My general rule when conditions are uncertain is to go and see. It’s been raining above 9,000 feet in the mountains and now is cold, which makes me wonder if the snow will be rock hard and icy. I’ve planned to join Colin, John, Steve, and Ann for a snowshoe today, so we go see. The snow is indeed rock hard and icy, but that’s under a few inches of fresh powder, which makes all the difference. Everyone makes it up Tamarack peak, and I manage a few turns – even a couple that don’t hit the crust underneath. The sky is dramatic, it’s chilly but not too windy, and we all feel great afterward.