Feb 28: Bluebird Motivation Monday at Alpine

Scenic photo of Alpine Bowl at Palisades Tahoe

What could be more motivational than starting the week with skiing? It was another sunny day with blue skies at Alpine! The temperature this morning was forecasted to be above freezing, which meant a very warm day.

We showed up in the afternoon to ski a few laps and enjoy beautiful views from Ward peak. 

We took Subway chair and went straight to Treeline cirque. The Sherwood face bumps were soft and slushy. Obviously, that area is past ripe already, so we decided to get back to the front side. Werner’s Schuss was very good with soft snow. We skied down, hopped on Summit, and ventured to Wolverine bowl. It was quite nice with a good grip on the groomed part and soft bumps on the side. After Wolverine, we plunged into Alpine Bowl which was still in perfect condition. 

Skier cruising down Alpine Bowl trail

After Alpine Bowl, we took Scott chair to ski down to Lakeview. That was a mistake—the flat traverse was very sticky. In fact, all the snow in the direct sunlight was grabbing my skis pretty hard. The views at the top of Lakeview were amazing and you could see the entire Alpine bowl, Palisades, and Keyhole, as well as Lake Tahoe! Despite the slushy snow, it was all totally worth it! After taking a few pictures, we returned to the frontside. 

Views from Lakeview. You can make out Ward Peak (with the radio towers) above Keyhole and the sun shining on Alpine Bowl.
View of Lake Tahoe, right off the top of Lakeview Chair

Here are a few choices for some afternoon skiing: The Face, Palisades, Peter’s Peril, High Yellow, as well as Yellow trail all have little sunlight compared to other parts of the mountain. Tomorrow will be very warm and sunny with low wind. Come earlier if you can and follow the sun. Start with groomers, then go to slopes where the sun melts the snow first, then chase shaded runs in the afternoon. 

View from Pete’s Peril
Not the best light, but good snow in the Palisades

While leaving the parking lot next to Subway we noticed a coyote wandering around. Please watch your small dogs and children!

Coyote lurking in the Alpine Base area at Palisades Tahoe
Coyote lurking near the base of Subway Chair.

Enjoy this nice weather before winter comes back as a storm rolls into the Tahoe area on later this week!

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Claire Weiss

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