Ski Conditions - Dec 10 - High Peaks Update

Things are shaping up in the eastern High Peaks, but despite this latest snowfall skiers should still expect to encounter early season conditions on most trails in the mountains.  Yesterday we skied the Old Marcy Dam trail to connect with the normal hiking trail to Marcy Dam.  This section was skiable but still boney in the typically rocky sections, and drainages are still open with tricky-to-cross wet spots.  The stream is still flowing above Marcy Dam so crossing the bridge downstream is necessary.  From Marcy Dam to the Avalanche Pass Ski Trail conditions are slightly better but many rocks still are lurking under the fresh snow.  We found the Avalanche Pass Ski Trail completely untracked with 12-16 inches of delicious powder.  Some drainages remain open and wet on the ski trail, otherwise the skiing is fantastic.  The ice on Avalanche Lake and Lake Colden is NOT safe to cross.  The caretaker at Lake Colden reports 24 inches on the ground as of Friday.

Marcy Dam Truck Trail from South Meadow has been skied and looks fantastic - reminder that the barricade is in place on the Loj road making for a slightly longer approach on this route.

Wright Peak Ski Trail is likely in good condition but getting there on the Algonquin/Wright Peak hiking trail will be an exercise in dodging and scraping rocks.  Whales Tale can not be recommended quite yet.  

See the December 8 report for Jackrabbit Trail conditions, which have only gotten better since Thursday night.  Generally speaking the entire trail is skiable, but use caution on the downhills and watch for open wet areas.  Also the ice cannot be trusted on the beaver dam crossings on Old Mountain Rd and Loop 73 south of Cascade Ski Center.