On December 8, 19 club members set off for Vail. The snow forecast for the early season was not brilliant so expectations were not high. The trip did not include transportation and members opted for Denver or Eagle as their gateway. On the drive to Vail the scenery did not look too promising although snow was in the forecast. As we settled into our condos there was already snow in the air. This turned out to be not just a tease but some real covering.
Thus we were pleasantly surprised that on day one and despite a lot of the mountain being closed we had a good day’s skiing with very few people on the slopes. On day two it snowed more and we were able to test our powder legs. On day three the sun came out, as did the crowds. On day four they dropped the ropes on some of the extreme terrain (Jim, Bob and Francine were first down). And on day five the texture of the snow was still excellent and the
bump runs were in fantastic.
The condos in Lionshead are located in the base area with a rental shop, restaurants, etc.. The group dinner was in one of the nearby restaurants. A free shuttle takes passengers to Vail village where the Christmas light display is always a draw.
Covid protocols were in force in the mountain restaurants. For the unvaccinated and masked bathrooms and water were available otherwise proof of vaccine and masks were required for the food facilities. In the village restaurants there was no vaccine mandate but tables are well spaced.
19 happy members returned to their homes with a glow from another great early season trip.
