by Judy Bracken
Since last March when the pandemic shutdown occurred, many of us have hiked, biked, danced, walked, and/or swam outdoors to keep fit and healthy. Now it’s time for ski season, and some of us have headed up to the slopes for yet another form of outdoor exercise. No pandemic will keep us down!
Some things have changed and some have not. Here’s the lowdown:
HAS NOT CHANGED:
- The joy one feels when schussing through the snow
- The views! Nothing like seeing the blue and beautiful Lake Tahoe while at 9000 feet
- The snow itself, although much was man made (not now with this weeks storm series)
- The hoar frost on the pine boughs sparkling in the sun
- Bluebird days and windy ridges
- Whooping to a friend as you whiz past each other
- Laughing on the chairlift
HAS CHANGED:
- Lift lines are slightly longer since most chairs have just 2-3 people on them
- Lunchtime is outside or on the chairlift. You can go inside to get a small selection of hot and cold food, but then you must eat outside. We found a secret place to warm up, courtesy of Carol H, the ambassador of Northstar.
- Masks are worn in lines, shuttles and lodges. You can use your face/neck warmer, but it has to fully cover mouth and nose. The lift line managers remind those who are not in compliance.
- No boots or bags can be left anywhere but inside a locker. So wear the ski boots out of the car.
As you can see, the best things about skiing are still the same. We just have to make a few adjustments to keep safe and healthy while enjoying our favorite sport. Hope to see you on the slopes!
