Hi all,

When there is actually more than 4 inches here in the East Mountains I like to try to do some of the local trails instead of driving up to the crest.  Yesterday's outing through 8 inches in the public space near our house was fantastic.  Today I decided to try Otero Canyon in Tijeras.  I started at 10:30 which was far too late in the day to ski there.  It was already 32 degrees with a breeze and steadily warming.  The snow conditions were passable.  There were places where hidden rocks were easily scraped over and the snow was heavy and sticky making for a MaxiGlide day.  I did not finish the trail because even with glide I was sticking very badly and the rocks became a problem as the trail got steeper.  I turned around after 1.5 mile.  It was easier going on the return as I just scooted along in my own tracks.  Even with marginal conditions, it was gorgeous there.  I'll probably try to go out again tomorrow, but I think it's time to hit the crest.  

Cheers,

Amy