I was clicking through itunes recently and decided to download a couple of Lost episodes from Season 2 (I confess I’m a little addicted to watching these on my ipod), and I came across this playlist for the snowboarding crowd. We did a similar list a while back, and let’s face it, they are the product of two widely divergent sets of musical taste.
Photo of the Day (1/7/2007)
Gadling Flickr contributor bluepeak has obviously been spending a lot of time outside shooting pictures after some hard-core snow fall. We posted one of his pics not long ago, but this one is one of the best I’ve seen among his collection. I especially Love the way the sun catches off the edge of this snowdrift. Lucky guy/gal to be at that spot at the right time, but I’m glad he was cause that photo is stupendous. Almost makes me want to go skiing.
Video Guide to Whistler
Whistler is easily my favorite place in North America to ski. The few times I’ve hauled myself up Blackcomb Glacier and skied the deep freshie remain some of the best runs I’ve ever had in my life. Just thinking about it now makes my spine tingle. If you’ve never been to Whistler, then I’ve got a treat for you.
Take a look at this video guide to Whistler from Drift and Creekstone Productions…which appears to be some kind of promotional video company. Actually the video is hosted by Travelistic, whose site we’ve been a fan of since it recently launched. Anyway, set aside that part, the video is actually quite good and gives a flavor of both what the fine skiing is like at Whistler, and also the surrounding culture and life. It fairly well produced…though not great…but it is a sign of the future, I think, where we will see a lot more video about the places we love.
Deepest Snow in the World
Mt. Baker, in Washington’s northern Cascades is a lesser-known gem of a ski area, and well worth the trip. About three hours by car north from Seattle, this is pure skiing country: no frills, no megaresorts, no pretense. In fact, there is no real estate sold around the ski area and it it has no overnight accommodation. And best of all? Mt. Baker has had the record for the world’s biggest recorded snowfall: 1140 inches (1999). Heck, they average 647 inches per year.
Although it’s been a few years since I’ve been there, I can attest to being nearly alone on the mountain, sun-drenched and literally waist-deep in incredible, fresh powder. All this, while paying under $40 for a lift ticket, and avoiding the (kinda) nearby crowds of Whistler.
Do me a favor. Don’t tell your friends about this place.
Winter Trails 2007
Haven’t had a chance to break into a winter activity? Well, Winter Trails 2007 takes place 6 January (tomorrow), and it could be your kick-off to an active season.
The Winter Trails program offers anyone the chance to try snowshoeing and cross country skiing for free. The event is geared toward those new to the activities, and the site tells me it’s an excellent outdoor experience for families, hikers, and youth groups. Many resorts across the United States will participate in the all-day event, and you can find out if there’s one near you via the Winter Trails 2007 event website.
Me? I love snow sports like downhill skiing and drunken tobogganing. There’s just something invigorating about waving your fist in the face of winter’s desolation… and watching the snow bunnies. Yeah, the snow bunnies have a lot to do with it.