Just like many local residents of Washington DC never visit the Washington Monument, I too have missed a popular tourist trap of Jackson Hole for 16 years. Well maybe trap isn’t the right word…circus is probably more appropriate. But this year it was time to change, so this morning Tim and I got up, put on our ski gear, picked up burritos at DOG and went to the Snow King Hill Climb.
It was every bit as crazy as I expected. Streets were blocked by enormous vendor trailers for Skidoo and Polaris. People were everywhere and the buzz of snowmobiles rang in the ears. Even though there was 13 new inches of snow, the lifts were empty of skiers, instead lines of Soreled spectators queued up to go to the top to watch the action.
Tim and I got the best of both worlds. We kept our skis on to enjoy one of Snow King’s best last days in years, but rode the lifts to take in the event. The race course rockets straight up the mountain beneath the lift, so when you are riding, you have the best seats in the house. It’s amazing what these guys do. Despite Snow King’s nearly 45 degree pitch, they point their sleds straight uphill. Even if you aren’t a ‘biler, you’ve got to respect the guts it takes to drive a 2000 lb vehicle straight up.
After some great skiing and sights, Tim and I headed home for the final 2 games of the Elite Eight. We rooted for Louisville and couldn’t believe they tanked against Michigan State. But the good news of the day was UNC. They’re on their way to Detroit after a decisive win over Oklahoma. Next up is Villanova. It will be an ACC/Big East war. We can’t wait!
What Say You?