My suspicions about improved skiing conditions proved correct! After learning that there was some good snow in the Green Mountains, I decided to depart Hanover for the Rikert Nordic Center. I used I-89, VT-107, Bethel Mountain Road, VT-100 and VT-125. All the roads were wet with a lot of slush so I took my time. I arrived in Ripton at about 1015 and immediately went inside to buy a pass and some snacks. By 1030, I was ready to ski! The trails at Rikert (the Middlebury College outdoor center) were well groomed in most places but I made my own adventure by skiing the (backwoods) segment of the Catamount Trail that passes through their system. This decision required lots of bushwhacking and a few “I wonder if this is a good idea” moments. Still, it was great to be able to ski every scenario I encountered. Temps were good (mid 20s) and the sky was nearly clear. Got great views of the powder covered peaks along the Long Trail - it was marvelous! Spent three hours (6ish miles) in the woods, mostly alone, and got awesome downhills below the top of Breadloaf. Coming to Rikert was well worth the drive and I hope to return again soon! Afterwards (1330), I got cleaned up and then headed home, using the reverse route from the morning - I didn't even use my Google Maps because there were so many people going the same way. This time, the roads were much better (dry). After a relatively uneventful drive, I made it to my condo by 1450. Wonderful, snowy day in the Greens!
