Skiing the San Francisco Peaks

We have had snow–lots of snow–this month. After one of these events we headed for the San Francisco Peaks and some backcountry skiing. Fortunately for us, there were skiers ahead of us and the track up the trail was already well established. Thanks!

We arrived at the bottom of “Flying Dutchman” to ski the powder–but clearly we were not the first as there were many tracks already carved into the area. Years ago we were often the only skiers here and put down first tracks. Those idyllic days of the past are long gone.

Crossing the lower portion of Arizona Snowbowl to access the Humphreys Trail.
Crossing the lower portion of Arizona Snowbowl to access the Humphreys Trail.
Previously broken track up the Humphreys Trail made things easier for us.
Previously broken track up the Humphreys Trail made things easier for us.
Blue skies overhead, low clouds in the distance, and powder in front of us.
Blue skies overhead, low clouds in the distance, and powder in front of us.
"Flying Dutchman" and skiers tracks.
“Flying Dutchman” and skiers tracks.
Top of the powder slope and contemplating the downhill ride.
Top of the powder slope and contemplating the downhill ride.
Trees with rime ice. Also, our ski tracks on the left side.
Trees with rime ice. Also, our ski tracks on the left side.

The rime-ice and snow-covered trees were really amazing and the deep powder skiing was great fun. Blue skies. Light winds. What’s not to like?