Jackson Hole Conditions Report: March 6-20

Wow. Has it really been two weeks since my last round-up? I guess I'll chalk my chronographic delusion up to the old adage that time flies when we're having fun. A whirlwind of memories sparks through my mind as I think back on the wide variety of skiing that's gone down lately. So, come along with me for a hot minute while I try to organize my adrenaline-washed recollections into a few peak moments from winter's fantastic final hurrah.

The 7th kicked off the past fortnight with a 5-inch refresh that had the resort skiing fast and forgiving. The powder pounding we had enjoyed in February seemed to be alive and well as we gorged on forest-bound faceshots under thick cloud cover, but a drastic change was just over the horizon. The morning of the 8th dawned in a classic fashion with cool temperatures and sparkling bluebird skies. The freshly coated backcountry canvas that had been hiding in the mist for days was finally revealed, and the local alpine artists took to the sky. The strangely wind-featured flanks proved highly shreddable as thrill seekers tested consequential lines and monumental airs. It was a high-fiving, party-like vibe with revelers cheering each other on with an unabashed gusto. The next five days would see the sunshine and warm temperatures settle in. Corn that had quickly set up on the southern faces began to get sloppy. Untouched northern stashes were hunted down while temperatures took their upward turn, though telltale roller balls began to put thoughts of an early spring arrival into many people's heads. But, like this season has done so many times before, it was all just an atmospheric pump-fake, and the reality was that winter had one final blast in store for Jackson Hole. The onslaught began on the 13th as a full-force day of storm skiing let loose with seven inches of snow while the lifts were spinning. A welcome topping to the firmly skier-packed slopes but far from a full healing. We wouldn't have to wait long, however, for the powder prescription to take effect as the snowfall continued with another 14 inches, then 11, then another 10! It was the super rippable, energy-absorbing snow that makes you feel invincible. The kind of mind-erasing, stupor-producing conditions that leave deep indulgers in a state of blissful confusion. Somewhere in the midst of the maelstrom, we blasted past the 400" mark for the season, but all that really mattered were the crystals currently colliding with your face. The stacking even proved too quick for the annual downhill to take place. Speed racers found themselves dolphining through the deep delights with everyone else instead. All in all, we tallied over 50 inches in 5 days, erasing any concerns of an early spring and adding more deep memories to the wacky season of 24/25. The 19th was the final official winter day, and it dawned following a little 2-inch touch-up with blue skies illuminating the newly renovated mountains. As if caught in a time loop, the big mountain fanatics found themselves heading for the untouched backcountry just as they had two weeks prior. A cold west wind made for dry vapor cloud visuals as the classic lines offered up their dopamine delivery services. Back in bounds, the last turns of winter took place with mellow crowds cruising on pristine corduroy corridors and through an endless collection of forgiving off-trail options.

Like I said, time sure flies in the land where powder thrills fill your head. This morning dawned with us teetering on the vernal equinox. Situated precisely between winter and summer, the Tetons chose winter. After the one-day respite from the tempest, storm-skiing returned to the slopes, empowering additional faceshot hopes as we floated off into yet another alpine dream. Two dozen days is all that remains for this ski season, as unbelievable as that may seem. So, don't lose steam now... I've got a feeling we're still gonna garner a whole heap of pow! -Dr. H