Alyeska's First Friday Open Draws Slope Enthusiasts

Despite lack of natural snow, skiers and snowboarders have a blast

Tools

By Lacie Grosvold

Story Created: Nov 23, 2012 at 7:49 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Nov 23, 2012 at 7:49 PM AKDT

GIRDWOOD - On Alyeska's first open Friday of the season, the weather couldn't be better... unless it was snowing that is. The drive down to the resort was all sunny and blue skies, warmer than it's been all week. But all the previous cool weather means it hasn't been snowing, and after last year's record breaking snow season, it leaves boarders and skiers wanting for more snow.

Alyeska's snow machines were out manufacturing snow, something that Alyeska's services manager said is common at ski areas across the country. He goes out on the snow almost every day to "test the product." He said, "the snow cover is somewhat thin, but where we've been able to make and groom snow, it's in excellent condition. You will find no place that has more snow"

And since it's the "only place," it's crowded. That's what skiers and snowboarders were saying.

13-year-old Austin Crozier said saw a lot of wipe outs and today it was really crowded. But he said he's still happy to be on the mountain. "It's one of the most happiest days of my life."

Two friends, Tim Brant and Ryan Edwards, were kicking off their second snow boarding season at Alyeska. They said conditions aren't ideal, but it's still fun to be out.

After a short run where he fell at least once, Edwards said, "It's Friday, I'm not working. I'm loving life."

You have indicated this comment should be removed.

Close

The comment has been submitted for review. Thank you .

Jay said on Friday, Nov 23 at 8:23 PM

Well, not exactly the "only place", Hilltop is open and I snowboarded there yesterday. At least no rocks and good coverage on what was open, but I'm sure it doesn't hold a candle to the vertical at Alyeska. Everyone needs more snow.

107498916
Inappropriate? Alert Us!

Add a comment

Name:

Comment: 1000 Characters Left

KTVA CBS 11 | Anchorage, Alaska News and Weather and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the above comments or other interaction among the users. We reserve the right to screen, refuse to post, remove or edit user-generated content at any time and for any or no reason in our absolute and sole discretion without prior notice, although we have no duty to do so or to monitor any Public Forum.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.