With some snow accumulation last night and temps in the mid 30s by noon today, I eagerly headed over to Eastman after finishing work (1530). Feeling confident that my skiing has been improving, I decided it was time to check out a blue square (intermediate) trail that was located closer to Eastman Lake. Some of the resident trail coordinators had walked the trail with me early in the season (very little snow) and pointed out areas where they decided I’d be able to safely navigate. Turns out that they were right! The atmosphere was tremendously different than the comfort of the green circle (beginner) trails near the Center. They did have groomed tracks but it felt much more “wild.” Not only were there some steep hills on the narrow trails but the wet snow was unfamiliar. As a result, I had to use my brain a lot more, using strategic falls, ski-off transits and risk assessments to get the most out of these trails. The Brook Trail (loop) portion closely followed a pretty creek and, at times, I had four choices: (1) ski well, (2) hit the deck, (3) hit tree, (4) hit water. Fortunately, I made good choices all day and actually enjoyed myself. Best part was when I found a long fairway with rolling hills (Sunrise Crest) - I was able to practice my diagonal stride, ride the “coaster” back down and then do it all again. There was useful daylight until 1700 so I skied until I’d seen everything nearby. Didn’t see any other skiers and most trails looked relatively unused. Will definitely return to this more remote area of the Eastman trail system!
