowfall (8-12 inches) out of this system with heavy snow due to good moisture, convection (rise and fall of heat and moisture), and a very unstable atmosphere.
Temperatures will range from the low teens to low 20s both Wednesday and Thursday with winds in the teens and twenties and gusts into the 30 mph range.
With the instability there is also a good chance that thunder will develop, creating HEAVY snow showers at times. Keep in mind that with thunder comes lightning, and both resorts will close lifts if the threat is near.
Friday looks mostly cloudy as the previous system moves east, and temps will warm as the day progresses.
Finally, the closing weekend may be the only weekend of this ’07-’08 season that we may actually see some good spring skiing. Both Saturday and Sunday look mostly sunny with light winds and temps in the low to mid 30s on the hill. We will watch as the week progresses.
2 Comments on "The 'Year of Big Snow' continues at Vail and Beaver Creek"
Dina — April 9, 2008
where are my "RUSH" tickets?
mom — April 9, 2008
If this turns into another 2 footer I'm booking another trip to Hawaii, and you can call me when it's over...
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April roars in like a lion: more snow on the way
April 1, 2008 —
I was awakened by my wife Regina Monday morning with a whisper: “There's eight inches on our drive way.”
We live in Edwards. We all know what that means, powder day! I wasn't lucky enough to ski Monday, however, I did hear that it was a typical spring dump; deep and dense. Ski patrol at Vail reported 15 inches with density near ten percent (thanks Sunny), Beaver Creek reported 16 inches.
On April 1, Vail Ski Patrol reported another six inches overnight with a 24 hour total of 11 inches, while The Beav' reported 7 inches. WOW.
With that said, enjoy the last two weeks of skiing, they should be great. The weather for the remainder of the week looks again, unsettled, with a chance of more snow Wednesday night through the day Thursday.
It may not be as potent as the last storm, but enough to consider calling in sick. We may see 4-6 inches by mid-day Thursday. Winds will increase as the next front moves through, ranging from 15-25 mph.
Temperatures will be mild again through the week, with highs on mountain in the mid 20s and 40s at the base.
The weekend looks great as a ridge of high pressure noses in and brings sunny skies, warm temps, and light winds. We could see temperatures in the 50s down valley (Edwards, Eagle) and in the 30s on the hill.
It ought to be a great way to start the Spring Back to Vail events that will be scattered all over the Valley. Enjoy the last weeks of snow-riding.
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Bowls may be closed in the mornings
March 23, 2008 —
First off, I would like to welcome Cassidy Quinn Roach to the world, 7-pound daughter to Pete and Ashley. Congratulations!
The first week of Cassidy’s life will feature a high pressure system dominant over the Great Basin which will continue through the week. We have a shot of snow on Tuesday and Wednesday but limited moisture and a weak Jet Stream will hinder any heavy accumulation.
Spring skiing is definitely upon us as we will see temperatures rise during the week with highs in the 40s at the base of the mountain, and mid twenties at the top. Winds will increase during the week from the W/SW, ranging from 15-25 on mountain, gusts in the 30s.
Mornings will be cold, as inversion will keep temps in the teens and twenties until the air warms. If you are planning to ski in the early morning, please pick up a grooming report at the base of the mountain as many of the Bowls will be closed until the snow softens.
Beginning the 26th and running through Sunday, the American Ski Classic will once again be held at Golden Peak. Ski racing legends and celebrities alike will compete in events on Ruder's Route.
Enjoy the spring skiing, don't forget the sunscreen.
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