Finding Great Bargains On Ski Apparel

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…In the Salt Lake Area

By Skimum Valerie

In my home, there is almost nothing worse than paying full price for your ski apparel.  Luckily, we live in a great place that offers myriad opportunities to find great bargains.  Be sure to check out these stores and save on your next purchase:

Columbia_logos

Columbia Sportswear Outlet Stores
Columbia offers some great deals through their two outlet stores (Park City and Traverse Mountain).  Better yet, Columbia also owns Mountain Hard Wear and Sorel (boots) and sells selected items in their Columbia stores.  The Park City location tends to offer a better selection of Mountain Hard Wear products.  Don’t miss the discount racks! Visit Tanger Outlets’ website for coupons.

Patagonia Outlet Salt Lake City
This is a true Patagonia outlet store and, therefore, they primarily offer left over or closeout  items to sell.  They will not likely have a full line of products and will not carry all sizes, but they typically offer their products at 30% below retail price. For even better deals, check them out in March, April and May when they start getting their winter season products in.  Also visit their Facebook page for special sale dates.

KSL.com Classifieds
I have found a number of great deals while trolling the KSL Classifieds.  KSL is also a great resource for used ski equipment.

Other Online Sources:

eBay
If you know exactly what you are looking for, it’s often tough to find better deals than on eBay.  It is usually my first (and last) online shopping site.

ZB Sports
Although, ZB Sports no longer has a store in Park City, their online store offers great pricing on Arc’Teryx, Canada Goose and Spyder brand products.  I purchased one of my jackets last year from ZB.  After weeks of shopping around, they offered the best price.  If they are not the lowest, they promise to price match.  Plus, with every purchase you make, ZBsports.com will donate to local, national and worldwide charities…which charities is based on your voting, so be sure to let your voice be heard.

Did we miss a great place for bargains?  Please let us know!  Post your suggestions below.

Follow The Sun!

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WHERE TO SKI AT SNOWBIRD ON A COLD DAY?

As you put your car in park you glance up at the outside temperature gauge on your instrument panel. 9 degrees…Brrrrrrrr!  For a brief moment you have visions of your nice warm bed, a cup of hot chai, and a few recorded episodes of Scandal waiting for you back at home. 

But the snow looks so good…it’s sunny…I can do this!

Mineral Basin - Snowbird, Utah

On cold mornings like this, trail choice can make all the difference at the Bird. If it is a sunny morning, my suggestion is to get to over the mountain into Mineral Basin as soon as you can.

Here in Utah, the winter sun hangs low in the southern sky for much of the season. Many of the north-facing slopes don’t get any direct sun until late morning. That can mean cold and icy conditions. Stay in the sun of Mineral Basin until the rest of the mountain warms up a bit. 

What lifts do I take?
The tram is the fastest way to sun and fun. From Gad Valley (Entry 1 parking), take Gadzoom and then switch to Little Cloud to get to the ridge line.  Peruvian Express with a quick trip through the tunnel will also get you to warmer slopes.

See you on the sunny side!

Click here to Download Snowbird trail maps.

That Other Little Voice in My Head

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Ski Helmet Audio Review

By Skimum Valerie

Why Audio?
While part of the appeal of skiing is disconnecting from the rest of the world, I still need to ski with my phone in my pocket in case one my kids, clients or hubby needs…something. These days having a good audio system is almost an essential part of my skiing gear.  Good audio allows me to listen to tunes, answer/talk on my phone and hear incoming text messages. Depending on the system, you may even be able to control different aspects of your phone with voice commands. Most importantly, it allows me to keep my hands in my gloves (where they should be).

After trying nearly every type of audio toy on the market, here’s what I’ve learned–

Bronze – Ear Buds
OK, this is the worst way to get audio into your helmet.  For one, in my opinion, it is not safe.  The ear buds, while offering great audio fidelity, act essentially as ear plugs – blocking other sounds around you.  You need to be able to hear others skiing/riding around you.  Sure, you can only put one bud in your ear, but who wants to listen to music in mono? The cords also tend to get in the way.  Just say “no” to ear buds.

Silver – Corded In-Helmet Speakers
I next used a Skullcandy audio system.  They make a kit specifically designed for my Smith helmet.  It worked pretty well for me.  It came with a cord with a built-in clip enclosing a microphone and volume knob and function button.  I was able to clip it onto my goggles strap on the side of my helmet to keep it out of the way.  This system was a game changer for me.  While plugged into my phone, I was able start and stop my Snow Patrol playlist, answer calls (except from my mother-in-law, strangely) and adjust volume, all from the simple corded clip/remote.  No more digging through your pockets trying find your phone…or worse yet, fumbling with your phone on the lift – risking a 30 foot drop into a snow bank.

Downside?  The cord.  The cord can get in the way or can snag on clothing, equipment, etc.  Over time they can also wear and develop annoying shorts in one ear…or stop working completely.  Once, I even had my cord torn in half when a tree limb grabbed it while traversing Mt. Baldy.  The Skullcandy drop-in corded system is about $50 retail, but I’ve seen it for as low as $39 at Backcountry.com.

Gold – Bluetooth Audio
Now…imagine all of the benefits of the corded in-helmet systems, with none of the downsides.  Completely wireless! I now have the Skullcandy Bluetooth Audio package.  The Bluetooth unit fits on the outside of your left ear pad and has three buttons, which control all power, volume/mute and device functions.  You can even jump forward to the next song in your playlist with these buttons.  The unit is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery.  It is charged via a standard micro USB cable.

With my Bluetooth audio system, I have turned Snowbird into my second office!  I regularly take business calls while on the mountain (although, occasionally I have to explain why I’m breathing so hard).

Where Can I Buy One?
The Bluetooth does come at a price, about $180 retail.  However, after adding up the cost of multiple ear buds (some very good ones) blown in a season and the factoring in the increased “productivity” and overall enjoyment, I found it worth the price.  Before you take the plunge, be sure to shop around.  I’ve seen prices anywhere from $120-$200 for a new setup.  I’ve, also, had good luck buying them on eBay for me and my family.  Rock on!

Another Holiday Survival Guide

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By Skimum Paula

Menora

The kids are home for the holidays two weeks.  By Day 2, I’m ready to send them back!

Christmas_Tree

As most women know, the holidays are seldom restful.  Presents, trees, foods, parties, sing-a-longs, trips, and in-laws can lead to a wee bit of stress around the yuletide log or menorah, and when our finely-decorated home becomes a mountain of wrapping paper filled with Cheetos-laden lava, then just watch out, because mama is gonna blow!

If that isn’t your house, then YOU should be writing a blog! 

Red_Velvelt_CakeThe holidays are stressful, and our hubbies, boyfriends and kids will often tell us to, “Chill,” and that we don’t need to do so much.  However, if we don’t make the marshmallow sweet potato soufflé that is on the Thanksgiving table every year, then the first words after grace will be, “But we always have it.”  And when my teen son sweetly asked me at the last minute to make the Red Velvet White Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake on the cover of Southern Living magazine, of course, I said, “Yes, darling.” (Reminder – hide or cancel that magazine)

Most gals I know are great multi-taskers.  Most are also terrible delegators – myself included.  I’m making a promise to myself this holiday season to do more and delegate more.  Sound oxymoronic?  It might be, but this is the plan.

I will carve out a half-hour each day (doesn’t matter when) to be alone.  Like my beloved iPad, I need to recharge my battery, too.  So, when I wake up, I will either hide under the covers for 30 minutes or pick a time during that day to lock the door, drive off and stare at the mountains, ski a few runs on my own, read a book, whatever, but I will put it on my iPhone calendar with an alarm and do it.  The idea is the same one Skimums talk about all the time – when we give a little to ourselves, we can give more to others.

Roasted_TurkeySecond, I’m going to delegate more.  My kids like to cook.  So, they will be assigned (in a way that makes them think they volunteered, of course) to make a meal.  I don’t care if we have popcorn for dinner, because, as we all know, they won’t complain if they cook it.  Actually, in the past, I’ve ALWAYS been surprised at the seriousness they’ve displayed when doing this.  I must be a better cook than they tell me I am.

These are not silver bullets because, in the end, we’ll still do more and stress more than usual, but maybe we’ll be a little more self-aware and self-assuring.  We are our own worst critics.  Know that these are “problems” brought out of our desire to give to others, a good thing.  Chocolate is a good thing, too.  We just don’t want it to weigh us down.  Happy Holidays!  Cheers!

Live Like a Tourist:

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A Relaxing Staycation at Cliff Lodge 

By Skimum Paula

Snowbird_Paula_Family_SkiWhen you have over a half dozen ski resorts in your backyard, it’s tough to leave home.  OK, before you out-of-towners start throwing snowballs, know that one of the problems is that you Californians, Texans and Floridians take up all the seats on most flights!  Honestly, many Utahns choose to stick around during the winter months to play in the snow.  We throw our ski gear in the car, head up to Snowbird for a few hours (no, we don’t ski all day; someone has to pick up the kids from school), and then head back to make dinner and go to a varsity volleyball game.  While it’s fun – a lot of fun – it’s not a vacation.

Snowbird Premium Pass holders who purchased early got a special treat this season – a free night at Cliff Lodge.  Family Pass holders received two nights or two rooms.  So, after cleaning up the Thanksgivmakkah dinner, we piled our gear, PJs and toothbrushes into the car and enjoyed a staycation at the Bird.  It was very, very different and very, very good.

Snowbird_Check-inInstead of swinging into the Gad Valley parking lot, we pulled into the heated entrance of the Cliff Lodge, gave our keys to the valets who unloaded our suitcases, handed them off to the bell captain and then whisked away our ski gear to Lodge’s private locker room.  Our hands were not only warm but empty leaving us to proceed to check-in with ease.

As hubby was getting the room keys, I was chatting with the concierge, who not only told me about mountain conditions but what was going on inside the Lodge – big screen movies, board games to borrow, game room downstairs, heated family pool and hot tub next to Chickadee.  My non-skiing teen stopped moping; my other skiing kids starting planning their après ski activities.  Of course, the Cliff Spa is on the roof (I’ve written about that in a prior post), but I wouldn’t make it there this trip.  I can come up anytime for a stone massage.  Put that snowball down!

After getting settled in our adjoining rooms, we all … relaxed… together.  The TVs stayed off and everyone just took a few moments to read, text a friend, listen to music, and even talk to each other!  It was surprisingly peaceful though.  No fighting.  No whining.  No, “I’m bored!”  We were entering vacation mode.

By the way, the beds in the rooms are amazing!  Super comfy.  Almost Heavenly.  Great pillows.

Snowbird_Sushi

We decided to have dinner upstairs at The Aerie Restaurant.  I always forget how much I like The Aerie.  The food and service are terrific.  It’s beautiful with its two-story windows facing the mountain.  Oh, and to please the kids or sports fans, there are a few “TV Tables”, booths with a screen discretely placed behind a curtain.  While I’m not normally a proponent of “tech at the table,” if it keeps the peace and keep everyone at the table longer, then why not?  It’s vacation!  Hubby and I planned to sneak to the Aerie Lounge, an incredibly stylish, adults-only refuge, after the kids went to bed, but we fell asleep early!  J  I guess we’ll just head up during the week some time.  It has a yummy après ski menu as well as a sushi bar and is open to everyone.

Snowbird_Paula_Family_Dinner

The next morning involved more food, of course.  The Atrium Restaurant has a fantastic buffet as well as a la carte items giving you plenty of fuel for a big ski day.  I must admit that the hit was the hot chocolate – rich chocolaty yumminess with a thick mountain of whipped cream on top.  Ridiculously good!

Snowbird_LockersWe hadn’t seen our ski gear since we got out of the car.  They were stowed in the Lodge Locker Room on the first floor.  Big tall private lockers are available to guests free of charge.  The attendants are very … attendant!  They’ll even help you put on your boots.  From there, you ski out the door to Chickadee.  How easy is that?

The skiing was great, but when one kid was done, it didn’t end the day.  He went in to meet the non-skiing sibling, and they had lunch at El Chanate, the Mexican restaurant on the lower level of the Lodge and then hit the game room next door.  They were happy, we were happy.  We met them there, played some video games together and even winning a few (we did grow up with Donkey Kong, after all).

Snowbird_Arcade

Maybe the best part of the trip was that it only took us 20 minutes to get home.  No airports, security, traffic or potty stops.  While Warren Miller famously said, “The family that skis together, bitches at one another.” I doubt he was talking about those who vacation or staycation at Snowbird.

DROP THE KIDS! HIT THE LIFTS!

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By Skimum Paula

Skimums_Chairlift

Nice thought, huh?  Looking out the window, the snow-capped mountains are calling.  World-class ski resorts are only minutes away.  The laundry can wait!  Every year, people in Texas, California and New York spend months of planning and thousands of dollars to bring their families for a few precious days to the winter playground in our own backyard.  Yes, Utahns are spoiled, but do we really take advantage of it? Do we give ourselves permission to enjoy this natural wonder, this beautiful terrain and this incredibly fun activity? 

Work, housework, volunteer work.  Women, especially moms, can come up with any number of things they have to do (usually for others) but, if we’re being honest, we seldom make time for ourselves.  Skimums at Snowbird is designed to do just that.  Last season, several Salt Lake moms contacted the Bird describing how they ski there together weekly and wondering whether they could get some free hot chocolate.  After successfully becoming a destination ski and summer resort, the good folks at Snowbird (who also live here) realized that this was a pretty interesting group of gals made up of parents, professionals, natives, and transplants.  It was a group they wanted to know, understand and cater to better.  Skimums was born.

Skimums is a free weekly meetup group at Snowbird for intermediate/advanced women skiers (lift ticket not included).  Beginning this season on Wednesday, December 4th at 9:30am at the Gadzoom lift, Skimums provides women the opportunity to meet and ski and laugh out loud at the Bird with other gals.  Stay for a few hours or all day.  There is no schedule or agenda.  Like the best endeavors, they collectively decide and go.  It is just a lot more fun to ski with others, and skiing with other women is (admit it, admit it) more enjoyable than snowplowing with cold, whiny kids or getting that ever-so-helpful advice from a spouse.  To paraphrase filmmaker Warren Miller, the family that skis together, spends half the time yelling at each other!

And guess what, Skimums seem to come home in a really good mood.  No one can explain it – exercise, camaraderie, lack of oxygen, lack of teen angst, who knows!  They just do, and their families noticed.  Hubbies started encouraging their wives to go, another spontaneously bought his wife new skis for Valentine’s Day, and one son made his mom promise to ski with the ‘Mums while he was away on his mission.  True stories!  Come to find out, families were ok with a few unfolded tees and mismatched socks.  There are some pretty funny stories on the Skimums.com blog about these and other random ski items  The bottom line is that when women give a little to themselves, they’re able to give more to others.

If you haven’t skied since parabolic skis were introduced, then don’t despair.  It’s actually a lot easier (and warmer) with the newer gear, and Snowbird is working on a “Returner’s Permit” to get these gals back on the slopes.  In conjunction with SkiUtah’s Learn to Ski program (for first-time skiers) in January, these programs offer incredible deals on lift tickets, equipment and lessons.  Snowbird is also providing Skimums a series of four group lessons starting the end of January – for free.  These were hugely popular last year and got the gals seeking out powder the rest of the season.  Watch the blog for details.  So, break out those oh-so-flattering ski pants and plan to see your friends (the ones dashing out of the carpool line) on the slopes!

Top Ten Reasons I love Snowbird

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This weekend a few of us were chatting about the upcoming ski season, and a girlfriend mentioned she had never skied Snowbird because it is just too “intimidating.”  I hear you my friend.  At one time, I felt the same way:  “The Bird is for those hard core skiers who use words like ‘pow’ and ‘shred,’ for skiers who hike up mountains with skis on their backs and float effortlessly through the powder . . .  it’s really a resort for skiers on vacation, not locals . . . plus, where in the world do I park if I DO want to ski Snowbird –  there are FOUR different entrances!” These were a few of the thoughts racing through my mind, and I believed Snowbird was just too intimidating for a local Salt Lake girl, so I stuck with the resorts I knew so well.  Comfort zone is a good thing.  Right?

Wrong!  A few years back I discovered Snowbird.  I’ll never forget that afternoon – I was blown away by the pure majesty of those mountains, the killer terrain, and the ease of getting around the resort.  Now, as a Snowbird season pass holder, I have to share WHY I love to ski the Bird . . .

Julie’s Top 10:

Snowbird_Customer_Service10.  Customer Service.  What other ski resort offers to call the shuttle just for you, with the expectation that the driver takes you right to your car.  Indeed, that was one of my first parking lot experiences.  I was headed out of the Snowbird Center with skis on my shoulder, poles in hand, and gearing up for the walk to the car when the shuttle dude asked if I need a ride.  “Um, well, I was just going to walk to my car,” I explained.  He immediately told me, “no, you don’t have to do that, he’s on his way.”  Seconds later I was boarding the shuttle and telling the driver to keep his eyes peeled for the white Sequoia up the hill.  Very nice.  Plus, they also bus your tables at Mid Gad, AND if you need a little help adjusting your bindings, someone is there with a screwdriver and advice.  Nice.

9.  Friendly Lift Operators.  The.Best.Ever.  I love the lift operators and ticket scanner folks at the Bird.  Always friendly, always asking how you’re doing, always happy, and if Jared is working (usually manning the Wilbere lift), you’ll be rewarded with a great joke if you ask.  Bonus!

8.  The Food.  Yep, GREAT food at the Bird.  My favorite spot for lunch is the Mid Gad Restaurant, located right off the slopes on the Gad Valley side of the resort.  Awesome food (oh, those fries), huge portions (girls, share a sandwich and save $$), and unbeatable views from the dining area.  If I’m looking for a little more of a dining experience (while still in ski gear), it’s all about sitting near the fire and enjoying a salad or burger at The Forklift (off the Plaza).

7.  The Cliff Lodge.   If you purchase your season passes pre-season, you’ll receive a FREE night at the Cliff, so take advantage!  Breathtaking views of the mountains, fantastic restaurants, unbelievable rooftop pool & hot tub, as well as a world class spa.  Plus, the Aerie lounge and restaurant on the top floor is the perfect spot for apres or a romantic dinner.  Just perfect after a day on the slopes.

6.  The Plaza.  I love, love, love the plaza.  Grab a table, put up your feet, watch the tram descend from Hidden Peak, and enjoy the people watching.  This is where the community of skiers and boarders come together to relax, mingle, and grab a bite (the Birdfeeder and Tram Pizza are excellent choices for something quick).

5.  Baby Thunder.  The idea of piling into a crowded tram on a powder day sends me into a panic attack.  I did that once, and barely survived.  However, the tram isn’t the only place to head after an overnight dumping of the white stuff.  For claustrophobics like myself, we head to the lesser known and out of the way lift, Baby Thunder (look for it on a trail map).  Yes, it’s a great lift for the little ones, but if you’re searching for some untouched pristine powder in the trees, this is it.  Plus, it’s a great spot to practice your turns in knee-deep powder without the crowds.  LOVE!

4.  Hidden Peak.  Views. Views. Views.  This is where you will get that unforgettable picture with the family or ski buddies.  The 360 degree views at 11,000 ft are unparalleled as you view down into the Salt Lake Valley on the west and into Mineral Basin on the West, with Twin Peaks to the south and Mt. Baldy to the North.  Absolutely gorgeous on a bluebird day, so have that camera phone ready!

3.  Terrain.  You’ve heard it said that Snowbird’s terrain is some of the best in the world.  Truth.  Whatever you are in the mood for, you can find it at the Bird.  Want steeps?  Looking for trees?  Want to take it easy, relax, and cruise groomers?  Looking for out of the way moguls still soft with powder (think Dalton’s Draw)?  Need to traverse to find that perfect line?  Ready to hike for fresh tracks?  It’s all here, one stop shopping, and THAT is what makes this place so special.  Whatever I’m in the mood to ski, I can find it at the Bird and it doesn’t disappoint.

2.  Summer at the Bird.  Did you know Snowbird becomes a full service summer resort once the ski season comes to an end?  Summer is the perfect time to really explore and become familiar with the resort.  Take the tram to Hidden Peak (free with season pass) and hike the spectacular mountain trails while enjoying the views, bring the family to enjoy the summer activities (alpine slide, coaster, ropes course, mountain flyer, etc.), come for a Friday night movie on the plaza, or bring the bikes for some incredible mountain biking.  Watch for summer info in May at www.snowbird.com!

1.  Mineral Basin.  The first time I came to the end of the tunnel and viewed Mineral Basin I was blown away by its stunning beauty.  It’s simply breathtaking.  There is something magical about skiing in Mineral Basin, it’s truly an elixir for the soul and definitely my favorite part of skiing Snowbird.  Mineral Basin offers skiing for ALL levels and never disappoints.  My most memorable moments skiing the Bird have happened here, so don’t forget to make it into the basin when you ski the Bird.  Pure magic.

Mineral Basin

Mineral Basin, Snowbird, UT

There you have it, my top 10, and ten reasons that will make your ski experience at Snowbird one to remember, not to mention, much less intimidating :).

The Fast & Furious Tabata Workout

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By Skimum Paula

I think Tabata is Japanese for “suffer,” but that may be unfair. Developed by a Japanese scientist by the same name, the theory behind a Tabata workout is that an intense, 4-minute workout can improve aerobic and anaerobic performance better than endless sets of lifts and miles of cardio. For busy (and unless carpooling is an Olympic sport, non-jock) Skimums, this sounds perfect!

According to TabataTraining.org (of course), the basic components of a Tabata workout include–

  • 20 seconds of intense training
  • 10 seconds of rest
  • 8 rounds total

Done in 4 Minutes!

I can suffer through just about anything for 4 minutes. Heck, I was in labor for 21 hours. Four minutes? Easy! Here is one Tabata workout Skimum and Personal Trainer, Melissa Newell, threw at me—

  1. Jumping jacks
  2. Alternating backward lunges
  3. Jumping jacks
  4. Alternating backward lunges
  5. Burpees
  6. Side skaters
  7. Burpees
  8. Side Skaters

Well, I wouldn’t call it easy (re-read the first sentence). It’s really hard, but it’s over so quickly, it’s kind of a rush!

Because these are calisthenics-style exercises, you can do them in your home in your bare feet and Paul Frank pajamas after the monkeys have finally gone to bed. Very little space is required. Squats, burpees, jumping jacks – there are dozens of different exercises incorporated into a Tabata workout, but they generally are done in place. So, stand in front of the television, crank up an episode of Scandal and Tabata away. You’ll be done before the first commercial. You’ll feel like such a Gladiator! (Scandal humor)

Finally, other than a timer like the one on your phone, no special equipment is needed. You can grab a few hand weights (or a couple cans of diced tomatoes) to step things up, but many exercises rely on body weight as the resistance.

There are all kinds of Tabata recipes, but contact a personal trainer for a workout that meets your fitness goals and (of course) check with your physician before starting any exercise program.

 

Baker, Stronger, Faster!

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By Skimum Paula

I’m not a jock. I hate running, I’ve had gym memberships go stale, and a yogi once trampled me, but that’s another story. This wouldn’t be a problem except that I like to eat, drink and ski powder. So, in order not to resemble a snowball both on and off the slopes this winter, I decided to do something.

I baked chocolate chip cookies.

They were delicious, although I needed to try three just to make sure. Then, I took pictures and posted them on Instgram where I came face to screen with a six-pack of abs. OMG! They belonged to the mom of a kid in my daughter’s class. A real mom! Who’s had real babies! Who I see in the carpool line!

Oh, fudge!

I hit “Like” and sent the mom, Melissa Newell, a personal trainer with a personality and a Skimum, an email saying, “I’m tired of looking at your abs and then looking at mine! Help!”

As a working mom, Melissa appreciates that finding time to exercise is HARD and that making time is even HARDER. I can always find a reason not to exercise, e.g., work, volunteer project, kid activity, household “stuff”. If I’m being honest though, it is part of the “not granting myself permission to do for me” barrier that every woman I know faces constantly. With Melissa literally showing up at my door, handing me weights and counting down reps, I cannot put up that barrier. With her gabbing with me while doing another freaking set of sit-ups, I cannot quit, get bored, swear or think about my to-do list. Ok, I still swear a little bit during sit-ups. The barrier is gone though, I’m having fun and I’m seeing results – both inside and outside.

One month later…

I have lost 3 inches (and gained a half-inch in my bust, which amused Hubby greatly). More importantly for me, I have gained strength and endurance, which will definitely help me on the slopes. My shoulders, arms, and legs now have little bumps here and there. That’s pretty cool! I’ve doubled the number of pushups and sit-ups I’m able to do as well as the amount of time I can plank. I can plank!! I can crank out 20 minutes on my “classic” NordicTrack skier, a fantastic piece of machinery I picked up online, while chatting away. Do I have six-pack abs? Oh, goodness, no, but I’m no longer afraid to look. Best of all, I feel stronger than I have in a long, long time. I’m ready to tackle powder, moguls, teenagers, whatever comes my way, and maybe a few more cookies.

For more on one of Melissa’s pre-season Skimum workouts, read The Fast & Furious Workout.

Iron Man of Snowbird

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By SkiMum Valerie

I had the pleasure this morning of riding up the Little Cloud lift with an
enthusiastic young man named Joe Wale.  His first words to me were, “Do you mind if I put the bar down?  My legs are killing me.”  Turns out I had actually seen Joe earlier that morning on my drive up little cottonwood canyon.  I had passed him near the Red Pine Trailhead as he was riding his bike up the road with his skis strapped to his back.  “That is one ambitious guy”, I thought to myself as I passed by.  Little did I know, that wasn’t half the story.  Joe explained that it had always been a dream of his to bike up the canyon and ski Snowbird.  In the early, early hours of  Friday morning  Joe decided to make his dream a reality.

Joe_Wale_Snowbird_2

It all started Thursday night when he and his friend decided to ski the backside of High Traverse at Alta.  They took off at 11:00 PM and got back home at 3:00 AM.  Joe slept for 30 minutes during the car ride home.  After collecting his ski gear, 3 liters of water and a pile of Cliff Bars, he took off on his 20-year old Cannondale mountain bike in search of snow.  It was now 4:30 AM under a full moon.  Joe reached the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon at 6:00 AM and arrived at the Snowbird Center at 8:15 AM.  After skiing for 2 hours, he loaded up his gear and headed back  down the canyon.  The roundtrip was 40 miles with a 4,600 vertical gain.  Impressive!

Joe_Wale_Snowbird_4
End of the story?…not quite.  I emailed Joe the photos I had taken of him at Snowbird.  He replied and gave me an update on his day.  After returning home from skiing he slept for 2 hours and then got a call from some friends asking him to go mountain biking with them.  Naturally, he accepted the offer and biked from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.