The new store is finally live.  You can buy the guidebook, straps, and stickers, with more to come later this year.  Any issues? Let me know.

The Open is coming up soon, with the early start date looking sadly prophetic, as our warm winter in the western US saw snow below 6000 feet never really consolidate, and the warm spring zap what little did stick around.  In the Bob (and Glacier, and the GYE) specifically there is more frozen water than one might assume, with the snowpack above 6500-7000 feet quite dense.  This will likely create good spring travel conditions, with a minimal transition zone between hiking and snow travel, while the small amount of water in the landscape overall at least suggests a short float and long fire season.

My personal hopes months ago were for a trip that would provide good floating and good ski mountaineering, and this snowpack should do that very well.  Sadly, I’m currently finishing out week 5 of 6 on crutches following a meniscus repair, so my hopes for the first weekend of May don’t extend further than being able to carry my drink from the bar at Trixi’s to my table unassisted, and maybe doing some easy floating on the Blackfoot.

Anyone making the start is invited to meet for dinner at Trixi’s on Friday the 1st.  Be advised they only take cash.