Boreal Conditions Report: Bluebird Pow Days (& Nights)

DCIM100GOPRO — View of Sugar Bowl from the top of Accelerator

Boreal Mountain Resort had one hell of an opening week.

After the first winter storm slammed Tahoe with early season powder last week, resorts all around the lake rushed to be the first to operate. While Mt. Rose boasted “first open”, the magic carpet and accompanying mini park weren’t quite enough to satisfy my six months of powder thirst.

Boreal followed suit – but gave Mt. Rose a lesson on “opening day”. For the first time since 2004, Boreal was able to operate top-to-bottom on their first day of the season.

topchair — Bluebird skies on the Accelerator lift

Now 5 days into operations, Boreal is operating 3 lifts, 6 runs, 1 jump, and 10 park features. Cold temperatures all week allowed for steady snow-making, but get this: a second storm blessed Tahoe on Monday with an additional 13″ at Boreal.

Ample snow blanketed an already solid snowpack – powder pockets and side hits are plentiful near the summit. No matter your skill level, there’s something to keep you entertained.

booter — An anonymous rider hits the jump at the Mini-Shred park on Tuesday

As a resort that’s infamous for their parks, Boreal did not disappoint.

The immaculate early-season Mini-Shred terrain park put Mt. Rose’s to shame. Riders of all levels were lapping the park, sharing tips, tricks, and keeping the stoke level high.

steve_tap — Steve Figurski at Boreal’s Mini-Shred park.

Features at Boreal’s beautifully crafted park include double handrails, steel pillows, & one decently sized kicker. There are even a few boxes and smaller rails for those just starting out at the park.

Boreal is also known for their night skiing – they’ll be operating from 9am-9pm for the remainder of the season. Now you don’t have to feel guilty about getting to the mountain at noon.