Mt. Baker has the world record for the most snowfall in a single season. 95 feet. Do I really need to say anything more? I didn’t think so. But I will.
This gigantic hunk of a mountain in Washington can be seen all the way from the city of Vancouver. What a big rock I see thought the skier…all the better to snow on you said the sky. And a match was made in heaven.
A mountain that gets so much snow, that they have to shut down in order to dig out the chair lifts, comes with its own glory. But the locals who love and nurture this environmental gift, make it that much more of a treat. With eyes the size of softballs, and smiles the shape of footballs, kids spill over this mountain in a frenzy of festiveness that hasn’t been seen since hotdog day. Parents relinquish control to the mountain that transforms even the most mild-mannered youth into a powder-crazed puppy.
Though pretty steep, you almost wouldn’t notice - the powder has rendered you practically horizontal. Face shots are a given. You’ll eat enough snow to let you last through lunch.
Skiing at Mt. Baker reminds you of 1980 something when school was cancelled because of too much snow. Young you, attacked the snow in the yard attempting to tame it into some kind of igloo. Young you played until your feet were numb and you eyes froze shut. Young you, still tells this story. Baker is filled with young yous of all ages. Throwing themselves at the thick, heavy snow, making their way down with two skis or none. Taming the powder by riding high on top or swimming the front crawl to escape to the groomers.
As the day comes to end, and you empty the powder from your pockets, from your goggles, from the back of your red hood, you wonder if you really have to go back to school tomorrow. And as long as its not texas doughnut day, you may just extend your trip.
Baker brings out the kid in you. Warm and welcoming, natural and untamed, it’s impossible to resist throwing snowballs, pulling out spread eagles, and un-clicking your friends bindings in the liftline.
