Local Freshies

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6 Of The Weirdest Ski Town Tourist Attractions To See

Let’s be frank… no matter how well you planned your trip, sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate, your legs are toast, or maybe you end up getting injured. Regardless the reason, you just need some time to chill. Of course, you can enjoy a hot cocoa or partake in a unique adult beverage, like the one with a real human toe, but that can only last for so long. Instead, why not explore one of these unique ski town tourist attractions.

Flavor Graveyard

Waterbury, Vermont

Image appears courtesy: Ben And Jerry’s

Dearly “de-pinted”, we are gathered here to pay our respects and acknowledge that these flavors will be missed. What started originally on the Ben & Jerry website has transformed to an honest-to-goodness tourist attraction at the Ben & Jerry ice cream factory. The Flavor Graveyard in Waterbury started in 1997 and now contains over 31 flavors that have been “buried” here. The first official residents were Dastardly Mash (1979-1991), Economic Crunch (1987-1987), Ethan Almond (1988-1988), and Tuskegee Crunch (1989-1990). If you’re anywhere near Stowe, Sugarbush, or Smugglers’ Notch resorts, this is a must visit.

Big Mountain Jesus

Whitefish, Montana

Image appears courtesy: Explore Whitefish

Off a non-descript trail near the summit of chair 2 on Whitefish Mountain Resort sits a painted stone figure overlooking the Flathead Valley below. Coming up to it on an eerie cloudy morning with wisps of fog floating past, you’ll be shocked to see a giant statue of Jesus Christ & wonder why it’s there. Some of the founders of Big Mountain were part of the 10th mountain division during World War II & would come upon various religious shrines in the remote mountain communities in the Alps. Inspired by this, they helped erect this status in honor of those brave troops that fought in Italy during WWII. You may come for the uncrowded slopes, amazing vistas, and near perfect snow, but be sure to not miss out on this unique site.

The Wooden Troll

Breckenridge, Colorado

Image appears courtesy: @GoBreck – Visit www.gobreck.com to find the Isak

His name is Isak Heartstone. Always carrying a big smile, he greets each person that comes to visit him with just that. We’re not talking about a tour guide… but rather a wooden troll. A massive wooden one standing at over fifteen feet in height. Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of a summer arts festival, he had to be removed due to crowds. Fortunately, he’s now in his new home near the ice arena & can be accessed on a new trail called Trollstigen.

Whistler Train Wreck

Whistler, British Columbia

Photo by: Mike Crane Photography – Image appears courtesy: Tourism Whistler

Tucked away in an old growth forest could be THE hidden attraction in Whistler. Difficult to find & shrouded in a bit of mystery sits a graveyard of CN train cars spackled with urban graffiti & surrounded by a network of hiking and biking trails. It’s an odd dichotomy of man-made and natural. Mature yet modern. Far from any rails and engulfed by massive cedars, the first thought will be “Where did these come from?” Supposedly in the late 1950s a train wreck happened where the boxcars were wedged in due to an excessively fast turn. It wasn’t until 2014 that the mystery was solved. While for a few years this attraction was inaccessible, luckily with the opening of the new Cheakamus bridge, you can now see for yourself the visual juxtaposition of metal and nature, history and culture, known only as Whistler’s “Train Wreck.”

Mr. Banff – The Merman

Banff, Alberta

Image appears courtesy: Banff Lake Louise Tourism

Mermaids appear in countless folklore stories with the first known being from ancient Assyria. The goddess Atargatis transformed herself into one out of shame for accidentally killing her human lover. For those wanting to see one themselves, you don’t need to head to the 7 seas but rather Banff! In the unassuming East Indian Trading Company is the oldest statesman… or rather Merman. This half-terrifying taxidermy experiment was acquired by the proprietor of the shop Norman Luxton around 1915. Stories swirl around the origin such as Luxton purchasing the gaff from a mysterious Javanese salesman or that he himself built the beast. All the same… this is something that you need to see in person.

The Museum Of Clean

Pocatello, Idaho

Image appears courtesy: Visit Pocatello

Calling all clean freaks, spring sweepers, or lovers of cleanliness. This shrine gears towards all things clean & is a unique museum to say the least. Even though it has museum-worthy “artifacts” like sweepers, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and other cleaning paraphernalia, the goal of this place is much more than that. Don “The King Of Clean” wants to teach visitors how to be & want to be… clean. Heck, even the 90-year-old building it’s in was awarded by Idaho as the “2013 Pollution Prevention Champion Award” because of conservation and recycling. Because as we all know, a clean environment is part of being clean too.

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Want To Up Your Game? Then You Might Want To Consider Food As Fuel

There I was this Sunday at the top of a 1,300’ vertical foot ascent on my mountain bike, feeling like I took seven shots of espresso. I was in utter disbelief at what I had accomplished from a personal perspective. How did I make it to the top without stopping once? Was it cardio? Water? For me, it was about food! Yes, food. For a lot of people out there this may come as no surprise, but to me, it was like a whole new aspect that I never even considered. The importance of how to fuel your body for all your outdoor adventures is way more important than I ever realized. Of course, I’m not an expert but here’s what I personally learned from friends, books, and shops that has really helped me.

Feeling Exhausted Even When In Shape

Earning Your Turns In The Lassen Backcountry

One of the biggest personal red flags that I didn’t recognize was I had a nutrition problem. Being in good shape, I couldn’t believe how exhausted I was all the time out on the trails. I’d start out on a backcountry mission or mountain bike adventure feeling great, and about two hours in, I’d crash. The energy in my body would go down to zero. I always thought that it was an endurance issue. That maybe I wasn’t running or exercising enough. Fortunately, my backcountry mentor pointed out that the issue was I wasn’t fueling my body throughout the day of activity.

Just Like Goldilocks… Feed Your Body Just The Right Amount

Nearing the summit of Tahoe Mountain with Lake Tahoe in the distance

My first reaction was that I needed to eat a HUGE breakfast, but in reality that’s the worst thing I could do. Just like a high-performance engine, the key is to fuel the body at the right times to make sure it continues to run perfectly. Of course, you don’t want to overfeed it either. During exercise, your body can only process 30 to 60 grams of carbs per hour so any more than that and your hurting your performance.

Body Type

This was my new personal revelation. As I’ve recently learned, there are three basic body types out there and each one uses a different ratio of carbs, proteins, and fats to run efficiently. For example, I’m an ectomorph meaning that I should be dedicating around 40% of my diet to carbohydrates compared to my adventure partner, Jaime, who is an endomorph, which is only 25% carbs. And on a day like this Sunday, where you’re out for a few hours or the entire day, understanding your primary fuel is key. I did one serving of pancakes (four dollar-sized pancakes), three tablespoons of maple syrup, and two eggs. This, plus 4 GU Energy blocks every hour put my body in overdrive!

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Summer’s The Right Time… To Stargaze In A Dark Sky Preserve

Compared to city living, the great outdoors afford us an opportunity to test our limits against natural obstacles like mountains or rivers. That’s all good, but sometimes you need to slow down and just take it all in. Unplug, unwind, and just be plain ole’ one with nature. So, as the sun sets below the horizon in one of these dark sky preserves, inhale a crisp, clean breath of fresh air and look up at a star canvas that no other locale can.

What Is A Dark Sky Preserve?

Only a century ago, every person on the planet could step outside their home and look up to a wondrous sky filled with stars. Unfortunately, as suburban sprawl continues to expand, millions may never experience the Milky Way due to the excessive use of outdoor light. Well, that’s where the dark sky preserve comes in. A group of individuals known as the International Dark Sky Park program has sought out and certified parks as well as public lands that possess exceptional starry skies and natural nocturnal habitat where there’s little no light pollution.

Photo by: ©Nils Ribi Photography

If you haven’t planned a summer getaway from the chaos of daily life, these two dark sky preserves are a great option.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park

Photo by: Sarah House – Image appears courtesy: Headlands International Dark Sky Park

You might guess that Michigan with its cities and resort towns wouldn’t be home to a dark sky preserve. Well, guess again. In fact, in 2011 the Headlands International Dark Sky Park was one of only TEN international dark sky parks in the world at that time. Sitting on a 550-acre parcel of land overlooking the straits of Mackinaw, it features two miles of undeveloped beach providing a great summer vacation spot both during the day AND night.

The Northern Lights – Image appears courtesy: Headlands International Dark Sky Park

Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve

Photo by: ©Nils Ribi Photography

With a sparse population and wide-open spaces, Idaho is the ultimate getaway when it comes to outdoor adventure. So, it should come as no surprise that it’s also home to the first American Dark Sky Reserve – the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. Think of the designations similar to a state park, national park, and a wildlife refuge. A Dark Sky Reserve means that it goes out of its way to ensure nature is in charge not mankind when it comes to the nightly light show. Right in the center of the Sawtooth Range, between Ketchum and Stanley and covering a swath of over 1,400 square miles, it may take a bit of work to walk into it, but like any natural phenomenon, it’s well worth the effort. Don’t believe us? Check out Steve Graepel’s experience on Visit Idaho’s homepage.

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6 Ski Towns To Visit In The Summer That You May Have Never Heard Of

Of course, this list could be another list of “easy” resorts to name like Lake Tahoe, Whistler, or Jackson Hole. Instead of showcasing the crowded summer destinations, we decided to focus on some lesser known spots. Here’s 6 ski towns to visit in the summer and why.

Wallace, Idaho

Image appears courtesy: Historic Wallace Chamber Of Commerce

In 2004, Wallace declared itself as the “center of the universe”, and just like this proclamation, this funky town is truly one-of-a kind. Even though it’s home to only 800 permanent residents, Wallace’s history could fill an entire book. From being the “Silver Capital of the World” to the ONLY spot on a U.S. interstate with a stop light, it’s colorful past is well worth the visit in itself. In addition, it’s home to amazing cuisine & crossroads to FIVE nationally recognized trails including the Hiawatha trail. And for those looking for a bit more adrenaline pumping fun, only ten minutes from downtown is the world-class lift accessed mountain biking at Silver Mountain, offering up 3,400’ vertical feet of riding!

Invermere, British Columbia

Image appears courtesy: Invermere On The Lake

When someone talks about mountain biking in Canada, the first place that comes up is Whistler. Even though this is a great option, for those looking for less crowded trails and a more relaxed vibe, you need to look east at Panorama & the town of Invermere. This resort is a two-time top-five winner in the MTB Parks.com Riders’ choice and a harbor of cycling fun that features natural features for all abilities alongside some man-made expert obstacles. Of course, a summer vacation isn’t just about bike riding. You can also go for a leisurely kayak on Lake Windermere, whitewater raft on the Kootenay, or hop on an ATV with Toby Creek Adventures. After a day full of adventure, you can go soak away those sore muscles at either Radium or Fairmont Hot Springs.

Image appears courtesy: Invermere On The Lake

Traverse City, Michigan

©Tony Demin – Image appears courtesy: Traverse City Tourism

With the exception of New York, Michigan boasts more ski areas than any other state. And the most famous one is Boyne, next to the cozy resort town of Traverse City. Even though in the winter it makes sense that skiers & snowboarders look West to the hulking peaks to feed their need for powder turns, in the summer, this place blooms for summer fun. Nestled on the Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, it’s well worth the trip. From scenic lake views so big you can’t see the other side to exhilarating mountain bike adventures on the 4,000 acres surrounding Boyne Highlands to the annual festivals like the National Cherry Festival, the opportunities for fun are endless. It makes sense why this hamlet was named the best small town in America in 2015 AND 2016.

©Tony Demin – Image appears courtesy: Traverse City Tourism

Mont Sainte Anne, Quebec

Photo By: Olivier Croteau – Image appears courtesy: Mont Sainte Anne Resort

For those looking to escape the mid-summer heat, there’s no “cooler” spot than Mont Sainte Anne. Renowned as the “mecca” of mountain biking in Eastern Canada, it has the LARGEST cross-country bike network in Eastern Canada offering more than 80 miles of trails to ride alongside 23.1 miles accessible via chairlift. Combine that with one-of-a kind endeavors like Via Ferrata, endless hiking opportunities, paragliding and jaw-dropping views of the mighty Saint Lawrence, you can’t go wrong. Not enough? Only 30 minutes away is the capital of the province Quebec City. The city dates to 1535 and contains the ONLY fortified city walls remaining in the Americas north of Mexico alongside having world class cuisine.

Photo By: Patrick Fallon – Image appears courtesy: Mont Sainte Anne Resort

Girdwood, Alaska

Image appears courtesy: Girdwood.com

For skiers & snowboarders, Alaska sets the bar for the steepest and most challenging terrain. Countless videos and magazines have showcased the insane peaks in this state. But summertime in Girdwood offers up even more adventures & endless daylight to get it all in. Nicknamed the “Last Frontier”, it’s truly stacked with wildness like no other place. From seeing grizzlies in the wild, salmon spawning, and of course the most popular attraction is the Portage glacier cruise. These vessels take you within 300 yards of the glaciers as they split and crash directly into the ocean. But that’s not all! Alyeska Resort serves up lift accessed mountain biking on the weekends. Or for the water variety, hop into a kayak in the Prince William Sound and really get a feel of this beautiful place.

Photo by: Ralph Kristopher – Image appears courtesy: Alyeska Resort

Timberline, Oregon

Image Taken by: Tanner DeGiovanni; Mt Hood on a beautiful summer’s day

Last but not least, we couldn’t have this list of ski towns to visit in the summer without including Timberline. For those skiers & snowboarders that NEED to ski in the summer as well, it’s home to the ONLY perennial ski resort that’s ALWAYS open. If that wasn’t enough, you have world-class hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail AND the National Historic Landmark the Timberline Lodge. To top it off, you’re only 60 miles away from the eclectic city of Portland.

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Flipping Over The Best Pancakes In A Ski Town

What’s the best part of visiting a ski town anytime of year? Adventure galore! Outdoor fun from skiing to mountain biking to hiking, they all involve a lot of calories being burned. This means you need to fuel up in the morning & what better way to do this then with a stack of melt-in-your mouth buttery flapjacks! After some research and personal experience, here’s the best pancakes in a ski town. Some of these spots we’ve enjoyed while others are on our bucket list.

Polly’s Pancake Parlor

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Image appears courtesy: Polly’s Pancakes Parlor

Located in the heart of New Hampshire’s ski country, Polly’s is the perfect spot to fuel up before hitting Cannon Mountain, Bretton Woods or Loon Mountain. Since the Great Depression (and we’re not talking about the one in the 2000’s), they’ve been flipping their legendary fluffy three-inch discs since 1938. What makes them so special? Well, their organic corn flour is stone-ground on site & served with local New Hampshire maple syrup. You’ll be sure to make it a tradition. If that wasn’t enough, diners can customize their batter with plain, oatmeal, buttermilk, buckwheat, gingerbread and whole wheat.

The Nova Café

Bozeman, Montana

Image appears courtesy: Nova Cafe

While most tourists whisk their way up to Big Sky Resort, the locals and hardcore skiers know it’s all about Bridger Bowl. Just like the ski area, Nova Café is a MUST when in Bozeman. Sourcing local food whenever possible, this lively diner serves up the best pancakes not just in town but quite possibly in the state of Montana. Their mainstay blue cornmeal pancakes are amazing. But if you’re lucky enough to be there on the weekend, the Flathead cherry cottage cheese pancakes are the way to go. As the tourism bureau proudly shouts, you can get them “only in Bozeman!”

The Bunnery

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Image appears courtesy: The Bunnery Bakery & Restaurant

How do you know if a recipe is unique & special? If it’s so good that you can purchase the mix not just at the restaurant as griddle cakes but in their online shop too. Well, that’s what the Bunnery does in Jackson! Their proprietary O.S.M. blend was developed in the 70’s with hearty, whole-grain flour containing whole wheat, oats, sunflower seeds, and millet. Even though it sounds heavy, they’re not. In fact, they retain a light and fluffy texture. Just like the Jackson Hole Air Force, you’ll flip after a bite of these tasty creations.

Penny Ann’s Cafe

Salt Lake City, Utah

Image appears courtesy: Penny Ann’s Pancakes

As the KISS principle dictates, keeping it simple rather than over-complicating it will produce the best results. Penny Ann’s “heavenly hot cakes” are the perfect example. These house-made sour cream johnnycakes are served simply with butter & real maple syrup. And their flavor cannot be expressed in words… but we’ll try. Their sweet-and-tangy formula produces a batter that is light and airy & just simply irresistible. With not just one but three locations and a perennial winner in best of state award for best breakfast, the people have spoken just how good they are.

Sugar and Spice

Mendon, Vermont

Even the Vermont Teddy Bears love the pancakes – Image appears courtesy: Sugar and Spice

Less than 30 minutes from the “beast of the East” known as Killington is a gift shop, working sugar house and diner. It’s situated on a classic Vermont estate featuring maple ice cream, maple sugar candies and of course pancakes inside the restaurant. The clear winner is the pumpkin variety followed by the sugar & spice stack that has their special cinnamon and maple sugar right in the batter. If you’re there for spring skiing, you’re in for a treat! You can watch the sugar makers turn tree sap into maple syrup right on the property. It doesn’t get much more “Vermont” than that.

Poppycock’s Cafe

Aspen, Colorado

After 4 decades of being in business, you can call Poppycock’s an institution in Aspen. This affordable café is everything you’d hope in a pre-mountain breakfast. Sure the French toast breaded with pecans and topped with bananas & grand marnier butter is an awesome option or maybe the corn griddle cakes served with Colorado wildflower honey is tempting. But the star of the show is the old-fashioned oatmeal buttermilk pancakes. These sizzling concoctions are moist inside like a hot oatmeal and match well with the tangy buttermilk. They’re so good that they ship over 50 bags of this batter per week across the country for people to make at home.

The Pancake House

McCall, Idaho

Sourdough pancakes at the Pancake House are amazing

We know what you’re thinking, “Hey Local Freshies®, isn’t this a chain?” Nope, the Pancake House is a local joint in McCall. Before we delve into their griddle options, an honorable mention must be made of their cinnamon roll. The size of a dinner plate (literally), this warm, gooey, and fluffy breakfast dessert will satisfy any sweet tooth minded person. Something a bit more unique for the rest of the country is their sourdough pancake variation. Sour like sourdough bread & smothered in syrup, these pancakes offer up a sweet ‘n sour bite like nothing we’ve ever had before. Definitely an acquired taste, but a must try for any ski foodie.

So, if you’re going for a century ride, climbing a mountain, or just skiing all day long, there’s no better way to carb up for the day than with a stack of cakes & these places will not let you down.

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Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Trail Guide

In the winter, folks congregate in the mountains schussing the slopes of resorts likes Kirkwood, Sierra-at-Tahoe, and Alpine Meadows. In the summer, most individuals end up migrating to the legendary beaches and pristine waters of Lake Tahoe. For those that love fun of the two-wheeled variety, want to get away from the crowds, or just looking to spice up their vacation adventure, look no further than the world class mountain bike trails located in the forests & peaks surrounding the basin. To help, we’ve created the following Lake Tahoe Mountain Bike Trail Guide to give you a taste of what’s available to shred (of the dirt kind).

South Tahoe Mountain Bike Trails

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (Saxon Creek)

Length: 8.9 miles (1,300’ elevation gain) with shuttle or 20-mile loop (3,000’ + elevation gain) Difficulty: Expert

David Orr navigating one of the first of many rock gardens – Photo by: Local Freshies®

We couldn’t start this list without calling THE trail that put Lake Tahoe mountain biking on the map. Rough, rugged, and relentless, this downhill trail is littered with rock gardens, drops, and one-of-a kind features like the “the steps.” For those wondering what it’s REALLY like, be sure to read our personal experience of hitting Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.

Directions

Shuttle Route: From Meyers, drive up Highway 89 to Big Meadow trailhead or continue further to the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) trailhead. Note: Even with the shuttle, there’s over 1,300’+ vertical feet of climbing and a few walk-a-bike sections.

Loop: From South Lake Tahoe, head south on Pioneer Trail and make a left onto Oneidas. Continue onto Fountain Place and park in the dirt parking lot on the right. Ride up the paved road to Armstrong Trail which will connect you to the summit of Mr. Toad’s. DO NOT ascend Mr. Toad’s.

Tahoe Mountain Loop

Length: 7.53 miles (1,076’ elevation gain) Difficulty: Intermediate

Taking the initial climb up Tahoe Mountain

We know what you’re thinking… Tahoe Mountain? Yup, the small mountain that’s just past the “Y” in South Lake Tahoe is called Tahoe Mountain. Home to a great network of trails, this is a good option for spring when the higher elevation terrain is still buried with feet of snow. The most difficult part is the moderate difficulty climb to the top. Once you reach the ridgeline, all the hard work is worth it. With views of Mt. Tallac, Lake Tahoe, and the Angora burn area, the payoff is amazing.

Directions

There are a few different spots to park but a good one to start is to take Lake Tahoe Boulevard past the “Y.” Park where Sawmill Pond and Lake Tahoe Boulevard Bike Path intersect. From here, take the path until you hit the first dirt trail and begin the climb up, following the signs of the Tahoe Mountain Trail.

Tip: In the summer due to the open terrain, it’s good to ride this section earlier in the day.

Powerline

Length: 6.5 miles Difficulty: Beginner

The single track on Powerline Trail is amazing – Image taken by: Local Freshies®

First time on a bike? Then look no further than the Powerline Trail. This trail offers a taste of what mountain biking is all about without putting you over your head. Featuring seasonal creek crossings, easy banked turns, a few gradual climbs, and throw in some scenic vistas, you got yourself the perfect recipe to get hooked on the sport.

Directions

Being a commuter trail, you can literally hop on this trail from anywhere but most either head to the start or finish of the trail. The first and most popular is to head to the top of Ski Run Blvd and take a right onto Saddle Road where it dead ends & the trail begins. The other option is to access it via High Meadows Road off of Pioneer Trail. Generally, this trailhead offers a lot more parking. Follow the asphalt until it ends and park there or continue another mile up the forest access road to the terminal parking lot. The trail starts north out of the parking area.

North Tahoe Mountain Bike Trails

Tyrolean Downhill

Length: 3 Miles (shuttle) Difficulty: Expert

Photo by: Chris Bartkowski – Image appears courtesy: Go Tahoe North

As the name states, this is a true downhill ride descending over 2,000 feet. Filled with jumps, berms, rock gardens and a few sandy sections, it’s a challenging ride even though riders on MTB Project rate it as Intermediate. This might be due to the fact that most of the difficult features can be avoided. The trail ends near Diamond Peak resort making for a perfect shuttle option.

Note: The TRT section between Hwy 431 and Tunnel Creek Rd is open to mountain bikes only on even days. If you’re there on an odd day, you can access it from Mt. Rose Hwy & old parallel jeep road to avoid the TRT bike restrictions.

Directions

Once you have a car parked at Diamond Peak Ski Resort, head up Mt. Rose Highway (NV-431) to the Tahoe Meadows Trailhead. From the Mt. Rose Tahoe Rim Trailhead, head south for approximately one mile. Tyrolean Downhill will drop from the first prominent vista.

The Flume

Length: 14 miles (shuttle with 1,000’+ elevation gain) Difficult: Intermediate

Photo by: Local Freshies®

When it comes to scenery and views, every other trail pales in comparison to the world-renowned Flume trail. Located high above the eastern shore, words cannot express how majestic the sights are. The reason why it’s designated Intermediate is less from the downhill but rather that the first four miles feature a consistent 1,000’ climb. For those wondering what to expect, be sure to read our personal experience of riding the Flume Trail.

Note: For those with a fear of heights, be forewarned some of the sections of the singletrack are over 1,500’ above the lake.

Antone Meadows Loop

Length: 8.5 Miles (282 elevation gain) Difficulty: Beginner

For those that enjoy wildflowers and want to experience the peace and beauty of nature, look no further than the Antone Meadows Loop. This well maintained relatively flat route starts with a gradual climb transitioning into a downhill cruise through a grassy meadow. Featuring bridges at all the creek crossings and many optional side routes, it’s a great choice for families to get some ride time together.

Directions

From Carnelian Bay, take Highway 89 south and make a right onto Fabian Way. Take the first right (Village Road) and make a left onto Country Club Drive, parking at the Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area.

Carson Valley

Sierra Canyon

Length: via Kingsbury North 18 miles / via Spooner Summit 16 miles (shuttle 1,600’ elevation gain) Difficulty: Intermediate/Expert

One of the many, many shale zones on the Sierra Canyon Trail

This is a BEAST of a ride. On the surface, it sounds amazing. 4,000 vertical foot descent. Breathtaking views of Carson Valley. And at the end, you get to enjoy a pint at the OLDEST bar in Nevada. As you delve deeper though, cracks begin to form. First, this is a ROUGH ride featuring shale switchbacks for almost ¾ of the downward segments. Let’s just say your hands will be sore from all the jostling. Also, be prepared to repair cut sidewalls. With that said, this is a true adventure from top to bottom. Once you do make it to Genoa, you’ll feel like you accomplished a feat. For our personal experience of riding this trail, mosey on over to our article – I Fought The Mountain & The Mountain Won.

Directions

To ride the full length of the trail, you’ll most likely need a shuttle. There are two ways to get to the top of the Sierra Canyon Trail. For the Kingsbury North Trailhead from Stateline, take US-50 north and make a right onto Kingsbury grade. Make a left onto Benjamin Drive and follow the meandering road until it ends. From here, ascend the Tahoe Rim Trail and follow it for approximately 5 miles until it intersects with Sierra Canyon. For Spooner from Stateline, continue on US-50 until the Spooner Summit trailhead. Park on right and take the Tahoe Rim Trail until it intersects with the Sierra Canyon Trail.

If you enjoy the vast assortment of trails available in Lake Tahoe, consider donating to the local riding association called the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association (TAMBA), or better yet, volunteer on one of their many trail maintenance days.

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Aspen Mountain Re-Opening For June Skiing

When you thought skiing & snowboarding was over… Aspen Mountain decides to re-open for one last hurrah! As Michael Corleone said in the Godfather: Part III, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!” So, if you’re anywhere near Colorado, dust off those planks, throw on some spring wax, and enjoy Aspen Mountain re-opening for June Skiing!

Why Is Aspen Mountain Re-Opening For June Skiing?

Photo by: Jeremy Swanson – Appears Courtesy: Aspen Snowmass

Memorial Day skiing was supposed to be the “bonus” weekend, but with old man winter predicted to deposit another 5-10 inches this Tuesday and over a 66-inch snowpack at the top of Ajax Mountain (which is bigger than the 60 inch base on closing day April 21st), there’s no better time to turn the lifts for one last hurrah! Of course, it helped that Memorial Day had a bunch of people show up to enjoy the snow one more time as well.

What To Expect At Aspen Mountain

Photo by: Jeremy Swanson – Appears Courtesy: Aspen Snowmass

Just like Memorial Day weekend, the resort is going to run the Ajax Express lift from 9 am to 2 pm on June 1st & 2nd. This lift will provide access to roughly 130 acres of skiing. One thing to note: There will be no top-to-bottom skiing, so everyone is asked to download on the Silver Queen Gondola once you’re done schussing for the day.

How Much?

For skiing & riding, anyone who had a Premier Pass last season can ski free. Any child 3 & under gets a free ticket. Kids 6 and under who were passholders last season also ski free. All other passholders from the 2018-19 season can get access for $27. And for those without a season pass, expect to drop 54 bucks.

Photo by: @mattpower – Appears Courtesy: Aspen Snowmass

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The Snow Doesn’t Know It’s May… How To Plan Your Backcountry Trip With CalTopo

May has been all-time in North America. Record setting snowfall, cold temps, and a deep snowpack means a lot of people are still getting after it. The scary part when we were out there last was seeing someone kick-off a slide on their ascent. Looking at some statistics about incidents, over 36% of avalanche deaths happen during the ascent. Seeing where this particular slide took place, it could’ve been avoided with a little route planning. Instead of chastising, we thought… “Why not use this as an opportunity to help educate people?” A quick win for everyone is to plan your backcountry trip with CalTopo.

Mid-winter snow… in May?!? Photo by: Local Freshies

What’s CalTopo?

CalTopo is a website that provides a wealth of tools, giving you a basic lay of the land. Simply put, it’s the ultimate resource for backcountry skiers, splitboarders, backpackers, and hikers. We personally use it every time we step out into the wilderness.

How To Use CalTopo

As you pull up the website, the first thing you’ll notice is you may not know where to begin. Like any new tool, once you get a few quick tips, it’ll make more sense and you can expand on it quickly. Here’s a quick crash course on how to plan your backcountry trip with CalTopo:

Identify Where You’re Heading

Start off by typing in the highlighted box the mountain peak or region you’re heading to. Then zoom in close enough so you can see the gradients.

Add Slope Shading

Click on the Slope Shading button. This will color the map so that you have an idea of where the slopes are near 30 degrees or steeper. Any slope that is steeper than 25 degrees is typically considered avalanche terrain.

Plan Your Route Up

Now it’s time to plan your route up AND down. When climbing uphill, it’s always a good idea to avoid steep slopes. And not just because it’s avalanche terrain… but why make it more difficult for yourself?

Click on Add New Object

Click Line

Click Style – From this you can pick how you want the line to look. For now, select the up-arrow type to show that’s how you’re going uphill.

Now navigate back to the map and click where you’re going to ascend. Once done with the route, click OK.

Do the same for the route down.

Note: This is only an introduction on how to plan your backcountry trip with CalTopo. We recommend taking an avalanche course and even a navigation class to get a true deep dive on this tool along with understanding the snow.

Get Educated Or Continue Education

During the season, it’s always good practice to read the forecast from your local avalanche center not just when you go out but every day during the season. Avalanche.org is a great resource to find your personal avalanche center or where you’re planning on touring. With the ski resorts closed but the thirst for pow hunting still calling many of us, be extra cautious when venturing even inbounds this time of year. Ski patrol does a lot to mitigate these risks during the season. But, dangers are still lurking in late season so be sure to carry a beacon, shovel, and probe. We aren’t the experts but hope this at least starts everyone on a path to begin or continue your avalanche education.

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Mammoth Thumbs Its Nose To Summer… And Extends Season To August Or Longer?

This May, Mammoth Mountain has gotten pounded with snow. Nearly 29 inches of the good stuff has fallen! In fact, it’s the snowiest May at Mammoth ever. And what better way to commemorate this non-stop winter then with Mammoth extending the ski season into August.

When Was The Last Time Mammoth Was Open In August?

Mammoth a few years ago in late June

Mammoth Mountain has always pushed their season as long as there is snow on the ground. But we know what you’re thinking… “How often have they skied into August?” Shockingly, this will be the THIRD season that the lifts will be running in recent history. Back in 1994-95, the resort opened on October 8th and closed on August 13th , making it Mammoth’s LONGEST ski season ever. And in 2016-17, they were able to stay open until August 6th.

Snowiest May At Mammoth

Us enjoying Februburied at June Mountain… Photo By: Local Freshies®

So, how is this possible? For starters, Mammoth had the snowiest February or as it was coined Februburied. Over 24 feet of snow fell during the shortest month of the year. On top of that already deep snowpack, this May has notched itself as the snowiest May ever when it passed the 2015 record in which 28 inches accumulated. This cold weather combined with fresh snowfall has helped Mammoth extend their season from their typical July 4th weekend to August!

All Time Conditions For Memorial Day Weekend

And to put the frosting on top of the cupcake, there’s yet another storm pointed at Mammoth Mountain for Memorial Day weekend. The National Weather Service is currently predicting up to 12 inches of snow above 7,000 feet through the entire weekend. Powder hunting in May?!?!

If you were on the fence to visit Mammoth, it might be time to start planning that ski trip now. And for those wondering if the snow’s still good in June & July, the answer is YES!

Here’s a glimpse of us shredding Mammoth in late June a few years ago:

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Ski Squaw Valley For 5 Bucks!

If you haven’t heard, Lake Tahoe is STILL having a record breaking winter. We’ve had more snow in May than in April! So, what does that mean? It’s simple. June skiing at Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows is gonna be off the hook! Not a passholder? No problem! Squaw is rolling out the red carpet for everyone this spring (well, actually summer). Every Friday in June, you can ski Squaw Valley for 5 bucks!

Why Squaw Is The Spring Skiing Capital™

Squaw Valley High Camp on a warm spring day.

There’s a reason why Squaw Valley trademarked themselves as the Spring Skiing Capital™. Compared to other resorts in the Lake Tahoe basin, as the ski crowds begin to go from a torrent to a trickle, most all resorts shut down even IF they have a deep snowpack. Squaw on the other hand, ALWAYS pushes the envelope to stay open as late as possible.

The 4-1-1 On Squaw Valley Spring Operations

Squaw Valley in April

What’s Squaw planning this spring & summer? They’ll continue 8am-2pm daily operations thru Memorial Day (May 27th), then switch to Friday through Sunday operations thru July 1st. They’ll celebrate America’s birthday the right way… by re-opening on Wednesday, July 3rd and running the lifts through Sunday, July 7th. During this period, they’ll try to run the Funitel, Big Blue, Gold Coast, and Shirley Lake lifts for skiing & riding, weather and conditions permitting.

Ski Squaw Valley For 5 Dollars

To celebrate this momentous season where Squaw set a record for its snowiest month ever (who could forget #FebruBURIED!) and had more snow in the month of May than April… Squaw Valley is introducing Five Dollar Fridays. Every Friday through June, you can ski Squaw for five bucks IF you purchase the lift ticket at least 48 hours in advance.

Save Money AND Feel Good By Helping The Tahoe Fund

If that wasn’t enough, all proceeds from these lift tickets goes to the Tahoe Fund. Their goal is to raise $35,000 to assist the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition in providing “Bike Racks for Basin Businesses.”

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Season Update: The Winter That Won’t End – May Powder Day In Lake Tahoe

Wiping my eyes, I couldn’t believe what I was reading on the weather forecast… not just a few inches but possibly up to a FOOT of new snow in May? A mini-storm cycle?!?! I just didn’t believe it. While most of the resorts had shut down their lifts, three were still running… Heavenly Mountain, Alpine Meadows, & Squaw Valley. The decision for us was should we head to a resort or venture into the backcountry? With only a few lifts operating at Heavenly, the choice was simple… let’s earn our turns. Result: The BEST May Powder Day in Lake Tahoe we’ve EVER had.

California Left High & Dry… Until Now

Photo By: Local Freshies

While Colorado, Utah, and even Arizona were still getting inundated with snow, California was left high and dry. That doesn’t mean the skiing has been bad though. In fact, we finally got a chance to ski the BEST corn snow of the season in Lassen National Park just a few weeks back. The question now was, “Would we get to keep our streak of having a May powder day in Lake Tahoe going?”

Will The Tradition Continue On Skiing Powder In May?

Photo By: Local Freshies

For the past two years, we’ve been able to sniff out one more powder day in May. Last year, we eked out one on May 1st. The year before, it was on May 17th. Heck, we even skied Mt. Tallac one year in May. Compared to years past, this time around the rain had already transitioned to snow all the way down to the Tahoe Basin. The snow danced down to the ground but didn’t stick on warm surfaces like the road.

Mid-Winter Snow… In May!!!

Did this really happen? Photo By: Local Freshies

As the alarm rang all too early, we got up to a sight like no other. The newly sprouted trees, flowers, and grasses were all covered in a bright white blanket of snow. It was like Christmas for skiers and snowboarders… one more chance to shred some fresh snow before putting the gear away. Shoveling a bowl of oatmeal into my mouth, we zip out of the house.

Snow Is Deeper Than Expected…

Making a left onto Luther Pass, we ascend out of the basin. Whereas the roads in town were snow-less, the asphalt above 7,000’ was covered in it. And they were slippery as ever with chain controls up too. We arrive at our zone and step out of the truck. Wow, it looks like there is AT LEAST 6 inches of snow… and it’s dry!

Step By Step… We Inch Upwards

Photo by: Local Freshies

Separating our splitboards, we slap on our skins, strap our feet to them and begin climbing. Trudging up the mountain, the cold air feels good on our skin. This late in the year, the snow is holding up well. While we’d love to get to the top, the wind-affected snow looks a bit sketchy and we don’t want to risk it. We decide to keep on the lower angle terrain and just enjoy the bounty safely.

It’s Better Than We Could’ve Imagined

Bottomless powder in May!!!! Photo By: Local Freshies

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5 Of The Best Bike Events To Put On Your Bucket List

Mountain. Road. Hybrid. No matter what type of bike you hop onto, the joy of cycling is timeless. As JFK once said, “Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.” While you can go for a simple pedal into the mountains, why not step it up this year by signing up for a bike event. From “death rides” over the Sierra Nevada to scenic jaunts through the lush forest of British Columbia, here’s a few of the best bike events to put on your bucket list… or at least those on our personal bucket list.

BC Bike Race

West Coast Of British Columbia

July 4th – July 12th

Image Courtesy: BC Bike Race

For those looking for an adventure alongside a race, look no further than the British Columbia Bike Race (BCBR). Based in and around the luscious forests of Western BC, this is the ULTIMATE stage race. This seven-day feast of singletrack provides access to ribbons of trails and a gateway to really experience what the BC mountain bike lifestyle is all about. Seem a bit too hectic? Then consider checking out their BC Bike Rides… a world-class all-inclusive mobile mountain bike vacation in British Columbia.

Death Ride

Markleeville, California

July 13th

Photo taken by: Jim Barkow

As the name entails… this tour of the California Alps will try to kill you. The Death Ride is a one day race that doesn’t have just one climb but rather five summits you have to pedal. That’s over 15,000 vertical feet of climbing, more than ANY stage of the Amgen Tour of California. If that isn’t enough, the course is over 129 miles in length. But, at least the views will make the cycling a little more bearable. Sounds a little too nuts? Check out America’s most beautiful bike ride on June 2nd. Circumnavigating the entire Lake Tahoe shore, this ride provides dramatic views along with great food and support.

Rebecca’s Private Idaho

Ketchum, Idaho

August 29th – September 1st

90% gravel, 100% fun on Rebecca’s Private Idaho – Image taken by: Hugger Industries

Scenery? Check. Challenge? Check. Good Ole Fashioned Western Hospitality? Check again! This annual Labor Day tradition, hosted by cycling endurance champion Rebecca Rusch, is a true tour of what Idaho has to offer. The tour winds through rugged backcountry gravel roads filled with canyons, summits, and high mountain basins you won’t soon forget. This grueling gravel grinder will be one that you’ll want to do every year.

Mount Washington Hill Climb

North Conway, New Hampshire

August 17th – 18th

Image appears courtesy: Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb

Mount Washington in New Hampshire is known for a lot of things. First, it’s the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. But, it’s also a couple other things too. Mount Washington set the world record of wind speed at a whopping 231 mph on April 12th, 1934 and is home to America’s first man-made attraction – the Mount Washington Auto Road. The most interesting from a cycling perspective is the Mount Washington Hill Climb. Not just a challenge but rather THE toughest hill climb in the world! At 7.6 miles with an average grade of 12% and a section as steep as 22%, even the strongest cyclists will cry “uncle” by the end.

Iceman Cometh Challenge

Traverse City, Michigan

November 2nd

Photo by: Rob Meendering Photo – Image appears courtesy: Iceman Cometh Challenge

Just down the road from the famed Boyne Mountain is one of the largest one-day mountain bike events in the country. The point-to-point bike race starts in the small hamlet of Kalkaska and heads through the Pere Marquette forest. Filled with endless hills and rutted descents, this 29 mile mountain bike adventure to Traverse City is conquered by pros and amateur athletes alike. Taking place in early November, Michigan weather plays a big part in its adventure. Come sun, rain, sleet or snow… the Iceman Cometh always is up for a challenge.

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Lassoing Corn Snow At Lassen Volcanic National Park

There’s a BIG push in the ski industry to glamorize powder. Of course, we LOVE the wintry form of snow, but there’s something we love nearly as much… corn. This elusive type of snow doesn’t form well in all mountain ranges and takes a special type of weather phenomenon to create the perfect slate. But when it does, it’s magical. Think of it as powder… but with warm weather and sunshine. That’s why when we got the invite from our friends at Outdoor Adventure Club to make a last-minute trip skiing Lassen Volcanic National Park, we dropped everything and headed north.

Flowers, Green Grass, & We’re Going Skiing?

As we awoke in the sleepy town of Mineral, the early sun rays painted the landscape outside our window. Everywhere we looked, spring was in full bloom. The aspen’s chartreuse yellow leaves fluttered in the pleasant light breeze. Fresh daffodils blossomed on rolling hills. The only hint of winter’s grasp that remained was the frost on top of the cars. And yet only a few miles away at Lassen National Park, the snowpack was over twenty feet deep.

Snow Twenty Feet Deep In May?

Photo by: Local Freshies

Our team quickly assembles and creates a plan for the day with a few different options depending on how we felt. With a game plan set, we fly out of the house excited for the corn harvest. The winding road through the tall forest of pines contains spots of dirty snow here and there but for the most part has transitioned to a full spring road. It wasn’t until we pass the sign to the park that we get a glimpse of the ten-thousand-foot peak. The snow is so deep that from here the mountain looks like it could be mid-winter. Sides of the road at some places are over twenty deep. Wow!

The Ants Go Marching One By One

Photo by: Local Freshies

Pulling into the lot around 6:45 am, there’s over a dozen people gearing up for the day. We do the same. Stepping onto the snow, the heat from the sunshine makes us want to peel our 1st layer already. Uh oh. Is the snow going to be manky? The only way to find out is to begin the climb.

Hard Work Leads To Amazing Views

Photo by: Local Freshies

As we get away from the heat of the asphalt and into the shade of the trees, the snow is firm and crusty. Whew! A great sign that it’s going to take a bit of time to soften. Trudging through the canopy of tall trees, the snow looks less pristine. Pine needles, particles of dirt, and other natural material cover the surface. After about an hour of climbing, we quickly exit the forest and are now on an open ridgeline. The views are amazing and above us is the first slope we’re going to ski.

Not A Single Track On The Slope

As our eyes look at the slope, the entire face has not a single track on it. A perfect clean slate. This is one of the best parts of spring skiing… mother nature does the grooming. How? Well, through the melt-freeze cycle after three or four days, any tracks that were made will be totally gone. Suddenly, we hear voices behind us. Oh no! It’s time to put ourselves into high gear.

First To The Top… Means Dibs

Huffing and puffing, we trudge up to the top making sure that we’re the first. Regardless, we know where we want to ski and don’t want our lines to get poached. An unwritten law in backcountry skiing is the first person to ascend gets dibs. Making it to the top, we transition from touring mode to snowboarding mode. As the group below us arrives at the summit, we exchange pleasantries and ask where we’re all skiing. We find out that they have different plans, so our untouched landscape is truly all ours.

Perfect Snow + Perfect Pitch = Heaven

The only tracks on the slope… are ours. Photo by: Local Freshies

We high five and point it down the slope. Was all the hard work worth it? As we roll over the first pitch and put in our first turns, the answer is a resounding YES!!! The snow is perfection as only the first few inches have softened. I can’t hold the excitement back and let out a howl… “YEEEAHHHHHHH!!!!! BABY!!!!” Bouncing from turn to turn, it’s the best corn of the season. At the bottom, we glance back at our handiwork. With a huge grin, we look at each other and say, “The slope has been slayed.”

Time To Get Some More Goodness

Grabbing a bite to eat at the bottom, we take in the glow of what we just did. Were we ready to get some more? Heck yeah! While the southeast had softened just right for the morning, in the PM it would be TOO soft. The plan is to ski a more northerly face. We split apart our snowboards and change them into ski mode for our next climb. This time with the snow so soft, we make the decision to put on our crampons. Shuffling out of the valley, we yet again begin our climb. Making it into the trees, our choice was a simple left or right. We chose left. From what we could tell at the time, either direction seemed about the same… boy were we wrong.

The Hardest Climb Ever…

Slowly, the climb changes from a moderate pitch to what is the steepest face I’ve ever climbed. With us still considering ourselves “beginner” backcountry tour enthusiasts, maybe it isn’t as steep as it feels to us. One of our experienced team members confirms that this is a “heinous” skin track, clocking in at over 30 degrees. That did make us feel better, but with no way out, the only option is to keep climbing. Step by step we slowly and painstakingly drag ourselves up.

We Made it!

After what seems like an eternity on a steep face, we make it to the ridgeline. Ah… sweet mercy thank goodness. The two choices from here are to ski the same face or put in a bit more work and shred a north slope. We all feel like a bit more work is worth it for better snow. As we traverse over to our next peak, this seems like child’s play compared to what we were just on.

Yet Another Face To Shred

Photo by: Local Freshies

Standing at the top and looking down, most of the terrain has been tracked. Suddenly, I see an entire segment from top to bottom that is untracked! We quickly strap in and drop down onto it. Turn after turn comes so easily. Picking up the pace, the snow is just as good as the first run. At the bottom, we look up again at our handiwork… perfection.

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Most Unique Drinks in Ski Towns & A Shot With A Human Toe

No matter what time of year you visit a ski town be it summer, winter, or fall, it’s always a party scene. There are so many articles about the best après ski towns or best bars but what about unique drinks? Perhaps something with history, tradition, or one-of-a kind for a region. We’re all about trying different things especially after such an amazing winter. Here’s what we think are 5 of most unique drinks in ski towns in North America with one honorable mention.

Most Dangerous “Coffee” – Gun Barrel Coffee

Big White, British Columbia

Image appears courtesy: Gun Barrel Grill

Like many a drink before it, the Gun Barrel Coffee was inspired after a few libations. Brian Spence, a previous owner of the Gun Barrel Saloon at Apex Resort, was enjoying a couple of late-night drinks & decided to take the antique double barrel shotgun of the wall and use it to make a hot cocktail. Nearly three decades later and a relation to Big White Resort, the result is a time-honored tradition & awe-inspiring flame show. It starts with a double barrel shotgun aimed at a sugar-rimmed glass filled with coffee, brandy, crème de cacao, and whipped cream. The drink is finished off with flaming Grand Marnier shooting down the steel gun barrel into the glass. Truly a one-of-a kind drink!

The Elk Frost

Crystal Mountain, Washington

Photo by: Jeff Caven – Image appears courtesy: Crystal Mountain Hotels

The micro-brewery scene has exploded in EVERY ski-town throughout North America. But, it’s nice to find a beer inspired by one of the most famous ski bars in America… the Snorting Elk at Crystal Mountain Resort. The Elk Frost is a specialty microbrew created by Elysan Brewing specifically for Snorting Elk owners and management.

Aquavit – Scandinavian Tradition

Photo by: Instagrammer @montana_mixology

Ever since folks perfected the art of sliding down a snowy slope, the concept of après went along with it. While in the beginning most enjoyed drinks in their own homes, it was when the fun transitioned into Norway’s social clubs that the modern concept of “après” really caught fire. What did they drink? Aquavit! Loosely translated as the “water of life”, this is a flavored spirit similar to Schnapps. In Scandinavia, the traditional way to drink it is socially with food and friends. The tasty concoction is poured into small shot glasses & taken in one swig with a toast of “skoal!” With such a close connection to skiing, it’s only natural that a few ski towns would start distilling their own.

Linie… The Original

For those wanting to try a true Scandinavian version, look no further than Linie. The most famous brand, meaning “line” in Norwegian, is sold in fine liquor stores throughout the U.S. Traditionally, each cask containing this aquavit must travel across the equator or the “linie,” twice before it’s sold.

Rolling River Distillery

Portland, Oregon

Image appears courtesy: Rolling River Distillery

Similar to the concept of “IPAs” in beer, the Pacific Northwest has its own style to be anise-forward with a dash of experimentation. Rolling River Distillery is a great example of the traditional Scandinavian classic with a Portland twist. They offer not just one but many, such as the Ole Bjorkevoll Aquavit. This drink contains caraway, dill and fennel combining for a lightly, spicy, smooth & savory finish. Let’s just say you’ll be yelling “SKOAL!”

Skadi

Missoula, Montana

One of the best aquavits for sipping cold and straight comes from the Montgomery Distillery in Missoula, Montana. Distilled from wheat with caraway, bog myrtle, lemon peel, and other botanicals, it has an approachable flavor profile that wins over aquavit enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Check out Aquavit Week’s page for a full list of aquavits made in the U.S.

Most Canadian Cocktail – The Caesar

Canada

Image appears courtesy: Fitzsimmons Pub

Are you a fan of the Bloody Mary? Well, the Canuck version of this tasty delight was invented in 1969 by Calgary restaurateur Walter Chell, inspired by the dish Spaghetti alle Vongole in Rosso (spaghetti with clams & tomato). Nearly half a century later, the Caesar is still going strong. It’s made with either vodka, gin or tequila, Clamato (a blend of tomato & clam juice), Worcestershire sauce, and a spice mix (which may include horseradish, hot sauce and other spices). Just like the Bloody Mary in the U.S., each Canadian ski town’s watering hole has their own variation on the Caesar. In Whistler, Fitzsimmons Pub affectionately known as “Fitz Pub”, is where the locals head. Their recipe is a fan favorite, topped with house made ingredients and curated garnishes from BC’s finest artisan food producers.

Wet Woody

Lake Tahoe, California

Image appears courtesy: Gar Woods Grill & Pier

If the idea of a fruity tropical rum drink sounds marvelous, look no further than Gar Woods Grill & Pier. Their signature drink is known as the Wet Woody. It’s a frozen, blended drink made with light rum, 151, cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, sweet & sour and peach schnapps with a Bacardi Select float. It’s SO good that they’ve sold over 2 million of ‘em (Yes, MILLION!). Centrally located between the north shore ski resorts of Squaw Valley, Northstar, & Homewood, this is a perfect pit-stop. Just beware they serve ‘em up strong so be sure to have a designated driver.

Honorable Mention: Sourtoe Cocktail

Dawson City, Yukon

Image appears courtesy: Sourdough Saloon

We know this place isn’t close to a ski resort, but we had to at least give a shout out to this legendary drink & inspiration behind our list of one-of-a kind cocktails. In Dawson City, just a few blocks off the mighty Yukon river, sits the Sourdough saloon. What starts harmless enough as a shot of whiskey transforms into the ULTIMATE dare of a drink… it includes an actual human toe that has been dehydrated and preserved in salt, used to garnish a drink of your choice.

The Legend Of The Sourtoe Cocktail

It all started back in the 1920’s when the rum-running Linken brothers — Louie and Otto — got caught in a blizzard. Louie put his foot through a patch of ice and soaked his foot. To prevent gangrene, Otto used his axe to chop off Louie’s toe. He placed the toe in a jar of alcohol to commemorate the event. Then in 1973, legend has it that Captain Dick Stevenson found the jar (and the toe). He came up with the idea of the Sourtoe Cocktail Club — an exclusive club, with one membership requirement. In order to gain admittance to the club, potential members must drink the legendary sourtoe cocktail. There’s just one rule: “You can drink it fast. You can drink it slow. But your lips must touch that gnarly toe.”

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5 Best Hot Springs Near A Ski Resort In North America

Sometimes your mind, body and soul need some re-charging after a day on the slopes. Sure, having a cold one is a great way to unwind but what about those aching muscles? Nothing cures them like a good old-fashioned soak in a hot spring. Here’s what we consider the 5 best hot springs near a ski resort in North America.

Ojo Caliente

Ski Santa Fe – New Mexico

Image taken by Gia Marie

Our personal favorite is Ojo Caliente which literally translates to “hot eye” as in the earth’s eye, commonly known as a hot spring. About 50 miles outside of Santa Fe, these hot springs are well worth the drive. Why? Well, Ojo Caliente is the only hot springs in the world with four different types of mineral water including lithia, iron, soda and arsenic. Their twelve pools are then filled with different types and combinations of these waters giving you a unique way to take a dip.

Pagosa Hot Springs

Wolf Creek Ski Resort – Colorado

Photo by: Instagrammer @belleguns

Photo by: T Jay Carter

Photos appear courtesy: Visit Pagosa Springs

Home to the DEEPEST geothermal hot springs in the world, these amazing pools of water are nothing to sneeze at. Combine that with the actual pools being terraced to overlook the beautiful San Juan River, you’ll enjoy the scenery of the river along with the mountains. With twenty-three pools varying in temperature from 86 to 114 degrees, you can be like Goldilocks and find the right tub for you. It doesn’t hurt that it’s next to the snowiest ski resort in Colorado.

Burgdorf Hot Springs

Brundage Mountain – Idaho

A good soak and a few beers – Photo by: Local Freshies

Are you someone that wants to combine adventure WITH a rewarding dip into a hot spring? Then look no further than the Burgdorf Hot Springs in winter. On the historic register, the only way to access this rustic resort is by hopping onto a snowmobile. Fortunately, they have heated changing rooms to get you in that swimsuit. And when you’re done, you’ll dry off and change back into your snowmobile gear, leaving just as cozy as you came. For those feeling even more adventurous, you can stay overnight in one of their cabins for only $35/night. On the fence? Read about our personal visit to the Burgdorf Hot Springs.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Ski Big 3 – Alberta

The Banff Upper Hot Springs overlooking the Canadian Rockies – Photo By: Local Freshies

The Canadian Rockies are arguably the most majestic peaks in the world. Photographs don’t do justice to these mountains. As Ansel Adams once wrote, “No matter how sophisticated you may be, a large granite mountain cannot be denied – it speaks in silence to the very core of your being.” And one of the best places to take in their grandeur is at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Located just above the town of Banff, you’ll be entranced by their magical waters and the views they afford.

Local Freshies tip: If you’re keen to avoid the crowds at this popular spot, do as the locals do – come in the morning for the most relaxing visit.

Ainsworth Hot Springs

Whitewater – British Columbia

Photo By: David Gluns

Photo by: David Gluns

Photo by: Matthew Brown – Images appear courtesy: Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort

The Powder Highway is the ultimate destination for those that love uncrowded slopes, steep terrain and plentiful snowfall like no other region can offer. Besides having the highest concentration of snowcat/heli-skiing operations in the world, it’s also home to an assortment of world-class hot springs. One of them being the Ainsworth Hot Springs. Nestled in a mountainside overlooking the vast expanse of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains, it’s a great option for those that want a relaxing day after hitting up Baldface or Whitewater Ski Resort. Offering up three odorless pools, THE highlight of the natural hot springs is the horseshoe cave, offering an exhilarating experience. You’ll just have to see it for yourself.

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Something Exciting is Happening on The June Lake Loop

Over the past twenty years, not too many things have changed in June Lake. Main stays like Ernie’s & the Tiger Bar have been around since the 30’s. So, it came as a shock when we made the journey down to shred June Mountain this season that something big is happening. An energy that wasn’t there when we visited almost five years ago was alive & electric. Walking down main street, a plethora of new places to eat, drink, and hang out have opened. It’s a new era on the June Lake Loop that you need to experience.

The “Spark” – Alterra Re-opens June Mountain

Photo by: Local Freshies®

What has caused this spark for new businesses to open? To answer this question, you must look at the tourism behind it. Mountain towns are at their soul’s cyclical. People descend upon cozy hamlets in a short, albeit enjoyable season. For most, this peak period is winter, but for June Lake Loop, it’s actually summer. The goal for most is to catch the “big fish” on one of the many alpine lakes surrounding it. When Alterra decided to re-open June Mountain, it didn’t just mean more ski terrain, but rather kicked off the spark that helped usher a new era for the June Lake Loop.

June Lake Brewing

Photo by: Local Freshies®

And what was the first new business to open in June Lake after the resort re-opened? A brewery of course! June Lake Brewing is located a block off the main drag & is a destination in and of itself. June Lake’s quality of water is the stuff of legends. Since beer is 90-95% water, combine that with a mad scientist of creating ales & you better expect some of the tastiest beers you’ve EVER had. And to top things off, served alongside the great selection of award-winning ales is the Ohanas 395 food truck. You can order up a delicious “Hawaiian soul food” dish & they’ll drop it off right in the tasting room.

The Lift June Lake

Be sure to try the nightly special… like these stuffed poblano peppers – Photo by: Local Freshies®

As you pull into town, one of the first structures you come up to is “The Lift.” It’s pretty obvious since outside of it is an old school chair-lift hanging in the sky. The interior is what you could call mountain modern. Concrete finished floors, a wine bar made out of 200-year-old Monterey cypress and bright lighting makes it feel hip but at the same time comfortable. A place you could see yourself studying or just hanging out for a glass of wine. While most cafés talk a big game about making high quality, fresh food and awesome customer service, the Lift actually does it.

No matter if you show up for breakfast, lunch, OR dinner, the artistic variations of cuisine are something you’d expect in Los Angeles or New York not June Lake. For example, their popular California croque monsieur sandwich is like a Reuben meets a French dip. The bread is the key! It’s crunchy on the outside yet soft on the inside. AMAZING! And no matter what… if there’s a special, TRY IT! You won’t be disappointed.

Gordo’s Mexican

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After a big day on the mountain or fishing on a pristine alpine lake on the Loop, you can build up quite a big appetite. Gordo’s Mexican restaurant will make sure you walk out happy & full. For starters, you get complimentary homemade chips and salsa. Instead of the typical watery variety, their salsa is as thick as a pasta sauce & perfect for dipping their fresh homemade tortilla chips. Nearly everything on the menu is delicious, well-crafted, and big. In fact, the portions are so large that you could split them between two people.

T-Bar Social Club

You wouldn’t guess in a town of only 600 residents there would be a good music venue. Well, in June Lake you’d be wrong! This hidden gem is just one stage of a multi-year project to bring back the Sierra Inn to its former glory. They are making sure to respect the feel of the region but at the same time improving upon it with such things as bringing in a world-class sound system. The T-Bar Social Club is a perfect place to rock out to live music, see live comedy, hear inspirational speakers, and so much more.

And That’s Not All

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If you take a moment and walk down Main Street, you’ll see many other businesses that have decided to open up shop. While we ended up riding until last chair every day, we heard great things about Hermitage Juice Bar. This quaint café dishes out clean & healthy food, well-crafted coffee drinks, and of course cold-press smoothies that will make your body run at peak performance.

And it’s not just food and brews that are opening either. If you’re looking for a cool souvenir, be sure to check out Gallery 158. Named after the Loop’s designated highway number, you might find the perfect souvenir to bring home. And for those that enjoy an alternative way to relax, consider swinging by High Sierra Cannabis. They’ve collaborated with a flower (the term of art for “bud”) producer to create three unique-to-June strands: June Bloom, Bodie Ghost and Gnome Zone. And last but not least, a new tech startup by the name of Insane Audio is in town which builds premium off-roading sound systems.

Old Stomping Grounds Are Still Here Too!

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Does that mean all the ole’ stomping grounds are gone? Nope! Ernie’s is still here making sure that your fishing or ski gear is ready for the day. The Tiger Bar & Café still holds the second OLDEST liquor license in California serving up mean drinks to the wee hours of the morning or a Patty Melt made out of fresh never frozen beef.

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5 Reasons To Visit June Mountain

We hate to admit it, but until this season, we’ve never visited June Mountain. Being the “little brother” resort, it’s easy to get overshadowed by the bigger and snowier sibling. Like many a visitor before us, why would we want to leave Mammoth’s amazing terrain and drive 30 minutes to June? Now that we’ve visited this special place, we’ve realized that EVERYONE should make a point to visit! Here’s 5 reasons to make a trip to June Mountain.

Uncrowded Slopes Even On The Busiest Days

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The first and most important factor to us is even on the busiest days, June Mountain maybe has 1,800 visitors at the MOST. With 1,500+ acres, that’s almost as empty as resorts like Whitefish, MT. We’re not talking just short lift lines. We are talking about actual powder that can be had DAYS after a storm.

The Switzerland Of California

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Another major check box marked in a HUGE way is the scenery. As soon as you make that turn onto the June Lake Loop, you’re greeted to what might be some of the most majestic views in the United States. The steep horseshoe shaped canyon will remind you more of Telluride or even the Alps in Europe than California. And as soon as you’re whisked up to the higher elevations via a chairlift, the landscape becomes even more spectacular. These views make even a quick trip worth it.

Varied Terrain

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On the surface, June Mountain is a family resort. There’s A LOT of low angle corduroy to learn on that’s reminiscent of classic Colorado skiing. But for those looking for some serious big boy steeps, it’s all about the main face off of J1 chair. Don’t worry if there’s a lift-line though. Most folks are actually trying to get to the higher terrain which is MUCH flatter.

Easy Backcountry Access

Big caveat first… if you do go backcountry, NEVER forget to bring an avalanche beacon, probe and shovel, a solid touring plan, and a great backcountry partner(s). Just because you can access it via a lift doesn’t mean its safe. With that said, those spectacular peaks surrounding June Mountain can be accessed easily with a little bit of work. The Eastern Sierra are no joke so we recommend picking up a copy of Nate Greenburg’s Backcountry Skiing California’s Eastern Sierra to help with route finding.

Awesome Ski Town

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There are a lot of ski towns that are built solely around a resort. Places like Whistler or Vail come to mind. They feel more like Disney World than a real town. June Lake isn’t one of those. It may not be a ski-in/ski-out village, but it’s a place where you can park your car for the night, grab a beer from June Lake Brewing, and walk over to The Lift for some amazing dinner.

While we love Lake Tahoe, there are certain times of year that it just gets a bit too hectic for us. You just need to escape the crowds and explore another mountain. While most of our options to avoid the masses such as Nelson, McCall, or even Whitefish, they are a bit too far for a quick trip. We can’t say how excited we are to have found June Mountain. So, the next time you’re looking for a place that’s chill, has amazing cuisine, and is all about the skiing, consider the town of June Lake and shred the cozy resort of June Mountain. You won’t be disappointed.