Dark and Stormy

I am not talking about the drink. We have had some clouds and light rain roll in this afternoon. The weather here can create some dramatic images. It sounds like it is really raining down in the Front Range. The mountain looks really good. The grass and brush is green and high.

Back From Vacation

Just rolled backed into town after a couple of good river trips. Kay and I and some friends floated Hells Canyon on the Snake River and the Rogue River in Oregon. Lots of good rapids, great scenery, wildlife (4 black bears on the Rogue) and great fun.

I missed a lot while I was gone. Yoga on the Mountain and the Trail Run and BBQ appear to have been big hits. I pulled in last night and wandered around the ski area for a while. The Kid Center construction is moving right along and the mountain looks to be in peak summer condition. Vacation was fun, but it is always good to show back up at The Basin.

Mid-Mountain Scenics

Each day the vegetation is a little greener and a little fuller.The bluebells are really coming on. A few employees have spied a moose wandering around the ski area. I have not had the pleasure yet to see it, but hope to soon.

FYI - Not many spots left for Yoga on the Mountain on Sunday.

6th Alley Hiccup

We have a little hiccup in our 6th Alley Bar and Grill program. It will continue to be open from 11-4 Saturdays and Sundays. This weekend, though, there is a little hitch. The Triple Bypass bike ride is going over the Pass Saturday and Sunday. State Patrol will be closing the highway to public traffic from 10 AM until 2 PM both days. We will still be open, but hard to get to. Maybe this weekend you could:

-Stop by after 2 for a late lunch and a drink.

-Arrive at The Basin before 10, go for a good hike, enjoy lunch, and drive down after 2.

-Or, if you are a Triple Bypass rider, you could skip the gross energy bar and stop here for a good salad, soup bowl, sandwich and more.

Anyway, it is a small hiccup and we are sorry for the inconvenience.

THE 6TH ALLEY BAR AND GRILL IS OPEN THIS WEEKEND.

Argentine North Fork Trail

Over the last week I have been up and down the Argentine North Fork Trail three times. It is in fine shape. There are a couple of very small snow patches, but they are disappearing quickly. While most of it is dry, there are some wet spots. As you travel the trail on foot or on bike, be sure and take it easy through the wet spots. The road from mid-mountain to the Summit is also mostly good for hiking and riding. During and immediately following the snow melt is time to be an extra good steward to the land. Walk and ride gently and don't be afraid to get off the bike for the wet areas.

The trail was designed by Joey Klein from IMBA. He also did much of the construction and taught our crew how to do the rest. I can't thank him enough for this A-Basin gem.

Not Much Snow Left

Summer Lift Evac Training

Thursday we did an "All Hands On Deck" lift evacuation training exercise on Black Mountain Express. Always a little fun and always good for everyone.

6th Alley Brunch

The 6th Alley Bar and Grill Inaugural Summer Opening was a success today. About 50 people joined us for lunch. Chef Rybak kept much of the winter menu, but added a few good entrees. There are brunch offerings including Frittatas, Stuffed French Toast, and Havana Eggs Benedict. There is also a tasty Vietnamese Noodle Salad. Mug Club Members still have privileges.