Wildfires Threatened Our Slopes, But Opening Day is ON! 🎿🔥

Hey SoCal ski fam, ⛷️🌞

We’re all about escaping the grind and hitting those SoCal slopes, but this season, there’s more to the story. The recent wildfires, especially the Bridge Fire, hit close to home, threatening some of our most beloved ski areas. Mountain High Resort was especially in the crosshairs, with flames just a slope or two away. Luckily, the ski gods were on our side this time—most of the resort’s infrastructure is still standing strong.

So, what does this mean for us? Let’s take a closer look:

1. The Smoke-Cleared Reality 🌄

It’s not exactly the season start we envisioned. Wildfires on the doorstep of resorts are an unfortunate reality in California. For Mountain High, close calls like this mean extra preparations and repairs, but also a reminder of how fast our favorite places could change.

• The Good News: Despite the challenges, Mountain High is expected to open on schedule! Their team has been working overtime to clear debris, reinforce firebreaks, and make sure the resort is as ready as we are.

• Why It Matters: Fires can affect air quality, snow coverage, and even the views we love. So, check smoke forecasts before you head out, and bring a mask or scarf for windy, smoky days. 😷

2. Why Wildfires and Ski Resorts Don’t Mix 🔥🛠️

Imagine all those ski lift cables, snow guns, and lodge roofs facing heat waves, smoke, and embers. Not fun, right? Fires this close to ski areas can weaken structures, damage equipment, and impact snow conditions in ways we may not feel for a few months.

• The Effort to Rebuild: Mountain High’s crew is on it, repairing and rebuilding where needed. While most of the damage is superficial, they’re checking everything from ski lifts to snow-making machines.

• Safety First: With some of this infrastructure having faced intense smoke and heat, it’s a good reminder that safety remains priority number one. Expect a few closures here and there as they finish up the last touches.

3. What This Means for Opening Day 🎉

The excitement is real! Despite everything, Mountain High and our other favorite spots are gearing up to welcome us soon. No delays are expected at Mountain High, so you can start your season as planned. It’s a big “thank you” to everyone who put in long days (and nights) to make it happen.

• Opening Day at Mammoth: Set your calendar, Mammoth opens this Friday, November 15! 🗓️ Get your layers ready for that brisk high-altitude air, because opening day is practically here!

4. How to Get Involved 🛠️💪

If you love these slopes as much as I do, here are some ways you can support the resorts and the mountain communities:

• Consider Volunteering: Many resorts coordinate volunteer days where you can help clear trails and debris.

• Donate to Fire Relief Efforts: Organizations like the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund help rebuild and restore these beautiful areas.

• Spread the Word: Let fellow skiers know Mountain High and Mammoth are on track to open, and support local businesses when you’re up there.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Eyes on the Slopes, Not the Smoke 🏔️✨

This season is a reminder that, despite the challenges, we’re still lucky to have these incredible mountains. Our slopes are here, our gear is ready, and soon enough, we’ll be carving down that first powdery run. 🏂

So let’s make the most of it! Check air quality reports before you head out, bring your love for the mountains, and let’s have a season to remember. 🥂

Proverb: “When the going gets tough, the tough get skiing.” 🏔️

See you on the slopes! 🏂

Sasha Everett & the Ski So Cal Insiders

P.S. Mammoth's Opening Day is November 15! 🎉 Ready to hit the slopes? Share your opening day plans with us!