Bolton Valley, Bolton Valley VT

Bolton Valley casts a rather utilitarian, militaristic feel (maybe it's the voluminous lodge with too few people), but it is the site of one of my top ten ski experiences.

This joyous event occurred on the farthest left run when looking up the mountain. I had this run all to myself, so I did it 3 times in ecstasy. I had disregarded a sign strongly recommending disembarkment at the midway station because the top had thin, icy cover, but I was determined to get the view from the top so I persevered. As I nervously approached the end of the line, I had second doubts but the view from the top was well worth it: Stowe to the east and the Adirondacks to the west.

Other than boarding around some snowless spots on top, the run was splendid. Freshly groomed with no tracks, the snow was like velvety butter as I whizzed down the trail - sunlight dappling the trees under a late winter sun making the snow sparkle like jewels. Blue sky, calm wind, perfect temps, perfect snow conditions and only the sound of my board swishing through the snow....

Topped the afternoon off with a little antiquing - captured a Sadler teapot for my mother's collection.

Perfect day.