Sunshine and warmer weather returned to Vail today for skiing and snowboarding, with temperatures nudging freezing levels. This was a welcomed relief after several days at or below 0F. Overnight there was a dusting of new snow and other resorts in the area reported up to three inches from the passing storm.

Despite just a dusting of new snow overnight, the fluff covered a lot of yesterdays tracks and provided some nice conditions to ski today, especially on the lower traffic areas.

Crowds are at an absolute minimum, so there will still be some nice tracks to be had for the next few days, especially if you are willing to work away from the few people that are about.

The forecast is very simple. Dry. This applies to most of the west and is agreed on by all major forecasters more than any forecast I have ever seen in the past. Despite our reluctance to buy into long range forecasts, there’s no reason for us not to believe it will indeed be dry for at least 7-10 days and probably longer.

So for now, enjoy the sunshine and the continued comfortable temperatures which will remain at that freezing level. Fingers crossed the temps don’t rise too much as we can ill afford a melt, or freeze and thaw conditions.