I learned a long time ago, that if you're a true skier or rider, you can never pass up an opportunity to slide down snow. Granted, this sometimes means that you don't even slide on that much, or even any snow at all. While living in London for a few years back in the early 90's, I strapped on skis and slid down a surface called Dentex, or "the toothbrush" to the Brits. Nope, it wasn't as good as even the hardest bulletproof, but it was skiing and it was part of my education.
Then there are the times when snow turns to grass or mud. Most call this the end of spring skiing, but others just consider it another element to ride on. Sure, you get a little dirty, but what is "apres ski" really, other than some overused and died out term for people that really never ripped anyway.
And then there is the difference in the terrain we ski and ride here in North America. In BC, you can rip over 5000 feet of vert while some people in the middle part of the continent get excited about 100 feet. Some would say that strapping your sticks on for the latter is a waste of time... those people no little about the search. If 100 feet is what you've got, make the most of that 100 feet. Imagine how you'll rejoice when you get to rip that 5000 some day!
So I challenge all of you to leave your comfort zone. Ski areas you normally wouldn't. If you've never skied at night, give it a shot. If you've never jibbed a rail, let 'em slide at least once. It's hard to have an opinion or claim to have experience if you stick to the same mountains and same runs day in and day out.
Season opens in 5 days... Where will you be?
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