LOCALadk Magazine

it through official gates to Forest Service land, but these Slides are on ski area property. There's no grooming or snowmaking, but we're still required to post a trail condition twice a day and do a final sweep before closing." Take home point: remember that the regulations of the Ski Area Code of Conduct apply in the Slides—ride with care! Ticket to Ride: Bronze, Silver, or Gold Status Few sensations match the unbridled enthusiasm inspired by an elusive East Coast powder day. A constant stream of mid-lift line "Are the Slides open yet?!" conversations will be your first clue that the terrain might be ready. Thankfully it's up to the avalanche pros on the Ski Patrol to drop the rope. Whiteface General Manager Aaron Kellett explains the status levels which indicate access to the Slides: "We've developed a three-level system: bronze status is closed, and it's for your safety. Either the snow surface is unsafe (read: blue ice over rock) or the layers below are simply unstable. Silver status means they're open to skiers with experience and proper gear: avalanche probe, beacon, and a shovel are required to enter. Gold status and they're open to all." Don't expect the Slides to open immediately following a big dump—it takes time for the snowpack to settle, and patrollers are constantly digging snow pits and assessing the situation, determining whether it's safe. Once it's deemed stable, silver status will allow folks with knowledge and experience to enter, which Levenson says improves the conditions for all: "Skier traffic in the Slides helps a solid base form, and makes the snowpack more stable later on." Levenson adds that he has seen avalanches rip from the summit ridge on several occasions, and while big releases aren't as prevalent as out West, the terrain is not to be underestimated. Plus, in tight spaces like the Slides, sled rescues that take the Patrol minutes on-piste can take hours in steep, narrow gullies. Take home point: Bronze: off-limits. Silver: only skiers with experience, and a probe, beacon, and shovel can enter. Gold: good to go! Prepare for Launch Alright, they're open. GULP! The Slides are intimidating - snow can be variable, pitches can be narrow and steep, in sections close to 40 degrees. Best way to know that you're up for the challenge? Kellett says to use similar trails as a guide. "Normally we'll have similar terrain open on the mountain - Empire and Upper Cloudspin are great trails that are indicative of the difficulty you'll find in the Slides. If you're comfortable making tight, controlled turns there, you're likely ready for the next level." Levenson adds that prior backcountry skiing or even cross-country experience helps. "For most folks, the concept of having to make several mandatory turns in crucial spots is new. Unlike on groomed slopes, you can't always turn at will." To practice, try making some turns on the side of the trail, picking a point down the fall-line, and forcing yourself to nail that turn. Another tip - snag a local! Entering unfamiliar terrain with a group is always a smart idea. Have a plan, pick a buddy, and watch out for one another. Most locals are proud to show off their terrain and are eager to give pointers. 11-year-old Van Ledger describes his first drop-in three years ago as a family affair. "I was with my two brothers, Beckett and Forest, and our dad. I was really nervous, but we traversed in quickly and headed right down Slide 1. After that I was hooked." LOCALadk Photo by Scott Mierop Photo by Brian Mohr / Ember Photo Winter 2014 25

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