I took the day off work—because when the forecast looks decent, you’ve got to make the most of it! Blue skies were on the cards, but snow conditions? Still pretty lean. The mid-mountain had a decent amount open, though with some icy patches to keep things interesting.

I set off on the splitboard, aiming for the Spring Run. It wasn’t long before I had to slap on the ski crampons—the surface was bulletproof. I kept pushing upwards until kick-turns got too sketchy, so out came the boot crampons for the final stretch. Looking ahead, I decided I’d reached the best spot for turns, so off came the spikes, and I clicked the board together. A handful of soft, wind-packed turns gave way to the unmistakable crunch of ice as I merged onto Mugs Alley.

After a coffee break at the café, I grabbed the Cliffy Chair for another go. This time, I strapped the boot crampons back on and started hiking Etive Glades toward the summit. There were some soft deposits here and there, but nothing consistent enough to warrant putting the board on just yet.

Cutting into Happy Valley, I eventually reached the summit. After snapping a few photos, I made my way toward Main Basin.

Strapping in near the ski tow, I passed a group of walkers before realising—this was solid ice. And let’s be honest, side-slipping on a splitboard is a sketchy business when that middle edge decides to get rebellious. I carefully picked my way through icy and rocky patches before making turns near the rescue hut and cruising down to Mugs Alley again.

Finished the day with a couple of bag-free laps of the Cliffy—because why not?
Even when the snow is lean, I love this mountain. It was a good day.