Navigating the holiday ski traffic can be a challenge. I typically end up seeking out less popular spots, or spending some time away from skiing to catch up on other activities.
But with rain and warm temperatures in the forecast, I decided seek out good conditions. Plus, I have a new snowboard I’d been eagerly awaiting to break it in. I called up my buddy Dan, and proposed Bristol Mountain.
Bristol has been reliable for us over the years. With top notch snowmaking and grooming they consistently deliver good conditions. The season thus far has brought variable weather the Finger Lakes and across New York.
When I checked Bristol’s website, 50% of the terrain was open — a solid offering given the circumstances. The forecast for the day looked promising, so we decided to get an early start and were on the slopes just after the lifts opened.
Friday morning was brisk, but the sun shining on the east facing slopes, a great start to the day. It was Dan’s first day riding this year and my first day on the new board.
We found ourselves spending most of the morning riding Southern Cross. One of my favorite runs at Bristol, it’s a narrow trail offering big sweeping turns that run through the middle of the mountain. A perfect spot to find our rhythm.
We had a blast in the morning, racking up plenty of runs without much waiting. Dan was riding strong without early-season fatigue; and I was loving the new board. It’s been six years since I bought my last snowboard, and I had high expectations for this one. The new board is stiffer and faster than my previous, a great combo for carving hard.
Meanwhile, Dan was still making the most out of his trusty board from 2010, which continued to serve him admirably after all these years.
After exploring other trails — Galaxy, Rocket, and Comet — we took a break for a quick snack. The temperature had crept up to 43°, we shedded some layers and drank some water. The warmer weather gave the afternoon a completely different vibe. What started as a crisp snowy morning now felt like a mellow spring day.
With the sun still shining, we made our way up to the Morning Star chairlift, looking to hit the mini-terrain park.
When we reached the top, we were greeted by 8 features set up in the park. It was the right size for some fun early season park laps and the features were varied enough to keep things interesting.
The change of pace was refreshing, and my new board handled the park with ease. Dialing in its responsiveness, I couldn’t help but feel excited about how it would perform in deeper snow later this season.
As the day wound down, I was grateful for an enjoyable day of riding during Christmas week. While the warming temperatures made for a unique mix of conditions, it only fueled my hope for colder days and fresh snow in the months to come. Regardless of what the forecast brings, I’m sure it won’t be long before we’re back at Bristol.
Nice report! Bristol is my home hill and they’ve done a great a great job of making snow during the passing cold weather. I skied today, and while some that were open (including Southern Cross), they should make it through OK until the cold returns.
BTW, we refer to the run from the top of the Comet chair down Sunbelt and Southern Cross to Sunset as the “Jr. Downhill”. Not to be done on busy (or even slightly crowded days), it a blast to drop in and crank it the whole way. Please note-I don’t do this if there are people on it-one advantage of being able to ski during the week!
Does Bristol have tree skiing?
Does Bristol have tree skiing?
Nothing official as many years there’s not enough natural to give halfway decent coverage in the trees. Wish it weren’t so!
NWS data seems to show 60-80 inches a year, marketing totals are a lot higher.
Another nice mountain on the west side of NY. I should dedicate 1 week for trying out these ski resorts.