Mike and Keith shift to spring skiing and outdoor activities beyond traditional resorts, such as white water rafting and mountain biking. The hosts introduce Andrew Drummond, owner of the White Mountain Ski Company in Jackson, New Hampshire. Drummond discusses the shift from resort skiing to backcountry skiing, detailing the gear and techniques required for alpine touring, telemark skiing, and splitboarding. He emphasizes the importance of community, safety, and preparation when venturing into backcountry regions like Tuckerman's Ravine. Drummond also introduces events like the 'Last Skier Standing' and highlights the role of Granite Backcountry Alliance in maintaining skiable terrains. The discussion concludes with practical advice for safely enjoying backcountry skiing, geared towards both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

Topics

00:00 Introduction and Spring Skiing Vibes

02:45 The Allure of Tuckerman's Ravine

06:45 Introducing Andrew Drummond and White Mountain Ski Company

11:49 The Evolution of Backcountry Skiing

19:01 Telemark and Splitboarding Explained

23:55 Community and Backcountry Organizations

28:27 Introduction to Safe Skiing

29:05 The Concept of Last Skier Standing

29:44 The Birth of Last Skier Standing

31:17 Event Details and Participant Experience

33:09 Expanding to Nordic Skiing

34:00 Tuckerman's Season and Traffic

36:02 Safety Tips for Backcountry Skiing

39:57 Monitoring Conditions and Avalanche Reports

45:45 Community and the Joy of Backcountry Skiing

52:22 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Mike and Keith discuss the fast transition from winter to spring skiing, their experiences skiing in both conditions, and the notable snow consistency this season. They are joined by Brian Norton, the General Manager of Loon Mountain, who provides an in-depth look into Loon's ongoing improvements and future projects. Highlights include the significant impact of the Timbertown beginner area, plans for a new pulse gondola to connect the town of Lincoln directly to Loon's trail system, and improvements in snowmaking capabilities. Norton shares insights on the mountain's history, its relationship with the town of Lincoln, and the challenges of managing a ski resort. Future developments discussed include expanding parking, improving skier services, and enhancing the overall guest experience as part of Loon's Flight Path 2030 plan.

Topics

00:53 Weather Challenges and Ski Conditions

04:12 Ski Events and Competitions

07:52 Loon Mountain Overview

13:15 Loon's Development and Future Plans

24:48 Introduction to the Riverwalk Gondola

25:53 Benefits of the Riverwalk Gondola

29:20 Challenges and Delays in Construction

30:50 Working with the Town and Forest Service

33:41 Future Plans for Loon Mountain

40:17 Personal Reflections and Accomplishments

43:23 Closing Remarks and Future Prospects

Mike and Keith celebrate the exceptional skiing season and dive into discussions about lesser-known ski spots in New England. They welcome Josh Thompson, General Manager of Mt Abram in Maine, who shares insights about the mountain's community-oriented approach, its affordable skiing options, and its initiatives to engage local youth. The episode also highlights the benefits of smaller ski areas and the unique experiences they offer, encouraging listeners to explore alternative ski destinations beyond the popular resorts.

Topics

00:17 Reflecting on an Incredible Ski Season

03:13 Ski Areas You Drive By But Never Visit

07:27 Spotlight on Mt Abram

13:18 Interview with Josh Thompson, General Manager

17:03 The Unique Vibe of Mount Abram

23:06 Embracing the Uphill Skiing Community

25:51 Supporting Local Youth Skiing

27:18 Local Skiing Trends and Challenges

27:51 Weather and Climate Impact on Skiing

30:02 Future Plans and Priorities

30:58 Kids Programs and Community Engagement

36:55 Mountain Biking and Year-Round Activities

41:38 Adapting to New Roles and Risk Management

44:05 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook