CMC student Dustin Eldridge shares a few thoughts on Colorado finally getting some snow this winter, just in time for finals. This article first appeared in Dustin’s blog, Steamboat Livin.’
The snow gods have blessed Steamboat. Consecutive storms started last week and have dropped decent accumulations every other day. The last storm settled in all day Monday and put down 8 inches in 24 hours at the ski area. Only a few hours ago did the clouds finally dissipate. Another storm is on the horizon for the weekend, another Sunday/Monday, and more possibilities after that! The rest of December is looking snowy for Colorado. Steamboat is not quite open top-to-bottom yet, but the last lift, Storm Peak Express, should be opening any day now. The snow not only means accumulations but chances for the snow-making crews to get a lot done. Chair and trail openings will be abundant over the next few weeks.
CMC Skiing and Riding
Now the only unfortunate thing is that the snow and finals came in the same week. I have been enduring long days between the mountain and the classroom. But this is why I moved to Steamboat, the best place to be ride and go to school. Pow laps in the morning, classroom discussions in the afternoon. CMC’s proximity to the resort isn’t the only reason it’s great.
Next Semester and Graduation
I don’t know about all college students, but I’m so excited for next semester. I’ll be taking some amazing classes while also graduating with an associates degree and a Snowboard Guide Certification! Not only that, but I will be taking some incredible trips that I’ll get to share with all of you. From Beginning Ice Climbing to River Kayaking, and Environmental Sociology to Leadership Development, my semester will be filled with outdoor adventures and intriguing classes. Stay tuned for updates about these classes and more!
Think Wolf Creek is the Snowiest Spot in Colorado? Think again…
Now I’m sorry I have no pictures of the snow for you, but instead I’ll give you some weather forecasting models to fool around with. These things can be addicting once you learn a little about them, and you’ll know all about the upcoming weather. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has some awesome forecast models on their website, and Unofficial Networks has a page full of every sort of weather map you could imagine. A little curiosity can go a long way, and its possible to learn so many incredible things about mountain weather, and how great Steamboat has it. To finish, I’ll leave you with this study done by CSU about the snowiest mountain ranges in Colorado. I was surprised to find that it was not the San Juans, where Wolf Creek is located, but the Park Range, where Steamboat is located. Check it out in the links below!