Three Amigos

We are 3 in Red outside the Rusted Bear Cabin

Yas Ellie has finally made it. She arrived on time in Kelowna and we were able to drive to Red Mountain last night in the dark and snow safely. It did however take 5 hrs @ 80km all the way and 2 drivers but we finally checked into Rusted Bear Cabin. The Cabin we are staying in is located across the road from Red. While not quite walking distance for these intrepid kiwis we do have a great 4x4 with snow tyres. We are calling it the beast mostly because it’s a bastard to park but everyone here drives massive utes so we are fitting right in.

Today was a gentle day on the hill getting passes and sliding into the ski groove. There are 20 mostly boomers doing the same programme as I am, and at least 6 ski instructors. Eek . As usual I seem to be the slowest and the last down a run. Oh well at least I’m accustomed to it so no surprises there.

Today the snow was awesome. Red received 2cm overnight so it was a nice dusting all over the mountain. It really was carvers heaven. The snow quality made edging easy and provided plenty of opportunity to do nice nippy short turns or just great big sweeping turns. Looking forward to 4 weeks of this skiing. Clear blue skies provided some nice sun, in the shade however it was a tad cold and with the slow lifts here it was chilly on the ride up. We need to remember cold temps keep the snow in tip top condition folks.

Since we were here last maybe 5yrs ago the resort had put in a Hotel -The Josie, and added backpackers accommodation all on a previous car parking lot. This has meant from what I can see to some pretty challenging car park issues. Us Turoa skiers are used to an early start just to get a car park. One of our Amigos may not be so happy with a 7am start but it’s all character building. This is why a ski trip is not a HOLIDAY homies.

Turoa needs some of these