Discussion: Conditions

How were they? Is the snow a little thin or are the rocks covered up now?

Conditions were decent. There was the odd rock but otherwise they were in good shape. A few people were out.

It was a frustrating afternoon in there because we both seemed to struggle with our technique after thinking we had it in Loree?? I'm really trying to think about pushing one foot thru the ground rather than pushing forward but man! is it ever tricky and especially while climbing those punchy hills! I watched a fantastic video last night that I think will help.

I find it very different to ski at a groomed area or on flatter, wider trails where technique is the main thing on my mind. In a place like Kolapore, it's hard to get into a consistent rhythm for very long because there are obstacles to maneuver around, punchy hills to deal with, patches of ice and views to enjoy. It's like the difference between road running and technical trail running.

For a long time, almost all my skiing was at ungroomed places like Kolapore so I learned classic skiing in the same casual way I learned snowshoeing or hiking. It wasn't about going fast; it was about moving through the forest, staying upright and loving it, often while carrying a heavy pack. I've never made the transition to skiing like an athlete, even though I have a Highlands membership now.

Now I'm excited to get up to Kolapore soon!