Dustin off the ol’ horsehairs

Got out for skin up at Mesa Creek/Old Powderhorn initially planned to repeat Jeena and I's Thanksgiving tour, but felt like I had mismanaged my layer system and was sweating too much to risk an extended time out if the weather changed. I made my way back westward and at the usual transition spot met a few folks. I ripped skins and was about to drop Pruess when a Rooster appeared. He had a gray handlebar mustache, single earring, and jolly demeanor. When he asked if I'd like to join him, I knew it was the right choice. I quickly ripped skins and repacked my bag for a continued tour. We continued west to some new to me terrain. We turned towards the highway and made our way to a boulder field. Rooster packed out a transition pad and sat down to a hot thermis of something and a meat stick. I tried to keep Tula entertained. We slowly picked our way through the boulders. Rooster a very smooth skier led us out, Tula following, I tailed to be able to bail Tula out if need be. It was quick to realize we may had been a little ambitious as the snow was not quite deep enough to protect our skis from the rocks. Still it was deep enough for Tula to have to swim through the chin deep unconsolidated snow. She's an impressive dog and we both noted that she seemed to be smiling through mist if it, or atleast we hoped. Albeit thin, there were still some great turns through the Aspens to be had, and the hootin' and hollerin' commenced. Rooster pointed out other line options along the way, which let me know I gotta make my way back up soon to keep exploring. In what was almost too soon, but really the perfect time we made it to hwy 65. We both ripped skins and Tula was put on leash. we hiked up the highway back to our trucks. I feel lucky to have run into Rooster and know I made the right choice following him. I look forward to a few more days picking around our little backcountry ski zone, and now know that the rock lines ski better when the resort has a 40" base. Here's to Ullr and a deep season.