Go On a Solo Adventure

I met lots of interesting people on the gondola. Everyone was just so happy to be out skiing!

One young man half my age excitedly told me that “Cat Walk” was open. I asked, “What’s Cat Walk?” I’ve been skiing here since I was little. How did I not notice this staircase after you get off the gondola at the top? Or maybe I noticed it, but shrugged it off, thinking it was something I would never do. Could never do.

He encouraged me to go, saying it was just a 5 minute hike. I got off the gondola and saw the staircase he was talking about. It looked kinda fun! So off I went.

I went nice and slow, taking my time hiking over rocks in my ski boots, with my skis over my shoulder. Something my 54 year old body is not used to!

This brought me to a really cool spot through the evergreen trees. It was so peaceful, and I could smell the aroma of the trees. I could hear the sound of the gentle breeze making a slight whistling sound through the needles. I took a deep breath, and just felt so grateful to be that this young man thought I wasn’t too old to enjoy this adventure!

After taking in the view, I took my time going down the narrow chute. It was just so special to be in this “secret” spot. There were lots of rocks and tops of evergreens peeking through the snow. Definitely a run for your rock skis!

This was my last run of the day. My last run of the season. Extra special way to retire my skis, not just for the season, but for good. These skis have taken me skiing almost 200 days. It’s time for a new pair.

I’m a little sad, saying good-bye to these skis.

My brother handmade these skis for me for my 50th birthday. All of the graphics represent something special in my life. The mountains are from a photo of New Zealand, where I went for my honeymoon.

The eagle represents my late father.

The clown wig under the boot to always remind me of my father as I click in, as my father used to ski in a multi-colored clown wig.

The moonlit kayaking because I love to kayak at dusk – watching the sunset, and then paddling in by moonlight.

My brother was so thoughtful to put some of my father’s ashes in the lamination of the skis.

He’s 52 years old and still doing back flips!

I felt so grateful for the mountains and all of the joy, beauty, thrills, family time, and connection with complete strangers that the mountains and skiing bring!

Thinking about a solo adventure? Do it! Or as Warren Miller would say, “Or you’ll be one year older when you do!”