The Yodelers’ two western trips in 2018 were to Aspen. Great lift ticket prices and super accommodations at the Aspen Mountain Lodge were deciding factors. Being able to cross the street and hop on a bus to go to any of the four mountains is also a plus.
The January trip was very short on snow. However, while the snow was limited on many runs, enough runs were skiable, especially on Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands, to make it a very enjoyable trip. And we always had happy hour with wine and cheese (plus the addition of soup this year) waiting for us at the end of the day, compliments of Aspen Mountain Lodge. It was a great way to end the day, despite the lack of snow.
The snow conditions had definitely improved by the time we returned in late February. The runs were all open and groomed. We experienced some hefty winds one day, but again, there were four mountains to choose from, and good skiing to be found every day.
Mid-February, the Yodelers boarded a bus headed for Michigan. We skied at both Indianhead and Black Jack. This year, the lift tickets were interchangeable between both mountains and there was a shuttle to take skiers back and forth. It was great to be able to decide midday that you might want to try the other mountain and you could just hop on the shuttle and go. A number of cross country skiers also enjoyed two great days of skiing on the ABR ski trails in Michigan. The ride home on Sunday was a little treacherous for the bus driver as we had a sizable snowstorm that extended from Michigan to just north of the Twin Cities. It didn’t have any affect on us riders as we entertained ourselves with a horse race game most of the way home. There is always entertainment when the Yodelers are involved. Next year we will be looking forward to going back to Giants Ridge in mid-February. And of course, we have local trips to both Wild Mountain and Trollhaugen during the season.
Our two 2019 trips out west will again be to Aspen at the end of January and February. These trips are open to all MSC members and if you are interested in going on either trip, you can get more information by calling Mike Holland at 651-771-1997.
