Powder Week, Jackson, WY:
When we arrived to Jackson the sun was in and out of the clouds and the snow was melting at a noticeable rate. Rain was falling as we traveled over Teaton Pass, but our hopes for skiing the infamous Jackson remained strong. As we pulled into Teaton Village water dripped off the roofs and seeped through the parking lots like the floodgates had been opened in the hills above. It was hard to believe we were there to be testing and showcasing the industries new and best powder skis, as winter had taken a turn towards spring. That night all the people involved in the event, and a few extras, all got together and talked about the week and shared stories from the arduous trip up to Jackson or from previous experiences from winter months prior. The room was filled with the who’s who of industry folk. From media giants to athletes past and present, Powder’s Powder week had gathered yet another great group all there to experience one of North America’s greatest mountain resorts.
We awoke the next morning and the sound of settling snow and dripping water filled the air. The stoke level was not very high as people gathered in the Gabe room at the base of the mountain to prepare for the less then stellar day. The Powder Magazine affiliates scrambled to greet everyone and make sure the event was getting off as planned, but no one was in a rush to hit the icy “slopes.” People were pensive about skiing, as the snow was questionable and the clouds were low and dense. Winds howled at the base of the mountain, although the temperature was hovering well above freezing. The air was filled with a moist eastern feel, yet as we boarded the gondola at the bottom of the mountain and rose into the clouds the air thickened and the rain turned to snow. Eager anticipation for what was going to be a total wash of a day turned to hopes of fluff and white smooth fresh blown snow.
Exploring the backcountry of Jackson turned out to be more of a challenge then expected. However, with the help of a few locals, some secrets were divulged and powder was plentiful as the four day event passed and the weather turned from crappy to cake. The snow started to fall and the death cookie crust from the first day turned into cookie flower. The snow came, although in small amounts, and everyone that was in attendance was beyond stoked. Furthermore, I was there representing HEAD and as the snow fell and became more apt for powder skis, the new 110mm under foot ski called the Jimi came out and those who were able to make some laps on the new board were elated. I personally only had the opportunity to make one lap on the ski, but I must say I was giggling the whole way down. Biased opinion aside, one of the most fun skis I have ever skied on, and to experience it on a mountain like Jackson is a testament to the experience.
All in all a great week in WY and many thanks to the guys at Powder Magazine for making it happen.
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